Los Cabos: Eat & Drink like a local
Los Cabos: Eat & Drink like a local
Fernanda Cortina
Staying away from the hustle and bustle here can seem like a daunting task. While the area is known for its luxury resorts and wild nightlife, there is so much to discover on the outside of the tourist areas.
This guide will take you to some of my favourite local dining and bar spots in Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo. From traditional mexican dishes, local seafood, world cuisine, draft beer and intricate cocktails —there is something here for every traveller.
Updated ago
6
Share
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=3840,quality=100,format=webp/images/by-user/3cATQuRayBal1Fiz5hLlbkZKqRr2/boards/16940/8uyv8p-846d69d4-a301-40c9-bb17-44eca75e8e87.jpg)
Cabo San Lucas
Breakfast
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/by-user/3cATQuRayBal1Fiz5hLlbkZKqRr2/places/163442/167pjad-3eda5a8e-9212-4dbb-8c7c-3aaa1aabf615.jpg)
☕️ Doce Cuarenta Coffee Roasters
@fernanda_cortina
This coffee house offers a wide variety of high-quality drinks made from their own freshly roasted beans. The menu includes classic espresso drinks, drip coffee, and pour-overs, as well as a selection of iced coffee drinks and house-made pastries.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/by-user/3cATQuRayBal1Fiz5hLlbkZKqRr2/places/163397/fe39vn-042c44cb-2232-4815-b660-e5792516be2e.jpg)
☕️ Café Distrito 23410
@fernanda_cortina
The cafe offers a range of coffee drinks, smoothies, and juices, as well as a selection of breakfast and lunch items. Stop by for the classics such as burritos and sandwiches, as well as unique dishes like their signature "tostada eggs benedict."
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/by-user/3cATQuRayBal1Fiz5hLlbkZKqRr2/places/163295/xd22ma-b41338e7-ef23-4d76-86c5-850c8be121b7.jpg)
🍴Bar Esquina
@fernanda_cortina
Better known for lunch and drinks, but they have my absolute favourite chilaquiles in town, with a side of mimosas. On the fancier side of restaurants, it’s a perfect treat-yourself spot in a the heart of Medano.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/by-user/3cATQuRayBal1Fiz5hLlbkZKqRr2/places/163433/d0oy8m-f0367206-cb28-4116-b189-60232bdd17fa.jpg)
☕️ Casasola Café & Brunch
@fernanda_cortina
From bagels to avocado toasts, it’s perfect for those who enjoy a healthy and light breakfast, with plenty more on the menu! Don't miss out on their signature "café de olla", made with cinnamon and piloncillo.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
Lunch
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/by-user/3cATQuRayBal1Fiz5hLlbkZKqRr2/places/163544/ki4cny-acef3329-3948-4572-99be-d80142b6f55c.jpg)
🇲🇽 Mi Casa
@fernanda_cortina
It may look like a tourist trap —it’s anything but! This quirky and colourful spot in downtown Cabo will serve you traditional authentic mexican cuisine, including seasonal dishes all while enjoying the beautiful decor.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/by-user/3cATQuRayBal1Fiz5hLlbkZKqRr2/places/163321/5ggmbg-34d177e5-e167-486b-b81a-9267c3e2f5a9.jpg)
🇮🇳🌱 Elements
@fernanda_cortina
The owner and chef, Gupta, offers the best authentic indian cuisine in the city. With a wide range of vegan and vegetarian dishes on the menu, it has become a popular spot and recently moved to a new location. I especially love the butter chicken!
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/by-user/3cATQuRayBal1Fiz5hLlbkZKqRr2/places/163722/dt5okz-17a846b5-47df-4985-9a15-646f70019aa4.jpg)
🌎 Container Park
@fernanda_cortina
This spot is made up of re-purposed shipping containers turned into a “food truck” style lot, hosting a variety of restaurants. From italian to lebanese, ice cream or burgers… You can find something for everyone here.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/by-user/3cATQuRayBal1Fiz5hLlbkZKqRr2/places/163333/vzynk8-ffe1f78f-4e81-4970-aad4-f1b253b32806.jpg)
🍤 El Toro Güero
@fernanda_cortina
My go-to seafood restaurant. It’s a super local palapa, well away from the crowds, and the menu is spanish only. That’s how you know it’s legit! For a little bit of everything try the molcajete, or go for a taco dish or ceviche. Super cheap for budget travelers.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/by-user/3cATQuRayBal1Fiz5hLlbkZKqRr2/places/163348/5bp1c-3ff492e6-dc8e-4c5a-9692-0571c72fb08f.jpg)
🏝️🍤🍸 SUR Beach House
@fernanda_cortina
A bohemian style and ocean front restaurant and beach club, it has a completely different vibe from other locales on Medano beach, and a great food and cocktail selection. Enjoy the stunning views of the arch, and stay for the evening after lunch to catch the sunset.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/by-user/3cATQuRayBal1Fiz5hLlbkZKqRr2/places/163539/20fmov-3baf8dad-ae65-4602-8750-c5ee74dc3b7c.jpg)
🇲🇽 Metate Cabo
@fernanda_cortina
Serving traditional mexican cuisine with a modern twist, using fresh and locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes tacos, ceviche, mole and more! It has a lively atmosphere and a wide open area.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
Dinner
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/by-user/3cATQuRayBal1Fiz5hLlbkZKqRr2/places/163347/9lzsf9-007c0d1b-1197-44ca-99fe-3b895562d415.jpg)
🇯🇵 SUN Japanese Iron Cuisine
@fernanda_cortina
A hidden gem in the heart of Cabo, this small teppanyaki-style restaurant offers a variety of classic dishes, including the delicious ramen they are known for. It also has a full bar serving a range of japanese beers and sake.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/by-user/3cATQuRayBal1Fiz5hLlbkZKqRr2/places/163880/1cioqvr-028d0bea-9fba-428e-a89b-01cbdd69a60f.jpg)
🇲🇽 La Lupita Taco & Mezcal
@fernanda_cortina
Known for its authentic and delicious tacos and its extensive selection of mezcal, a traditional Mexican spirit. The menu offers a variety of tacos with creative fillings as well as versions of classic dishes.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/by-user/3cATQuRayBal1Fiz5hLlbkZKqRr2/places/163545/jwge3s-52cac975-66bb-4fdf-ba4f-2b24e2a27d2e.jpg)
🇮🇹 Salvatore G's
@fernanda_cortina
Don’t be put off by the prices —the portions are massive! And delicious, of course. This small restaurant offers modern Italian cuisine with a Mediterranean twist, and the menu changes seasonally.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/by-user/3cATQuRayBal1Fiz5hLlbkZKqRr2/places/163320/hj1lxu-d489182f-6cd0-4770-a1b4-fd0a75de7334.jpg)
🥑🌱 El Huerto Farm-to-Table
@fernanda_cortina
This stunning rustic restaurant emphasises locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices to create healthy dishes. Offering mainly vegan and vegetarian options, all food ingredients used come straight from their farm!
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/163325/xcuk3q.png)
🇮🇹 Il Forno
@fernanda_cortina
Known for its delicious wood-fired pizzas, handmade pasta, and fresh seafood dishes. The menu also features a variety of antipasti, salads, and traditional Italian desserts.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
Mixology
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/163350/15ltelu.png)
🍸✨ The Rooftop 360
@fernanda_cortina
Offering stunning panoramic views of the city and the Sea of Cortez, it's the perfect spot to enjoy a sunset cocktail. The bar serves a variety of handcrafted drinks, wines, and beers, as well as a selection of small plates and tapas-style dishes.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/by-user/3cATQuRayBal1Fiz5hLlbkZKqRr2/places/163978/e5ghow-4575ad9d-9f22-4756-8f37-c2e28e2a1d63.jpg)
🍺 Baja Brewing Co.
@fernanda_cortina
This local brewery produces a variety of award-winning beers on-site. Perched on the most exclusive rooftop in Medano, overlooking the bay, the bar features the brewery's signature beers on tap as well as seasonal and experimental brews.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/by-user/3cATQuRayBal1Fiz5hLlbkZKqRr2/places/163982/1bsscd0-15635c0d-a4b3-4a7f-a182-125974affcbd.jpg)
🍸 Vas Que Vuelas Mezcalería
@fernanda_cortina
One of my personal favourites, this small local bar offers an extensive selection of artisanal mezcal, tequila, and craft cocktails. Try a variety of mezcal tasting flights, as well as small bites and snacks, while enjoying live music on certain weekdays.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
San José del Cabo
Breakfast
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/163323/110p31n.png)
🥑🌱 Flora Farms
@fernanda_cortina
A unique and sustainable farm-to-table culinary experience set on 25 acres of lush farmland. It offers a restaurant, bar, and grocery store that feature organic produce grown on site. The farm also hosts cooking classes, workshops, and events, as well as a spa and accommodation.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/163441/aey66o.png)
☕️ Coffee Lab
@fernanda_cortina
This coffee shop serves a variety of drinks made with high-quality beans from different regions of Mexico and Central America, as well as delicious pastries and snacks.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
Lunch
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/163382/1k22cmc.png)
🥑🌱 Acre
@fernanda_cortina
The restaurant is set on 25 acres of lush farmland and offers a beautiful outdoor dining area surrounded by gardens, orchards, and palm trees. Its menu features fresh and locally sourced ingredients, including herbs and vegetables grown on site, as well as a variety of meats and seafood.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/163557/1opcfza.png)
🍤 El Aguamala Cevichería
@fernanda_cortina
A vibrant and casual seafood restaurant which specializes in ceviche and offers a variety of other dishes, including tacos, tostadas, and grilled fish. Great place to enjoy some live music.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
Dinner
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/163437/2x0hzp.png)
🇦🇷 Choriarte
@fernanda_cortina
Specializing in traditional Argentinean cuisine, with a focus on choripan - a popular street food consisting of a grilled chorizo sausage served on a crusty bread roll. The menu also includes other grilled meats, empanadas, salads, and a variety of wines.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/163328/7gskxj.png)
🇲🇽 La Lupita Taco & Mezcal
@fernanda_cortina
Known for its authentic and delicious tacos and its extensive selection of mezcal, a traditional Mexican spirit. The menu offers a variety of tacos with creative fillings as well as versions of classic dishes.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/163555/1mk7ife.png)
🍴🍷 MARA
@fernanda_cortina
Overlooking the city's central plaza, the menu offers a fusion of Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh and locally sourced ingredients.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/163613/vz2f88.png)
🇮🇹 Pietro's Ristorante
@fernanda_cortina
An intimate and charming restaurant run by a family from Italy with a very romantic atmosphere. The menu offers a variety of authentic Italian dishes, including homemade pastas, pizzas, and seafood dishes.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
Mixology
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/163294/18rrb0d.png)
🍺 Baja Brewing Co.
@fernanda_cortina
This local brewery offers a variety of award-winning craft beers, including their signature Cabotella and Baja Blond, as well as seasonal brews and guest taps from other local breweries. With a beautiful terrace and live music.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
![](https://cdn.thatch.in/cdn-cgi/image/width=640,quality=75,format=webp/images/163446/1osa1k7.png)
🍸 Nómada Bar de Origen
@fernanda_cortina
A trendy and sophisticated cocktail bar. The menu offers a variety of unique and creative cocktails, crafted with locally sourced and artisanal ingredients, as well as a selection of premium spirits, wine, and beer. It also features live music and entertainment.
Add to
![](/_next/image?url=%2F_next%2Fstatic%2Fmedia%2Fdetails.942103f9.png&w=48&q=100)
Details
* * *
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Fernanda Cortina
Hi there! I am a photographer, journalist, traveler and scuba diver from Mexico exploring all 7 continents ✨
Join me on my adventures & find inspiration for your own 👣 I love slow travel, good food, pretty sunsets, live music, history and culture, eco-friendly all 🍃
Read more about places in this guide
Powered by Thatch
The home for unique & authentic travel
The home for unique & authentic travel
Powered by Thatch: Where great trips are made.
© Fernanda Cortina 2024 • Help • Privacy • Terms • Copyright • Become a Seller • Seller Academy • About • Careers • Blog • Explore Places