Where to Eat in Cabo San Lucas: 25 Authentic Restaurants
A complete list of where to eat in Cabo San Lucas: restaurants, taco joints, and local eateries, plus the best grocery stores and veggie/vegan spots.
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Cabo San Lucas is home to a huge variety of dining options that cater to every taste and budget. With its unique blend of traditional Mexican cuisine and international flavours, this lively city offers an unparalleled culinary scene. For travellers seeking more than just a meal, head to a local taqueria for the tastiest tacos in town. Enjoy seaside eateries with stunning ocean views or organic farms serving vegetables straight from the field. Whether you’re craving authentic Mexican cuisine, an upscale dinner date, or a quick bite to eat after a night on the town, discover the best places to eat in Cabo San Lucas in this guide to the best restaurants in Cabo.
Best Cabo San Lucas Restaurants – Our Top Picks
More from Cabo
Where to eat in Cabo San Lucas
There’s a wide variety of restaurants in Cabo San Lucas. Most of the main tourist restaurants are found around the waterfront, downtown, at the marina, and along Medano Beach. Medano offers stunning beach views but it also has the steepest prices. The Marina area is fairly commercialised with lots of chains and international restaurants. While downtown Cabo San Lucas is home to a mixture of eateries, from authentic restaurants to tourist traps. Discover the best places to eat in Cabo San Lucas, from traditional Mexican taquerias to Michelin-star bistros, in this guide to the city’s top dining spots. We’ve compiled the complete list of where to eat in Cabo San Lucas, from independently owned, local eateries to street food trucks and award-winning restaurants.
Cabo San Lucas Restaurant Prices
Restaurant prices fluctuate due to seasonal demand, current events, and other external factors. To provide a general idea of costs, we’ve categorised the average price of a main course at each restaurant using the following price ranges:
$ = $5 or less for a main
$$ = $5 to $10 for a main
$$$ = more than $10 for a main
Cabo San Lucas Restaurants Map
Use the filters on the menu on the left-hand side to see the best places to eat in Cabo San Lucas, marked with green pins.
Cabo San Lucas Food Tours
Taking a food tour in Cabo San Lucas is a great way to sample local specialties, and discover hidden gems. Here are some of the top food tours in Cabo San Lucas:
The best taco joints in Cabo San Lucas
You can’t visit Cabo San Lucas without trying Mexico’s most famous meal – tacos. It doesn’t get more authentic than a local taqueria (taco joint) and there are some true hidden gems to discover.
1. Taco Loco
From crispy fries to spicy sauces in a relaxed outdoor setting, it’s easy to see why Taco Loco is such a popular spot. Set on Marina Boulevard between markets and souvenir shops, Taco Loco offers a range of Mexican dishes in a lively atmosphere. It is one of the best places to eat in Cabo San Lucas if you’re looking for authentic food at cheap prices. The tacos rivalled the ones we enjoyed in restaurants in La Paz, which is saying something!
2. Taqueria El Paisa
This eatery offers local Mexican dishes at very affordable prices. Known for its tacos, Taqueria El Paisa is nestled in the heart of the clubbing district and is a popular spot for late-night tacos after a night of drinking. With two open preparation stations where you can watch chefs skillfully slicing al pastor (pork) and asada (steak), before sampling a range of their delicious tacos.
3. Tacos Guss
This firm favourite is well-known in Cabo for its authentic tacos and large portions. If you’re looking for authentic and cheap places to eat in Cabo San Lucas, Tacos Guss serves a range of tacos with a tray of dips and an assortment of salads. There’s a wide variety of taco fillings on offer, from pollo (chicken) to chapulines (grasshoppers).
4. Taqueria El Zarape
Heralded as a real Mexican taquería, this friendly spot is a favourite with locals. Visitors in the know might also head here after a night on the town to enjoy a range of authentic tacos made from the rotating al pastor spit. Taqueria El Zarape (Calle Via Lactea) has two menus – ask for the one in pesos as it’s cheaper than the gringo menu which is in US dollars.
5. Tacos Gardenias
This locally-owned eatery has been family-run for over 30 years. Famous for its relaxed vibe and fresh fish – a favourite with tourists and locals alike – Tacos Gardenias is slightly pricier than some of the smaller establishments on this list but so worth a visit. Enjoy fresh pescado (fish) tacos with authentic margaritas and sides of salsa and salad – delicious.
6. Tacos May
Fresh, simple, and affordable – this spot is a local favourite and a true hidden gem. An authentic hole-in-the-wall style taqueria, Los Tacos May offers a variety of tacos, including unique fillings of lengua tacos (beef tongue), corazon tacos (beef heart), and cabeza tacos (beef head), as well as a variety of other Mexican dishes.
7. Taqueria El Gran Pastor
A local street food stand known for its affordable Mexican flavours served hot and fast, Taqueria El Gran Pastor specialises in tasty tacos and traditional dishes. This spot is one of the best places to eat in Cabo San Lucas, perfect for those who want lunch on the go or a late-night snack to soak up the booze.
8. La Taquiza Centro
A traditional restaurant serving authentic Mexican gastronomy from meat tacos to quesadillas and burritos. Enjoy homemade tortillas and salsa with a fun and lively atmosphere and cheerful staff. The vibe is that of a party with colourfully-painted walls and vibrant decorations.
The most authentic local restaurants in Cabo San Lucas
There are so many delicious dishes to try in Cabo San Lucas that aren’t tacos, from enchiladas to burritos and beyond. Here are the best, most authentic restaurants in Cabo San Lucas for traditional Mexican cuisine.
9. Los Tres Gallos
A high-end Mexican restaurant with a charming courtyard and a lively atmosphere, Los Tres Gallos offers delicious food at decent prices. It’s become quite popular in recent years but is still authentic. Set in an open-air courtyard with fairy lights, papel picado (colourful flags), and live music, the atmosphere is relaxed and charming.
10. Carnitas Los Michoacanos
Carnitas Los Michoacanos is a popular spot with colourful decor and friendly staff serving up tasty bites at affordable prices. True to its name, this is a great spot to try Carnitas Los Michoacán – spiced and slow-cooked pork. Los Michoacanos is one of the best budget restaurants in Cabo San Lucas and often runs 2-for-1 promotions on its tacos and tortas.
11. Mi Casa
A lavish Mexican establishment with hanging lanterns and a hole-in-the-wall atmosphere, Mi Casa is a great spot for a romantic date. A popular, family-owned restaurant, it serves traditional Mexican cuisine in a cosy, hacienda-style atmosphere. If you’ve had enough tacos, try the enchiladas with cheese, chicken, or beef.
12. El Pescador
A locally-run restaurant located near the marina, El Pescador is famous for its fresh seafood. A seafood restaurant and fish market, this Cabo restaurant offers daily catches of shrimp, fish, lobster, and octopus, as well as traditional Mexican dishes. If you’re done with tacos, try the seafood stew or shrimp ceviche.
The best veggie and vegan restaurants in Cabo San Lucas
While meat is a popular filling of tacos and tortas in Cabo, you don’t need to despair if you’re vegetarian or vegan. As meat-free travellers, we sussed out the best veggie restaurants in Cabo San Lucas for every occasion.
13. Tropical Kitchen
An organic haven offering fresh, healthy foods from savoury Budda bowls to sweet vegan açaí, Tropical Kitchen is the place to go if you don’t eat meat. A popular vegetarian restaurant in Cabo San Lucas, it serves farm-to-table cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
14. La Rana Vegana
With relaxed outdoor seating and a focus on vegan and vegetarian cuisine, this restaurant blends traditional Mexican with plant-based eating. Stop by for a bunch of avocado toast or enjoy vegan “Fish” Tacos of breaded tofu with cabbage and chipotle tartar.
15. La Galería Culinary Art
Famed for its marina views and inviting staff that go above and beyond, La Galería Culinary Art is a must-visit restaurant in Cabo San Lucas. An upscale eatery offering contemporary Mexican cuisine with a focus on artistic presentation, it’s recommended to make reservations in advance.
The best farm-to-table restaurants in Cabo San Lucas
Cabo San Lucas offers a varied dining scene with several organic restaurants catering to health-conscious travellers. Eating at farm-to-table restaurants in Cabo San Lucas isn’t just a culinary experience but also a chance to learn more about the culture of farming in the area. Many of these restaurants hold certifications like USDA Organic and Certificado de Producción Orgánica (CPO).
Cabo’s farm-to-table dining is popular in restaurants in San José del Cabo, with popular spots including ACRE and Flora Farms located just out of the city. But we’ve listed the closest organic farm restaurants to Cabo San Lucas below.
16. El Huerto
A charming restaurant serving farm-to-table Mexican cuisine with an emphasis on sustainability and sourcing ingredients locally, this inviting spot is perfect for a relaxing meal. Head to El Huerto for breakfast, lunch, or dinner and take advantage of the cosy outdoor seating area.
17. Pícaro Garden Cuisine by Romeo & Julieta
Set in a beautiful garden, this high-end eatery serves a variety of cuisines, each one beautifully presented. An upscale restaurant offering farm-to-table, Mediterranean-inspired cuisine, Pícaro Garden Cuisine by Romeo & Julieta is perfect for an extended dining experience. Make reservations well in advance to guarantee your table.
The best Cabo San Lucas resort restaurants
If you’re looking for something a little more upmarket than a local taqueria, we’ve got you covered in this section of unique, fine-dining experiences.
18. Cocina de Autor
The only Michelin-star restaurant in Cabo, this elegant establishment is perfect for a special occasion. Cocina de Autor is a culinary haven set within the luxurious Grand Velas Los Cabos resort one of the best beachfront hotels in Cabo, offering an innovative and artistic dining experience. Enjoy artisanal cocktails with delicious dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
19. Manta
A Michelin-recommended restaurant at The Cape, A Thompson Hotel, Manta offers modern Mexican cuisine with international influences. Enjoy panoramic coastal views and world-class service in comfortable outdoor seating with craft cocktails and fine wines. This fancy eatery is one of our date-night favourites and serves some of the best totopos and guacamole in Cabo.
Unique dining experiences in Cabo San Lucas
20. Dinner boats
Head out on the water and enjoy a dinner cruise in Cabo San Lucas. Watch as the sun sets over the ocean and look for whales in a romantic dining experience. Enjoy stunning ocean views, a gourmet meal, and live music and entertainment with cocktails and wine.
21. Ocean-view restaurants
Enjoy dinner with views of whales swimming by at a beachfront restaurant in Cabo San Lucas. Request an ocean-view table for the ultimate experience, dining as the sun sets on the horizon. Some of the best spots include The Office on the Beach (Edith’s), Baja Cantina Beach Restaurant, and Manta.
Where to buy groceries in Cabo San Lucas
Self-catering is one of the easiest ways to save money on food in Cabo San Lucas. If you’re looking for places to buy groceries in Cabo, here are some top options.
22. Walmart
Affordable and conveniently located in Plaza San Lucas, Walmart offers all the products you’ll be familiar with back home.
23. California Ranch Market
A vegan supermarket in the marina area, California Ranch Market offers speciality products, meat substitutes, and fresh fruit and vegetables.
24. Healthy Green Coffee & Market
Located in the north of the city centre, we stumbled upon Healthy Green Coffee & Market. It’s great for specialist vegan items and health products, as well as freshly brewed coffee.
25. Cabo Farmers’ Market
A small market in the marina area, Cabo Farmers’ Market is perfect for items like organic vegetables, honey, and eggs. It’s open on Saturday mornings, from 8 AM to 12 PM.
Cabo San Lucas Food and Drink FAQs
We loved eating our way around Cabo and had some of the best Mexican food of our trip in these restaurants. We’ve answered these frequently asked questions in case there’s anything else you were wondering about places to eat in Cabo San Lucas.
What kind of food do they have in Cabo San Lucas?
Cabo San Lucas is home to a variety of cuisines from authentic Mexican meals to international dishes, from American to Italian.
What food is Cabo San Lucas known for?
Cabo San Lucas is known for its fresh seafood, including grouper, mahi-mahi, tuna, ceviche, shrimp cocktail, and grilled octopus. It’s also a great place to try tacos, made with beef, chicken, fish, shrimp, or cheese, as well as popular dishes like quesadillas (tortillas filled with cheese, chicken, or beef), enchiladas (tortillas filled with meat or cheese, covered in sauce), and chiles rellenos (stuffed peppers).
What drink is Cabo San Lucas known for?
Cabo San Lucas is famous for its refreshing and iconic Baja Margarita. A classic twist on the traditional margarita, the Baja Margarita is made with tequila, fresh lime juice, and triple sec or Cointreau with a salt rim. Alternatively, try the Cabo Wabo, a fruity and refreshing cocktail created by Sammy Hagar (Van Halen’s lead vocalist) at the iconic Cabo Wabo Cantina.
Is Cabo San Lucas vegan-friendly?
Cabo San Lucas is vegetarian and vegan-friendly. Many Mexican dishes are naturally vegetarian and vegan-friendly, containing cheese or rice, beans, and avocado in replacement of meat. There’s a variety of delicious plant-based options on offer in a range of great plant-based restaurants in Cabo San Lucas, from Tropical Kitchen to La Rana Vegana.
What is the average price of a meal in Cabo San Lucas?
The average price of a meal in Cabo San Lucas can vary greatly, depending on where you eat and what you order. If you’re on a budget, head to a local taco joint, where tacos can cost as little as $1 USD each. If you’re dining at a mid-range restaurant, expect to pay around $15 to $25 USD per main. Steak and lobster are usually pricier, with costs ranging from $40 to $50 per dish. If you’re fine dining, expect to pay upwards of $100 to $200 USD per person for a multi-course meal at a high-end restaurant.
How much do drinks cost in Cabo San Lucas?
Drinks in Cabo San Lucas can vary in price depending on what you order and where you are. Expect to pay around $8 to $12 USD for an alcoholic drink like a margarita. Beer (cerveza) is slightly cheaper at $5-$7 USD for a pint or a standard can, while soft drinks can range anywhere from $2-$6 USD.
Is wine expensive in Cabo San Lucas?
Wine prices in Cabo San Lucas vary depending on the type and quality of the wine, where you buy it, and if you order by glass or bottle. Generally, wine by the glass is around $12 USD per glass and bottles can cost from $20 to $50 USD. Shop at duty-free stores in the airport to take advantage of discounted prices.
Can you drink tap water in Cabo San Lucas?
It’s generally recommended to avoid drinking tap water in Cabo San Lucas. Travelling with a reusable water bottle that cleans water with UV light or a filter is a great way to save money on water in Mexico.
Read next:
The 32 Best Things to Do in Cabo San Lucas
The 18 Best Beachfront Hotels in Cabo
How to Get Around Cabo: 10 Modes of Transport
The 15 Best Day Trips from Cabo
Los Cabos Travel Guide: Cabo San Lucas Vs San José del Cabo
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