28 Best Restaurants in Antigua: Rooftop Bars, Vegan Eateries & Unique Dining Experiences

A complete list of the best places to eat in Antigua, Guatemala, from local eateries and international restaurants to rooftop bars with volcano views.

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Antigua is literally one of our favourite food cities in the entire world. While it’s not known as a foodie destination, the city is home to everything from local eateries serving traditional Guatemalan cuisine to international restaurants. You’ll find countless options down every cobblestone street, including Italian, French, Mexican, Indian, Thai, and Vietnamese. We were delighted to find that there are loads of options for vegetarians and vegans, too.

We ate our way around Antigua on three visits to this colourful colonial city, and have found so many incredible places to eat that we need to share with you. Whether you’re looking for a cup of coffee, tasty brunch, light lunch, indulgent dinner, drinks with a view, or sweet treat, the question isn’t where to go, but how on earth to choose which of all the great options on offer to put on your Guatemala itinerary! If you’re wondering where to eat in Antigua, Guatemala, discover our top spots, from local eateries and international restaurants to cosy cafés and rooftop bars, in this food guide.

Where to eat in Antigua, Guatemala

For such a small city, Antigua has a surprisingly diverse food scene. It might be one of the best cities in Central America for culinary experiences, but we’d argue it’s actually one of the best food cities in the world. Not only is there a great range of cuisine on offer, but the restaurants themselves are beautiful too. From leafy colonial courtyards and rooftop terraces with volcano views to quirky cafés and underground speakeasies, there are so many hidden gems scattered throughout the city.

Many eateries focus on local, organic ingredients, often sourced from nearby farms, with plenty of options for health-focused eaters, vegetarians, and vegans. While there are no Michelin stars and only a handful of fine dining restaurants in the city, you wouldn’t know it, as every spot serves up world-class flavours.

But you don’t have to break the bank to sample some of the best food in Antigua. Like many other places in Guatemala, street food vendors and market stalls pop up on every corner, especially at night, where you can find cheap snacks like tostadas, empanadas, and fresh juices for just a few quetzales. Add on its laidback nightlife, which is more craft cocktails, local breweries, and wine tasting spots than backpacker bars, and you’ve got a winning combo.

We scoured the city over three visits on different Guatemala trips and found the best places to eat in Antigua. This isn’t just another list of top restaurants, it’s a curated, tried and tested guide to our favourite places to eat in Antigua, from breakfast spots and lunch and dinner restaurants to the veggie/vegan eateries we’re still dreaming of and sweet treats to finish off your meal.

Antigua Restaurants Map

We’ve pinned the best places to eat in Antigua on the interactive map below.

Antigua Food Tours

Joining a culinary experience in Antigua is a great way to sample local specialities and discover hidden gems.

The best brunch and breakfast spots in Antigua

Start your day in one of Antigua’s cosy cafés, tucked inside colonial courtyards or along cobblestone streets with the scent of freshly ground coffee beans. Most spots serve a mix of Guatemalan staples like eggs, plantains, and black beans, alongside international favourites like pancakes, smoothie bowls, and avocado toast (Lucy’s go-to). Here are our top picks.

1. Fat Cat Coffee House

Fat Cat Coffee is one of Antigua’s best coffee houses, earning a cult following among both locals and travellers for its expertly brewed coffee. It’s renowned for its perfectly brewed espresso, and is actually the place Dan tried his first ever espresso when I was trying to convince him to like coffee, which worked wonders, as we’re now both addicted to our morning cuppa. This was our introduction to Antigua’s coffee scene, and we were not disappointed, either the first time or on our subsequent return trips.

You can sip a flat white or cold brew made from locally sourced beans, roasted right in the shop for maximum flavour. Their breakfast menu keeps things simple but satisfying, with homemade bagel sandwiches, waffles, and banana bread. It’s a small shop, so it’s not super spacious for working remotely, but it’s great for a light breakfast or takeaway coffee (in your reusable cup) before a day of sightseeing.

2. AM BKFST

If you’re after an Instagram-worthy brunch, AM BKFST delivers on both style and substance. You can expect beautifully presented dishes of smoothie bowls topped with tropical fruit, fluffy pancakes, and strong espresso drinks served in chic surroundings. The café features modern, minimalist décor, and we love the outdoor courtyard with its partial volcano views on a clear day that make it feel like a little oasis.

AM BKFST is a popular spot with both locals and visitors, especially for weekend brunch, so arrive early if you want a table. Everything is made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and the attention to detail really shines through in every dish. It has a unique build-your-own-breakfast concept, allowing you to create your own dish from a variety of bases and toppings, as well as classics like eggs, pastries, and sandwiches. It also does a good barista coffee.

3. Fernando’s Kaffee

Another local spot we discovered on our first trip and simply had to return to, Fernando’s Kaffee is a full sensory experience where you can see coffee beans roasted, chocolate ground, and breakfast made – all under one roof.

This café is known for its organic, bean-to-cup approach, and the owner personally roasts the beans on-site and even makes his own chocolate. It doubles as a small roastery and chocolate workshop, and sampling different varieties is one of the best things to do in Guatemala.

You can sit in the sunny courtyard surrounded by greenery and the friendly cat, enjoying a traditional Guatemalan breakfast with eggs, plantains, beans, and handmade tortillas. We especially loved the huge empanadas. There are a variety of roasts, brewed fresh and rich in flavour, to choose from, so it’s also a great spot for coffee and breakfast in Antigua.

4. Union Café

Tucked away on a quiet street, Union Café is a hidden gem of a café with a maze of little rooms decorated with neon signs and colourful murals, as well as a leafy courtyard with plants all over. Although the menu isn’t the largest, you can enjoy fresh smoothies, fruit bowls, and homemade granola, porridge, and Guatemalan classics – healthy options without being dull, featuring local produce and plenty of vegetarian-friendly options.

This is also a popular social hub for the expat community, so it’s a great spot to do some work if you’re a digital nomad, with strong Wi-Fi and an easygoing atmosphere.

5. El Viejo Café

We discovered El Viejo Café on our first visit to Antigua through a local recommendation. It’s sort of flown under the tourist radar, being slightly more sophisticated than some more social media-worthy spots. A local institution, El Viejo Café has been serving up breakfast and baked goods in Antigua for decades.

You can start your day with a cappuccino and a croissant fresh from the bakery, or opt for a more filling plate of eggs and beans. The décor has a distinctly European feel, blending Guatemalan pastels with a bit of French flair. It’s got a good range of pastries and sandwiches to take away for a picnic or tour, which is great if you’re planning a day trip from Antigua. It also serves up some delicious cocktails, perfect for a boozy brunch.

6. 12 Onzas

A must-visit for serious coffee aficionados, 12 Onzas is one of the best places for breakfast in Antigua, with coffee sourced from top Guatemalan farms and brewed using methods like pour-over and Aeropress. You can also grab a light breakfast or pastry, perfect for pairing with their balanced espresso.

We were bad bloggers and forgot to take a picture of 12 Onzas, as we got takeaway coffee in our reusable cups, but we can attest to its incredible coffee, which was one of the best we had in Antigua. The shop itself is light and bright with a lovely minimalist design and an internal courtyard. It has plenty of space to get your laptop out and do a bit of work, too.

Honourable mentions

We could happily live in Antigua, but it would probably be bad for our bank account, spending every morning sipping coffee in a new café. Unfortunately, we didn’t have time to try all the spots on our long list, but here are a couple of other places that we’ve researched and been recommended:

The best lunch and dinner restaurants in Antigua

Oh boy, there are so many great restaurants in Antigua. No matter which street you walk down, you’ll pass highly-rated establishments with cool ambience.

7. Hector’s Bistro

One of Antigua’s most popular restaurants, Hector’s Bistro has a cosy yet refined atmosphere perfect for a relaxed lunch or romantic dinner. You can enjoy beautifully presented dishes that blend French and Mediterranean influences, all prepared with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. The menu changes regularly, but you’ll often find favourites like tender steaks, creamy risottos, and rich seafood pastas.

Pair your meal with a glass of wine from their carefully selected list, and you’ve got one of the most consistently excellent dining experiences in town. The intimate setting, warm lighting, and (yes, yet another) leafy courtyard make it feel like a hidden gem even though it’s right in the heart of the city.

8. Mr Taco

We’re always on the hunt for good tacos, ever since spending months travelling Mexico, but it can be hard to find genuinely good Mexican food outside the country. Mr Taco is the go-to spot in Antigua for authentic, no-frills Mexican street food that’s full of flavour. You can grab a plate of freshly made tacos filled with everything from marinated pork and grilled chicken to vegan and vegetarian options, all topped with homemade salsa and fresh lime.

The vibe is casual, as it’s set in the courtyard behind Lemon Tree Hostel. The portions are generous and prices are affordable, which explains why it’s popular among travellers on a budget.

9. La Pasta Nostra

You’ll find lots of Italian restaurants in Antigua, but La Pasta Nostra is one of the best. With a menu of handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and hearty sauces that taste like home cooking, this is one of the best places to eat in Antigua if you love pizza and pasta, like we do.

You can watch the chefs roll out fresh pasta in the open kitchen before tucking into classics like carbonara, lasagna, or seafood linguine. The pizzas are especially popular, with thin-crusts that are crispy and baked to perfection in a traditional oven. There’s also a great selection of wines to pair with your meal.

10. Frida’s

Inspired by the life and art of Mexican icon Frida Kahlo, Frida’s is our kind of restaurant. Filled with vibrant décor, lively music, and Frida-themed artwork, it’s one of the most unique places to eat in Antigua.

The menu is full of bold, authentic Mexican flavours, from sizzling fajitas and enchiladas to Baja-style fish tacos, paired with fresh margaritas. We love Mexican cuisine, and you can’t beat a fresh, zingy mezcalita to pair. It’s a fun spot for groups or if you’ve got something to celebrate, especially when the bar livens up later in the night.

11. Meson Panza Verde

For one of the most elegant dining experiences in Antigua, Meson Panza Verde is hard to beat. Set within an art gallery and one of the best boutique hotels in Antigua, this candlelit restaurant offers a serene, romantic atmosphere with arched corridors, lush courtyards, and softly glowing lanterns. There are a lot of courtyard restaurants in Antigua, but this was one of the most beautiful that we set foot in.

You can dine on refined international cuisine, with dishes like seared tuna, beef tenderloin, and duck confit, all beautifully presented. The wine list is one of the best in town, and live music often adds to the charm on certain evenings. It’s an ideal choice for special occasions or a memorable final dinner in Antigua.

12. Sobremesa

Known for its Italian cuisine with a modern flair, Sobremesa is one of the most beautiful restaurants in Antigua. The name reflects the Spanish tradition of lingering after a meal, and the restaurant is designed with an elevated yet cosy ambience that reflects this.

The menu consists of imaginative dishes that pair local ingredients with international influences, each plate looking almost too beautiful to eat. The chef-owner is also an artist, and it shows in the creativity of both the food and décor. Don’t miss the homemade ice cream, which comes in inventive flavours like basil, cardamom, or rum, which you can also get at their exotic ice cream shop around the corner.

13. Mí Vietnamese Kitchen

Mí Vietnamese Kitchen brings authentic Southeast Asian cuisine to Antigua. We found this restaurant on our first visit, and it immediately became a favourite – partly for the delicious food and partly because of its stunning views from the rooftop terrace.

It serves steaming bowls of pho, crispy spring rolls, and fresh banh mi sandwiches made with traditional herbs and sauces. The food is light, aromatic, and full of balanced flavours, perfect for a healthy lunch or dinner that makes for a refreshing break from Guatemalan and Latin American dishes.

Honourable mentions

We wish we could eat everywhere, but we can’t for the sake of our budget and waistlines. Here are some more highly-rated and recommended restaurants that need mentioning:

The best vegan and vegetarian restaurants in Antigua

Antigua is one of the most vegetarian and vegan-friendly destinations in Central America, with an impressive number of plant-based restaurants for such a small city. You’ll find everything from cosy cafés serving colourful smoothie bowls to atmospheric restaurants reimagining Guatemalan flavours in creative, meat-free ways. Many of these eateries also focus on sustainability and wellness, using organic produce sourced from local farms and gardens. We were literally in our element, so most of these aren’t just our top vegan-friendly picks, but our favourite restaurants in Antigua overall.

14. Wachuma

Since our first visit, we’d been dreaming of Wachuma, and it was one of the first places we went back to as soon as we returned. Offering a delicious and colourful take on vegan cuisine in a relaxed, bohemian setting, you can expect beautifully presented bowls, tacos, and burgers made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, with everything prepared from scratch.

It can be hard to eat healthily when travelling, with a lot of cuisine being deep-fried or becoming quite samey. We love Wachuma’s selection of salad bowls, with the option to build your own full of fresh veggies and nourishing ingredients. It’s the perfect fuel for the overnight Acatenango Volcano hike, and we had it both the day before we went up and the day we came down.

15. Once Once

Once Once (meaning “eleven eleven” in Spanish) is a trendy vegan café and restaurant that quickly became one of our go-to spots. You can enjoy everything from loaded nachos and hearty sandwiches to vibrant salads and indulgent desserts – all 100% vegan. We were obsessed with the cauliflower wings, cauliflower tacos, and ravioli, with one of the best vegan creamy sauces ever.

Don’t miss their cocktails and homemade kombucha, which pair perfectly with their healthy comfort food. The restaurant is also located right by Wicho & Charlie’s, one of the top Acatenango tour companies and the operator we did the hike with, so it’s super conveniently located.

16. La Bruja

La Bruja is one of Antigua’s popular plant-based restaurants, known for its creative menu and peaceful garden setting. Here, you can tuck into veggie burgers, falafel wraps, and salads, all made with fresh, organic ingredients, with plenty of gluten-free options, too.

The outdoor courtyard, like many in the city, is surrounded by greenery and is absolutely beautiful. It’s also one of the most affordable vegan spots in town, making it easy to return again and again.

17. Samsara

Samsara is a stylish vegetarian restaurant that feels part café, part yoga retreat/art space. You can enjoy a wide range of vegetarian and vegan dishes with Asian and Middle Eastern influences, including curries, wraps, and salads bursting with flavour and colour. You can choose your protein, from tofu and tempeh to mushrooms and falafel – we had an incredible pad thai and curry here, and so wish we’d discovered it earlier.

Many ingredients are locally grown and organic, and the presentation is always beautiful. The tranquil ambience, complete with soft lighting and natural décor, makes it ideal for a mindful meal. They also have a range of smoothies and cold-pressed juices, perfect for cooling off after a day in the sun.

18. Sat Nam

Sat Nam blends spirituality, wellness, and wholesome dining into one peaceful space in the heart of Antigua. After a brief closure, it’s reopened in a slightly smaller space, which makes it feel more intimate, as you can watch your food being freshly prepared right in front of you.

The menu includes nourishing options like Buddha bowls, vegan curries, and healthy desserts, made with organic ingredients straight from local farms. Even if you’re not vegan, it’s a great spot for a meal that won’t weigh you down.

The best breweries and bars in Antigua

From rooftop hangouts with volcano views to dimly lit mezcal bars and craft breweries set in lush gardens, there’s something for every mood and moment when it comes to bars in Antigua. Here are some of our favourite spots.

19. Café Sky Bar

You have to experience at least one of Antigua’s rooftop bars for the panoramic views of the city’s three volcanoes, and Café Sky Bar is a top spot. You can watch the sun set behind Volcán de Agua while sipping a cold mojito or local craft beer.

It’s open all day for food and drinks, with a laidback atmosphere that becomes a bit more lively at night. The food menu is simple but satisfying, making it a great spot for casual bites before heading out on the town.

20. Café No Sé

Café No Sé is one of Antigua’s coolest bars, known for its dark, divey atmosphere and love affair with mezcal. We walked past it several times, as it was close to one of the places we stayed, and loved the look of it, being enticed by its live music performances.

At night, slip through its unremarkable entrance into a candlelit den filled with music, locals, and travellers. The bar serves Ilegal Mezcal, a brand that started right here before gaining international fame. You can sample different varieties straight or in creative cocktails with smoky depth and citrusy twists, perfect for an alternative, more relaxed way to spend the evening.

21. Tabacos y Vinos

If you prefer a quieter, more refined evening, Tabacos y Vinos offers a sophisticated escape. Tucked away right by the Santa Catalina Arch, this little wine bar is one of our favourite food spots in Antigua. You can settle into a chair with a glass of wine and a plate of cheese, or take advantage of their tiered pricing, where the wine gets cheaper the more you have.

The wine list is impressive, featuring both Guatemalan and international labels, and the staff are happy to guide you through pairings. There are tables for couples and larger ones for groups or to be shared communally, so it’s a great place to chat to other travellers, too. It’s tiny, so try to visit outside peak hours, but we managed to get a table on both our visits, the second of which was our anniversary and a lovely way to celebrate.

22. Quesos y Vino

Another little European spot, Quesos y Vino offers pizza, pasta, and – of course – wine and cheese. You can enjoy dinner in the leafy courtyard or inside the rustic, candlelit dining room that feels straight out of Tuscany. The wine selection is thoughtfully curated, with bottles that perfectly complement the food.

It’s tucked away down a quiet side street near the Convent of Santa Teresa, one of the most interesting church ruins in Antigua, perfect for drinks and nibbles.

23. Antigua Cerveza: El Bosque

Antigua Cerveza: El Bosque is one of the city’s coolest spots, part brewery, part beer garden, and part outdoor event space. You can sample their craft beers brewed right in Antigua, from crisp lagers to bold IPAs, while lounging under the trees or by the firepit. As a beer lover, this place was right up Dan’s street.

The food menu offers great bar bites and hearty mains, all made to pair with their brews. Plus, it’s another great spot for stunning volcano views. On weekends, El Bosque often hosts live music, DJ sets, and even markets, giving it a lively community feel, too.

Honourable mentions

We were a bit busy with all the amazing things to do in Antigua, so we didn’t have time to get to every bar on our list, but here are some others we loved the look of:

The best desserts and sweet treats in Antigua

We’ve both got a sweet tooth, so we were pleased to find gelaterias, artisan chocolatiers, and cafés serving up indulgent desserts made with local ingredients like cacao and coffee all over Antigua. You’ve got to balance all those volcano hikes out somehow, and here are our top spots to do it.

24. La Cremeria

You can’t miss La Cremeria if you’re an ice cream lover – their homemade gelato is some of the best in Guatemala. The flavours change with the seasons, using locally sourced fruits and natural ingredients to create rich, creamy textures. Popular choices include mango, coconut, and coffee, but we loved the look of inventive blends like Aperol Spritz. It’s the perfect place to grab a scoop while wandering Antigua’s colourful streets, which is exactly what we did on our DIY walking tour of Antigua.

25. Ek Chuah

Named after the Mayan god of cacao, Ek Chuah celebrates Guatemala’s chocolate-making traditions. Inside the shop and café, you can learn about the chocolate-making process, sample artisanal bars, or enjoy a cup of hot chocolate made from locally grown beans. We even found the exact brand of hot chocolate we had on top of Acatenango Volcano, taking some home for our families to enjoy. Their products are ethically sourced, with a focus on preserving indigenous cacao farming methods, so your money’s going back into the local community, too, meaning it’s a sustainable shopping experience in Antigua.

Honourable mentions

A couple more places we liked or have heard are great are:

Unique places to eat in Antigua, Guatemala

Besides traditional restaurants, there’s also a wide variety of really unique dining experiences in Antigua. Here are some of the top places to eat if you’re looking for something different.

26. Caoba Farms Restaurant

Just outside the city centre, Caoba Farms offers a true farm-to-table dining experience. You can wander through organic gardens before sitting down to a meal made from ingredients grown just metres away.

The restaurant’s open-air setting and focus on sustainability make it a favourite among eco-conscious travellers, with the shop and farmers’ market being a great way to take home fresh ingredients. Brunches here are particularly popular, featuring fresh salads, herbal teas, and smoothies, but it’s closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so factor a visit into your Antigua itinerary.

27. Antigua Cat Café

We wouldn’t normally promote an animal café, but Antigua Cat Café doesn’t use the cats for tourism purposes, but provides a forever home for about 20 well-looked-after cats. You can enjoy a cup of locally roasted coffee or a wholesome vegetarian meal while surrounded by creative décor and friendly felines.

The setup has been designed to promote the wellbeing of the cats – there are both indoor and outdoor spaces, play areas, quiet zones (rooms or corners where cats can retreat if they don’t want interaction), and thematic beds and toys. The café also supports local artisans by selling handmade goods, making it a great place for animal lovers.

28. Markets & Street Food Vendors

If you want to eat like a local, head to Antigua’s markets or grab a bite from a street vendor. You’ll find everything from empanadas and tacos to fresh fruit juices and sweet plantains for affordable prices. Some of the top markets include the food market in Mercado Central and the stalls that pop up in front of the striking yellow La Merced Church. Street food vendors are most commonly found at night, with quite a few options in Parque Central and on the street by Tanque La Unión.

Takeaway in Antigua

While dining out in Antigua is a joy, there are plenty of great takeaway options if you’d rather enjoy your meal in your hotel courtyard or on a rooftop with a view. Many of the town’s top cafés and restaurants offer food to go, from healthy smoothie bowls and sandwiches to tacos, empanadas, and wood-fired pizzas. Using a takeaway app was actually how we found several of the places on this list, which we then visited in person. Delivery apps like Uber Eats make it easy to order straight to your door.

The best restaurants in Antigua by cuisine

Whether you’re craving traditional Guatemalan dishes, handmade Italian pasta, or creative Asian fusion, you’ll find no shortage of options to suit your mood in Antigua. Here are the top places to eat by cuisine type.

The best Guatemalan restaurants in Antigua

To experience authentic Guatemalan cuisine, head to eateries serving classics like jocon (a green tomatillo-based chicken dish), freshly made corn tortillas, and pepián (a rich, spiced stew) – we had a great vegan pepián in Maracuya, one of our favourite restaurants in Flores.

Rincón Antigüeño is a local favourite for its hearty portions and traditional recipes served in a homey setting. La Cuevita de los Urquizú is another must-visit, known for its buffet-style setup where you can sample a little bit of everything. For a more upscale twist on local flavours, Casa Santo Domingo and Mesón Panza Verde offer refined versions of Guatemalan staples in elegant surroundings.

Don’t miss street food and market stalls either – antojitos (snacks) like tostadas, empanadas, and tamales are some of the most authentic bites you’ll find in the city.

The best Italian restaurants in Antigua, Guatemala

Antigua has a surprisingly strong Italian dining scene, with several restaurants run by Italian expats who’ve brought traditional recipes to Guatemala’s highlands. La Pasta Nostra is a top pick for handmade pasta and wood-fired pizzas, served in a cosy, rustic space. Sobremesa, while known for its artistic and creative approach, also serves Italian-inspired dishes like fresh pasta and risotto, blending traditional flavours with a modern twist. For something more romantic, Quesos y Vino offers delicious pizza and pasta in a beautiful courtyard setting perfect for date night.

The best fine dining restaurants in Antigua, Guatemala

Antigua may be small, but its fine dining options rival those in much larger cities. Mesón Panza Verde is one of the most renowned, offering candlelit dinners and gourmet fusion dishes in a stunning colonial setting. Héctor’s Bistro blends French and international flavours with a creative flair, while Sobremesa adds an artistic twist, pairing imaginative mains with its famous ice cream desserts. For a truly immersive experience, Casa Santo Domingo combines fine dining with history, serving exquisite meals amid ancient ruins and candlelit courtyards. Newer additions like Once Once (for elevated plant-based dining) are also helping redefine what fine dining means in Antigua.

The best rooftop bars and restaurants in Antigua, Guatemala

Antigua’s compact city centre makes its rooftops feel extra special, offering panoramic views of volcanoes, red rooftops, and cobblestone streets. You have to dine with a view at least once (or you can opt for drinks if you’re on a budget). Café Sky Bar is the most famous spot, offering sweeping vistas of Antigua and the surrounding volcanoes, perfect for sunset drinks. Rooftop Antigua is a modern venue where you can enjoy light meals and refreshing drinks with unobstructed views of the city streets and surrounding volcanoes. Mí Vietnamese Kitchen adds a rooftop twist to Asian cuisine, letting you enjoy fresh, flavourful dishes while taking in the cityscape from above. For a more intimate and relaxed experience, SNUG provides rooftop seating where you can enjoy cocktails or craft beers, while Aqua offers a chic, modern rooftop environment, ideal for socialising with friends and watching the city lights come alive at night.

Where to buy groceries in Antigua

Buying groceries in Antigua is easy, whether you’re staying for a few days or a longer visit. The city has several supermarkets and mini-markets offering everything from fresh produce and dairy to packaged goods and international items. Popular options include La Bodegona, which stocks both local and imported products, and Despensa Familiar, known for its wide selection of groceries and household essentials. For fresh fruits, vegetables, and local staples, the Mercado Central is a great choice, where you can also find spices, herbs, and other traditional ingredients.

When visiting Antigua, you shouldn’t miss traditional Guatemalan dishes like pepián and jocon, as well as snacks like empanadas, tostadas, and tamales. Many restaurants serve fusion dishes, combining local ingredients with international techniques, so you’ll also find Italian, French, Mexican, Middle Eastern, and Asian dishes here. For dessert, try rellenitos (sweet plantain stuffed with chocolate and beans) or local ice creams. Coffee is also central to Guatemalan cuisine, as well as chocolate, which was sacred to the Maya.

What drink is Antigua known for?

Antigua is best known for its rich, high-quality Guatemalan coffee, grown in the surrounding volcanic highlands. You can enjoy it brewed in cafés, served as espresso, cappuccino, or traditional Guatemalan café de olla spiced with cinnamon. Locally brewed beers are popular, especially from microbreweries like Antigua Cerveza: El Bosque. Cocktails using local ingredients, including tropical fruits and Guatemalan spirits, are also common in rooftop bars and restaurants. Fresh fruit juices and smoothies are widely available, often made from seasonal produce.

How many restaurants are there in Antigua, Guatemala?

Antigua has a surprisingly large number of restaurants for its size, with hundreds of options ranging from small cafés and street food stalls to fine dining venues. Many serve traditional Guatemalan cuisine, while others focus on international flavours. Rooftop cafés, bistros, and casual eateries are common in the city centre, while many house historic courtyards.

Where do the locals eat in Antigua?

Locals often favour family-run Guatemalan restaurants, small cafés, and market stalls for traditional dishes. The Mercado Central and smaller neighbourhood eateries are popular spots for affordable and authentic meals. Many residents also visit places like Rincón Antigüeño or La Cuevita de los Urquizú for classic Guatemalan fare. Street food vendors offering empanadas, tostadas, and tamales are frequented for quick bites or snacks. Cafés like Fernando’s Kaffee and Fat Cat Coffee attract locals for morning coffee and light meals.

Are there restaurants with views in Antigua?

Yes, Antigua has several rooftop restaurants and bars that offer panoramic city and volcano views. Café Sky Bar is the most famous, providing sweeping vistas of Antigua and Volcán de Agua. Rooftop Antigua and Mí Vietnamese Kitchen also have terraces where you can enjoy meals while watching the city below. Some cafés even offer elevated terraces perfect for morning coffee or brunch. Many of these spots are especially popular at sunset when the volcanoes glow in the evening light. We also need to shout out Hobbitenango, which had some of the best views of the highlands and volcanoes and delicious dishes.

Is Antigua vegan-friendly?

Yes, Antigua is increasingly vegan and vegetarian-friendly, and we never had a problem finding somewhere delicious to eat. Many restaurants and cafés offer plant-based options, from smoothie bowls and salads to fully vegan meals. Places like Wachuma, Once Once, La Bruja, and Samsara are entirely plant-based or have strong vegan menus. Even some traditional Guatemalan restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary preferences.

Are restaurants expensive in Antigua?

Restaurants in Antigua cover a wide range of budgets, so you can eat well without overspending. Street food and market stalls are very affordable, often costing just a few quetzales for snacks or light meals. Casual cafés and mid-range restaurants are reasonably priced for lunch or dinner, offering both local and international cuisine. Rooftop bars and fine dining venues are pricier but still generally cheaper than comparable spots in North America or Europe.

How much does a meal cost in Antigua, Guatemala?

Street food and market snacks usually cost 5-20Q (less than $3 USD), while casual café meals or lunch specials range from 30-80Q ($4-10 USD). Mid-range dinners at restaurants like Héctor’s Bistro or Mesón Panza Verde often cost 100-250Q ($13-32 USD) per person, including a main and drink. Rooftop restaurants and fine dining spots may be slightly higher, particularly with cocktails or wine. Coffee and pastries at cafés like Fat Cat Coffee or Fernando’s Kaffee generally cost 15-40Q ($2-5 USD). Even at higher-end restaurants, Antigua is affordable compared with other international tourist cities, offering good value for quality and experience.

Read next:

7 Gorgeous Cafés and Coffee Shops in Antigua

Where to Stay in Antigua: 18 Best Hotels From Budget to Boujee

How to Get to Antigua + How to Get Around

2-10 Day Antigua Itinerary + DIY Free Self-Guided Walking Tour

A Traveller’s Guide to Antigua: Guatemala’s Colourful Colonial Town

28 Amazing & Unique Things to Do in Antigua

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