For decades, Cabo San Lucas has been one of the hottest destinations for people around the world. Its glittering seaside, warm beaches, and cityscape of high-end resorts have defined this paradise on earth and lent it a sense of exclusivity and timelessness.
But where are the best places to eat in Cabo? The dishes of native Mexican chefs make up a big part of the cuisine in the area, but the restaurants in Cabo San Lucas are always changing with the times. Below, we’ve developed an insider's guide to the best of the best.
Los Tres Gallos
The first place to visit after landing in Cabo San Lucas — or after
living here for a while — is the legendary Los Tres Gallos restaurant. Here, you can taste the authentic Mexican food you’ve heard all about. Los Tres Gallos is the real deal, an eatery that’s remained true to its roots ever since most restaurants have turned to a more fusion cuisine.
At Los Tres Gallos, you’ll find all the regional favorites: pozole, mole enchiladas, stuffed peppers, and even the Mexican take on Caesar salad. Prices are reasonable, and outdoor dining is pleasant thanks to a beautiful trellised patio.
The Office on the Beach
The Office on the Beach is another highly ranked Cabo mainstay, but one that centers seafood more on its lunch and dinner menus. Make sure to book reservations in advance, because it can be quite full during the tourist season. Its view of the water is to die for, and the beachfront dining is absolutely photo-worthy. The jumbo shrimp are one of their specialties, and they cater to all kinds of tourist tastes with a large menu of regional and international favorites. Kids and large groups are welcome at this family-friendly joint.
El Farallon
This restaurant abuts the infamous Waldorf Astoria Cabo San Lucas, one of the ritziest and most opulent hotels in town. Its location is one of a kind, tucked into a rocky outcrop on the beach that shelters diners from inclement weather. The menu changes as often as the wind, so come to El Farallon with a curious tongue and ravenous hunger.
Sea bass, yellowfin tuna, and red snapper are regular favorites. The price tag may be higher than in other restaurants in town, but you’re also buying a seat at Cabo’s most exclusive table. Plus, the chefs that run the kitchen always serve the freshest, best fish that the sea has to offer.
Panache
Panache serves a more European fare when compared to the majority of Mexican-inspired dishes that predominate in Cabo. Be ready to taste all your favorite Spanish, French, and Italian dishes — all served up, of course, with the best Cabo chefs’ gusto.
Pesto pasta, cordon bleu, and sea bass almondine share space on the menu with meatball dishes, tortellini, and Caesar salad. A tourist favorite, Panache retains its place among the best of Cabo thanks to its legendary kitchen staff and unbeatable service. If you’re not sure what kind of cuisine strikes your fancy, you’re sure to find something top-notch at Panache.
Noah Japanese Food
If you reach for Japanese fare first when hungry and looking for a fun night out, look no further than Noah. Japanese food and fish are a match made in heaven, and Cabo’s seafood can’t be beaten when it comes to freshness. Locals consider it the spot to go for seafood. Sushi features heavily, as do sashimi favorites, with a strong Mexican flair. It’s pretty much the quintessential fusion dining experience.
The chef-inspired menu takes its fish and rice from neighboring Punta Lobos, well-known for its quality ingredients. Check out the Emma roll in particular. The tempura shrimp, ginger, and avocado mainstays are paired with the Mexican touch of serrano chilis. Truly a match made in heaven.
Agricole Cooperativa
For a change of pace, take a trip down to nearby El Pescadero to visit Agricole Cooperativa, run by proprietor Lis Ibarra on a small farm that goes right up to the restaurant. This market/restaurant is the definition of fresh. Ms. Ibarra grows all her ingredients in small rotations, with a specialty of berries of all sorts, chia, and regional favorites like chili peppers. This spot is a perfect lunch destination. Come to the market and buy fresh strawberries, pies, cream and berries, and a variety of beverages made by the owner on the premises.
Manta
Next, we turn our attention to Manta, one of the best restaurants in Cabo San Lucas. This top-ranked Mexican restaurant is located right along the tourist corridor, but don’t let that fool you: it offers some of the most exclusive international fare you’re likely to find in Cabo San Lucas.
Chef Enrique Olvera, who used to head the globally recognized restaurant Pujol, now runs Manta. His Mexican-inspired menu isn’t afraid to go fusion, with dishes like mushroom ramen with epazote, desserts like rompope tarts, and treats like beet ceviche with fresh ginger. If you’re ok with testing the boundaries of your palate, Manta may just be the next hit restaurant for you.
La Raiz Tortilleria
Finally, we want to introduce you to La Raiz Tortillera. While this spot doesn’t offer an extensive restaurant, it does serve a variety of Mexican favorites, especially quesadillas. What makes La Raiz Tortilleria special is its commitment to making the best tortillas in Mexico — indeed, possibly the best tortillas in the world.
The owners have been dedicated to sourcing the best grains and maize possible to craft tortillas that can’t be beaten. Take home a dozen of their jet-black pitas, traditional corn tortillas, or any number of their offerings. The owners even host an on-site demo for making tortillas for yourself. At La Raiz Tortilleria, you get the full tortilla-making experience.
Reach out to a local real estate agent today to buy your dream home!
Now we’ve come to the end of our list of the best restaurants in Cabo San Lucas. If you have any questions or comments to share about Can San Lucas or real estate in the area, reach out to
the Goldsmith Group for more information. The team is led by Paul & Daria Goldsmith, who has been in the game since 2006 and has the experience and local knowledge necessary to help you find your dream Los Cabos home for sale.
