Vegetarian dining can be a bit of a minefield in Mexico, as chefs will often assume that being vegetarian equates to not eating red meat, instead of eating no meat at all. Or you’ll be offered seafood. Acapulco is no different, and it can be tricky to know where to dine as a vegetarian, so here’s our guide to the best vegetarian-friendly spots in the city.
Not an exclusively vegetarian restaurant but featuring excellent vegetarian options, as is common in Italian cuisine, La Casa de la Pasta is a rustic, cozy, familial restaurant. Despite also offering meat and seafood, the customizable menu makes this a great option for vegetarian diners. You can create your own pasta or pizza dish, combining the sauces or toppings of your choice, or enjoy the vegetarian risottos, such as the three cheese or mushroom options. Aside from the food, the owner is welcoming and the atmosphere is outstanding.
A regular feature on top Acapulco restaurant lists, even those that focus on more than just vegetarian cuisine, 100% Natural has two locations in Acapulco and both are excellent spots for a vegetarian breakfast or lunch. Besides being fresh and tasty, the dishes here are always exquisitely presented and the smoothies are to die for. Try out the hotcakes or the various egg options and enjoy your meal on the outdoor tables, with spectacular views of the bay. Again, there are also non-vegetarian options for those who don’t fancy a meat-free meal but still fancy healthy, fuss-free food.
Verde Vegan is hands down the best exclusively vegetarian/ vegan dining option in Acapulco, without a doubt. It is both a restaurant and a cold press juice bar and prides itself on serving the freshest vegetarian food in the area, all at an extremely reasonable price. A combination of Mexican, fusion, and raw dishes, there is something for everyone at Verde Vegan, with its reclaimed wood furniture a mint green interior. Stop by and have your mind changed about vegan cuisine, with a little help from the informed and attentive staff. Groups of 8+ require reservations.
A lovely albeit teeny-weeny restaurant from the outside, the entrance is framed by bushes and brightly colored signs which illustrate the dishes on offer. Kikokys is a great option for vegetarians visiting Acapulco and is located right next to a gym for any fitness buffs wanting to work out before they eat. Inside, there are cute, distressed-effect tables and shelves laden with books, making for an airy and refreshing atmosphere. Officially marketed as a juice bar, there are also brunch-type food options served, such as hotcakes and salads.
Verde Pistache is the sister store of Verde Vegan, and promotes the notion of sustainability by selling organic products grown locally. Intending to generate a sense of social responsibility, Verde Pistache sells numerous products suitable for vegetarians, such as grains, seeds, honey, and healthy snacks alongside specifically vegetarian products. As specified on their website, the majority of their products are supplied by certified Mexican businesses. All of the above makes Verde Pistache an excellent vegetarian spot in Acapulco, and a perfect place to pick up supplies and make your own meat-free meals.
