Acapulco Central Pacific Coast, Mexico Travel Guide
Acapulco's cuisine highlights fresh seafood, a direct outcome of its Pacific Coast location. Its past as a significant port during the Manila Galleon trade introduced subtle Asian influences. Local dishes also draw deeply from traditional Guerrero state and broader Mexican culinary traditions. The city's growth as an international tourist destination has also introduced global flavors.
Acapulco’s cuisine differs from the mole-rich dishes of Oaxaca or the northern meat-focused meals. It has a distinct coastal identity, centered on ocean freshness and tropical produce.
Breakfast (desayuno) from 8:00 AM to 10:00 AM. Lunch (comida) is the largest meal, 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM. Dinner (cena) is lighter, 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM or later.
Most eateries are casual; fine dining spots may have dress codes. Lunch is a main social meal. Tipping of 10-15% is standard for good service.
Acapulco specialty: whole snapper, marinated in red chili sauce, grilled over coals. Served with tortillas, rice, and salsa. Look for it at beachfront restaurants like those at Barra Vieja or Pie de la Cuesta.
A local favorite, often prepared in open-air kitchens.
Distinct from other ceviches. Features fish or shrimp "cooked" in lime, mixed with diced tomato, onion, cilantro, and a tomato-based sauce, often with clamato. Served with crispy tostadas.
A refreshing and unique local take on ceviche.
A Guerrero state staple, a must-try. Acapulco has a strong tradition of eating pozole on Thursdays. Hearty soup with hominy, meat (pork or chicken), garnished with radishes, onion, avocado, chicharrón, lime, and oregano. Green pozole has a chili sauce.
A hearty and traditional Mexican soup.
Refreshing drinks made from fresh fruits: horchata, jamaica, tamarindo, mango, melon.
Mezcal, a smoky agave spirit from Guerrero state. Tequila, the iconic Mexican spirit. Try Michelada, a savory beer cocktail.
For a sophisticated dining experience with stunning views.
Many restaurants along La Costera Miguel Alemán. Offers a mix of Mexican and international cuisine.
Authentic and affordable options for a local taste.
Mercado Central: The largest market, offers authentic local dishes and a true sensory experience.
A great place to observe daily life and find traditional foods.
Many hotels and resorts have international dining. Find Italian, American, and some Asian restaurants, especially along the Costera Miguel Alemán. These cater to various tastes.
A wide selection of global flavors to satisfy diverse palates.
La Perla restaurant offers dinner with a direct view of the La Quebrada cliff divers.
Many restaurants along the beaches offer tables directly on the sand. Popular at Pie de la Cuesta for sunset views.
Enjoy spectacular sunset dining at locations like Kookaburra or Península.
Find options to satisfy various dietary needs and international tastes.
These options are very limited in Acapulco. Travelers with these requirements might consider self-catering or relying on packaged foods.
Plan ahead if strict adherence is needed.
Use translation apps like Google Translate to clearly communicate your needs. Stick to simpler dishes where ingredients are easily identifiable.
Research restaurants online that mention dietary accommodations.
Food tours provide an excellent way to explore local flavors safely with a knowledgeable guide. They offer insights into ingredients and culinary history.
When exploring street food, observe where locals gather. High customer turnover indicates freshness and popularity, guiding you to the best spots.
Some local operators or private chefs offer cooking classes focused on traditional Mexican or Guerrero cuisine. Learn to prepare dishes like Pescado a la Talla or Pozole. Food tours explore local flavors safely with a knowledgeable guide, offering insights into ingredients and culinary history.
Acapulco hosts various gastronomic festivals, especially during the high season. These events showcase seafood and regional dishes.
Dining with the Cliff Divers: La Perla restaurant at El Mirador Hotel offers dinner with a direct view of the famous La Quebrada cliff divers, combining dining with an iconic performance. Beachfront Dining: Many restaurants along the beaches offer tables directly on the sand, popular at Pie de la Cuesta for sunset views or Barra Vieja for fresh Pescado a la Talla.
When exploring street food, observe where locals gather. High customer turnover indicates freshness and popularity.
This strategy guides you to the best spots.
Look for vendors with clean setups and visible food preparation. Freshly cooked food is generally safer.
Prioritize hygiene in your choices.
Always check recent reviews for restaurants, especially for special occasions, to confirm current service and quality.
A tip of 10-15% is standard for good service. Most eateries are casual, but fine dining may have dress codes.
Do not miss trying authentic local dishes like Pescado a la Talla and Ceviche Acapulqueño for a true taste of Acapulco.
