Born in 1944, Don Lupe Pérez came into this world with an indomitable spirit and a clear vision: to leave a mark that would endure beyond his time. 

Hailing from the village of Los Guajes, in the municipality of Juchitlán, Jalisco, he demonstrated from an early age an unwavering determination to succeed. 

At the age of 11, he was already working—renting swimsuits, selling sodas on the beach, and delivering newspapers to support his family when they emigrated to Rosarito.

He often said that the only five dollars he had were enough to start working, contributing to the well-being of his siblings and shaping a character that would accompany him throughout his life. 

A lover of reading and fine wine, he found inspiration in the pages of books and in a shared glass of wine, approaching both simple and complex moments with a unique perspective.

His table, always full of laughter and conversation, bore witness to countless pieces of advice, anecdotes, and agreements that shaped businesses and lifelong friendships.

In that space, anyone who approached him always found an open door to wise words or sound advice. Today, that table may fall silent, but his memories, legacy, and teachings will remain alive in all of us. 

His love for his homeland and his desire to innovate were the seeds that shaped what we now recognize as his pioneering architectural style.

Inspired by the homes of his native town, he became the creator of a revolutionary design trend, developing a unique rustic style that integrated burned brick—a metal once considered defective and used in septic tanks—with structures made from cactus skeletons and an abundance of plant life. 

This innovative combination not only broke with the conventions of his time but also positioned him as a pioneer of a style that transformed the way spaces were conceived.

His work offered welcoming environments, deeply connected to nature, filled with warmth that invites one to enjoy the surroundings, establishing a trend that continues to this day. 

His creativity also revolutionized the local gastronomy scene, positioning him as a reference for restaurateurs in Baja California. He established El Nido (The Nest), a regional kitchen that remained true to its roots and the culinary traditions of his homeland, making it an iconic establishment of the region. 

More than just a restaurant, El Nido offered a unique culinary experience designed to make everyone feel at home. By blending traditional wood-fired cooking with his passion for innovation, he inspired generations of chefs and entrepreneurs, leaving a profound legacy that continues to shape the region’s gastronomic identity. 

Later, he established the Los Pelícanos hotel and restaurant, demonstrating that his vision extended beyond food into the realm of business. 

His most recent project, La Media Luna, was the culmination of years of work and passion—an establishment where food, design, and hospitality intertwine to offer a unique experience of rural life. 

Beyond the gastronomic sector, his vision introduced a model of regenerative tourism based on the holistic management of his lands—Rancho Guacatay, Codocana, Rancho El Aguajito, and Rancho San Antonio. On these lands, vegetables, fruits, and livestock are raised with a focus that not only sustains but regenerates the ecosystem.  

His agricultural and livestock practices, which included cows, deer, and sheep for meat production served in his restaurants, as well as working livestock such as sheep and stallions, reflect his strong commitment to land stewardship and responsible resource management.

He also implemented composting practices in his restaurants to nourish the soil, closing the natural cycle and ensuring the long-term regeneration of his ranches. 

Through his work on the ranch, he taught his children the value of working the land and the importance of living in harmony with nature. His ecological legacy impacted not only his family but all who learned from his regenerative approach. 

However, what truly defined Don Lupe Pérez was his humanity. He was not only a great businessman but a man of solid principles, who understood that true success lies in sharing the values of family, community, and mutual respect. 

Alongside his beloved wife, Mrs. Petra Salceda, with whom he built a full life, he formed a family of five children, who were always his greatest pride. He was fortunate to see his grandchildren and later, great-grandchildren, grow up. 

Don Lupe taught us that true wealth is not measured by material accomplishments, but by the legacy we leave in the lives of others and in the world. 

His impact extends far beyond his restaurants and land—his example of hard work, dedication, and humanity lives on in every corner of his community and in the memories of those who had the privilege of knowing him. 

May his memory endure for generations to come, for his legacy is eternal. 

May a great human being, Don Lupe Pérez García, rest in peace! 

(Text excerpted from the official website of La Media Luna, written by engineer Bretzner Leyssa González of eCore Solutions agency, published on November 12, 2024 in Ecos de Rosarito. Unauthorized copying, reproduction, or distribution is prohibited.)