Discover the vibrant flavors of the best restaurants in Bacalar, Mexico for vegetarians with this informative guide. In this picturesque town, you'll find an array of mouthwatering dishes that cater to plant-based diets, ensuring you don't miss out on the rich culinary scene.
We have to admit, we were blown away by the restaurant scene in Bacalar. Considering it's not a very well-known destination, we were pleasantly surprised by the variety of vegetarian/vegan options. After nine days and many delicious meals, we uncovered most of the options in this Mexican pueblo. Read on to uncover the top spots in this stunning destination that'll have you craving more.
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If you're traveling to Bacalar, Mexico soon (especially with kids) check out our full guide here!
Overview of Bacalar, Mexico's Vegetarian Food Scene
When it comes to vegetarian food, Bacalar, Mexico may not be the first place that comes to mind. However, this picturesque town on the shores of a stunning lagoon has a surprisingly diverse and delicious selection of vegetarian options. Whether you're a long-time vegetarian or simply looking to try something new, Bacalar has something to offer.
Local and Fresh
Many of the vegetarian options in Bacalar are characterized by their use of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. From crisp vegetables to juicy fruits, the abundance of fresh produce in this region allows for creative and flavorful vegetarian cuisine. One of the best places to experience this is at the local markets, where vendors sell everything from handmade tortillas to exotic fruits. Be sure to try the prickly pear cactus, which is a staple in Mexican cuisine and has a unique, tangy flavor.
Mexican Vegetarian Classics
Mexican cuisine is famous for its meaty dishes like tacos al pastor and carnitas, but that doesn't mean vegetarians have to miss out on the fun. Many Mexican classics can be easily adapted to suit a vegetarian diet. For example, you can order tacos filled with grilled vegetables or refried beans instead of meat. Or, try a chile relleno filled with cheese or beans instead of ground beef. No matter what you choose, you'll still get to enjoy the bold flavors and spices that make Mexican cuisine so delicious.
International Options
In addition to traditional Mexican fare, Bacalar also offers a variety of international vegetarian options. Italian restaurants serve up hearty pasta dishes with fresh tomato sauces and fragrant herbs, while sushi restaurants offer creative vegetarian rolls made with avocado, cucumber, and tempura vegetables. If you're in the mood for something a little more exotic, try the falafel at one of the town's Middle Eastern restaurants or the veggie curry at an Indian spot.
Healthy Eats
For those looking for healthier options, Bacalar has plenty to offer. Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes that are both nutritious and delicious, such as salads made with local greens, smoothie bowls packed with superfoods like chia seeds and goji berries, and quinoa bowls loaded with fresh veggies and avocado. If you're looking to detox and rejuvenate during your stay, there are even local juice bars that offer cleansing juices and smoothies made with fresh fruits and veggies.
Whether you're a vegetarian or simply looking to try something new, Bacalar, Mexico has a lot to offer. From fresh, locally-sourced ingredients to international flavors, there is something for every palate. So why not take a break from the meat-centric dishes and explore the delicious vegetarian food scene in Bacalar?
Top 10 Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants in Bacalar, Mexico
Bacalar, a small town located in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico, is known for its breathtaking natural beauty, historic sites, and delicious cuisine. Vegetarians visiting Bacalar need not worry about finding a good place to eat, as there are many restaurants that cater to their needs. Here is a list of our top vegetarian restaurants in Bacalar:
El Manati
This restaurant lands high on our list of places you must eat at when in Bacalar. Their restaurant is located in a beautiful courtyard filled with lush tropical plants. Their menu caters to breakfast and lunch and offers a wide variety of creative Mexican dishes and drinks. Everything is extremely fresh and flavorful!
We loved the "Emoladas" which are delicious vegetarian enchiladas with a unique mole sauce. The maracuya (passion fruit) infused water was the absolute perfect hydration on a hot Mexico day. Also, all of their desserts are a must, so save some room!
Expect to pay between 100-180 pesos for a dish and drink.
Yasai
Yasai is a cozy and charming restaurant located in the heart of Bacalar. This restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian options, including tofu and vegetable stir-fry, mixed vegetable curry, and vegetarian tacos, all made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. Yasai also has vegan options, and they are open from breakfast through dinner.
Enamora
If you are looking for good food and live music, this restaurant has options for everyone. We specifically chose to visit for dinner because they had a live band playing, and we were all for that good ambiance and energy. We really enjoyed the vegetarian sandwiches and variety of options!
At the end of our meal, we found out that on Wednesdays they have a unique pay-it-forward program called the Gift Economy Program. When you ask for your bill, they instead reveal that someone else paid for your meal. Instead, you chip in money (whatever amount you want) for the next person's meal. A really fun and thought-provoking concept! We loved the concept so much that we ended up contributing more than our bill would've been so that the staff could receive a nice tip.
Once again, expect to pay about 120-180 pesos per person for dinner and a drink.
Con.Siente de LULU La Bruja
Con.Siente de LULU La Bruja is a unique and eclectic restaurant that serves vegan and vegetarian dishes with a Mexican touch. The restaurant's menu features fresh, organic ingredients sourced from local farms, and they use traditional Mexican cooking techniques to create unique and flavorful dishes. Try their signature dish, the vegan chilaquiles, made with homemade tortilla chips, beans, salsa, and avocado.
Mr. Taco
This simple place right on the plaza offers delicious tacos and burritos for meat-eaters and vegetarians. The seating area is quite small and it's usually pretty busy, so we chose to take our food to go and enjoyed it back at our hotel! The burritos were absolutely delicious!
This place is a good bang for your buck as they provide you with plenty of food for 80-100 pesos per person.
Mango y Chile
One of the most popular restaurants in town that really caters to those that are in search of vegetarian or vegan food. We tried a couple of their vegetarian/vegan burgers, which were quite good but pricey, and replenished with a mango and chocolate banana smoothie.
Unfortunately, this restaurant will set you back 200-300 pesos per person. If we're being honest, it probably isn't worth the hype.
Yerbabuena
Yerbabuena is a cozy and intimate restaurant that offers a farm-to-table dining experience. The menu features vegetarian and vegan dishes made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, including salads, pasta dishes, and vegetable stir-fries. Yerbabuena also offers a variety of fresh juices and smoothies made with local fruits and vegetables.
La Playita
We walked past this place about ten times before we decided to give it a try. From the outside, it looks like a Tulum beach club and the kind of place that would charge you just to walk in. We stopped by for lunch one day and had two delicious meals: fish tacos and a basmati rice dish with lots of fresh veggies.
We liked it so much that we convinced our friends to try it with us for dinner. Although dinner wasn't quite as tasty as our lunch, it was still worth it. The live music and twinkle lights overhead create a cozy atmosphere.
Expect to pay 120-180 pesos per person for a drink and a meal.
La Pina
La Pina is a charming restaurant located in the center of Bacalar that offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options. The menu features fresh, homemade dishes, including vegetarian tacos, burritos, and salads. La Pina also has a small market where you can buy organic and locally-sourced produce. We really enjoyed coming here just to grab some chips and guac and some delicious drinks!
Barbanegra Bacalar
Barbanegra Bacalar is a cozy and rustic restaurant located on the shores of Lake Bacalar. This restaurant offers a variety of vegetarian and vegan options, including vegetable skewers, salads, and grilled vegetables. The restaurant's unique location and beautiful views make it a perfect place to enjoy a relaxing and delicious meal.
Other Vegetarian-Friendly Options in Bacalar
While the restaurants in Bacalar offer delicious vegetarian options, there are other places where you can find great vegetarian food. Here are some of the best options:
Street Food and Food Trucks
Bacalar has a vibrant street food scene, and you can find some amazing vegetarian options from food trucks and street vendors. One popular option is elote, which is grilled corn on the cob topped with mayonnaise, cheese, and chili powder. Another option is tacos de frijoles, which are tacos filled with refried beans, lettuce, and salsa. You can also find fresh fruit, such as mango and pineapple, on the streets of Bacalar.
Local Markets and Supermarkets
If you prefer to cook your own meals or just enjoy a fresh local bite, there are several local markets and supermarkets in Bacalar where you can find fresh produce and vegetarian ingredients. The Mercado Municipal is the main market in Bacalar, and it offers a wide variety of fruits, vegetables, and really cheap delicious smoothies.
There are also several supermarkets, such as Chedraui and Super Aki, where you can find vegetarian options like tofu, soy milk, and veggie burgers.
Bacalar, Mexico has a lot to offer for vegetarians seeking delicious and nutritious food options. With the growing trend of plant-based diets, more and more restaurants in Bacalar are catering to vegetarians with innovative and flavorful dishes. From vegan tacos to fresh salads, you can find a variety of vegetarian options in Bacalar.
Conclusion
Whether you're a local or a tourist, there are many restaurants in Bacalar that are worth checking out. From the charming atmosphere of El Manatí to the laid-back vibes of La Playita, each restaurant offers its own unique take on vegetarian cuisine. Not to mention, the stunning views of the lagoon serve as the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience.
Overall, Bacalar is a great destination for vegetarians looking to enjoy a variety of delicious and healthy food options. So, if you're planning a trip to this beautiful town, be sure to try out some of the best vegetarian restaurants Bacalar has to offer. Your taste buds will thank you!
If you enjoyed our vegetarian-friendly restaurants in Bacalar, Mexico guide please share and comment below with your favorite on the list. Subscribe to our mailing list so you don't miss any future blog posts!
With love and adventure,
Bre, Daniel, and Indy