This was actually our favorite dinner experience. It was nothing fancy or unique, but everything was wonderful. The service was friendly and attentive. The food was well-prepared and substantial. The menu and prices were what you would expect at most family-run Mexican restaurants. They did have a more extensive seafood selection that, given its name and location, was seemingly more reliable than if you were in Topeka, Kansas.

Their chips and salsa were much better than at Kokpelli Grill and better than some of our favorite Mexican restaurants in Bellingham. We went through two bowls of salsa before our entrées arrived. I had a beef chimichanga, which was yummy and not greasy. I’d say it was smaller than usual because I wolfed it down when I usually can’t finish half – or maybe it was just that good! I can’t remember what Mike had, but it was a combination that involved a cheese enchilada and something with fish. In any case, with extra salsa dumped on top, he was a very happy camper. It turns out that Hacienda del Mar (which has two locations) has been voted the best Mexican restaurant on the Peninsula for several years in a row. We had no reason to doubt it.

One caveat, if crucifixes and images of the Blessed Virgin bother you, you might want to sit facing the back. I only mention it because I’m Catholic and thought it was nice, but my boyfriend thought it was "weird."

They do not have a parking lot, so you need to find something on the street. Since South Lincoln is basically Highway 101, it can be very busy throughout the day, so left-side passengers should look far down the street before getting out of the car. We were lucky to find a spot in front of the restaurant, but your best bet would be the side streets before or after the restaurant.

It has been certified by the county as a 100% smoke-free establishment.