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Cabo San Lucas is known for its rowdy nightlife, and, though much of the fine-dining scene has moved to the Corridor and San José, there are still some solid choices in Cabo. A pedestrian walkway lined with restaurants, bars, and shops anchored by the sleek Puerto Paraíso mall curves around Cabo San Lucas harbor, itself packed with yachts. The most popular restaurants, clubs, and shops are along Avenida Cárdenas (the extension of Highway 1 from the Corridor) and Boulevard Marina, paralleling the waterfront.
Delivering a similar quality to their contemporaries but at a more accessible price point, this sushi spot is still a bit under the radar, but that won't be for long. If you go, don't be fooled by the nondescript exterior: you're in the right place, and it's worth going inside! There's also a speakeasy next-door (and accessible through the kitchen) called Hideaway with a lovely selection of mezcal.
A branch of the established San José del Cabo microbrewery, this rooftop cantina has eight styles of beer on tap plus whichever additional seasonal brews are available—order a sampler to try a taste of each. A menu of classic pub fare is available for dining, with special emphasis on their "famous" beer pizzas; the dough is made daily from spent barley, yeast, and beer. The marlin empanadas are also a great snack or appetizer. Whether you're a beer fan or not, the open-air venue and excellent view make this a place worth stopping by.
This trendy, San Francisco--based restaurant decided that Cabo was missing out on quality Asian comfort food, and, honestly, they were right. The clientele is an interesting mix of hip locals and families alike, and it's the perfect spot for a hearty bowl of noodles and a refreshing cocktail, both of which will fuel you up nicely after a long day on the water. However, this place can be loud, so plan accordingly if you want to have a meaningful conversation.
Go for the delicious complimentary focaccia bread; stay for the fine wines, family-style fare, and charming views of downtown Cabo San Lucas. Chef and co-owner Antonello Lauri shows off his Roman heritage on the menu at Invita, which is overflowing with traditional Italian favorites like the filling eggplant Parmesan made from recipes passed down from his grandmother. The intimate dining area is dominated by an enormous Bacchus-theme painting by local painter Yandi Monardo, which offers a clue as to just how seriously Invita takes its wines; temperature-controlled selections by the bottle or glass are touted on the bar-front blackboard. Views are provided courtesy of an expansive picture window, which looks out across the gazebo to the center of the town square, Plaza Amelia Wilkes.
Sample one or several of the more than 500 tequilas available and you'll surely appreciate the rainbow-color Oaxacan tablecloths, murals, painted chairs, and streamers even more than you did when you first arrived. Coat your stomach in the process with dishes from different states throughout Mexico: mole from Puebla, carne asada from Sonora, tamales from Oaxaca, and seafood from Baja are just some of the tasty items you can order. Note: though many souvenir shops advertise "complimentary" tequila tastings, this is the place to actually do it; they're available every evening with advanced reservation.
Hidden inside the lush courtyard of a local boutique hotel, this humble, family-owned eatery has been serving up a Sicilian storm for over a century, bringing the Galluzzo family's heirloom recipes and signature massive portions to the hungry people of Cabo's center. The place has gotten so popular that there are often set seating times for dinner; be sure to call ahead to make a reservation. More spontaneous diners should have no problem walking in for lunch.
Chef and owner Brian Solomon runs one of the most popular restaurants on the Cabo San Lucas Marina, supplementing waterfront views with first-class service and an enormous range of quality food and beverages. Fresh local seafood is the specialty of the house, but pastas, steaks, and traditional Mexican favorites are also staples of the lunch and dinner menus. The palapa-style architecture is fun yet classy, and the space is pet-friendly, too.
For a light and healthy breakfast, look no further than this plant-based café. Bright, colorful, and filled with greenery, it's a can't-miss spot for vegetarian and vegan travelers looking for fresh smoothies, açai bowls, and the like.
