Our Favorite Restaurants in Los Cabos
Our Favorite Restaurants in Los Cabos
Nestled at the southern tip of Mexico's Baja California Peninsula, the Los Cabos area is a captivating destination that seamlessly blends natural beauty, vibrant culture, and luxurious amenities. Comprising the towns of Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo, connected by the stunning 20-mile stretch known as the Tourist Corridor, Los Cabos boasts pristine beaches, dramatic desert landscapes, and the azure waters of the Pacific Ocean meeting the Sea of Cortez. Renowned for its world-class resorts, championship golf courses, and a thriving culinary scene, Los Cabos caters to both relaxation seekers and adventure enthusiasts alike. Visitors can indulge in water activities, from snorkeling around iconic landmarks like El Arco to partaking in deep-sea fishing. The region's lively nightlife with live music, art galleries, and local markets in San José del Cabo provide a rich cultural experience, making Los Cabos a multifaceted destination that appeals to a diverse range of travelers. Whether enjoying the breathtaking sunsets, exploring the rugged terrain of Sierra de la Laguna mountains, or savoring the local cuisine, Los Cabos offers a blend of luxury and natural wonders that captivate the hearts of those who venture to its shores.
Watch my Highlights on Instagram from Cabo 2022, Cabo 2021, Cabo 2018.
When To Visit Los Cabos?
The best time to visit Los Cabos, a popular tourist destination at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula in Mexico, is generally during the fall and winter months. The peak tourist season runs from November to mid-December and from mid-January to March. During this time, the weather is pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging from the mid-70s to mid-80s Fahrenheit (24-29°C), and the nights are cooler.
Here are some considerations for each season:
Fall (September to November): This is considered the shoulder season. While there is a slight risk of hurricanes in September, the weather becomes more pleasant in October and November. Tourist crowds are thinner during this time, and prices for accommodations may be more reasonable.
Winter (December to February): This is the high season when many tourists flock to Los Cabos to escape colder climates. The weather is mild and enjoyable, making it ideal for outdoor activities. However, this is also the most expensive time to visit, and popular attractions and beaches can be crowded. This is usually when my family and I go.
Spring (March to May): Spring is a good time to visit before the temperatures start to rise significantly. The weather is still pleasant, and you may find more affordable accommodations compared to the peak winter season.
Summer (June to August): This is the low season due to higher temperatures and the possibility of hurricanes. Daytime temperatures can reach the 90s Fahrenheit (32°C) and higher. If you don't mind the heat and want to take advantage of lower prices, this could be a suitable time to visit, but be aware of the potential for tropical storms.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Los Cabos depends on your preferences and priorities. If you prioritize lower prices and are willing to tolerate warmer temperatures, the shoulder seasons and summer might be suitable. However, for the most comfortable weather and a vibrant atmosphere, the fall and winter months are generally recommended. Always check weather forecasts and travel advisories before planning your trip.
Our Favorite Restaurants in Los Cabos
The dining scene in Los Cabos is a culinary journey that tantalizes the senses with a diverse array of flavors from local ingredients, textures, and settings. From upscale oceanfront restaurants to vibrant street food markets, Los Cabos offers a gastronomic adventure that caters to every palate. Fresh seafood takes center stage, with the region's proximity to the bountiful waters of the Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Cortez ensuring a steady supply of exquisite catches. Visitors can savor the catch of the day prepared in various ways, from ceviche to grilled specialties. Beyond seafood, Los Cabos boasts a fusion of Mexican and international cuisines, with a focus on utilizing locally sourced ingredients. The charming streets of San José del Cabo are dotted with cozy eateries, while Cabo San Lucas showcases high-end dining options where patrons can relish gourmet dishes while overlooking the picturesque coastline. Tequila and mezcal aficionados will find plenty to celebrate, with bars and lounges offering an extensive selection of these quintessential Mexican spirits. Whether seeking casual beachside bites like fish tacos or indulging in a sophisticated culinary experience like Chocolate Clams, the dining scene in Los Cabos is a feast for food enthusiasts seeking a delightful blend of tradition and innovation. Dining in Cabo will have you wanting to take Mexican cooking classes so you can replicate the delicious flavors at home.
Sunset Mona Lisa -
Sunset Monalisa in Cabo San Lucas offers a top-tier dining experience with stunning views of the Arch at Land's End. This open-air restaurant is renowned for its Mediterranean haute cuisine and has been recognized as one of the world's coolest restaurants by the Express Tribune. It promises a memorable evening of gourmet indulgence amidst breathtaking surroundings.
This restaurant was on our list of places to visit for YEARS. It felt, just a smidge, TOO cool for us. Although there were patrons of all ages, it did lean heavily toward a younger crowd who spent literally their entire meal taking selfies. However, the food was phenomenal, the views were truly breathtaking, I loved the blowing of the conch shells at sunset (or, as Eric put it, honk the conch) to say goodbye to the beautiful day.
Flora Farms - Flora’s Field Kitchen
Flora Farms also made my list of best local shops in Los Cabos. I think everyone visiting Los Cabos should visit Flora Farms for the experience of shopping, dining, touring their organic farm, and their spa. We’ve eaten there for lunch and dinner and each year we return my husband suggests we return to enjoy their farm-to-table cuisine. My favorite part was the farm dogs that greeted guests.
Our Favorite Restaurants in Los Cabos | Flora Farms
Manta -
Eric deemed dinner at Manta as his new favorite in Cabo when we visited in 2022. It is located at The Cape Hotel and is led by chef Enrique Olvera who also runs a restaurant called Pujol in Mexico City. Enrique worked with JSa to design the restaurant so that it focused on the spectacular views. “Our name has a thougtful double meaning: a manta ray which symbolizes the kitchen’s focus on seafood, while manta, the Spanish word for canvas, conveys the idea of freedom in artistic expression.” The most surprisingly delicious dish of the evening (for me) was the Rompope Cream Tart with matcha ice cream and kiwi.
Our Favorite Restaurants in Los Cabos | Manta
Toro -
this is one of the more recent restaurants we’ve been to and it was AMAZING. Even a rowdy party (that the restaurant quickly got under control) couldn’t sully our experience. The setting, although not a beach view, was elegant and the food was delicious. It was the service, though, that really set this restaurant apart.
Our Favorite Restaurants in Los Cabos | Toro
Esperanza -
Eric and I went here on our own several years ago and it remains one of the most memorable settings we’ve ever dined at. The restaurant seems to be built on the side of a cliff with various levels for seating offering every diner a spectacular view of the water. It is located within one of the nicest resorts in the area (I dream of staying there someday!)
Our Favorite Restaurants in Los Cabos | Esperanza
El Farallon -
This is the restaurant that everyone talks about in Cabo. It is the go-to fine dining restaurant and I do think everyone should get the opportunity to experience what El Farallon has to offer. The setting is unparalleled (maybe by Esperanza? They’re tied, I think. But very different.) We like to show up about an hour before our reservation to get a drink at Don Manuel’s bar. Then, allow ample time to walk to El Farallon and enjoy the wandering path that leads to the restaurant. There are several photo ops along the way. I would suggest arriving to the restaurant about 15-30 minutes before your reservation to be able to fully enjoy the Champagne bar. More great photo ops and a fun experience to just sit and sip champagne. Once you’re taken to your seat, you’ll have an incredible view of the ocean (great place to watch the sunset!) The atmosphere is stunning, the service makes you feel pampered, but the food? There is better food elsewhere in Cabo. Fun fact: we once sat next to Colin Hanks at this restaurant.
Our Favorite Restaurants in Los Cabos | El Farallon
Hacienda Cocina -
We go to this restaurant as our first meal out every time we come to Cabo. (We cook…and by “we” I mean my dad…quite a bit when we are in Cabo.) Hacienda Cocina is absolutely delicious but won’t break the bank. It is a beautiful setting (I know I say this for almost every restaurant, but Cabo is really good at scene-setting.) The last time we were there we ordered the two “To Share” options: Molcajete and Carnitas. I can’t imagine ordering anything else when we go back. It was a show-stopping entree.
Our Favorite Restaurants in Los Cabos | Hacienda Cocina
Pitahayas -
While dining at Ptiahayas, we saw what looked like a very bright star traveling quickly across the sky. My husband immediately identified it as the International Space Station. I will always associate this restaurant with that experience. It was really cool. It also gives you a sense of how clear the sky can be in Mexico. Of course a beautiful setting and delicious food. It was VERY windy the day we ate there and my hair was flying everywhere. So I would recommend bringing a hair tie. They have a very extensive wine cellar and I hear you can go down and personally select your bottle for dinner (we didn’t do this, but something to keep in mind for next time!)
Our Favorite Restaurants in Los Cabos | Pitahayas
Metate Cabo -
We went to Metate Cabo on Thanksgiving Day one year. We absolutely did not expect a restaurant in Mexico to recognize the holiday, but they did have a turkey special on the menu. I’m not much of a turkey fan so I did not order it. My husband did. And in true wife fashion, I stole a bite. Immediately I knew I had made a mistake not ordering the turkey dish. It was the best turkey I ever had in my life. I still crave it to this day. Our visit was very shortly after they opened, they were still working our service kinks so service was slow (it is important to note that in Mexico they will not bring you your check until you ask for it. It is considered rude, like rushing the diner, if the check is brought before it is requested.) They also lost power to their overhead lights while we were there, so part of the time we were dining by moonlight. It was an unforgettable experience.
El Merkado (toward San Jose) -
El Merkado is like a European market where there are a variety of vendors or restaurants from which you can order. It is in a beautifully designed space and is a great spot to go especially if you have a large group with differing tastes. We stopped by here on our way from Cabo San Lucas to San Jose del Cabo - it is a nice midway point to break up the drive.
Mi Cocina (San Jose) -
Although we’ve spent a lot more time in Cabo San Lucas, I think I might secretly like San jose del Cabo a tiny bit more. We’ve started going there more and more in recent trips. The first place we ever ate in San Jose was Mi Cocina. We were walking around, going in and out of shops, when we were all hit with severe hunger. We stumbled upon this restaurant and literally said out loud, “whatever, I don’t care, I’m hungry.” Maybe our intense hunger contributed to our fond memories of this place, but I think it was also the super charming setting (think like a courtyard in a boutique hotel) with delicious food.
Our Favorite Restaurants in Los Cabos | Mi Cocina
Yumana Kitchen (San Jose) - T
his was another stumbled upon gem. It is relatively new, I think they had only been open for a few months when we ate there. It was an incredibly hot day and we were all wiped from the heat. We actually arrived a bit before they opened, but they welcomed us in, found us a seat in a shaded spot and got us something to drink. They explained the concept of honoring their culture and traditions through the food as well as the objects around us including the plates and light fixtures. In addition to the kitchen, they also had an online (and very small in-person) store. Their mixology program was incredible and the food was to die for.
Our Favorite Restaurants in Los Cabos | Yumana Kitchen
Cabo Wabo -
These last few restaurants are in the heart of Cabo’s business district (their “downtown” area where all the shops and the marina is located.) Cabo Wabo describes themselves as a Night Club, which is not really my scene (my parents would probably love it…they’re younger than me at heart.) We went pretty early in the afternoon because we wanted to check it out - it is definitely more on the touristy side. But the drinks were delicious and it was a great place to stop for a rest and a drink.
The Office -
I absolutely love that this restaurant is on the beach. And I mean literally on the beach, so wear flip flops and be prepared to dig your toes in the sand. This is definitely a more boisterous restaurant than most of the others I’ve included on this list. In pre-pandemic times they had a guy that would walk around and pour tequila directly into your mouth (I have no idea if they still do this…) but that is my worst nightmare. I’m just not that into drinking games or shots or people cheering while I drink. hahahaha. There was no pressure to participate and I did enjoy watching other people have fun with it. I’m glad I knew about this before going to The Office, though.
Our Favorite Restaurants in Los Cabos | The Office
El Paiza -
This is a no-frills, casual, delicious restaurant. Every other restaurant on this list has servers who speak English fluently. El Paiza is much more locally focused (although located in a pretty touristy area) and the owners/servers speak minimal English. Still, we’ve been here twice because the food is simple and incredible. It is a great place to get a quick bite to eat.
Las Guacamayas -
The food was great, the atmosphere was fun, but the reason to go is to get a drink served in a coconut.
Our Favorite Restaurants in Los Cabos | Las Guacamayas
