Antigua Guatemala, with its cobblestone streets and colorful architecture, has always held a special place in my heart. Recently, my family of five embarked on a memorable journey to this enchanting city, eager to explore its rich history and, of course, savor its delectable cuisine. During our stay, we visited three restaurants that left a lasting impression on our taste buds: Fridas, Por Que No Cafe, and Coaba Farms. In this blog, I’ll take you on a gastronomic tour of these exceptional eateries, highlighting the flavorful food, the delightful adult beverages, and the surprising price comparison between Guatemala and America.
Fridas:
Nestled within the charming streets of Antigua, Fridas stole our hearts with its warm ambiance and traditional Mexican fare. As we settled into our seats, we were greeted with the mouthwatering aroma of freshly prepared dishes. The menu featured a variety of dishes from different regions of Mexico, promising a diverse culinary experience.
The Food: From the first bite of their signature guacamole to the last morsel of the tantalizing mole enchiladas, every dish was an explosion of flavors. The authenticity of the food was evident, and we relished the bold spices and fresh ingredients used in each dish. The kids couldn’t get enough of the crispy tacos and the flavorful churros that left us all licking our fingers.
Adult Beverages: Fridas also offered an impressive selection of adult beverages. We indulged in their refreshing margaritas, which perfectly complemented the spicy notes of the dishes. The adults in the family were pleased to find a wide variety of tequilas and mezcal to choose from, making our dining experience even more enjoyable.
Price Comparison: One of the most delightful surprises at Fridas was the incredibly reasonable prices. Compared to similar restaurants in America, we found ourselves paying a fraction of the cost for an equally satisfying meal. It was a win-win situation, as we savored exceptional Mexican cuisine without breaking the bank.
Por Que No Cafe:
Located in a quaint corner of Antigua, Por Que No Cafe captured our hearts with its cozy, bohemian atmosphere and farm-to-table approach to cooking. The restaurant was adorned with locally crafted decorations, making it a perfect place to relax and enjoy some downtime.
The Food: Por Que No Cafe is renowned for its farm-fresh ingredients and creative fusion of flavors. We started our meal with a selection of their mouthwatering tapas, including the flavorful beetroot hummus and savory chorizo empanadas. For the main course, we couldn’t resist trying their signature pork belly with caramelized plantains. Every dish showcased the finest local produce, and the attention to detail was evident in every bite.
Adult Beverages: The cafe’s bar boasted an impressive array of handcrafted cocktails and local spirits. We indulged in their refreshing fruit-infused sangrias and their unique take on classic mojitos. The combinations were divine, and we were thrilled to support local breweries and wineries with every sip.
Price Comparison: While Por Que No Cafe’s prices were slightly higher than Fridas’, the exceptional quality of the ingredients and the innovation in their dishes more than justified the cost. Plus, compared to similar farm-to-table experiences in America, we still found the prices quite reasonable.
Coaba Farms:
Situated just outside Antigua, Coaba Farms offered us a unique farm-to-fork experience amidst lush greenery and a tranquil setting. This eco-friendly restaurant focused on sustainable practices, growing their own produce and raising livestock to create a true farm-to-table experience.
The Food: The moment we set foot in Coaba Farms, we were treated to a genuine connection with nature. Their dishes featured the freshest ingredients straight from their gardens and farms. From the juicy grilled vegetables to the succulent free-range chicken, every dish celebrated the essence of the land.
Adult Beverages: Coaba Farms prided itself on producing its own artisanal craft beers and herbal-infused spirits. We couldn’t resist trying their homemade beer flight, and each sip was a revelation of unique flavors, making us appreciate the care put into crafting these libations.
Price Comparison: While Coaba Farms had a higher price point compared to the previous two restaurants, the farm-fresh experience, the picturesque setting, and the ethical practices made it a worthwhile investment. It’s important to note that this kind of sustainable dining experience is rare in America and would likely come with a much higher price tag.
Our family’s culinary adventure in Antigua Guatemala exceeded all expectations. The delightful food, the refreshing adult beverages, and the surprising price comparisons all added to the unforgettable memories we made together. Whether we were savoring authentic Mexican cuisine at Fridas, indulging in creative fusion at Por Que No Cafe, or immersing ourselves in the farm-to-fork experience at Coaba Farms, each restaurant offered a unique perspective on the vibrant Guatemalan food scene. Antigua Guatemala’s culinary delights will forever hold a special place in our hearts, leaving us with a desire to return and explore even more of its gastronomic treasures in the future.
