Things To Do In Cabo

Eat, Drink and be Merry in Los Cabos

Food lovers can rejoice upon arrival in Cabo.

The peninsula’s culinary delights range from simple, traditional fare harvested from the bounty of the sea, to sophisticated, thoughtful dining crafted by master chefs. There’s a little something for each palate, and rightfully so: eating in Los Cabos reflects the international influence on this isolated piece of Mexico.

Nibble your way through Los Cabos and you’ll encounter surprises along the way. Start in historic San Jose del Cabo, the quieter, traditional heart of Los Cabos. On a sunny weekend from October to May, feast your senses at San Jose’s organic market, a short walk from the city center. Find organic produce, handmade pastries, breads, pizzas, as well as tacos, quesadillas and more along with music, crafts and fun. Later, take a stroll through the charming streets and have your choice of cuisines: hearty Italian, juicy Argentine steaks, or flavorful Mediterranean and Spanish dishes, even Baja-style hamburgers. But traditional Mexican favorites reign supreme, as chefs reinvent classic dishes from mainland Mexico with a distinctive Baja flair. Fresh shellfish, marlin, tuna, dorado are dressed up and spiced with unforgettable Mexican flavors. But don’t feel like you need to stop at the established restaurants, for San Jose has much more to share.

There’s nothing quite like the plaza of San Jose on a balmy evening, as locals and tourists alike delight in the open, airy city square. Sample traditional Mexican elotes: fresh corn spiced with lime, cheese and chile. Stop for a popsicle or scoop of ice cream using fresh, exotic ingredients: creamy coconut, tangy tamarind, guava or Mexican vanilla. Try traditional tamales, lovingly prepared using old family recipes and sold in the middle of the plaza. Check out the San Jose marina to sample fresh ceviche (made from fish that were probably swimming in the ocean just a few hours before). Mostly, take time to slow down and enjoy the flavors, smells and colors that make San Jose such a special place.

As you travel down the Transpeninsular Highway (commonly called “the Corridor”) on your way to San Lucas, make a point to stop at one of the sparkling resorts along the way for what is sure to be a culinary treat. World-class restaurants are standard fare at most Los Cabos resorts, and here you’ll find upscale dining with breathtaking ocean views. Pick a hotel, or a chef, or a cuisine that makes your heart flutter and you won’t regret your detour. If you’re starting to feel a little homesick, Americans will find plenty of chain restaurants from north of the border on the stretch of highway right outside of San Jose.

Next up, San Lucas: Los Cabo’s party central. Kick off your shoes and head to the beach, where a 24-hour-party is in full swing. Restaurants are literally spilling onto the sand, and many offer American-style breakfasts, traditional Mexican dishes and bar snacks (along with enough tequila shots to get your groove on). Walk along the marina and you’ll find seafood and lobster specials, friendly service and ambiance just a short walk to the party.

But there’s a lot more than meets the eye in San Lucas. Beyond the beach, you’ll find fine dining options that masterfully fuse Mexican and international cuisines for an unforgettable experience. Treat yourself at one of the fine restaurants housed in the hotels and along the main street in San Lucas. Some restaurants even have their own fishing boats to make sure that you’re getting the freshest possible food at your table. One bite and you’ll be hooked, too.

Travel even further off the beaten path in San Lucas and you’ll find hidden jewels: homey Italian food, Mexican seafood and tacos galore. Don’t be scared by humble-looking taco stands: delicious options abound that keep the locals coming back for more, and you won’t be disappointed with a plate of fish or arrachera (grilled meat) tacos. Follow the crowds and you’ll be pleasantly surprised at what you find.

Round out the peninsula and continue on to Todos Santos. This stunning stretch of highway takes you along the sea and into the wild desert. Food along the way is similarly humble yet beautiful. Fresh fish tacos are available on the road right outside of Todos Santos, and your grumbling stomach will thank you. Locals claim that some of the best seafood tacos can be found here, so sample the local favorites and see what suits you best. Going into Todos Santos, take your pick of casual yet thoughtful dining: fresh ingredients using familiar Mexican and international recipes.

As you make your way to La Paz, you’ll notice the landscape change and become lush, mountainous and green. Enjoy the sights and stop for a snack at the family-owned stands selling fruits and handmade pastries. Guavas and mangoes grow in these lush hillsides, and small family farms offer their bounty along the way to La Paz.

When you reach La Paz, you’ll eventually find yourself along the malecon, or boardwalk. Take a relaxing walk along the water and explore the dining options you find along the way. Small cafes, traditional Mexican restaurants, bars, coffee shops, American chain restaurants and fine dining: take your pick! Pick up a refreshing agua de horchata (a sweet, cinnamony rice drink commonly made with coconut milk here in La Paz) and let your belly guide you.

Whether you’re a vegetarian or a steak aficionado, a little picky or very adventurous, you’re sure to have a happy stomach while in Los Cabos. Seafood is reigns supreme, but you can find a little bit of everything here. Take a bite, chow down, eat out or order in, whatever you do, buen provecho: enjoy!