Once the favored holiday destination of Hollywood stars, Acapulco has always looked after its guests. The restaurant scene has been revamped over the last few years, but those looking for authentic cuisine will still find many options. From beachside cafés serving freshly caught seafood to taco joints and traditional Mexican family-run restaurants, Acapulco remains one of Mexico’s top foodie destinations. These 10 top picks show the city’s food at its best.
Spend a quiet lunch or evening meal at Lupe de Arena, which overlooks glorious Santa Lucia Bay. The restaurant has a laid-back vibe, with lounge chairs and tables by the ocean. Tuck into mouthwatering delights at this popular beach club, with chef Hugo serving up a variety of authentic seafood dishes. Try the octopus a la Lupe de Arena, marinated in a top-secret recipe, mounted on plantains with a mixed black bean salad. For those not easily intimidated, the Oaxacan-style chapulines (grasshoppers) will prove memorable!
Perhaps Acapulco’s favorite place for tacos, Tacos Tumbras has been in a league of its own for more than 30 years. Specializing in charcoal meats and cheeses, this unassuming but highly authentic taqueria sticks to the basics done correctly – its recipe for their deserved success. You’ll find numerous classic taco combos here, but the intensely savory tacos al pastor (marinated, spiced pork cooked on a spit, lifted by a sprinkling of chopped onion and coriander) are the most popular. Along with the obligatory side of lime wedges, there are fresh tomato, tomatillo and chipotle salsas with which to anoint them. Ideal for a quick bite or a late night pit-stop, Tacos Tumbras makes a refreshing change from Acapulco’s glitzy, tourist-orientated side.
Jo Varley contributed additional reporting to this article.