Traditional cuisine and restaurant recommendations
Guatemalan food has deep roots in ancient Maya cooking traditions, featuring corn, beans, chilies, and rich stews. The Maya cooked by steaming (tamales), boiling (soups and stews), or cooking underground.
Guatemala's National Dish
A very rich, flavorful chicken stew cooked for hours with vegetables like potatoes, squash, chayote, and carrots. Served with rice and tortillas. Every family has their own recipe!
Where to try: Rincon Tipico or Los Tres Tiempos in Antigua, Cafe Sabor Cruceno at Lake Atitlán
Green Cilantro Stew
A rich and flavorful traditional stew with chicken and sometimes potatoes. The distinctive green liquid is made from cilantro, tomatillos, green onions, green beans, and chayote.
Where to try: Traditional restaurants throughout Guatemala
Spicy Turkey Stew
A flavorful and rich turkey stew with strong indigenous roots from the Cobán area. This spicy chicken broth comes with rice and tortillas.
Where to try: Available at Mountains Nest lodge near Semuc Champey (Q55 for dinner)
Sweet Plantain Dessert
Part street food, part dessert - these are unforgettable! Mashed plantains stuffed with chocolate and mashed black beans, deep-fried, then sprinkled with cinnamon and sugar.
Where to try: Street food stalls in Jocotenango (near Antigua)
Popular Street Food
A sandwich filled with sausage or grilled pork in a hot dog bun, covered with chimichurri sauce, avocado, and onion, topped with mayo, ketchup, and mustard.
Where to try: Street vendors throughout Guatemala
Hot Sweet Corn Drink
A must-try hot and sweet corn drink, available plain, with cinnamon, or even chocolate. Perfect for warming up!
Where to try: Street stalls at La Merced street food market in Antigua
Flores has an amazing food scene! Almost every building on the outer border of the island is a restaurant. The food in Flores is absolutely elite!
Important: Book Sublime restaurant in December to secure reservation!