22 essential Cabo San Lucas restaurants: a culinary journey in my home

This is the list of the best restaurants in Cabo San Lucas recommended by a local living here for 2 years. While there are many Cabo San Lucas restaurants, let us walk you through with our honest reviews and personal experiences.

👋 Hola! My name is Trisha, and I have been living in Cabo San Lucas for 2 years now. As a food writer and journalist, food was one of the motivations and reasons why I moved here. At first, I did not have that full perspective as a traveler.

The more I stayed here, the more I realized how broad the culinary scene of Cabo San Lucas is. I was even privileged to be invited to the yearly Los Cabos Culinary Awards, which absolutely strengthened my knowledge about Cabo San Lucas restaurants.

Trimming this list was difficult as I discovered new restaurants in Cabo San Lucas. I wish I could put them all on this list! Anyway, here are my recommended eats in Cabo, including what to order, prices, and ambiance.

These Cabo San Lucas restaurants are divided into four categories: Mexican, seafood, Italian, steak, and International. Each category has five recommended restaurants, so browse away and feel free to leave a comment below if you have any questions!

1. Hoja Santa: best of the best restaurants in Cabo San Lucas

Hoja Santa is my top pick for best restaurants in Cabo. This is actually a breakfast restaurant and is only open from 7 AM – 1 PM. Their dishes are extremely unique as they specialize in Oaxacan and Puebla cuisine.

It’s not common to find these dishes in Cabo which makes the dining experience in Hoja Santa really unique. I love their chilaquiles and their black smoothie called ‘aracan.’ These are definitely must-tries when visiting Hoja Santa!

Hoja Santa is also in the backstreets of Cabo so you’ll get to see the super local neighborhood that is far away from the tourist circuit.

2. Mariscos Cabo Seafood: best seafood restaurant in Cabo San Lucas

Mariscos Cabo Seafood Restaurant is a popular eatery located in the heart of Cabo San Lucas, Mexico. The restaurant boasts a vibrant and lively atmosphere, with colorful decor and lively music playing in the background.

When it comes to food, Mariscos Cabo Seafood Restaurant is famous for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes. The menu features many seafood options, including grilled fish, shrimp, crab, and lobster.

Some of the most popular dishes at the restaurant include the fish tacos, ceviche, and camarones al ajillo (shrimp in garlic sauce). The restaurant also offers a variety of vegetarian and meat dishes for those who are not fans of seafood.

The dishes at Mariscos Cabo Seafood Restaurant are relatively affordable, with most dishes costing between $10 to $20 USD. For example, the fish tacos are priced at around $10 USD, while the camarones al ajillo can cost upwards of $20 USD.

Mariscos Cabo has three branches all over town but I always go to the branch in El Tezal where you will have a view of the arch. It’s also in a residential local area so you’ll see the non-touristy part of Cabo.

3. La Tradicion: best local restaurant in Cabo San Lucas

This restaurant started as a small joint on the street selling Argentinian food like steaks, chorizo sandwiches and many Argentine food gems that you won’t find anywhere in Cabo.

After 2 years, these guys now have a place and no longer selling on the streets – but it still has it’s charm. Every day, you will see a long line of customers outside the stall so expect for a longer wait time. They only have 6 tables and they don’t take reservations!

It’s one of those non-pipular Cabo spots that serve quality food and at the same time, you can integrate with the local community. This is really at the backstreets of Cabo!

They have a small menu so order all of it, especially the empanadas! Don’t forget to try their very own Argentine dessert called alfajor, which they make fresh everyday (and sometimes is not available because of high demand).

4. Toro Latin Kitchen: best Latin American restaurant in Cabo San Lucas

Toro Latin Kitchen & Bar is a top-rated restaurant offering a unique dining experience, combining traditional Latin cuisine with a modern twist. The restaurant is known for its vibrant atmosphere, attentive service, and delicious food.

The restaurant ambiance is elegant, with a contemporary design, high ceilings, warm lighting, and an open kitchen. The atmosphere is lively and perfect for groups, couples, and families. The outdoor seating area offers breathtaking views of the ocean and the surrounding mountains, making it a popular spot for sunset dining.

The menu features traditional Latin dishes such as ceviche, tacos, grilled meats and contemporary dishes like sushi and raw bar options. The most popular menu items include tuna tartare, crispy pork belly, and grilled octopus.

Toro Latin Kitchen & Bar prices are moderate to high, with most entrées ranging from $25 to $50. However, the restaurant is worth the investment, as the food and dining experience are exceptional.

5. Delizioso: best pizza in Cabo San Lucas

I recently discovered Delizioso because I moved to another neighborhood in Cabo San Lucas. Delizioso is a real authentic Italian restaurant, but it’s not popular because it’s not in centro. I swear, it’s worth an Uber ride!

The dining style in Delizioso is like a delicatessen with small European tables and chairs and outdoor seating. It is not meant to host many guests since it is more of a deli shop than a restaurant.

The good news is that you can always call for delivery if you don’t want to venture outside downtown Cabo San Lucas. Call the number, order a pizza, and they will arrive within 25 minutes.

Aside from pizza, they also have great calzones, burrata salad, and incredible pasta. Try the spaghetti with meatballs – my favorite thing to order here!

6. Trattoria Da Pietro: best Italian restaurant in Cabo San Lucas

Right next to Delizioso is another Italian restaurant called Trattoria Da Pietro. Again, this is not a popular restaurant in Cabo San Lucas but it is popular to us locals! You’ll barely see tourists here and it is worth the drive!

Unlike Delizioso, Trattoria Da Pietro has more seating space (including an outdoor garden with sand that they call “La Playa”). There is also live music every night, but it is pretty hard to get a table here, so make sure to reserve!

The menu features various dishes, including pasta, pizza, and seafood dishes with an Italian twist. Some of the most popular dishes at the restaurant include spaghetti carbonara, lasagna, and Margherita pizza.

In addition to the classic Italian dishes, the restaurant also offers a variety of vegetarian options, such as roasted vegetables and bruschetta. The restaurant also features a selection of fine Italian wines to complement your meal.

7. Don Manuel’s: best Mexican restaurant with a view

The ambiance at Don Manuel’s is inviting and relaxed, with a warm, rustic décor accented by traditional Mexican artifacts and intricate tile work. The restaurant features an outdoor seating area that offers breathtaking views of the ocean, making it a popular spot for sunset dining.

The menu at Don Manuel’s is focused on traditional Mexican cuisine, with various dishes, including tacos, enchiladas, tamales, and more.

Some of the most popular menu items include shrimp tacos, chicken enchiladas, and grilled beef filet. The restaurant also offers a variety of margaritas, cocktails, and Mexican beers to accompany your meal.

The prices at Don Manuel’s are moderate, with most entrées ranging from $15 to $30. However, the restaurant is worth the investment, as the food and dining experience are exceptional.

8. Metate Cabo: best Oaxacan restaurant in Cabo San Lucas

Metate Cabo stands out as a premier destination for Oaxacan cuisine, making it a gem among Cabo San Lucas restaurants. This culinary haven offers a vibrant tapestry of flavors, paying homage to the rich and diverse food culture of Oaxaca.

For those venturing into the heart of Mexico’s culinary traditions, Metate Cabo is an essential stop. The restaurant’s menu is a carefully curated selection of dishes, each telling its own story of heritage and flavor.

A must-order is their tlayudas, a large corn tortillas topped with beans, cheese, and a choice of meats. You’ll never find tlayuda elsewhere in Cabo but here!

9. La Galeria: best restaurant in Cabo San Lucas Marina

This is my only recommended among the best restaurants in Cabo San Lucas Marina. There are many restaurants in Marina San Lucas but it does not mean they are all good. The proximity and the central location just makes it easier to access but not all restaurants here are great!

My top pick here is the not-so-popular La Galeria known for its delectable seafood among locals. If you are into fishing, this is the best Cabo San Lucas restaurant to bring your fresh catch to. They will cook and prepare it according to your liking.

The staff are extremely polite and the owner is very hands-on with the day-to-day operations. Though it is in a central location, it is still one of the cheapest restaurants in Cabo San Lucas when it comes to seafood.

10. The Sand Bar: best restaurant in Medano Beach

The Sand Bar is my go-to spot if I want to eat and at the same time swim on Medano Beach. I go here because they do not have a minimum spend like the other beach bars and restaurants next to them.

You can go without reservations and just pay for what you consume. Their menu changes at 12 noon (for lunch) but I prefer their breakfast items. It’s also better to come here for breakfast to avoid the crazy beach crowds.

The only issue with dining here is that beach vendors will always bother you and sell you stuff, especially if you are sitting at the tables by the beach.

11. La Lupita Tacos & Mezcal: best tacos in Cabo San Lucas

The ambiance at La Lupita Tacos & Mezcal is fun and festive, with bright colors, lively music, and a welcoming atmosphere.

The restaurant features indoor and outdoor seating, with a large bar area perfect for groups and solo diners. The outdoor seating area offers a view of the bustling street, making it an excellent spot for people-watching.

The menu at La Lupita Tacos & Mezcal is focused on traditional Mexican cuisine, with various tacos, tostadas, and other street-style dishes.

Some of the most popular menu items include the carnitas tacos, the shrimp tostadas, and the grilled octopus. The restaurant also offers a large selection of mezcal, a traditional Mexican spirit, and a variety of margaritas, cocktails, and Mexican beers.

The prices at La Lupita Tacos & Mezcal are very affordable, with most dishes ranging from $5 to $15. La Lupita is one of the great taco and mezcal restaurants in Cabo San Lucas so if you want to learn about these two iconic Mexican dishes, La Lupita is the place!

12. Birrieria Los Paisas: best birria in Cabo San Lucas

Birrieria Los Paisas has established itself as the unparalleled destination for birria in Cabo San Lucas, making it a crown jewel among Cabo San Lucas restaurants. This culinary hotspot is dedicated to the art of birria, a traditional Mexican stew that is deeply rooted in the country’s gastronomic traditions.

Known for its rich, complex broth and tender, slow-cooked meat, usually goat or beef, Birrieria Los Paisas offers an authentic taste of Mexico that captivates both locals and travelers alike.

The restaurant’s signature dish, birria, is a must-try for anyone seeking to explore the depths of Mexican cuisine. Accompanied by hand-made tortillas, lime, cilantro, and onions. Don’t forget to ask for the consommé, a flavorful broth/soup. It’s FREE!

This restaurant is open until 6 PM but sometimes, especially on weekends, they are already out of birria by 2 PM. This is a popular spot for Mexicans so expect a long wait. It’s not a dinner place, btw.

In Mexico, birria is often eaten as a breakfast so come here around 9 AM!

13. Pezcabo: best restaurant in the backstreets of Cabo

Pezcabo is one of the cheapest and most local seafood restaurants in Cabo San Lucas. This is a great place to go if you want to rest from luxury dining and expensive food prices downtown.

When it comes to food, Pezcabo Restaurant is famous for its creative and delicious cuisine that blends traditional Mexican flavors with local home cooking techniques.

The menu features many dishes, including fresh seafood, grilled meats, and vegetarian options. Some of the most popular dishes at the restaurant include grilled octopus, seared tuna, and vegetarian quinoa salad.

Pezcabo is one of the cheapest and most local seafood restaurants in Cabo San Lucas. This is a great place to go if you want to rest from luxury dining and expensive food prices downtown.

14. El Toro Guero Seafood: affordable seafood restaurant in Cabo San Lucas

El Toro Guero Seafood is a lively and colorful restaurant with a fun and festive atmosphere, bright decor, live mariachi music, and a bustling atmosphere that adds to the overall dining experience.

The restaurant’s open-air design allows diners to enjoy the warm and sunny weather of Cabo San Lucas. Plus, El Toro Guero is not in a crowded touristy place, and it’s worth an Uber ride!

Regarding food, El Toro Guero Seafood is famous for its fresh and delicious seafood dishes. The menu features many seafood options, including grilled fish, shrimp, crab, and lobster.

Some of the most popular dishes at the restaurant include fish tacos, ceviche, and camarones al coco (shrimp in coconut sauce). The restaurant also offers a variety of traditional Mexican dishes, such as tacos al pastor and chiles rellenos, for those looking for a more authentic dining experience.

The dishes at El Toro Guero Seafood are relatively affordable, with most dishes costing between $10 to $20 USD. For example, the fish tacos are priced at around $10 USD, while the camarones al coco can cost upwards of $20 USD.

15. Mariscos Las Tres Islas: best raw seafood restaurant in Cabo San Lucas

Mariscos Tres Islas is famous for its fresh and flavorful seafood dishes. The menu features a wide range of seafood options, including grilled fish, shrimp, crab, and lobster.

Some of the most popular dishes at the restaurant include fish tacos, ceviche, and camarones a la diabla (spicy shrimp). The restaurant also offers a variety of traditional Mexican dishes, such as tacos al pastor and chiles rellenos.

The dishes at Mariscos Tres Islas are reasonably priced, with most dishes costing between $10 to $20 USD. The fish tacos are priced at around $10 USD, while the camarones a la diabla can cost upwards of $20 USD.

16. Salvatore G’s: best pasta in Cabo San Lucas

Salvatore Gs is not a restaurant you should go to alone – this is one of the most famous Italian restaurants in Cabo San Lucas because of its large plates! Don’t be fooled – four people can share one dish!

This Italian restaurant prides itself as the best pasta restaurant in town. The whole menu is all pasta, from osobucco, spaghetti carbonara, lasagna, and fettuccine alfredo. Prices start at $25 USD; remember to come here with a group!

Salvatore G’s also offers a variety of seafood dishes with an Italian twist, such as grilled octopus with lemon and olive oil and seared scallops with lemon butter sauce.

The restaurant is a full-outdoor setting for big groups and families. Lastly, Salvatore G’s has a wide selection of Italian wines, most of which, you won’t see anywhere else in Cabo San Lucas.

17. Il Forno: best Italian tavern in Cabo San Lucas

Il Forno is one of the best pizza restaurants in Cabo San Lucas, although some argue that they like their pasta here more. Personally, I go here for pizza (as Salvatore G’s is my pasta go-to).

Start with a mixed antipasto platter consisting of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and marinated vegetables. For the pizza, I don’t think that their sizes are for sharing so order one pizza to yourself!

Seafood lovers can also indulge in dishes like linguine alle vongole (linguine with clams) or cioppino (seafood stew). Add risotto ai funghi (mushroom risotto) or risotto alla Milanese (saffron risotto) on the side!

18. Chamuyo: best Argentine restaurant in Cabo San Lucas

A highly authentic Argentinian restaurant (by Argentine locals!), Chamuyo is mid-range dining and is one of the best steak restaurants in Cabo San Lucas.

Argentinean cuisine is known for its quality beef and grilled meats, so you can expect to find a variety of steak and meat dishes on the menu.

Start with traditional Argentinean empanadas, which are pastry pockets filled with ingredients like beef, chicken, cheese, or vegetables.

Their empanadas are good and you can even order a frozen to-go bag that you can bring to your accommodation.

Argentina is known for its excellent wines, especially Malbec, so be sure to ask the staff for recommendations based on your food choices. All their steak is highly recommended and they actually only have 2 on the menu which makes it easier to order.

If you are not familiar with Argentine deserts, Chamuyo has alfajor! Alfajor comprises two round, delicate shortbread cookies sandwiched with a sweet filling, usually dulce de leche.

Dulce de leche is a creamy, caramel-like sauce made by slowly heating sweetened condensed milk. The filled cookies are often coated with powdered sugar, chocolate, or a sugar glaze.

19. Rodizio Grill: best unlimited meat restaurant in Cabo San Lucas

Last year, I discovered Rodizio, just after my 7-week trip to Rio de Janeiro and since then, I come here all the time! The dining style here is “meat all you can” so make sure to come here with a big group.

A rodizio is a Brazilian-style all-you-can-eat dining experience, most commonly associated with churrascarias, Brazilian steakhouses.

The word “rodizio” refers to the style of service, which involves a continuous rotation of various types of grilled meats served by waiters (called “passadores” or “gauchos”).

Customers pay a fixed price in a rodizio, and the passadores come around to each table with skewers of different meats, including beef, pork, chicken, lamb, and sausage. The meats are slow-roasted on a barbecue, and as they approach each table, the passadores slice portions directly onto customers’ plates.

You can use a two-sided card or token (usually green on one side and red on the other) to signal whether they’d like more food (green) or need a break (red).

20. Roasted: best surf ‘n turf restaurant in Cabo San Lucas

Roasted Cabo is not exclusively a steakhouse but I added it to the best restaurants in Cabo San Lucas because this is my favorite surf and turf menu in town (from $50 USD).

It is well-located in town so it’s easy to access from your resort. Next to it is the popular curbside bar, Cock’s Cantina, where you can go for pre-drinks 45 minutes before your reservation. The bartenders are extremely friendly there and the bar is owned by Roasted as well.

21. Bar Esquina: best restaurant with live music in Cabo San Lucas

Bar Esquina boasts an energetic and sophisticated atmosphere perfect for a night out with friends, family, or your significant other. Its chic décor, warm lighting, and lively music enhance the restaurant’s ambiance.

Their eclectic cuisine features dishes from around the world that are guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re in the mood for sushi rolls, tacos or pasta, you’ll find it all here at reasonable prices. Expect to pay around $15-20 per dish on average.

The menus are thoughtfully curated to showcase the flavors and freshness of local ingredients. For starters, try the refreshing ceviche marinated in lime juice and served with avocado and homemade tortilla chips for only $15 USD.

If you have an enormous appetite, go for the juicy steak frites made with grilled beef sirloin and accompanied by truffle fries priced at $34 USD. Seafood lovers are also in luck as Bar Esquina offers a range of dishes, from seared tuna tacos ($18 USD) to lobster risotto ($42 USD).

22. Funky Geisha: best Asian restaurant in Cabo San Lucas

Funky Geisha stands out as the best Asian restaurant in Cabo San Lucas, offering a unique culinary journey through the diverse flavors of Asia. This establishment has quickly become a favorite among Cabo San Lucas restaurants, thanks to its innovative approach to Asian cuisine.

Notable dishes to indulge in include the sushi rolls, which are crafted with precision and creativity, and the Thai green curry, known for its perfect balance of spice and coconut milk sweetness.

The Peking duck is another must-try, served with a side of fluffy bao buns, providing a delightful contrast of textures and flavors. Funky Geisha is a great spot for early dinner as the restaurant is by the beach.

Tips for dining in Cabo San Lucas restaurants

Helpful Spanish phrases for booking restaurants in Cabo San Lucas

Again, some of these restaurants don’t have OpenTable reservation links, but you still need to reserve. If you are not fluent in Spanish, here are some helpful phrases you can use when calling on the phone:

• Puedo reservar para esta noche? = Can I reserve a table for tonight?
• Puedo reservar para esta noche por 10 personas? = Can I reserve a table for tonight for 10 people?
• Soy vegetariano/vegano = I am vegetarian/vegan
• Tengo alergia = I have food allergies
• No como lácteos = I don’t eat dairy
• Quiero reservar para a las ocho = I want to reserve for 8:00 PM

Don’t focus on downtown Cabo San Lucas restaurants

I get it. You probably frequent the center more because your friends who have been to Cabo San Lucas recommended it. Not all downtown restaurants in Cabo San Lucas are good. In fact, they can be very expensive.

I 100% guarantee you that all of the restaurants in Cabo San Lucas located on the marina side will be expensive. You don’t even have to go that far – just cross the street and you will see all the local restaurants that are good and cheap.

It’s funny how you cross the street and then suddenly the price tags change. At the back of the Hard Rock (Ildefonso Green Street), you will find all the unusual restaurants in Cabo San Lucas so explore that neighborhood!

Are Cabo San Lucas restaurants expensive?

While there are high-end, luxury restaurants where you can expect to pay a premium for a fine dining experience, there are also affordable local eateries and street food options where you can enjoy delicious Mexican cuisine without breaking the bank.

In general, prices in Cabo San Lucas can be higher compared to other parts of Mexico, primarily due to its popularity as a tourist destination. However, this does not mean that all dining options are expensive.

To find more affordable restaurants, try venturing away from the touristy areas and exploring the local neighborhoods. I also have a complete list of local spots that are not popular with tourists!

Always reserve in advance

Cabo is an extremely popular tourist destination so to ensure that you will not be hangry during your trip, make sure to reserve all the restaurants in Cabo San Lucas for the duration of your trip.

To be honest, there are no more low seasons in Cabo so if you are going to dine on a weekday (Monday, for example), you may think this is not a busy day for Cabo San Lucas restaurants but it is.

Some of the restaurants in this list have OpenTable links to reserve a table but most of them don’t have it since an OpenTable account for restaurants is not that cheap. You will need to call for reservations in local restaurants recommended in this post.

Cabo San Lucas restaurants FAQ

What food is Cabo known for?

Cabo San Lucas is renowned for its fresh seafood and delectable Mexican cuisine. One of the most popular dishes in the area is the fish taco, a Baja California specialty.

These tacos typically feature battered and fried fish nestled in a corn tortilla, garnished with cabbage, pico de gallo, and a creamy sauce. Seafood lovers will also enjoy ceviche, a dish made from raw fish or shrimp marinated in citrus juice and mixed with diced vegetables such as tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.

Cabo’s culinary offerings extend to traditional Mexican fare like chiles rellenos, which are large poblano peppers stuffed with cheese or meat, battered and fried, then served with a tomato-based sauce.

The region’s proximity to the ocean ensures an abundant supply of fresh seafood, including fish like mahi-mahi, snapper, and marlin, as well as shrimp, lobster, and other shellfish.

You should also try the local delicacy, chocolate clams, which are named for their brown color and can be served raw or cooked in various preparations.

Does Cabo San Lucas have good food?

YES, AABSOLUTELY! Cabo San Lucas is renowned for its vibrant culinary scene, offering various delicious dining options to cater to various tastes and preferences.

The destination is mainly celebrated for its fresh seafood sourced from the surrounding waters. From traditional Mexican cuisine to international fare, there is a diverse selection of flavors to explore in Cabo.

One of the area’s most popular dishes is the fish taco, a Baja California specialty that combines battered and fried fish with fresh and flavorful toppings. The city also boasts numerous restaurants that serve exquisite seafood dishes, such as ceviche, featuring marinated raw fish or shrimp, and sopa de mariscos, a hearty seafood soup.

In addition to local culinary delights, Cabo San Lucas offers many international dining options, ensuring that visitors can enjoy a variety of experiences. The city’s thriving food scene, characterized by its fresh ingredients and diverse flavors, ensures that Cabo San Lucas is an excellent destination for food lovers.

Is food in Cabo expensive?

In general, the prices of restaurants in Cabo San Lucas can be higher compared to other parts of Mexico, primarily due to its popularity as a tourist destination. However, this does not mean that all dining options are expensive.

While there are high-end, luxury restaurants where you can expect to pay a premium for a fine dining experience, Cabo also has affordable local eateries and street food vendors where you can enjoy delicious Mexican cuisine without breaking the bank.