When it comes to food, Antigua has you covered. From the traditional foods of Guatemala to a diversity of offerings (sushi, anyone?) the food in Antigua is among the best in Central America.
But with such a variety of restaurants to choose from, where do you start?
From the traditional foods of Guatemala to the new kids on the block, here are our favorite restaurants in Antigua, Guatemala.
Traditional Foods in Guatemala That You Must Try
Here is a list of some foods you will come across and we encourage you to try them:
Plato Tipico
A plato tipico will include corn tortillas, black beans and rice, is are usually accompanied by chicken or beef at lunch and dinner, or eggs and fruit for breakfast.
Pepian
Pepian is a popular chicken stew served in the highlands of Antigua. It has a distinct, smoky taste that I’ve never experienced before – it is made with a variety of spices and usually pumpkin seeds, and is typically served with rice.
Jocon
Jocon is a chicken and tomatillo (smaller, green tomato) stew. This stew is also hearty, delicious and typically served with rice.
Tamales
Tamales, tamales, tamales: Cornmeal dough stuffed with a variety of fillings (meat, vegetables, cheese), and steamed or baked in a corn husk.
Fried Plantains
Sweet, melt-in-your-mouth deliciousness. Fried plantains make everything better.
Coffee: Considered some of the best in the world, coffee is one of Guatemala’s largest exports, and makes for a great gift!
Avocados are everywhere. The residents of Antigua actually earned the name panza verde (green stomach) because of how many avocados they consume.
I don’t always drink beer, but when I do (in Guatemala), I drink Gallo.
Where to Eat in Antigua, Guatemala
Best Pizza: El Cazador Italiano. Cheap and easy.
Best Mexican: Frida’s, located under el arco.
Best Steak: Casa Escobar. Delicious, melt-in-your-mouth meat. Portions are large.
Best Healthy Choice: Pitaya. Organic café that serves wraps, salads, snacks, coffee and a huge selection of juices and smoothies.
Best Mediterranean and Hookah Bar: Gaia. Belly dancers perform while you eat some delicious Mediterranean and smoke a little bit if you’re into that sort of thing. The food is great!
Best Tipico: La Fonda de la Calle Real. Order the Pepian.
Best Irish Pub: Reillys. Great place to mingle.
Best Dancing: La Sala. Small but fun!
Best Wine Bar: Tabacos Y Vinos. Huge selection of wine.
Best Speakeasy: Café No Se. “Because every dive needs a town.” They have mezcal, live music and good vibes.
Best Coffee Shop: El Portal Cafe, located right in central park.
Antigua is also a great place to wander and discover your own favorite places and spaces. Do you have anything to add to the list?
PS: visit this post for tips on how to stay safe in Antigua.
