Where to eat in Guatemala? The country’s culinary landscape offers a delightful blend of traditional flavours, international dishes, and unique dining experiences. In this guide, I’ll share my favourite restaurants and cafes that made my journey even more memorable. Each offering something special: wandering the charming cobblestone streets of Antigua, the former capital city of Guatemala to discover hidden gems, to the rich taste of cacao on the serene shores of Lake Atitlán. Or tacos that hit just right, and even meals deep within the ancient Tikal National Park. Let’s see!
1.) Santa Clara Panadería y Restaurante in Antigua
We stayed at the Hotel Las Piletas and the owner recommended this restaurant. This place isn’t packed with tourists. If you want a hidden gem, check it out, it is a local favourite. A charming spot for breakfast or a casual lunch or dinner, and serves classic Guatemalan dishes. On the ground floor there is a little “tienda”, where you can buy groceries, and on the first floor you can find the restaurant itself. There are a lot of green plants all over the place and also worth to try, because of the views from the upper floor.
Prices: Around $5–$10 USD (40–80 GTQ)
Address: H739+HFQ, Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala
FB: https://www.facebook.com/santaclara.panaderiaycafe/photos_by?locale=es_LA
IG: https://www.instagram.com/santaclara_panaderiarestaurant/
TikTok: santaclara.gt
2.) Antigua Brewing Company in Antigua
Antigua Brewing Company is a local artisanal brewpub, dedicated to serve high quality craft beer. They opened Antigua’s first brewery in 2015. The beers are brewed fresh every week in the locally built, three-barrel brew system. The beer is always unfiltered, and served on tap straight out of the huge bright tanks. Craft beer lovers should not miss this vibrant pub, which pairs its beers with stunning rooftop views of the surrounding iconic volcanoes.
You can see one of the best sunset views in the city from here. If you want live music, DJs, this is your spot, because events are happening every day of the week. As you enter the brewpub you will notice several murals from local artists. Besides beer they offer salads, sandwiches and other tasty meals, but it is a bit pricey.
Prices: Beers from $4 USD (30 GTQ); meals $5–$25 USD (30–150 GTQ)
Address: 3a Calle Poniente 4, Antigua Guatemala, Guatemala
Web: https://www.antiguabrewingco.com/
Menu: https://www.antiguabrewingco.com/welcome
FB: https://www.facebook.com/antiguabrewingco
IG: https://www.instagram.com/antiguabrewing_co/
3.) Pollo Campero in Antigua
Known for its crispy, flavourful fried chicken, it is a national favourite. An essential stop to experience Guatemala’s beloved casual and family-friendly fried chicken chain. I tried it also in El Salvador, I think the food tasted better there, but maybe that is only my opinion. You can check it out in this blog post.
Prices: Around $5–$30 USD (approximately 40–210 GTQ)
Web: https://www.campero.com/gt/inicio
FB: https://www.facebook.com/PolloCamperoGuatemala/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/camperogt/?hl=en
YT: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCLrJQJ7z1y5aE6rPPUNJ4wQ
4.) Deli Jasmin in Panajachel
A tranquil restaurant perfect for breakfast or lunch. The menu features fresh juices, salads, sandwiches and healthy, tasty dishes. You can also choose from vegan and vegetarian options. The garden is relaxing and lush, the outdoor seating is surrounded by a lot of greenery.
Prices: Meals from $4–$12 USD (approximately 30–100 GTQ).
Address: PRQQ+PMP, Calle Santander, Panajachel, Guatemala
IG: https://www.instagram.com/explore/locations/242954011/deli-jazmin/
5.) Rolhe Café-Helados in Panajachel
Specializing in artisan ice creams and delightful coffee creations. The ice cream is made in front of your eyes. The type of fruit and other ingredients of your choice from the menu are mixed together on a cool surface and then rolled up. A sweet treat in Panajachel, perfect for cooling off on a warm day.
Prices: Ice creams and coffees around $2–$5 USD (approximately 16–40 GTQ).
Address: Calle Santander 517, Panajachel 07010, Guatemala
FB: https://www.facebook.com/rolhe.gt/
6.) Lavalove Cacao in San Marcos La Laguna
The company is dedicated to the production of ceremonial cacao and the promotion of Mayan spirituality. The consumption of ceremonial cacao is an ancient tradition, and you can take part in unique cacao ceremonies. Through these rituals the owners create a space for deep connection, healing, and spiritual transformation. It is a must for chocolate enthusiasts. You can take home your favourite handcrafted cacao drinks and products.
Prices: Drinks start at $4 USD (approximately 30 GTQ)
Address: Barrio 3, Next to Eco Hotel La Paz, Calle de La Paz San Marcos La Laguna, 07016, Guatemala
Web: https://lavalovecacao.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/lavalovecacao/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/lavalovecacao/?hl=en
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@lavalovecacao
7.) Eagle’s Nest Atitlan in San Marcos La Laguna
Eagle’s Nest is an ecological resort and event venue for the transformational growth of adventure seekers. I attended a yoga class, the view of Lake Atitlán is truly breathtaking from there. I chose my meal from the a la carte menu, which is locally-sourced. You can chose from vegan and vegetarian options daily and you can also drink delicious homemade beverages.
Prices: meals range from $8–$10 USD (50–75 GTQ), drinks around $1.5-$8 USD (10-50 GTQ)
Address: Barrio 2, PPGP+HJ San Marcos La Laguna, Guatemala
Web: https://eaglesnestatitlan.com/
FB: https://www.facebook.com/eaglesnestatitlan/
IG: https://www.instagram.com/eaglesnestatitlan/?hl=en
YT: https://www.youtube.com/@eaglesnestatitlan
8.) Pizza Pacaya
Where to eat in Guatemala if not on a volcano? You just have to hike a bit and you can order a pizza made on volcanic rocks from David, the founder of Pizza Pacaya. You can read more about it in this blog post.
9.) Restaurante Del Parque Tikal in Tikal National Park
Located inside the Tikal National Park, this restaurant offers a convenient spot to refuel before or after exploring the ancient Mayan ruins. Perfect for a hearty meal without leaving the park. Casual and simple with outdoor seating and you are surrounded by the jungle is a plus.
Prices: Meals range from $4–$15 USD (approximately 30–120 GTQ), drinks $1.5-$8 USD (10-50 GTQ)
Address: Parque Nacional Tikal, Restaurante En Edificio Centro De Visitantes Del Museo Lítico y Maqueta, Flores 17013, Guatemala
FB: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantedelparquetikal
Menu: https://www.facebook.com/restaurantedelparquetikal/menu
10.) La Taquería in Santa Elena (Flores)
This taco spot serves some of the best tacos in the area. The place is casual and vibrant, it has a fun vibe and popular amongst locals. Perfect for a quick and delicious meal on a budget.
Prices: Tacos start at $1.50 USD (12 GTQ) each.
Address: 6 avenida, entre 1era y 2da calle zona 2, Santa Elena, Guatemala, 17029
FB: https://www.facebook.com/lataqueriagtp
+1) Yaxha
However, there is a restaurant in the Yaxha-Nakum-Naranjo National Park that offers food and drinks, if you go to a guided tour you probably won’t have time to rest and eat in the Park. Or if you have, the prices are usually higher if you want to buy food there. If you go with a guided tour they likely will stop at the last inhabited village before you turn northward towards the park. The “tienda” where you will stop, offer sandwiches and they prepare them with fresh ingredients right in front of your eyes. These sandwiches are not so bad if you didn’t bring anything with you to eat. The price is around 25 GTQ ($3 USD) for a sandwich.
Where to eat in Guatemala? From charming cafés to vibrant brewpubs and even fast-food staples, Guatemala’s dining scene offers something for everyone. Whether you’re enjoying craft beer in Antigua, savouring cacao by Lake Atitlán, eating pizza on a volcano or grabbing tacos in Flores, these culinary experiences reflect the rich flavours and culture of the country. Wherever your journey takes you, don’t miss out on these incredible dining spots.
Have you tried any of these spots? Let me know your favourite dining experience in Guatemala in the comments!
Which ones are your favourites?
Are there any other affordable restaurants in Guatemala you know?
What do you think the best restaurants are in Guatemala?
What would you suggest for people who want to try traditional Guatemalan food?
Have you tried Quetzalteca, you see on the cover image, which is Guatemala’s iconic drink? Which flavour have you tried? Did you like it?
Where to eat in Guatemala in your opinion?
