1. **El Tenedor del Cerro** – Antigua
El Tenedor del Cerro, set in an art gallery just outside Antigua, offers breathtaking views of the city and three surrounding volcanoes. The menu is diverse, featuring both local Guatemalan dishes and international cuisine. You might choose Pepian, a traditional Mayan dish, or opt for a wood-fired pizza. The artistic, panoramic setting adds to the exceptional dining experience.
2. **Hector’s Bistro** – Antigua
Located in a colonial-style building in Antigua, Hector’s Bistro offers a sophisticated take on Guatemalan flavors. The restaurant, run by chef Hector Castro, emphasizes locally sourced ingredients and changes the menu frequently to feature seasonal produce. Dishes such as grilled octopus with sweet corn puree and balsamic reduction showcase Hector’s commitment to culinary innovation.
3. **Kacao** – Guatemala City
Kacao in Guatemala City is a celebration of traditional Guatemalan cuisine. With a menu featuring dishes like Jocón (green chicken stew) and Chiles Rellenos (stuffed peppers), Kacao provides an authentic gastronomic journey through Guatemala. The vibrant decor, live Marimba music, and warm hospitality enhance the dining experience.
4. **Saul Bistro** – Guatemala City
Saul Bistro, with several locations throughout Guatemala City, serves international cuisine with a Guatemalan touch. The menu offers dishes such as grilled steak with chirmol (a Guatemalan salsa) and pasta with local vegetables. The modern, sleek interior design coupled with a cozy atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for both casual and special occasions.
5. **Restaurante Flor de Lis** – Guatemala City
Located within the four-floor gourmet food hall, Mercado 24, Restaurante Flor de Lis specializes in innovative Guatemalan fusion cuisine. Chef Diego Telles creatively combines local ingredients with international techniques to create dishes like venison tartare with beetroot, and pork belly with chirmol and yucca. This, along with the restaurant’s chic, modern setting, makes Flor de Lis a must-visit spot in the city.
These five restaurants offer a rich variety of Guatemalan culinary experiences, from traditional to fusion, casual to fine dining. Each one showcases the diverse flavors of Guatemala’s culinary scene, making them essential places to eat for food-lovers visiting the country. ¡Buen provecho!
