What soon set El Dandy apart from other Tijuana dive bars, and turned it into a hotspot, was the rumor (wink, wink) that it never closed. Any time of day was a good time for a cold cerveza or cocktail there. The place's vintage personality – forewarned by its old-school neon sign outside – also sets it apart from other, newer bars on Calle Sexta. Inside, pictures of old movie stars hang above an aging wooden bar and along the wall, next to local sayings and curiously misspelled happy hour specials, such as one for "Jaguer Master." One of the few nods to the modern is the digital jukebox known for its eclecticism and for taking both U.S. and Mexican currency. Classic José José love songs are followed by Tool and Manu Chao. The bar also has some outdated box TVs to catch the occasional game on, but they are window dressing.

What really brings people to El Dandy?

Ray and Travis, both American (everybody fits in here), have been coming to Tijuana since the 80s and have always enjoyed El Dandy, even during the recent years marred by violence. They appreciate the welcoming atmosphere and minimal bar fights, unlike other bars around the area. When asked if they had ever tried to bring other San Diegans to El Dandy, they admitted to not wanting to ruin a good thing, preferring to keep it to themselves.

For locals, it is the comfort of going to a bar that will treat them well; it doesn't matter who you are, what you wear, or what you look like. It is also a popular hangout whenever a Rock en Español star hits Tijuana or a movie is being shot locally. Some of the world-class stars that have been spotted at El Dandy are Manu Chao, Gustavo Cerati, actor Gael García Bernal, director Alejandro González Iñárritu and, of course, the whole crew of Tijuana's Nortec Collective, which have filmed a video there.

El Dandy Del Sur predated most of the bars on Calle Sexta and will probably outlast them all. It has personality, a vintage atmosphere, a cool crowd, cold beer all night long… and a non-sequitur jukebox. What more can you ask for?

If you want to visit El Dandy del Sur, use this map.

Dandy del Sur is located at Ricardo Flores Magón 2030, Downtown Tijuana.

If you would like to call them, dial 01152 664 688 0052

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