Where to Eat in San José del Cabo: 16 Local Restaurants

A complete list of the 16 best places to eat in San José del Cabo, from taco joints to local restaurants.

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San José del Cabo’s vibrant culture doesn’t stop at art galleries, it extends to its diverse culinary scene. This colourful colonial city is home to a huge variety of dining options that cater to every diet and budget. With a unique blend of authentic Mexican cuisine and international flavours, San José del Cabo offers an unparalleled culinary scene. You may be wondering where to eat in San José del Cabo as there are countless options, from traditional restaurants to organic farms serving vegetables straight from the field. We pretty much spent our entire time in San José del Cabo just eating our way around the town, trying a new restaurant or café every day, and have compiled a full list of the best places to eat in this guide to the best restaurants in San José del Cabo.

Where to eat in San José del Cabo

There’s a wide variety of lovely restaurants in San José del Cabo. We’ve compiled this complete list of the best restaurants in San José del Cabo, from independently owned, local eateries to street food trucks and award-winning restaurants.

Wandering the cobbled streets and stumbling across hidden gems with food you’ll remember for the rest of your life is one of the best things to do in San José del Cabo. Most of the best places to eat are centred in the historic downtown with a few options further outside the centre.

Imagine dining in open-air courtyards, under colourful papal picado (Mexican bunting) to a background of live music – bliss. Discover where to eat in San José del Cabo, from traditional Mexican taquerias to upscale organic restaurants, in this guide to the city’s top dining spots.

San José del Cabo Restaurants Map

Use the filters on the menu on the left-hand side to see the best places to eat in San José del Cabo, marked with green pins.

The best brunch restaurants in San José del Cabo

With a lively and artistic atmosphere, San José del Cabo is the perfect destination for a relaxed brunch experience. Whether you’re craving pastries, coffee, or something more substantial, we’ve listed the top spots to start your day off right.

1. Ruba’s Bakery

A Michelin-recommended, local bakery and bistro, Ruba’s Bakery offers a wide range of freshly baked goods and breakfast options. From buttery croissants and freshly brewed coffee to hearty Mexican egg classics and carefully crafted cocktails, the menu features a variety of delicious dishes. The outdoor courtyard has colourful artwork and a cosy ambience, making it one of the most perfect restaurants in San José del Cabo for a leisurely brunch. Ruba’s is so good we went there multiple times on our trip!

2. Bröd Co. Artisan Bakery & Café

Located near Los Cabos International Airport, Bröd Co. Artisan Bakery & Café is great for a breakfast spot on your way to catch an early flight or a dinner stop if you’ve just arrived in the evening. A modern bakery with a sleek, minimal vibe, Bröd Co. serves delicious, high-quality baked goods with an artisanal touch, from fresh sourdough sandwiches to indulgent pastries. The inviting café setting is perfect for a relaxed brunch with friends or family. Due to its location out of the city centre, Bröd Co. is most easily accessible if you rent a car in Los Cabos.

3. Coffee LAB

If you’re like us, every day has to start with coffee. Coffee Lab, or LAB, is a coffee lover’s haven. Serving more than just expertly brewed coffee, LAB also offers tasty dishes like avocado toast, smoothie bowls, and sandwiches, with a focus on quality and innovation. A small and simple coffee shop, this is a great spot for a delicious brunch in San José del Cabo.

The best lunch and dinner restaurants in San José del Cabo

There’s always something going on in downtown San José del Cabo, from the weekly Art Walk to the annual San José del Cabo Festival. For those looking to indulge in authentic dishes, San José del Cabo offers a variety of excellent local dining options. From traditional Mexican fare to freshly caught seafood and modern infusions, these are the best, traditional restaurants in restaurants in San José del Cabo for lunch and dinner.

4. Jazmin’s

Jazmin’s was recommended to us as the best place for Mexican food in San José del Cabo and it, oh boy, can we attest this to be true. Situated on one of San José del Cabo’s most vibrant streets, Jazmin’s is a beloved local spot offering authentic Mexican dishes made with fresh ingredients. With colourful interiors and warm hospitality, Jazmin’s has a welcoming environment for both lunch and dinner. The menu boasts a wide range of flavorful dishes, from tacos to ceviches, ensuring that there’s something for everyone. We’d recommend the veggie platter, Aztec soup, and the classic starter of guacamole and chips.

5. Baja Brewing Company

A pub-like restaurant in the historic centre, Baja Brewing Company is renowned for its craft beer selection. The menu is inspired by Baja’s local flavours, featuring hearty plates such as burgers and nachos, which are perfectly complemented by their signature beers. You can order a sampler of six different specialities of house beer. If you’re more of a one-pint drinker, try Baja Razz, Dan’s favourite Baja Brewing Company beer. You can always pick up a few beers from the little on-site gift shop to take back with you too. Baja Brewing Company also has a sister site that’s one of the best restaurants in Cabo San Lucas.

6. Los Tres Gallos

A standout in the heart of town, Los Tres Gallos offers delicious, traditional Mexican cuisine in a lively and colourful setting. Known for its focus on locally sourced ingredients, this San José del Cabo restaurant serves old family recipes like slow-cooked meats and flavourful salsas, making it a great choice for lunch or dinner with friends. Its twin restaurant in Cabo San Lucas is equally charming.

7. Claro Fish Jr

Conveniently situated between the historic centre and the beach, Claro Fish Jr is the best restaurant in San José del Cabo for fresh seafood. This iconic taco joint focuses on simplicity and quality, serving up the freshest catches of the day in a relaxed yet upscale environment. Their fish tacos and ceviche are popular favourites, showcasing the very best of Baja’s coastal flavours. Their sister site was one of our favourite restaurants in La Paz and we’d highly recommend the Baja-style fish tacos.

8. SAGE Baja

SAGE Baja offers a dinner-only, refined culinary experience that blends innovative techniques with local ingredients. Known for its creative menu and sophisticated ambience, SAGE serves dishes that highlight the flavours of the region while incorporating Mediterranean and international influences. With a good variety of gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options, there’s something for every taste.

9. Jardín Secreto

True to its name, Jardín Secreto (The Secret Garden) is a hidden oasis offering organic meals in a peaceful setting. This Italian restaurant focuses on fresh, local ingredients with craft cocktails and an extensive variety of Italian dishes. The garden-style, roofed courtyard provides an intimate atmosphere and live music in the evenings makes this a great restaurant in San José del Cabo to celebrate a special occasion.

The best organic restaurants in San José del Cabo

A commitment to sustainable dining has seen an increase in farm-to-table restaurants in San José del Cabo. These restaurants showcase the region’s finest organic offerings, using fresh, seasonal, and local ingredients to craft top-quality dishes.

10. ACRE

Set against a backdrop of lush jungle, on a sprawling organic vegetable farm, ACRE offers high-end dining like no other. Proud owners of a Michelin Green Star award, ACRE’s menu features dynamic dishes inspired by global influences. Each meal is made with ingredients grown on-site and pairs perfectly with a range of signature cocktails. The restaurant has an upscale ambience that makes it perfect for celebrating a special occasion, with special spaces for private dining.

The ACRE Resort is also a stylish hotel complex with 16 intimate treehouses immersed in stunning natural surroundings, perfect for an eco-conscious retreat.

11. Flora Farms

Another Michelin Green Star awardee, Flora Farms is a popular restaurant in San José del Cabo for those seeking authentic farm-to-table dining. Nestled on a 25-acre organic farm, this unique organic restaurant offers an ever-changing menu that highlights local and seasonal produce. From wood-fired pizzas to refreshing cocktails, everything is crafted with care and flavour in mind. The open-air setting is stunning with incredible views of the Sierra de la Laguna Mountains.

12. Tamarindos

A Mexican-owned farm-to-table restaurant in San José del Cabo, Tamarindos is situated on a historic farm with lovely views of the countryside. The menu serves rustic, organic dishes that honour traditional Mexican cuisine and are made with fresh, seasonal ingredients straight from their fields. A lesser-known option compared to Flora Farms and ACRE, Tamarindos restaurant in San José del Cabo for those looking for a more local farm-to-table dining experience.

Where to get desserts and drinks in San José del Cabo

San José del Cabo offers an array of spots where you can indulge your sweet tooth or enjoy a well-crafted drink. From delicious desserts to refreshing beverages, these spots are perfect for satisfying cravings or grabbing a refreshing ice cream to cool off from the Cabo heat.

13. La Sabrosa

Known for its artisanal desserts, La Sabrosa is a haven for fro-yo fans. Serving three flavours of frozen yoghurt, natural (white), taro (purple) and activated charcoal (black), you can pick your flavour before choosing from a variety of toppings. Lucy would recommend taro with sprinkles but Dan’s more of a natural and chocolate sauce person. Once just a little food truck, there are now three little La Sabrosa shops in San José del Cabo.

14. Almazén

Located in the main square in the historic centre, Almazén is an ice cream shop and creperie serving sweet treats. The menu includes decadent pastries, artisan coffees, and signature cocktails, as well as ice creams and gelatos. There’s a range of dairy-free sorbets and ice creams for vegans too. With a combination of gourmet desserts and a stylish, modern atmosphere, this is the ideal spot to break up your sightseeing with a sweet snack.

Michelin-recommended restaurants in San José del Cabo

San José del Cabo’s culinary scene is dotted with Michelin-recommended spots that offer elevated dining experiences. These restaurants provide innovative menus, impeccable service, and an ambience that’s perfect for special occasions. While the only Michelin-star restaurant in Cabo is located in the tourist corridor – and we covered it in our guide to Cabo San Lucas’ restaurants – these San José del Cabo restaurants have been featured in the prestigious Michelin Guides and come highly recommended.

15. Lumbre

Nestled in San José del Cabo’s Art District, Lumbre is a sophisticated restaurant known for its creative approach to Mexican cuisine, with Asian influences. Using locally sourced ingredients, chefs craft innovative dishes in an open kitchen, giving guests an insight into modern techniques that honour traditional flavours. Lumbre is one of the best seafood restaurants in San José del Cabo and the from-the-oven section offers a variety of dishes made from locally sourced produce. The ambience is elegant yet casual and relaxed, perfect for a non-fussy, luxurious meal.

16. Omakai

Omakai Sushi blends the art of Japanese dining with local ingredients for a truly unique dining experience. Known for its omakase-style service, this restaurant offers expertly crafted sushi and sashimi that showcase the freshness of Cabo’s coastal region. With an intimate setting and an outdoor patio area, Omakai is one block away from the Art Walk, making it a great place for a dinner in central San José del Cabo.

San José del Cabo Food and Drink FAQs

We’ve answered some frequently asked questions below to make sure you have all the knowledge you need for the best dining experience in San José del Cabo.

What food is San José del Cabo known for?

San José del Cabo is renowned for its fresh seafood, including fish tacos, ceviche, shrimp, and grilled fish, often prepared with a Baja twist. Baja-style fish tacos typically feature grilled or fried fish served on a soft tortilla with toppings like cabbage, pico de gallo, and a zesty crema. Traditional Mexican dishes like enchiladas, mole, and tamales are also widely available. San José del Cabo is also one of the best places to visit a farm-to-table restaurant, like ACRE or Flora Farms, where dishes are crafted from local, organic ingredients.

What drink is San José del Cabo known for?

The Cabo region is famous for its margaritas, a classic Mexican cocktail made with tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur, and also tequila-based cocktails, often infused with local fruits like mango or tamarind. Mezcal, a smoky agave spirit similar to tequila, is also widely enjoyed, sometimes served with a side of orange slices and chilli powder. You’ll also find creative craft cocktails and refreshing beers from Baja California’s emerging craft breweries like Baja Brewing Company.

Where do the locals eat in San José del Cabo?

Locals favour casual, authentic restaurants in San José del Cabo like Jazmin’s, Los Tres Gallos, and Claro Fish Jr. for affordable meals like tacos and ceviche. Family-owned establishments like Tamarindos also usually serve authentic Mexican dishes that are popular with locals. Street vendors, food stalls, and small eateries around the historic downtown area also serve delicious regional snacks and meals.

What are the best restaurants in downtown San José del Cabo?

Downtown San José del Cabo offers a mix of upscale and casual dining restaurants. Lumbre offers an elevated take on Mexican cuisine with innovative dishes and a modern ambience, while Jazmin’s is a charming and colourful option offering traditional Mexican dishes at an affordable price.

Are there San Jose del Cabo restaurants on the beach?

Yes, there are several beachfront dining options where you can enjoy ocean views. Most of the best beachfront hotels in Cabo have on-site restaurants offering delicious dishes with stunning sea views. 7 Seas Seafood Grille at Cabo Surf Hotel & Spa serves gourmet seafood with a stunning view of the ocean. Many resorts in the Hotel Zone, including Viceroy Los Cabos, also feature on-the-beach dining experiences.

Where to buy groceries in San José del Cabo

San José del Cabo offers a variety of grocery shopping options, ranging from large supermarkets to speciality, local, and organic markets. La Comer is a well-stocked supermarket offering a mix of local and imported products, with a bakery, deli, and selection of fresh produce and seafood. Walmart offers all the items you’d be used to buying back home.

Is San José del Cabo vegan-friendly?

Yes, San José del Cabo is increasingly vegan-friendly, with many restaurants offering plant-based options or entirely vegan menus. Unfortunately, a few of the vegan restaurants we really loved when we visited, like Chula Vegan Café, have since closed. But many restaurants now accommodate vegan diets with creative dishes featuring fresh, local produce, including Jardín Secreto and Ruba’s Bakery.

What is the average price of a meal in San José del Cabo?

The cost of dining in San José del Cabo varies depending on the type of restaurant, what you order, and whether you dine at lunch or dinner. Typically, this is the average cost of a meal:

Read next:

The 22 Best Things to Do in San José del Cabo

A Guide to the San José del Cabo Festival

The 18 Best Beachfront Hotels in Cabo

The 15 Best Day Trips from Cabo

An Ethical Guide to Humpback Whale Watching in Cabo

How to Get Around Cabo: 10 Modes of Transport

Los Cabos Travel Guide: Cabo San Lucas Vs San José del Cabo

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