Acapulco De Juarez Guerrero, Mexico Travel Guide
Acapulco's cuisine highlights fresh seafood, a direct outcome of its Pacific Coast location. Its past as a major 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 features a distinct coastal identity, focused on ocean freshness and tropical produce.
Breakfast (desayuno) from 8:MIDNIGHT 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 time 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 waterfront dining like those at Barra Vieja or Pie de la Cuesta.
A local favorite, frequently made in open-air kitchens.
Distinct from other ceviches. Features fish or shrimp "cooked" in lime, combined with diced tomato, onion, cilantro, and a tomato-based sauce, often with clamato. Served with crispy tostadas.
A refreshing and distinct local take on ceviche.
A Guerrero state staple, a must-try. Acapulco has a powerful custom of eating pozole on Thursdays. Hearty a liquid dish with hominy, meat (pork or poultry), 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.
Central Market: The largest market, offers authentic local dishes and a true sensory experience.
A great place to see daily routines and find traditional foods.
Many hotels and resorts have dining on foreign dishes. Find Italian, American, and some Asian restaurants, notably by the Costera Miguel Alemán. These cater for various tastes.
A wide selection of worldly cuisine to satisfy diverse palates.
La Perla restaurant offers dinner with a direct view of the La Quebrada cliff divers.
Many eateries 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 doing it yourself-self-catering or relying on packaged foods.
Plan ahead if strict adherence is needed.
Use translation apps like Google Translate to articulate your needs. Stick to simpler dishes where ingredients are easily identifiable.
Look up restaurants online that mention dietary accommodations.
Food guided 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 residents gather. High customer turnover indicates being crisp and popularity, guiding you towards 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. Discover through food tours local flavors safely with a knowledgeable guide, presenting insights into ingredients and culinary history.
Acapulco hosts various gastronomic festivals, especially during the busy season. These occasions 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 a classic performance. Restaurants With a sea view: Many restaurants along the beaches are great for tables directly on the sand, popular at Pie de la Cuesta for seeing the sunset or Barra Vieja for fresh Pescado a la Talla.
When exploring street food, observe where local people gather. High customer turnover indicates freshness and popularity.
This strategy guides you in the direction of 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 particular events, to verify up-to-date service and quality.
A gratuity 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.
