10 Best Cheap Eats in Cabo San Lucas You'll Love
While Cabo San Lucas, Mexico, is a foodie destination, it’s not known for its cheap food. Many restaurants in Cabo are famous for their upscale setting, exquisite food, and strict dress codes.
In fact, it’s easy to drop a few hundred dollars on a dinner in Cabo San Lucas, especially if you want to enjoy a fine dining experience or party in style.
So, does Cabo have anything for budget travelers, or for foodies who love to eat like the locals do?
Absolutely! That’s where this list of the Best Cheap Eats in Cabo San Lucas comes in.
While finding less expensive restaurants in Cabo takes a bit more effort, it’s far from impossible. All you need to do is get off the beaten path many tourists get stuck on, and you can find plenty of affordable, home-style eateries where locals come to get their daily dose of delicious local Mexican dishes and catch up with their neighbors.
We’ve found these places and are eager to share them with you! We’ve picked out the best spots offering up delicious meals featuring authentic Mexican cuisine that will fill your tank without breaking the bank.
For instance, many local taquerias in Cabo serve mouthwatering Baja fish tacos that cost just $1 apiece. But you’re not likely to find these prices in the heart of Cabo San Lucas or in the Cabo Marina, where many establishments are geared toward American tourists.
But we’ll point your way to delicious homemade food that comes in big portions for only a fraction of what you pay in touristy parts of town.
So, if you want to find out where to eat on a budget in Cabo, this guide is for you. I’ve travelled all around the world for great food, and eating with the locals is always the best way to find it.
Come along, you’ll have a great time enjoying excellent meals where the locals eat in Cabo San Lucas while paying the same low prices they do.
The best cheap eats in Cabo San Lucas are both beautiful and delicious.
Best Cheap Eats in Cabo San Lucas
Before we dive into where to get great food at excellent prices, I just want to sneak in a quick orientation for first-timers or those who are still just contemplating a trip to Cabo.
Los Cabos is the region at the southern tip of Mexico’s Baja Peninsula, known locally as Baja California Sur. The area is called Los Cabos because the two biggest cities that attract visitors both have “cabo” (Spanish for “cape”) in their name: Cabo San Lucas and San José del Cabo.
While both cabos are amazing places to visit, Cabo San Lucas is far more lively, with more of a party atmosphere and sizzling nightlife. San José del Cabo is more laid back, more historic, and much quieter.
Both have great beaches, and each is a great spot worthy of a visit. And since they are only about 20 miles apart, you’ll have a chance to check out both during your stay, but this article is going to focus on the best dining options in Cabo San Lucas for those looking for the best meals at the best prices. Let’s get started!
You’ll find plenty of margaritas to complement your best Cabo cheap eats!
1. Las Guacamayas
Las Guacamayas is a Mexican restaurant that serves flavorful food at affordable prices. The spot is popular for its delicious tacos al pastor and quesadillas—especially the quesadillas chilangas, a Mexico City favorite featuring fried tortillas and plenty of tasty fillings.
The house specialty is molcajetes, big stone bowls with layers of grilled meat, seafood, vegetables, and chile peppers, and this is also a great place for amazing, giant margaritas.
But, it’s hard to go wrong at Las Guacamayas. From amazing ceviche and other antojitos (appetizers) to excellent enchiladas, this place will not disappoint! And the surf and turf fajitas are a must.
For something a little different on a hot, sunny day, try a refreshing horchata or hibiscus if you’re taking a break from margaritas. And no matter what you’re eating or drinking, the live music gives this place a special atmosphere in which to enjoy your meal.
Among Guacamayas’ multiple locations is one in downtown Cabo San Lucas and one in San Jose del Cabo.
Las Guacamayas: Blvd. Lázaro Cárdenas S/N, Downtown, Ildefonso Green, 23450 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico; C. P.º de los Marinos s/n, Mauricio Castro, 23401 San José del Cabo, B.C.S., Mexico
Shrimp caught right off the Cabo coast are fresh and flavorful.
2. Taqueria El Paisa
Looking for filling and affordable food on the go? Don’t miss Taqueria El Paisa, a popular spot among locals that serves some of the best tacos in Cabo.
You can choose from a nice range of options, all made with either homemade warm flour tortillas or homemade corn tortillas that are both delicious in their own right. Add your choice of different types of toppings, including cilantro, onions, and salsa.
Al pastor tacos are not only at the top of the Mexico City street food pyramid, they are one of the must-eat foods of Mexico wherever you go. So, it’s no surprise that they are quite popular in Los Cabos. And El Paisa has some of the best tacos al pastor in Cabo.
The carne asada tacos are top notch too, featuring tender chunks of beef with perfect seasoning and rich smokiness. The shrimp tacos are an excellent seafood option. And El Paisa’s house-made guacamole is a must. (But until you get to Cabo, try this guacamole.)
The food here is prepared fresh to order, with much of it fired up on the outdoor grill. Once your tacos are ready, go ahead and grab your toppings at the fixings bar.
The restaurant boasts a welcoming environment thanks to bright lights, warm décor, and plenty of available seating space. Prices are fantastic and the quality is excellent.
Service can be a touch uneven at times because El Paisa is often crowded, but things usually move pretty quickly and the staff is always friendly. You should definitely check this place out.
Post your photos on social media with these fun captions: Mexican food quotes
Address: Blvd. Lázaro Cárdenas, Centro, Ildefonso Green, 23450 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico
Tres tasty tacos!
3. Tacos Gardenias
If you are tired of spendy restaurants in Cabo that charge a lot and give only a little, check out Tacos Gardenias, a family-run establishment that serves authentic Mexican seafood, just a few steps away from Cabo Marina.
This small, hole-in-the-wall eatery is a perfect spot for some of Cabo’s best seafood tacos. Both the delicious shrimp and fish tacos are made from the local catch.
Once you get your order, you can customize your tacos however you like with various toppings. Options include cabbage, onions, lime, and jalapeños.
If you are exploring Cabo on foot, this casual eatery is incredibly convenient, with its great location by the Marina. You can stop in to fill up as you explore the area or make your way to the beach. Playa Coral Negro and Playa Balconcito are two great beaches nearby.
Tacos Gardenias: Paseo de La Marina Lote 31, El Medano Ejidal, El Medano, 23453 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico
A foursome of fantastic flavors
4. Campestre
One of the best Mexican restaurants in town, Campestre is a popular local spot. So, if you want to avoid tourist traps in Cabo, this is an excellent choice.
Campestre is an excellent place to enjoy authentic Mexican food, and here that means breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Although you won’t find breakfast tacos on the menu, you will find an extensive assortment of everything else you might need to get your morning off to a delicious start. There are dozens of egg dishes, including lots of omelettes, chilaquiles, and all kinds of tasty combination plates.
The rest of the day you’ll find classics like fajitas, enchiladas, chile relleno, and a variety of Baja seafood dishes. If you’re a Bloody Mary fan, don’t miss out on ordering some here.
No matter the meal, the portions at this affordable Cabo San Lucas eatery are big enough for two people, so there is no way you’re going to leave this place hungry. While Campestre is a good bit off of the main tourist drag, it’s worth the short trip to enjoy the great food, generous portions, and reasonable prices.
Campestre is one of the best restaurants in Cabo San Lucas to eat like the locals, and it’s just a quick Uber ride from downtown or the marina area.
Campestre: Salvatierra s/n entre Lopez Mateos y Camino al Faro, Mariano Matamoros, 23460 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico
Warm, freshly-made corn tortillas are the perfect canvas for culinary creations.
5. El Peregrino
El Peregrino is the hidden gem within the downtown Cabo food scene that will make you think that you just stepped into your grandma’s kitchen.
Although this restaurant is low-key, it definitely impresses patrons with its attentive service, flavorful menu options, and reasonable prices. A couple of the most popular seafood options on the menu are tuna tartare and sea bass. Other hits include the tortilla soup, mushroom risotto, and enchiladas.
Although it’s one of the best family restaurants Cabo San Lucas has on offer, its appeal goes way beyond just families. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for an outstanding meal and wonderful ambiance without spending a fortune, this place should be on your radar.
El Peregrino: Ignacio Zaragoza, 20 de Noviembre & Ildefonso Green, 23470 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico
6. Tacos Guss
You can’t go wrong with Tacos Guss, one of the best taco bars in Cabo San Lucas. This spot is always busy with in-the-know customers! While the exterior is not very impressive, don’t let the appearance fool you: The tacos and burritos are incredibly flavorful, and the prices are very fair.
Tacos Guss serves up traditional Mexican fare that is quick, delicious, and affordable. They have a great variety of tacos to choose from and one of the most extensive salsa selections in town.
Of course they serve great tacos al pastor. Theirs are made from succulent pork specked with a tasty char and shaved from their vertical rotisserie heated by an open flame.
But there are also more adventurous taco options like pulpo (octopus), lengua (tongue), and tripas (tripe). There’s no pressure to go beyond your comfort zone, but if you’re interested, here’s your chance.
Address: Blvd Lazaro Cardenas entre Melchor Ocampo s/n, local 1, Centro, 23450 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico
A kaleidoscope of Cabo cuisine colors and flavors
7. Mariscos La Palmita
Mariscos La Palmita is one of the best old-school restaurants in Cabo. Eating here is like time traveling back to the Cabo of 30 years ago since this restaurant’s prices are much lower than elsewhere, but the food quality remains outstanding.
If you want to try incredible Baja seafood without tourist crowds and the hefty price tag you’ll find at many Cabo restaurants, Mariscos La Palmita is the place!
Mariscos, after all, is Spanish for seafood, and this terrific seafood restaurant delivers a wide variety of delicious fresh fish, mollusk, and crab options. They even have sautéed soft shell crab that is wonderfully reminiscent of one of my favorite famous foods of Maryland.
The hyper-local restaurant has a very casual vibe and an airy feel, with high ceilings topped off with a palapas-style thatched roof. If you love great seafood, you’ll love it here. Try the ceviche and whatever else you might be in the mood for—you won’t be disappointed.
If you’re looking for some local liquid refreshment, the tequila shots are not to be missed, but they run on cash only.
Address: 16 de Septiembre S/n, Downtown, Centro, 23450 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico
Ceviche is a must-eat standout among affordable Cabo classics.
8. Jazz on the Rocks at Sunset Point
A perfect place for romantic dinners, Jazz on the Rocks has all the right food and atmosphere with no price gouging. Yes, you’ll be paying more here than at any of the eateries above, but for relatively cheap eats in Cabo San Lucas with a view, this is the place to get the most of what you’re looking for without busting the budget!
This special spot is praised for its friendly staff and a personable approach that can sometimes be lacking at busy restaurants in Cabo. The menu has a good variety of scrumptious food, from seafood delights to salads, pizzas, and pastas.
The mixology, complete with tasty signature cocktails and long list of tequilas and mezcals, is impressive too, but that’s gonna cost you—although not as much as it would at many venues around town of a far lesser caliber.
This place was the first jazz club in Cabo San Lucas, and it continues to bring in top talent. The great food, festive atmosphere, and top-tier live music is complemented by some of the best views in Cabo.
Here, you can enjoy dinner while looking out at the iconic Cabo San Luis Arch. Time your reservation to coincide with a breathtaking sunset, and you’ve got a one-of-a-kind Los Cabos date night!
Jazz on the Rocks: Carr. Transpeninsular 6.5, Misiones del, 23455 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico
Creative does not necessarily mean costly in Cabo.
9. Salvatore G’s
Salvatore G’s is not your average Cabo San Lucas spot.
This locally owned restaurant serves delicious Italian food at affordable prices, which is well reflected in the glowing reviews that satisfied customers leave for this place. The venue boasts a fun, eclectic atmosphere that makes it a perfect spot for having lunch or dinner for two, or sharing a meal with your friends and family.
The menu at Salvatore G’s offers many of the classics of Italian cuisine. This includes scrumptious staples like pasta, lasagna, calamari, risotto, and bruschetta, among many other specialties. And these tasty offerings come in generous helpings—something you don’t always get at touristy places where portions tend to be much smaller.
This is another spot that is not going to be as inexpensive as the first 7 offerings on our list of the Best Cheap Eats in Cabo San Lucas. However, for the quality of food, ambience, portion size, and break from the typical Mexican fare of Cabo, it is very reasonably priced.
Even if you are in Cabo for only a short amount of time, there’s a good chance that someone will recommend this place to you during your stay. If you’re looking for lovingly prepared Italian fare, take their advice, and head on over to Salvatore G’s.
Salvatore G’s: Emiliano Zapata entre Vicente Guerrero y Miguel Hidalgo, Col. Centro, 23450 Cabo San Lucas, B.C.S., Mexico
How can you forego fresh calamari while dining in Cabo San Lucas?
10. Flora’s Field Kitchen
Flora Farms is a 25-acre, organic working farm a touch north of San José del Cabo and is home to Flora’s Field Kitchen. The ingredients for the incredible meals at Flora’s come either from Flora Farms itself or the nearby 150-acre ranch owned by the same family.
While this restaurant is undeniably off the beaten path for most Cabo San Lucas visitors, this place is an amazing foodie find! It will not be as cheap as Choices 1 through 7 above, but Flora’s is recognized by Michelin as a Bib Gourmand restaurant, meaning it serves high-quality, interesting food at a reasonable price.
In addition to Flora’s, the farm also boasts The Farm Bar and Grocery—offering a beautiful selection of produce from the fields, meats from the ranch, and baked goods, dressings, and preserves made onsite. There’s even Flora’s Ice Cream Cart for tantalizingly tasty, wonderfully refreshing chilly treats.
Time your visit so that you can coordinate a complimentary tour of the farm with your meal and have an amazing foodie experience in an unforgettable setting.
Flora’s Field Kitchen: 38HF+X4, 23407 Ánimas Bajas, B.C.S., Mexico
Edible art is absolutely affordable in Cabo San Lucas.
Best Cheap Eats In Cabo San Lucas for You
Where do the locals go in Cabo San Lucas for excellent food at reasonable prices? Now you know. You just have to decide what you’re in the mood for and pick from among this list of the 10 best local restaurants that won’t pick your pockets.
No matter which choices you make, have fun eating authentically local, delicious meals while enjoying welcome deals!
If you’d like to learn how to make some of the dishes you’re sure to encounter during your visit and some you probably won’t, take this incredible Mexican cooking class. It’s fun, informative, and you get to enjoy a welcome cocktail and eat what you’ve learned to make at the end of the class!
If you’re hungry to find out more about the fantastic food in other great Mexican travel destinations, check out these articles:
Oaxacan Foodie Guide
Oaxaca Street Food
Must-Try Yucatan Food
If you’re eager to bring the flavors of Mexico into your own kitchen, here’s how:
Beef Enchiladas
Pozole Blanco
Knockout Nachos
Day of the Dead Recipes
Top 10 Mexican Cookies
Buen provecho!
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