Best Places to Eat in La Paz, Baja California Sur

Serving as the capital of Baja California Sur, La Paz is a laid-back seaside destination and the start/end point for many of our tours. It’s the kind of place that lures you to stay a little longer, thanks to its breezy seaside Malecon, art-filled parks, and beautifully preserved historic core.

It’s also home to some of the dining experiences in Baja, with everything from tacos to sushi and pizza on offer. Local chefs take inspiration from the bountiful offerings of the Sea of Cortez, as well as the traditions of mainland Mexico, just across the water.

To help satisfy your culinary cravings either before or after your Sea Kayak Adventures tour, here’s our pick of the best places to eat in La Paz. We’ve got options that will appeal to all tastes buds and budgets, whether you’re after a leisurely, fine-dining meal or a quick bite to eat at the end of a day’s exploration.

 

Fried tortilla tostadas next to a terracotta bowl full of fresh guacamole in Baja California Sur

 

McFisher

Just a block from the Seven Crowns Hotel (where many of our tours start/end) is McFisher. It does incredible fish tacos, burritos, and fishball soup, as well as generous lashings of tequila in its margaritas Whether you’re into fresh or fried, you’ll find something to suit your tastebuds amidst an ambiance that is relaxed and local. When dining at McFisher, we love that you can watch the chefs working their magic in the open kitchen, as well as the ocean-inspired murals decorating the space. The only downside of McFisher is that it’s so popular, it can sometimes be hard to snag a table.

McFisher is open from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm from Tuesday to Saturday and closes at 4:30 pm on Sunday (closed Monday).

 

Sign for the classic lobster house, Bismarkcito on the Malecon in La Paz,

 

Bismarkcito

Smack bang on the Malecon is Bismarkcito, a local institution that has been dishing up traditional seafood dishes and tacos since 1968. Not only do they offer delicious lobster and hearty pizzas that will please the whole family but also some of the best ceviches in La Paz. If you’re into octopus, be sure to try the grilled pulpo over Mexican-style rice. Bismarkcito is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with a large terrace where you can relax while admiring stunning sunsets over the Bay of La Paz.

Bismarkcito is open from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm daily.

 

Bandido's Grill

Bandido’s is an American-style grill just a few blocks west of Marina La Paz that does generously portioned burgers, ribs, and fries. It boasts an outdoor garden framed by swaying palm trees and a soulful atmosphere that makes you feel at home. A highlight of Bandido’s is its open-flame grill created in the front end of a Chevy pickup truck, not to mention the attentive and friendly staff. If you’re looking for a place to eat, drink and socialize late into the evening, then coincide your visit with Bandido’s open-mic night.

Bandido’s Grill is open from 5:00 pm to 12:00 am daily, except Wednesday.

 

Fresh grilled flank steak with two sauces in metal containers next to a bed of mashed potatoes and steamed broccoli with garlic

 

Las Tres Virgenes

If mouthwatering steak is what you’re after, then mouthwatering steak is what you’ll get as Las Tres Virgenes. Its menu is inspired by the gastronomic traditions of Baja California Sur, with dishes that are seasonal and highlight locally sourced ingredients. The wood-burning grill brings plenty of flavor to the cuts of meat and the restaurant garden has an old-world ambiance that we absolutely love. Head chef and owner Jesus Chavez Departure has also curated a fine choice of regional wines, many of which hail from Baja California Norte.

Las Tres Virgenes is open from 1:00 pm to 11:00 pm daily.

 

Out front of Harker Board Co on the Malecon in La Paz, Baja California Sur

 

Harker Board Co

Affectionately known as “Harkers”, this casual joint is the place to head for pizza washed down with craft beer. It features a large, open-air seating area with elevated views of the Malecon and is a popular place to be in the late afternoon when the sun is sinking over the Sea of Cortez. If you get there early, you might even score the best seat in the house - a table set within a surf-inspired kombi van. Harkers is a particularly popular choice amongst local guides, so don’t be surprised if you see a few familiar faces.

Harkers is open from 8:30 am to 11:30 pm most days, except Tuesday when it doesn’t open until 2:00 pm.

 

A blue building with a wooden door that enters to a mezcal bar in La Paz, Baja California Sur

 

Mezcaleria La Miserable

If you’re looking for somewhere to kick on after Harkers, then Mezcaleria La Miserable is the spot. It’s well-stocked with top-shelf mezcales and artisan spirits, as well as reasonably priced drinks if your budget doesn’t stretch that far. Cute and cozy, this mezcal bar features a handful of interior seats where you’ll be welcomed by the locals, plus a leafy outdoor patio illuminated by string lights. In addition to its great selection of mezcal (which the staff will knowledgeably guide you through), they also have a tasty snack menu.

Mezcaleria La Miserable is open from 7:00 pm to 2:00 am each day, except Sunday.

 

Pizza fresh out of the oven with pepperoni, mushrooms, and green bell peppers

 

La Coyota

Just a stone’s throw from Mezcaleria La Miserable is La Coyota, which is famed for its mix of Mexican and Argentine-inspired dishes. Not only do they do some of the best pizzas in town (order the pesto with shrimp and smoked provolone) but there are empanadas that will appeal to both meat-eaters and vegetarians. Oh, and did we mention that the cocktails are amazing? The relaxed atmosphere of La Coyota makes it a popular choice for families and the staff are always friendly.

La Coyota is open from 6:00 pm to 1:00 am daily, except Monday when it closes at midnight.

 

Sushi Longer

Sushi Longer has a couple of outlets in La Paz but the one on the Malecon is the most frequented by tourists. It does the best sushi in the city, although it might be a little different from what you’re used to back home. Salmon and yellowtail fish feature in many of their rolls (as does cream cheese) or you can opt for spicy chicken noodles if you’re not a fan of seafood. Sushi Longer’s menu also includes steaming bowls of ramen and sushi poke bowls.

Sushi Longer is open from 1:00 pm to 10:00 pm Sunday to Thursday and stays open until 11:30 pm on Friday and Saturday. Closed Monday.

 

Chalkboard sign sayind Nomada Fresh and Organics with drawn plate of fried eggs and and toast next to a tall snake plant

 

Nomada Fresh & Organics

Located on Madero Street, Nomada is one of the top vegan choices in La Paz. If you’re craving healthy smoothies and plentiful bowls filled with fresh veggies, then you’ve come to the right place. While some of the dishes give a nod to Mexican culinary traditions, such as the vegan quesadilla, others have more of an international flavor. Nomada Fresh & Organics also does delicious breakfasts if you’re looking to start the day right.

Nomada Fresh & Organics is open from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm Tuesday to Friday and until 3:00 pm from Saturday to Monday.

 

Estrella del Mar

At the far western end of the Malecon is Estrella del Mar, a beachside restaurant where you can literally sink your feet into the sand. It has been a mainstay of La Paz’s dining scene for decades and it doesn’t disappoint, whether you’re after freshly shucked oysters, locally caught fish, or perfectly cooked steak. The rustic interior offers views straight out across the water, so you can watch the boats coming and going. Complete with romantic string lights, it’s easy to see why Estrella del Mar is a popular place for couples to linger late over drinks.

Estrella del Mar is open from 11:00 am to 11:00 pm daily.

 

Street view of the infamous Pan D'Les bakery in La Paz, Baja

 

Pan D'Les

Also on Madero Street just across street from Nomada Fresh & Organics is this ever-popular bakery, which does enticing baked goods and cookies. Whether you’re after a morning coffee and pastry on the patio or just want to grab a loaf of sourdough to go, Pan D’Les won’t disappoint. Celiacs can also rejoice thanks to the wide choice of gluten-free options, including muffins and brownies. Owner Carlos and his family are always welcoming with a smile!

Pan D’Les is open from 8:00 am to 2:30 pm Monday to Saturday (closed Sunday).

 

A plate of Avocado toast with two poached on a black and white speckled pate

 

Doce Cuarenta Coffee & Bakery

Hands down the best coffee shop in La Paz (in our opinion) is Doce Cuarenta, which is always bustling with tourists and locals alike getting their morning caffeine fix. Its delicious breakfast menu includes fresh pastries, muffins, and egg-based dishes, as well as your choice of cold brew or espresso coffee. If you’re a sweet tooth, Doce Cuarenta also does exceptional cakes, while those who like things hot will be bowled over by the homemade hot sauce.

Doce Cuarenta Coffee & Bakery is open from 7:00 am to 10:00 pm daily.

 

Nim

In the heart of historic La Paz is this upscale restaurant headed by chef and owner Cristina Kiewek. It offers a contemporary take on global dishes, including options such as Vietnamese pho, Moroccan lamb tagine, and Italian seafood cannelloni. While the seafood dishes at Nim are undeniably divine (think New Orleans-style oysters and grilled shrimp with Spanish chorizo), there are also plenty of fresh and hearty salads on offer, including vegetarian options. Nim’s wine cellar is also top-end, with both Mexican and international bottles.

Nim is open from 1:00 pm to 10:30 pm daily, except Sunday.

 

Asadero Rancho Viejo

Asadero Rancho Viejo is the place to head if you’re after authentic tacos or late-night munchies at the western end of the Malecon. The mesquite wood they use to smoke their meat adds plenty of flavor and the choice of salsas and toppings is second-to-none. Asadero Rancho Viejo’s location near the Marina La Paz makes it a good port of call after returning from daily excursions, with spectacular sunsets to boot. Whatever you order, be sure to leave room for the “Chocolate Bomb” flaming dessert to finish things off!

Asadero Rancho Viejo is open 24 hours a day.

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