“Traditional Cuisine of Los Cabos: The Secret Flavor of Baja California”
The gastronomy of Los Cabos is a feast for the senses, blending the richness of Northern Mexico’s traditional dishes with the culinary heritage of Baja California Sur. It highlights regional seafood and ingredients that enhance authentic local flavors.
Los Cabos commitment to sustainability and culinary excellence is reflected in its ability to innovate while preserving the authenticity of its traditions. Los Cabos has embraced the “Farm to Table” approach, promoting freshness and sustainability in every dish by using local products sourced from orchards and ranches in the region. From fresh seafood to vegetables grown in rural communities—such as basil, cilantro, cherry tomatoes, sweet potatoes, beets, avocado, and more—this ensures unforgettable gastronomic experiences for its visitors.
From exclusive fine-dining restaurants and MICHELIN-recognized chefs to casual eateries, Los Cabos offers options for every taste and budget. The high quality of service in both hotels and restaurants is the result of continuous staff training, ensuring a memorable experience with every visit.
Here are some of the most typical dishes:
Chocolate Clams
Chocolate Clams
Large-sized clams, their main characteristic is their dark brown color, similar to chocolate. Their meat is tender and juicy, with a pure and fresh taste of the sea.
The most traditional way to eat them in the region is tatemadas: cooked directly over a bed of embers or hot stones, wrapped in their own shells, which gives them a unique smoky flavor. They can also be enjoyed fresh, in ceviches, or pickled.
Baja-Style Fish Tacos
Baja-Style Fish Tacos
A popular dish across the peninsula, perfected on the coasts of Los Cabos.
These tacos are made with strips of fresh fish (often mahi-mahi, grouper, or sierra), typically battered and fried until perfectly crispy on the outside and tender inside. Served on corn tortillas with a bed of shredded cabbage, topped with sour cream, pico de gallo, or spicy salsa.
Smoked Marlin Tostadas
Smoked Marlin Tostadas
Marlin (sailfish) undergoes a smoking process that preserves and intensifies the flavor of its firm meat. It is then shredded and prepared with tomato, onion, and chili stews, or simply seasoned with lime and soy sauce. It’s typically served on tostadas with avocado, red onion, and salsa, offering a unique taste and texture.
Güemes Tamales and Fajados Tamales
Fajados Tamales
Tamales are a staple in Mexican cuisine, but in Baja California Sur they have distinctive variations.
- Fajados tamales are made with corn dough filled with stewed, seasoned chicken, wrapped in corn husks—a true everyday staple in Cabo San Lucas.
- Güemes tamales are authentic to the region, made of masa wrapped in corn husks, filled with chicken or pork, olives, raisins, and olive oil. These are popular dishes for holidays and special celebrations.
Ceviche and Fresh Seafood
Ceviche
Eating raw or lightly cooked fish and seafood is a fundamental part of the local diet.
Ceviche consists of pieces of fresh fish or seafood “cooked” in lime juice and mixed with chopped vegetables such as red onion, tomato, cucumber, and cilantro.
Another local favorite is Tuna Sashimi: thin slices of tuna seasoned with soy sauce and serrano chili, a dish that beautifully combines Mexican and Asian influences.
Mole: A Treasure of Flavors and Traditions
Shrimp with Mole
Mole is one of Mexico’s most iconic dishes. This thick, flavor-rich sauce is made with a blend of chilies, spices, chocolate, and other ingredients. In Los Cabos, you can find both traditional and contemporary versions of this dish, each with its own special touch.
The cuisine of Cabo San Lucas continues to attract visitors from around the world to its golden shores. With flavors full of tradition and the use of fresh regional products, it delights even the most demanding palates.
On your next trip, make sure to try these local specialties and let yourself be surprised by the authentic flavors of Los Cabos.
