Black magic Mexicali refers to the practice of dark and occult rituals that takes place in the city of Mexicali, located in the state of Baja California, Mexico. Mexicali is known for its vibrant culture and rich folklore, but it is also rumored to be a hub for black magic practitioners. Black magic, often associated with malevolence and evil intentions, involves the use of supernatural and spiritual powers to manipulate or harm others. It is believed that black magic has been practiced in Mexicali for many years, with practitioners using various rituals and spells to achieve their desired outcomes. The reasons why people turn to black magic can vary, but some claim it is for personal gain, revenge, or to control others. These individuals may seek out the services of black magic practitioners who are believed to possess the knowledge and power to influence situations or individuals through mystical means.
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Mexicali Rose s neon sign will be repaired and remain on the building as a recognition of the Mexican restaurant that held memories for many Oaklanders. A dozen local muralists, including Dillion Keene, Bay Area Mural Program, Natalie Gabriel, and Kiss My Black Arts came together over the weekend to paint murals on the pink exterior of the former Mexicali Rose restaurant in downtown Oakland.
These individuals may seek out the services of black magic practitioners who are believed to possess the knowledge and power to influence situations or individuals through mystical means. Mexicali's reputation as a center for black magic has led to both fascination and fear among the local population. Many tales and legends have emerged over the years, with stories of cursed objects, haunted locations, and encounters with supernatural beings.
For the Culture will blend history with something new at former Mexicali Rose
The storied downtown Oakland restaurant closed in 2018, but Chris Rachal, plans to honor its legacy with his new restaurant and meeting space, For the Culture.
by Brandy Collins Nov. 18, 2021, 11:16 a.m. Nov. 19, 2021, 8:12 p.m.Share this:
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A dozen local muralists, including Dillion Keene, Bay Area Mural Program, Natalie Gabriel, and Kiss My Black Arts came together over the weekend to paint murals on the pink exterior of the former Mexicali Rose restaurant in downtown Oakland. Recently taken over by Chris Rachal—owner of Liege, which closed this past year, and the cigar bar M2—the building that housed the storied Mexican restaurant will soon be the home of For The Culture, a restaurant and community meeting space.
The Saturday mural painting event gave artists a platform to bring the community together while paying tribute to Oakland’s culture, which Rachal says will be central to everything For the Culture will do when it opens early next year.
Contributing muralist Matthew Hurd said this was his first time collaborating with so many artists on an entire building. “This is a traditional landmark and one of the oldest buildings in Oakland,” said Hurd. “Definitely a cool project to be a part of.”
The vision for the building will be to bridge the legacy of Mexicali Rose with something new. “This is an example of a native of Oakland, not allowing myself or the culture to be pushed out,” said Rachal.
MexiCali Rose was owned by the same family for 91 years and closed June 2018, three years after the neighboring 71-year-old Mexicatessen La Borinqueña also shut down. They were considered the last two Latino businesses in what was once a tight-knit Mexican American community. Mexicali Rose was known for its enchiladas, strong Cadillac Margaritas, and memories created by its customers. On the restaurant’s last day, people stood in line for several hours to say their farewells and share in a last meal of beans and rice or chile rellenos.
The Gomez family has owned the property at 701 Clay Street for four generations and were selective about who they transferred control to. Rachal said it took three years of negotiations before he was able to take over the building because the family didn’t want it going to developers who would tear it down. Instead, they wanted a buyer who would use it for the benefit of the community.
Rachal said he plans to keep the building’s pink color and the new exterior murals will be painted in various shades of pink and purple, reflecting how the old blends with the new. Mexicali Rose’s neon sign will be repaired and remain on the building as a recognition of the Mexican restaurant that held memories for many Oaklanders.
A new mural by Aerosol inside For the Culture, which is taking over the former Mexicali Rose restaurant space in downtown Oakland. Credit: Brandy Collins
“We don’t just abolish history. We’re all a product of some sort of history,” said Rachal. “And I think Oakland needs that.”
Rachal said that in his 30 years cultivating nightlife, he’s learned that having a firm but unique perspective goes into creating an environment where people want to be. “I travel to a lot of tastemaker cities and see trends that other people don’t see,” said Rachal.
He opened Liege in 2010. The nightclub was very successful but closed in May 2021. He opened M2 (Mimosas on Grand)—designed aesthetically for “an affluent mindset”— quietly in August 2021. Rachal said he wants each of his businesses to have a different feel to them.
The Bay Area, according to Rachal, isn’t a leader in innovating nightlife and entertainment, something he wants to change. “Unfortunately, Northern California is one of the lowest-trending markets. I don’t know why we can’t set the trends instead of following them.”
For the former Mexicali Rose building, Rachal said his goal “is for the culture” of Oakland. The culture of Oakland is fleeing, he said, not only because of gentrification, but also because there needs to be more effort to preserve Oakland’s rich history. Purchasing Mexicali Rose is Rachal’s way of putting his money where his mouth is. “We need to be more creative, have more forward thinking, and be diligent,” he said. “I can’t tell someone else to do it, if I’m not doing it.”
A sign from now closed Liege hangs inside the restaurant, a nod to the nightclub’s history. But Rachal said the customer experience at his new spot won’t be the same. For The Culture will be about creating more space for artists.
Chris Rachal said he plans to keep the interior murals depicting Aztec life that were painted by “Ricardo” in 1977 and 1981. Credit: Brandy Collins
The floor space is brighter and more open than the original. The mustard-colored walls and stained glass rose behind the bar have been removed to make space for more seating. There’s also a large Black Panther mural painted by Aerosoul, with the words “We want freedom. We want power to determine the destiny of our black community.”
The large interior murals covering two walls, depicting Aztec life, painted by “Ricardo” in 1977 and 1981 remain intact.
“You don’t get rid of something like that because it means something. It’s so well done and detailed,” said Rachal. “It’s part of the art community and part of the culture.”
Rachal said he plans to build a bar, stage, and seating in the parking lot, and to host food trucks. There are still minor odds and ends to complete before the restaurant is ready to receive the public, but the wait won’t be too long. For The Culture is anticipated to open in January 2022.
Correction: the original version of this story stated that Chris Rachal purchased the building that used to house the Mexicali Rose restaurant. That was incorrect. We also mistakenly identified the owners of Mexicali Rose as the Gonzalez family. The family’s last name is Gomez.
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Rachal said that in his 30 years cultivating nightlife, he’s learned that having a firm but unique perspective goes into creating an environment where people want to be. “I travel to a lot of tastemaker cities and see trends that other people don’t see,” said Rachal.
These stories have become part of the city's folklore and are shared among residents and visitors alike. However, it is important to note that the existence and efficacy of black magic are highly disputed. Many dismiss it as superstition or mere folklore, while others claim to have experienced its effects firsthand. Belief in black magic varies greatly among individuals, with some dismissing it entirely and others taking precautions to protect themselves from its alleged powers. In recent years, the use of black magic in Mexicali has attracted the attention of authorities who aim to combat the negative impact of these practices. Efforts have been made to educate the public about the potential dangers and illegality of engaging in black magic activities. In conclusion, black magic Mexicali refers to the practice of dark and occult rituals that take place in the city of Mexicali. Although the existence and efficacy of black magic are highly debated, it has become part of the city's folklore and continues to captivate the imaginations of people. Whether one believes in its power or not, the stories and legends surrounding black magic in Mexicali contribute to the city's colorful and intriguing culture..
Reviews for "The Myth and Legend of Black Magic in Mexicali"
1. Emily - 1 star
I was really disappointed with "Black Magic Mexicali". I had heard so much hype about this place and decided to give it a try, but it fell totally flat for me. The food was extremely underwhelming, lacking in flavor and presentation. The service was also lacking, with the staff seeming indifferent and unengaged. Overall, I wouldn't recommend this place to anyone looking for a quality Mexican dining experience.
2. Alex - 2 stars
I don't understand the appeal of "Black Magic Mexicali". The restaurant was crowded and noisy, making it difficult to have a conversation. The food was average at best, with nothing particularly stood out. The prices were also on the higher side for what you get. I wouldn't go out of my way to eat here again.
3. Sarah - 2.5 stars
I had high expectations for "Black Magic Mexicali", but unfortunately, it didn't live up to them. The atmosphere was lackluster, with a generic and uninspiring interior. The food was decent, but nothing memorable or unique. The service was efficient but lacked warmth and friendliness. Overall, it was an average dining experience, and I would have expected more considering the reputation of the restaurant.
4. Mark - 2 stars
I had heard a lot about "Black Magic Mexican", but I was left disappointed after my visit. The food was just okay, with some dishes being overly greasy and lacking in flavor. The service was also slow and inattentive, making the overall experience underwhelming. I wouldn't rush back to this restaurant and would rather explore other Mexican dining options in town.