A Foodie's Guide to Acapulco: Best Restaurants, Street Food, and Local Dishes
Acapulco is a feast for the senses. While the city is known for its beautiful beaches and exciting nightlife, it has an often-overlooked vibrant food scene. If you're a foodie, Acapulco is a treasure trove of flavors waiting to be discovered. This city has something for everyone, from fresh seafood served with ocean views to local street food that bursts with flavor. Here's a look at where to eat and what to try when you're in Acapulco, whether you're in the mood for a gourmet experience or a quick bite from a food stall.
First up, let's talk about seafood. Being right on the Pacific coast, Acapulco is a haven for seafood lovers. One of the must-try dishes is Pescado a la talla. Imagine a red snapper marinated in guajillo chiles, garlic, lime juice, and spices, then grilled over an open flame. The fish comes out tender and juicy inside, with a slightly charred, crispy exterior packed with smoky, spicy flavors. It's best enjoyed at one of the beachfront restaurants along Playa Caleta or Barra Vieja, where you can dig in with your feet in the sand and the sound of waves crashing nearby. This dish captures the essence of Acapulco—fresh, bold, and full of character.
Another local favorite is ceviche, a refreshing dish with fresh fish or shrimp marinated in lime juice mixed with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and chiles. In Acapulco, ceviche often comes with a unique twist: a tangy tomato sauce that adds a rich depth of flavor. A great place to try it is El Amigo Miguel, a long-standing spot that's known for its seafood. Their ceviche is fresh, zesty, and perfect with a cold beer on a hot day. Please don't leave without trying their octopus in garlic sauce or seafood cocktails, which are crowd-pleasers.
If you want a more upscale dining experience, check out Zibu, one of Acapulco's most famous restaurants. Zibu offers a unique fusion of Mexican and Thai flavors in a stunning setting overlooking the bay. Dishes like Camarones a la diabla get an exotic twist with tamarind and coconut, creating a delightful blend of sweet, spicy, and savory flavors. The ambiance here is as memorable as the food, with a gorgeous sunset view and a relaxing, romantic vibe. It's where you can take your time, sip on a cocktail, and savor the flavors of two distinct culinary traditions coming together.
But let's not forget about the heart and soul of Acapulco's food scene—the street food. Some of the city's best eats are on the streets, where the aroma of grilled meats, sizzling tortillas, and fresh seafood fills the air. Tacos al pastor is a must-try: juicy, marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit, then sliced thin and served on a warm corn tortilla with onions, cilantro, and a slice of pineapple. One of the best places to grab these is Taquería Los Tarascos, a local favorite that stays busy late into the night. Another street food staple is the tacos de Pescado, or fish tacos, usually made with crispy, battered fish topped with fresh cabbage, salsa, and a squeeze of lime. Simple, fresh, and absolutely delicious, these tacos are perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
To dive deeper into Acapulco's street food culture, head to the Mercado de Sabores. This bustling market is filled with food vendors serving everything from pozole, a hearty Mexican stew made with hominy and pork or chicken, to tostadas, crispy tortillas loaded with ceviche, beans, chicken, or shrimp. It's a lively, colorful place to wander, sample different dishes, and get an authentic taste of local life. Don't be shy about trying something new—you never know what might become your next favorite dish.
To taste Acapulco's golden era, a visit to Hotel Los Flamingos is a must. This historic hotel, once owned by a group of Hollywood stars known as "The Hollywood Gang," offers a charming throwback to the city's glamorous past. But it's not just about the nostalgia—their sopa de mariscos, a rich seafood soup filled with shrimp, clams, fish, and octopus, is a standout. The soup is served in a flavorful tomato-based broth that is perfect for enjoying with warm tortillas. With its dramatic cliffside location and sweeping ocean views, dining here is like stepping back in time while enjoying one of Acapulco's best-kept culinary secrets.
Check out 100% Natural, a local chain that focuses on fresh, organic Mexican cuisine for a lighter, healthier option. It's an excellent spot for a post-beach meal, offering everything from fresh salads and smoothies to more substantial dishes like enchiladas, verdes, and chile relleno. The atmosphere is relaxed and open-air, surrounded by greenery, making it a great place to recharge and enjoy a wholesome meal.
To satisfy your sweet tooth, stop by Dulcería de Celia, a beloved local spot known for its traditional Mexican sweets. Everything from tamarind and coconut candies to alegrías, bars made from amaranth seeds, honey, and nuts will befound. It's the perfect place to pick up a few treats for later or to enjoy as you stroll along the beach.
Of course, no culinary adventure in Acapulco would be complete without trying an agua fresca, a refreshing drink made from fresh fruit, water, and a bit of sugar. Flavors like hibiscus, tamarind, horchata, and mango are popular and can be found all over the city. Grab one from a street vendor to cool off as you explore, or enjoy it with your meal for a perfect complement to the bold flavors of Acapulco.
Comments
Post a Comment