Baja California Sur might be best known for its laid back charm and abundance of natural

beauty. But anyone considering a visit to this scenic stretch of Mexico will also be

in for a treat discovering the local food.

As is the case throughout the country, cuisine varies quite a bit by region. Baja California Sur is no exception. The area takes full advantage of its abundant locally grown produce and fresh-caught seafood. Interestingly, rather than the ubiquitous corn tortilla used throughout Mexico, scratch-made flour tortillas are the tortilla of choice here. But no matter which way your palate leans, you won’t have trouble sating your appetite and discovering local variations on your favourites in Baja California Sur.

From hole-in-the-wall taco joints to fine dining establishments, there are options to suit

a range of different cravings and budgets. Take your pick of everything from perfectly crispy fish tacos to home-baked bread and pastries. And of course, seafood straight from the surrounding waters is a menu staple whether you’re at a beachside cantina or high-end eatery.

Any mention of the region’s seafood would not be complete without highlighting the famous

chocolata clams. Named for the rich cocoa colour of their shells, these clams are hard to find anywhere else. Chefs prepare them in a variety of ways and you can find them on most menus, especially in Loreto. Some are cooked simply with butter and garlic, while others might feature white wine, cheese and even ham. No two places seem to prepare the clams in the same way. A great excuse to try this mouth-watering dish at several different spots!

Other dishes popular in Baja include machaca, spiced and dehydrated beef that’s shredded, pounded until tender and then used in burritos or as a breakfast dish scrambled with eggs and served with tortillas. You’re also likely to find plenty of ceviche, local lobster prepared in butter, shrimp tostadas and of course, Baja fish tacos.

Many people come to Baja California Sur for the stunning scenery and wide range of outdoor activities. But most discover that the region’s fresh, locally sourced food is as much a draw too.

Where to eat in the East Cape of Baja.

Buzzards Bar and Grill.

Located at the very start of Camino Cabo Este near San Jose del Cabo, this is a great spot for a feed before you start your bumpy journey into the heart of East Cape Baja. A very popular option with tourists, Buzzards is open daily from 8 am – 8 pm (except Sundays, 9 am – 2 pm). The menu is a mix of Mexican and American dishes at reasonable prices.

Check updated information and opening hours here

Zac’s Bar and Grill

Zac’s is a great little spot nestled in the small community of Zacatitos. It’s not beachfront but is located in what feels like the middle of the desert, bar a few houses. You’re likely to see donkeys wandering past as you enjoy your lunch. This is another very popular spot with visitors, and the menu offers both traditional Mexican as well as more international offerings like burgers. We can vouch for the burritos, they were affordable and delicious. Zac’s is open Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday for lunch and dinner (1 pm – 8:30 pm), and for breakfast, lunch and dinner on the weekends (10:30 am – 8:30 pm). They are closed on Wednesdays.

Check updated information and opening hours here

Liebre Matrera

Located at De La Costa, a small accommodation offering in La Fortuna, Liebre Matrera is a small beach bar that seems to be open on Saturdays and Sundays. There is not too much information about it online (virtually none), and it seems the best way to find out opening times and events is via the Airbnb host for De La Costa, who owns the property and the bar. Formerly a DJ, it looks like there are parties and events at Liebre Matrera and a great local spot to head on the weekend.

Check updated information and opening hours here

Zai Sushi Surf Bar

A beautifully designed, fancy-looking sushi bar was not what we expected to stumble across in what feels like the middle of nowhere in East Cape Baja. But, Zai Sushi Surf Bar is just that. It offers beautiful ocean views in La Fortuna and serves up a range of inventive sushi and sashimi dishes. We tried to eat here for lunch, but unfortunately were turned away as there were no tables at all! This totally baffled us, and again was not what we expected! As I said above, if you are visiting in peak holiday periods, it’s best to book ahead if you can. Zai is open Wednesday – Sunday from 12:30 pm – 8:00 pm.

Check updated information and opening hours here

Coral Reef Restaurant

If you're spending a few days in Cabo Pulmo to experience the incredible diving in the offshore marine sanctuary - home to the only living coral reef in the Sea of Cort–s, as well as its highest concentration of marine life - you're probable staying in an eco-bungalow at the Cabo Pulmo Beach Resort. But even if you're only driving through, you'll want to stop at the resort's Coral Reef Restaurant, which serves up a delicious array of Mexican and American favorites. Burgers, BLTs and fish tacos headline the lunchtime offerings, while dinner guests will want to check out the filet mignon, or the Charro combination plate with a stuffed Poblano pepper, enchilada, quesadilla and arrachera (flank steak), plus sides.

Check updated information and opening hours here

Crossroads Restaurant

A favorite of East Cape cognoscenti, Crossroads is the beachfront restaurant at Hotel Vidasoul, a boutique 16-room eco-resort near Cabo Pulmo. Mexican comfort food favorites (chilaquiles, huevos rancheros, tacos, burritos and quesadillas) and Italian pastas (chicken picatta, pasta puttanesca), plus healthy helpings of fresh local seafood rule the menu at this laid-back oasis. The specialty of the house, however, is a Surfer Omelet with cheddar, bacon and cream cheese. Ice cold beers and tropical cocktails are available at the beachside bar, and live music draws locals from miles around on Saturday nights, November through May. Open daily from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Check updated information and opening hours here

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