Tierra y Mar, a 153-seat restaurant located in the former Salt & Fin space, has officially opened at Harrah’s Resort Southern California. The new dining concept is the result of a $10.7 million investment aimed at delivering a cohesive and immersive culinary experience. Designed by the award-winning firm JCJ Architecture, the restaurant combines Cycladic and Moorish design elements to recreate the atmosphere of an old-world Mexican hacienda.
Jill Barrett, the Senior Vice President and General Manager of Harrah’s Resort Southern California, highlighted the significance of Tierra y Mar. She described the venue as a key part of the resort’s appeal, catering to both local food enthusiasts and out-of-town guests who visit for the casino and luxury amenities. Barrett emphasized that the restaurant strikes a balance between sophistication and entertainment.
According to Barrett, Tierra y Mar offers more than just meals. “This beautiful new space hits the sweet spot—it’s upscale and sophisticated, yet vibrant and incredibly fun,” she said. The restaurant is positioned as a destination where guests can enjoy food, drinks, and a lively environment.
Design and Culinary Offerings
The design of Tierra y Mar features handcrafted wood ceiling beams, tropical plantings, and natural stone, all contributing to a welcoming and transportive ambiance. As guests enter through an eye-catching portal framed by warm wood columns and layered archways, they are led along a mosaic fractured tile pathway from the bar to the main dining area. This thoughtful layout blends the casual elegance of the Baja coast with the modernist architecture of mid-century Mexican design.
The restaurant also boasts a menu designed by Chef Bryan Texis. Drawing inspiration from Baja California and other regions of Mexico, the menu showcases traditional and innovative dishes that highlight authentic, vibrant flavors. Dishes such as Beef Birria and Camarones al Diablo are offered alongside new takes on classic ingredients, ensuring a balance of tradition and creativity.
Tierra y Mar will operate seven days a week, with an expanded schedule on weekends to include breakfast. The opening of the restaurant marks the closure of two previous venues—Salt & Fin and ’ritas Cantina—bringing together the resort’s Mexican-inspired dining options into a single destination.
Steve Stallings, Chairman of the Rincon Tribe, praised the restaurant as a step forward in the resort’s revitalization efforts. “Coming right on the heels of our High Limit area renovation, Tierra y Mar brings even more new energy to the property,” he said, underscoring the importance of bringing fresh, exciting spaces to the resort.
In addition to its vibrant menu, Tierra y Mar features a tequila bar with over 35 premium tequilas and mezcals, making it a perfect spot for drinks. Behind a distinctive breeze block wall, the restaurant also offers intimate dining options, including booths, alcoves, and a private dining room that can accommodate up to 14 guests. This space is accented by custom rope and bead-and-ball privacy screens for added elegance.