October in Baja California Sur offers a feast for the senses where fresh seafood, local produce, and time-honored Mexican culinary traditions come together in unforgettable dishes. Whether a seasoned foodie or simply someone who enjoys a great meal, fall visitors will be surprised and delighted by the autumnal offerings in Los Cabos.
The Flavors of Fall
Fall is a time of abundance in Los Cabos, and the local chefs take full advantage of the season's bounty. Expect to find dishes that highlight the freshest catch from the Sea of Cortes, paired with the rich, earthy flavors of locally grown vegetables and herbs. Seasonal favorites like pumpkin, squash, and sweet corn make their way into comforting soups, hearty stews, and innovative takes on classic Mexican dishes. But it’s not just about the ingredients, but how our talented chefs interpret them, creating meals that are as beautiful as they are delicious.
Must-Try Seasonal Dishes
One of the standout dishes of fall is pulpo al pastor, a seasonal twist on the traditional taco al pastor, substituting marinated and grilled octopus for the usual pork. The result is a smoky, tender bite with a hint of sweetness, often served with charred pineapple and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro. Another must-try is the sopa de calabaza, a velvety pumpkin soup spiced with cinnamon and cloves, often garnished with toasted pumpkin seeds and a drizzle of crema fresca.
For seafood lovers, aguachile de camarón, made with fresh shrimp marinated in lime juice, is a refreshing and tangy dish that perfectly balances heat with acidity. And no visit to Los Cabos in the fall would be complete without sampling chile en nogada. This traditional Mexican dish combines the flavors of stuffed poblano peppers with a creamy walnut sauce and is topped with pomegranate seeds.
Where to Eat
When it comes to finding the best seasonal dishes in Los Cabos, a few local spots stand out. Flora's Field Kitchen is a must-visit, offering farm-to-table dining in a rustic setting. Sourced from the on-site farm, their fall menu often features dishes like roasted squash with house-made ricotta and honey, as well as a variety of seafood options that showcase the best coastal offerings. The chefs at celebrity-favorite Acre create a seasonal tasting menu rotated weekly. Expect to find creative dishes like roasted pumpkin salad with goat cheese and pepitas, or grilled octopus served with mole and seasonal vegetables. The restaurant’s lush, jungle-like surroundings only enhance the experience, making every meal feel like a special occasion.
For a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine with a modern twist, head to Manta at The Cape, where Chef Abisai Sanchez infuses traditional dishes with innovative flavors. Their fall menu typically features seafood-driven dishes with a focus on fresh, local ingredients, perfectly paired with an extensive selection of mezcal and tequila.
Jazamango, located in Todos Santos, offers a country-style dining experience curated by Chef Javier Plascencia. The menu is inspired by the bounty of local products, including those from their own organic garden, delivering fresh and flavorful dishes that celebrate the essence of Baja California Sur. El Huerto, a farm-to-table gem in Cabo San Lucas, blends Mediterranean and Asian influences with the region's unique offerings. With a menu that evolves with the seasons, guests can enjoy dishes crafted from fresh produce harvested directly from their gardens and orchards, all while surrounded by breathtaking landscapes reminiscent of an old Baja Hacienda.
At YAYA, named as a term of endearment for grandmothers across Mediterranean and Latin American cultures, guests are welcomed into a vibrant dining room and lush open patios. Here, European culinary influences meet the bold flavors of Latin American cuisine, creating a fusion that highlights fresh, local ingredients. Lastly, Cocina de Campo by Agricole, a Bib Gourmand recipient, showcases the finest of Baja California's culinary heritage. Set on 37 acres of fields where fresh produce is grown in a natural and organic environment, this restaurant provides a true farm-to-table experience, focusing on quality and sustainability.
Just a mile from the Sea of Cortes and San Jose Del Cabo's estuary, Tamarindos is an organic farm and restaurant housed in a historic farmhouse dating back to the 19th century. Once a thriving sugar cane plantation, Tamarindos continues to celebrate its rich heritage by offering seasonal, farm-to-table cuisine that showcases the very best of the Baja California Sur region. Their fall menu is particularly enticing, featuring dishes that highlight the bounty of the harvest, such as roasted root vegetables with spiced yogurt, or grilled local fish paired with a vibrant salsa verde.
Finally, El Farallon at the Waldorf Astoria Los Cabos Pedregal offers an unforgettable dining experience with its cliffside setting and panoramic ocean views. Their seasonal tasting menu includes dishes like grilled lobster with charred corn and cilantro butter, and a dessert menu that showcases the sweetness of fall fruits like figs and pears.
No matter the season, Los Cabos’ gastronomy scene brims with exciting restaurant openings, award-winning chefs, and new flavors to explore.