Best Bucerias Restaurants & Bars You Shouldn’t Miss

Bucerias takes eating and drinking very seriously. While visiting, you should too. One of the best things about this town is that, despite its size, there are SO many amazing Bucerias restaurants to choose from. Whether you want the best fish tacos, breakfast and coffee, gourmet dining, vegetarian-friendly spots, local bars with great happy hours, or a beachfront seafood restaurant with ceviche and margaritas, there’s something for everyone.

We live here, and our family has been compiling this list of the best restaurants in Bucerias over the last 9 years. We are constantly updating it, so we can guarantee you’ll be having some amazing food during your visit to this little piece of paradise. Let us know if we missed any of your favorites!

Note: Some Bucerias restaurants may close during low season (usually from September to mid-October), so make sure to check if you are visiting during these months.

Breakfast & Brunch ($-$$)

The most important meal of the day doesn’t have to be a complicated affair. For the best breakfast in town, pull up a seat at one of these Bucerias restaurants and get your day off to a great start. From chilaquiles and birria to sweet bread and café de olla, here are all our favorite breakfast, coffee, & brunch spots in town.

Luna Luna

I’ve been coming here with my family since 2008, and it is still our favorite breakfast restaurant in Bucerias. Luna Luna is a local favorite that keeps visitors coming back year after year. You can taste the love that Karla & Alex have put into this place over the years.

If you can handle a little bit of spice, don’t leave Bucerias without trying their Huevos Rancheros! We also love their Chicken or Plantain Sopes & the Enchiladas Suizas. Their chorizo is also homemade, so any dish with this ingredient is delicious. Their drink menu is extensive and offers freshly made juices, smoothies, and coffee. It is located in the Golden Zone across the street from the MaraVilla Condos on Francisco I. Madero street. They also have a great acoustic band that plays every morning!

Los Dorados de Villa Birria

Birria is a local favorite, traditionally prepared with goat meat but here, they’ve perfected it with beef. Marinated in a flavorful adobo of vinegar, dried chiles, herbs, and spices, the meat is slow-cooked until it’s incredibly tender and bursting with flavor. It is then served with corn tortillas, onion, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.

If they told me I could eat only one thing in Bucerias, it would be this birria!
– My Mom

This place is our top pick for birria in Bucerias (or go for the crispy birria tacos at Gera’s). They offer tacos, crispy tacos with cheese, or the stew. Don’t miss the free and delicious birria broth when you order tacos. They also have a variety of salsas to spice up your meal, so try them all (my favorite is to add a dash of the mulata salsa with peanuts). And make sure to order one of their daily agua frescas, like tamarind, hibiscus tea, guanabana, or plum leaves with green apple – it’s a refreshing bonus.

Panquekis House

They have healthy choices as well as hearty items on the menu. Freshly-squeezed juices and smoothies are available as well as a good assortment of coffees and teas. Friendly, English-fluent staff make ordering very easy, and the menu is also available in English.

Their coffee is bottomless and there is two options, Americano or Cafe de Olla: Mexican spiced coffee with raw cane sugar (piloncillo), cinnamon, and cloves. My wife swears it is the best french toast she’s ever had. Our favorite dishes here are the Mexican Omelet (with chilaquiles), the sweet potato pancakes, and the “Desayuno del Lic” which is their version of Eggs Florentine. The chilaquiles with shrimp or arrachera are also delicious!

El Brujo

My Favorite Order: “Greñudos” eggs or the shrimp omelet and a green juice
Website: https://www.facebook.com/ELBRUJORESTAURANT

The breathtaking beachfront ocean view, combined with an enticing breakfast menu, creates a memorable morning setting. The Green Juice, known for its refreshing and healthy qualities, is a great drink option. My personal favorite is the “Greñudos” eggs, surrounded by crispy hash browns and flavorful chilaquiles. The coffee is bottomless and good, but could be improved. The overall ambiance of the restaurant is great, with the option to relax in front of the restaurant on the sand and take in the beach vibes. For individuals in search of a satisfying start to the day, with a stunning view and delicious breakfast dishes, this is a great option.

Red Apple Place

The family takes pride in delivering quality service with their wide variety of food and drinks. This low-key rooftop restaurant has excellent service, beautiful views, tranquil ambiance, and delicious food! Try the Huevos Motuleños (eggs with fried plantains), Colombia-style eggs (scrambled with tomato, bell pepper, shrimp, and scallions), Machaca (shredded beef & eggs), or the Red Apple Place omelet!

La Cocina de Jorge

For a scrumptious, wallet-friendly breakfast, look no further than Jorge’s Kitchen. It’s a cozy, family-run spot dishing out genuine home-cooked goodness. The menu includes enfrijoladas, chilaquiles, enchiladas, huevos motuleños, cafe de olla (Mexican spiced coffee with raw cane sugar, cinnamon, cloves), and more! They also have Menudo on Sundays.

Mr. Cream

  • My Favorite Order: Enfrijoladas, the Pecan + Bacon waffle, or French Toast
  • Website: http://mrcream.net/
  • Hours: 8:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Mr. Cream is a popular spot where a little wait is typical. The menu is impressively diverse, ensuring there’s something for everyone. You’ll find a range of Mexican delights like chilaquiles, machaca, enfrijoladas, and huevos rancheros. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, their menu also features options like French toast, pancakes, and Belgian waffles. When it comes to drinks, they’ve got it all, from freshly squeezed juices and smoothies to your morning coffee fix. The restaurant offers open-air seating, providing a great spot for people-watching on the bustling corner. Enjoy your visit!

Coffee & Desserts

Panino’s

Situated in the bustling Golden Zone within the Pavilion building, Panino’s stands as a beacon for coffee aficionados and breakfast enthusiasts alike. Renowned for its great coffee and breakfast offerings, including mouthwatering Montecristo sandwiches and eggs Benedict, Panino’s exudes a welcoming ambiance that invites guests to linger. The café’s comfortable and friendly atmosphere, complete with both air-conditioned indoor seating and a charming outdoor area, provides the perfect setting to savor their famous freshly baked bread and cinnamon rolls. With fast Wi-Fi connectivity, Panino’s is an ideal spot to start your day or catch up on work while enjoying delectable treats.

Beach Please – Coffee Store

My Favorite Order: Coconut Coffee Frappe or the Mexican Chocolate Cold Brew

They proudly source 100% Mexican coffee from Nayarit, Jalisco, Veracruz, Oaxaca, and Chiapas, offering bags of freshly roasted beans. Choose whole bean bags for maximum freshness or have your coffee ground on the spot. Their lineup includes award-winning local roasters and coffee growers from all over Mexico. Try their freshly brewed “coffee of the day”, a daily rotation featuring medium and dark roasts. Don’t miss out on Haley’s signature Coconut Coffee Frappe, a refreshing tropical twist on your caffeine fix inspired by Vietnam’s cà phê dừa. They also have traditional ‘cafe de olla,’ prepared with aromatic cinnamon, zesty orange peel, cloves, and piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar). You won’t find an espresso machine, but that doesn’t compromise the quality of their brews. Instead, they embrace manual methods like the Percolator for their daily coffee specials and Aeropress and French Press. Another crowd favorite is their flavored Cold Brews with cold foam.

If you are looking for a place to work, they have 100mbps internet, comfortable tables with plugs, and discounted coffee refills! Discover a world of coffee excellence with your local caffeine dealer, the Beach Please Coffee Store.

Proyecto Darwin

My Favorite Order: Chilaquiles or Choripan and a double shot americano

Proyecto Darwin Cafe is an oasis tucked away in the farmlands just 10 minutes northeast of Bucerias. The picturesque surroundings, diverse breakfast menu, and exceptional hand-roasted coffee all contribute to a truly memorable experience. If you find yourself in the Bucerias area, I highly recommend taking the time to discover this charming cafe. Proyecto Darwin’s menu is a delightful surprise with a wide array of delicious dishes to choose from. The chilaquiles are a flavorful classic, while the omelettes are made to perfection. The choripan is my favorite, and the breakfast sandwich crafted from a cinnamon roll is a must-try. And if you’re craving something light and fresh, the avocado toast is a great option as well. Although the food menu is great, the real star of the show at Proyecto Darwin is the coffee, and it’s clear that Daniel, the owner, is truly passionate about his craft. Coffee aficionados will be delighted by the diverse range of flavors, and the care put into each cup is evident with every sip.

A Piece of Cake

My Favorite Order: Cookies with an americano coffee

Tucked away like a hidden treasure, A Piece of Cake offers a delightful escape from the bustling streets of Bucerias. Follow the hallway to discover a serene back patio oasis adorned with ample seating, where you can revel in the tranquil ambiance. This locally-owned gem is renowned for its exceptional coffee, decadent cakes, and lightning-fast Wi-Fi, boasting speeds of up to 100mbps. Indulge in favorites like the irresistible cookies, carrot cake, or guava cake, all crafted by passionate owners committed to delivering top-notch quality. With an unwavering dedication to excellence, A Piece of Cake undoubtedly offers some of the best cakes in the entire region, making it a must-visit destination for dessert enthusiasts.

Nino’s Cafe & Gelato

Owned by the same proprietor as N’wok, Norman, Nino’s Cafe & Gelato is a cornerstone of Bucerias’ café scene. Settle into a quintessential corner cafe experience, sipping your coffee curbside in the shade and watching the world go by. Nino’s boasts an impressive selection of coffee beverages, from foamy cappuccinos to rich espressos, alongside a small breakfast food menu and healthy fresh blended juices. With an emphasis on quality and hospitality, the attentive staff at Nino Cafe & Gelato ensures that every visit is a memorable one, making it a beloved destination for locals and travelers alike.

Seafood Specialties

El Rincón de Ensenada

My Favorite Order: Shrimp ceviche tostada and a smoked marlin quesadilla.

Craving a delicious yet budget-friendly meal in the heart of the Golden Zone? Look no further. With fish tacos starting at just $25 MXN, this place has you covered. You’ll find a variety of fillings to choose from, including fish, shrimp, marlin, and octopus. Their menu goes beyond tacos, offering tostadas, ceviches, aguachiles, and seafood cocktails. If you’re into drinks, they serve a daily agua fresca and some great margaritas. And don’t forget to spice things up with their salsas – be sure to give the chipotle mayo and Mulata salsa (made from chile de árbol) a try. Enjoy your meal!

Mariscos VillaReal

  • My Favorite Order: 1 order of fish ceviche to share between 2 people. Ask to get half ‘Natural’ and half ‘Mayonesa’ to try them both!
  • Website: facebook.com/Mariscos-Villarreal/
  • Hours: 10:00 am – 6:00 pm

This street-side seafood joint is hands down one of our top picks for lunch in town. The fact that it’s always bustling with locals is a sure sign that you’re in for a treat. Their shrimp ceviche, priced at $170 MXN, is an absolute must-try, and it’s generous enough for two. If you’re more into fish ceviche, they’ve got you covered with two delectable styles – the traditional version and a creamy, mayonnaise-based one, both equally scrumptious. To kick things up a notch, add a few drops of their fiery chile de arbol oil, readily available on each table.

Make sure to try their seafood salad (ensalada), which isn’t your typical “salad.” It’s more of a seafood extravaganza, served with their special salsas negras, a mix of Maggi, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, and zesty lime juice. Take your pick from a variety of seafood options like shrimp, fish, octopus, scallops, and fresh oysters. It’s more than enough to satisfy two hungry appetites.

Pro Tip: They don’t serve alcohol but it is BYOB, so grab a few Pacifico beers at the corner store!

Tacos & Street Food ($)

Here are our favorites taco joints in Bucerias:

Tacos al Pastor “El Fogoncito”

Everybody loves a good taco. They’re cheap. They’re quick. They’re damn delicious.

El Fogoncito in Bucerias is a local favorite for late-night taco cravings, and it’s easy to understand why. The Alambres and Tacos al Pastor are sensational, offering a burst of flavors. Don’t miss their Gringas, a delightful blend of al pastor meat and cheese in a flour tortilla. The location may be slightly out of the way (across the 200 highway), but the journey is well worth it. Alternatively, their speedy delivery service is a convenient option. It’s also BYOB! The atmosphere is lively, local, and friendly, making it a go-to spot for late-night tacos. Don’t forget to complement your meal with their refreshing Jamaica tea or Horchata. The cozy setting, convenient location, friendly staff, and budget-friendly prices make it ideal for groups of all sizes.

Mr & Mrs Fish

My Favorite Order: Fish Tacos & or the Fried Whole Red Snapper

Mr & Mrs Fish is a seafood spot that delivers a fantastic dining experience. The friendly bilingual staff creates a welcoming atmosphere and the menu offers a variety of seafood options, including delicious fish tacos with generous portions and flavors that won’t disappoint. Pair them with a cold beer or a mango margarita for a satisfying meal. Their whole red snapper, whether grilled or fried, is a standout choice, offering great value at $220 pesos, and the freshness of the fish is evident in every bite. In addition to the fish tacos, they serve fish & chips, coconut shrimp, and a shrimp salad. The restaurant is clean and comfortable, with cooling fans to ensure a pleasant dining experience.

Tacos Junior

Tacos Junior is a not-so-hidden gem that offers a fantastic taco experience at budget-friendly prices. The combo plate of 5 al Pastor tacos for $75 MXN is great, and the variety of delicious salsa options adds to the experience. Plus, it’s BYOB, so you can pick up a beer from the store on the corner and enjoy it with your meal. The service is not only fast but also friendly, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying meal. Vegetarians will find options like vegetables or cactus, and the restaurant is kid-friendly with a clean and welcoming atmosphere.

Taquería Ontiveros

Whether you’re a local seeking a quick and satisfying late-night meal or a visitor eager to immerse yourself in the rich flavors of a traditional taqueria, this restaurant is sure to leave you craving more. The restaurant offers good prices and is a family-friendly spot, making it ideal for locals seeking a quick and satisfying meal or visitors looking to savor the local flavors. What sets it apart is its wide variety of salsas and flavorful fillings (adobada, bistec, tripa, and sirloin). Taquería Ontiveros is highly recommended, easy to find, open for dinner and evenings, and a must-visit for a memorable taco experience.

Tacos & Beer

My Favorite Order: Pork Belly tacos and an ice-cold Buclas beer

Tacos & Beer, the newest venture from the Culi’s Restaurant family, brings an upscale taco experience to the “Restaurant Row” area of 5 de Mayo street on the Upper East Side. The menu features rib eye, pastor, and pork belly tacos, alongside vegetarian options. Full bar selection with excellent margaritas and a selection of beers (including Buclas, the craft beer made in Bucerias). The main dining area, located at the back, offers a comfortable and open courtyard setting. Prices are reasonable given the premium ingredients and the overall quality. Diners can enjoy a variety of five salsas, ranging from mild to very hot. For those seeking a refined yet relaxed taco experience, Tacos & Beer is a top choice.

El Tacon de Marlin

  • My Favorite order: The classic smoked marlin burrito OR 4 fish al pastor tacos!
  • Website: http://tacondemarlin.com/
  • Hours: 10:00 am – 8:00 pm

This hole-in-the-wall is technically not in Bucerias, but it is a classic and it is right across the street from the airport! I highly recommend eating here when you arrive (it is right next to the PVR Uber pick-up spot) or before you leave… or both! They also opened up a spot inside the Plaza Lago Real shopping center where the Walmart is by Nuevo Vallarta, which makes it the closest option to Bucerias.

The specialty of the house are the legendary seafood burritos filled with smoked marlin, shrimp, crab, or octopus. All of their salsas are amazing, so make sure to try them all before deciding on one. Each burrito costs around ~$110 MXN and it is cash-only. If the burrito sounds like it might be too big, I would also suggest trying their fish ‘al pastor’ tacos… SO GOOD!

Casual Dining ($$)

La Postal

  • My Favorite Dish: The beef carpaccio or eggplant parmesan (as a starter to share) and then pasta ‘Del Santo’ or ‘A La Postal’ (main course)
  • Website: facebook.com/lapostalbucerias/
  • Hours: 8:30 am – 9:30 pm

La Postal is known for its wood-fired pizzas and fresh, homemade pasta. Their thin-crust style pizzas offer an array of toppings, from pancetta to goat cheese, creating a flavorful experience. Don’t miss the eggplant parmesan or beef carpaccio as starters. What sets La Postal apart is its open-air seating area, which comes alive at night and sometimes features live music. With options ranging from entradas and salads to tapas, pasta, and pizza, La Postal caters to a variety of tastes and provides a memorable dining experience for all. And, don’t forget to cap off your meal with ice cream from the takeout counter for a sweet finish.

La Negra

  • My Favorite Dish: Seared tuna steak burger or a Taco Macho & pork belly taco combo. To drink, a craft beer or a shot of Mezcal/Raicilla with their homemade Verdita drink.
  • Website: https://lanegracerveceria.com/en/
  • Hours: 6:00 pm – Midnight

Nestled under a majestic tree in the oldest building of the neighborhood, La Negra restaurant exudes a trendy and eclectic ambiance that instantly captivates. In 2023 they introduced a wood fire oven that has taken their pizzas to new heights. While the Aguachido or the Seared Tuna Steak Burger may be my favorites, don’t miss the chance to indulge in the Taco Macho—an amazing combination of stuffed jalapeño with shrimp, cheese, and bacon— and the flavorful Pork Belly taco. With a menu catering to vegetarians as well, La Negra offers a diverse culinary experience suitable for dinner or a late-night drink.

In addition to its exceptional cuisine, La Negra boasts an impressive selection of cocktails, Mexican craft beers, and Mezcal, ensuring a drink to complement every palate. Immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere as La Negra regularly hosts top-notch DJs, providing a vibrant backdrop for an unforgettable evening. While they typically close at midnight (unless it’s a special event) the energy and excitement remain palpable throughout your visit.

La Negra effortlessly combines culinary excellence with an enticing nighttime experience. From the first greeting to the last bite, every aspect of your experience is flawlessly executed.

El Cafe de Bucerias

El Cafe de Bucerias (associated to the Refugio del Mar hotel) offers large, well-priced portions in a comfortable setting with the convenience of bilingual staff. With amenities like Wi-Fi and air conditioning, it’s the perfect spot to beat the heat. The menu boasts a large array of options, including some of the best fish tacos in town, sandwiches, a large breakfast men, and vegetarian dishes that can be made vegan upon request. For those who prefer a safer dining experience or have dietary restrictions, the restaurant seems to adhere to high food safety standards. Their drink selection is top-notch, featuring refreshing smoothies, coffee drinks, and frappes. The nachos are a great appetizer for groups, and they’re a hit with kids. With fast Wi-Fi and air conditioning, this restaurant ensures a pleasant and comfortable dining experience. It’s the ideal choice for those seeking a cool respite and fantastic food, whether for breakfast or lunch.

Maestranza

Everything on the menu at this open-fire, open-air restaurant is grilled. Pizza, fish, steak, and even the salad! They have a great cocktail and wine list, and Christian (the owner) is a great host. Everything about cooking over the fire is a little bit slower, but that is part of the experience when dining here. Our favorites from the menu were the tamales, sopes, and the choripan. The chimichurri sauce is fresh and delicious to put on basically everything!

Website: https://www.facebook.com/maestranzabucerias/

Armando’s Place

My Favorite Dish: Catch of the day and a basil lemonade with tequila

Gourmet Mexican dishes and seafood in an unpretentious setting. Armando and Alejandra are wonderful, warm people who truly take pride in their restaurant, their food, and their patrons. Armando never fails to give you a warm welcome and always comes over to chat despite the fact that he is busy preparing your dinner.

The menu varies seasonally and includes items such as grilled octopus, coconut shrimp, paella, lobster fettuccine, and Mahi Mahi. Armando’s place is basically Sea to Table, as they always go to the local fish market in La Cruz to make sure everything is fresh. You can even make special requests if you let them know ahead of time. He also makes the most gourmet fish tacos in town, each with a different type of tortilla… so good.

You can definitely taste the love that Armando puts into his dishes. Last year they also remodeled their back patio and turned it into a private garden oasis! They recently started serving breakfast as well.

Website: https://www.facebook.com/ArmandosPlaceBucerias/
Hours: 9:00 am – 9:00 pm

N’Wok

Asian restaurant in Bucerias owned by a Colombian… now that’s true fusion! Chef Norman’s menu offers a variety of standout dishes, including the must-try pad Thai, Peking Duck lettuce wraps, and the special fried rice. Their outdoor patio seating is perfect for enjoying a meal while observing the bustling streets of Bucerias, but there is also an indoor seating area with AC. One of the highlights of N’Wok is their weekly specials, which require reservations. Thursdays feature Pho, and on Tuesdays, you can savor Tom Yam Kung. Additionally, Chef Norman is responsible for the adjacent cafe, Nino’s, where you can enjoy excellent coffee and gelatos.

Beachfront Restaurants ($$-$$$)

Karen’s Place

Go here for the ambiance, beachfront restaurant view, and HAPPY HOUR! It may have the best drink specials in town (3 pm – 5 pm) which include:

  • 2×1 House drinks
  • $20 Beer (Pacifico or Corona)
  • $75 Red or white wine

For dinner, the Coconut Shrimp are HUGE, the Chile en Nogada is delicious, and we’ve heard great things about their ribs (we’ll try them soon and report back!). During high season, they have live music on the weekends from 7 pm until 9 pm. Also, make sure to try their coconut flan for dessert.

Menu: karensplacesbucerias.com
Website: https://www.facebook.com/Karens-Place-Bucerias/
Hours: 9 am – 9 pm

Mezzogiorno

When it comes to the best pasta in town, Mezzogiorno is a strong contender, rivalling La Postal. What sets it apart is its stunning beachfront location, offering spectacular sunset views. The restaurant boasts top-notch and friendly service, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Mezzogiorno’s must-try item is the garlic bread, which is nothing short of heavenly. The portions are generous, making it difficult to leave room for desserts, although they come highly recommended. Don’t forget to complement your meal with their delicious margaritas or something from their wine list.

The Fat Boy Seafood

My favorite Dish: Whole fish (red snapper), garlic octopus, or the shrimp tacos

Very good food, large portions, friendly waiters, and fair prices for being on the beach. It is located inside the Bucerias Street Market, right on the beach with a great view of the bay… perfect for a sunset dinner! They have become so popular in the area that they just opened their second location just a 2 blocks north from the original location, and many people prefer this new location.

Website: facebook.com/FatBoySeafoodElGordo/
Hours: 10:30 am – 10:30 pm

Beachfront seafood restaurant: The Fat Boy (Mariscos el Gordo)

Sukha Beach House

My favorite Dish: Grilled rosemary octopus or the ‘green’ ceviche with a 2×1 classic margarita or a ‘Mezcalita Rostizada’ drink

One of the best beach hangouts in Bucerias is Sukha Beach House with a great all-day 2×1 happy hour on margaritas, piña coladas, daiquiris, and sangrías. Make sure to try their cucumber, pineapple, or mango-flavored margaritas! They also have great food, and we highly recommend the grilled rosemary octopus, Vallarta ceviche, scallops, or the crab-stuffed poblano pepper.

They recently changed their location and they are now located on the northern end of Bucerias at Playa Los Picos 358.

Website: sukhabeachhouse.com
Hours: 9:30 am – 10:30 pm

Mar Y Sol

This is one of the most popular beachfront restaurants in town. My favorite dish here is the Zarandeado Fish, a local delicacy that is slowly smoke-grilled with mesquite while being continually basted with chiles and spices.

Website: https://facebook.com/MarySolBucerias/
Hours: 9:30 am – 11:30 pm

Upscale Dining ($$$)

Bistro Cobojo

My Favorite Dishes: The burger for lunch, or the chilaquiles for breakfast.

Bistro Cobojo in Bucerias is a gem that captivated us with its modern ambiance, friendly service, and imaginative menu that takes Mexican cuisine to another level. The attention to detail, combined with the explosion of flavors, made every dish a delightful adventure for the taste buds. Whether you’re visiting for breakfast or dinner, Bistro Cobojo promises an unforgettable dining experience that will leave you wanting more.

For breakfast, the menu offers a variety of options at reasonable prices. The healthy juice and smoothie choices, along with specialty coffee and tea, impressed us. The chilaquiles were a standout, with their flavorful combination of traditional ingredients. Additionally, the breakfast sandwich was both sizable and scrumptious. The fact that the bread was freshly baked on-site added an extra layer of deliciousness to the meal.

This may be my new favorite burger in town. It is simple but with top-quality ingredients. For dinner, the portion sizes are a bit small, but what they lack in quantity they more than made up for in taste. The tamarind mole carnitas tacos and the rib eye sope were delicious.

Website: https://www.facebook.com/bistrocobojo

Sandrina’s

My Favorite Dishes: The Greek Pita Pizza, Stuffed chile poblano (Greek style), the vegetarian Greek sampler plate, or the parmesan chicken.

Sandrina’s is known for its beautiful setting, delicious Mediterranean food, large portions, and great service. The moment you walk into Sandrina’s you are hit with an amazing aroma of their food. The front part of the restaurant is their gift shop and boutique which has been very well curated with Mexican crafts, art, and fun souvenirs. Head towards the back to reach the restaurant’s back patio, which may be the most beautiful courtyard in all of Bucerias. It is a beautiful setting and the service is always top-notch! We highly recommend going at night to dine under the stars.

Website: https://sandrinas.com/

Culi’s

My Favorite Dishes: Octopus carpaccio, key lime pie, and one of their signature cocktails.

Fine dining off the beaten path with amazing sunset views of the bay. The food is spectacular and the service is top-notch. It is a hidden gem that won’t stay hidden for much longer! We highly recommend their octopus carpaccio with rosemary and mint aioli and for the main dish you cannot go wrong with the catch of the day (usually Tuna or Mahi Mahi) or the bacon-wrapped seafood roll. For dessert, no visit to Culi’s would be complete without their delicious key lime pie.

They also offer a 3-course menu that changes every day ranging between $280-390 MXN. Make sure to call to make a reservation.

Website: facebook.com/pg/Culis-Restaurant-Bar
Hours: 12:00 pm – 10:00 pm

Delivery & Takeout ($-$$)

California Pizza

All the way up Estaciones is one of the best pizza joints in Bucerias. Our 2 favorites are the Thai Chicken or the Goat Cheese & Bacon.

Phone: +52 329 298 1796 (you may have to call a few times… they are known to not answer very oftern)
Menu: facebook.com/PizzasCaliforniaBucerias/menu

Bars & Happy Hour ($-$$)

In the name of thrifty drinking, we’ve done the hard work for you and put together an exhaustive guide to the best bars in Bucerias with weekly specials & happy hours. Imagine 2×1 cocktails, $20 MXN beers, and $45 MXN glasses of wine! Below are some of the best happy hours in town:

  • Buclas 3-5p
  • Jax 4-8pm
  • Barchelata 3-5pm
  • Karen’s 3-5pm
  • Paco Taco 4-6pm
  • Sukha (all day 2×1 on select drinks)
  • Ozzie’s 1-5pm
  • Huika 6-8pm
  • La China 3-6pm
  • The Backyard (a different all day special posted weekly)
  • Gecko Bar 4-7pm
  • Bistro Cobojo 3-5pm
  • Maestranza 3-7pm

Buclas Brewery

Cerveceria Buclas, named after the colloquial term for Bucerías, has been making waves since its establishment in 2017. This Nayarit-based craft beer venture has impressed with its incredible flavors and they play a pivotal role in supporting the local craft beer scene. By collaborating with other brewers and advocating for legislation to streamline the industry, Buclas has become a pioneer in promoting and elevating the craft beer culture in the region… and in 2023 they opened their beer garden and taproom!

When it comes to the brews, Buclas doesn’t disappoint. As one of the best craft beer options in the bay, my favorites are the IPA, stout, and Vienna lager. To add to the appeal, their happy hour from 5-7 pm offers beers for $45 (their happy hour usually doesn’t apply during high season). The food menu at Buclas has also been stepping up its game, with the mouthwatering, sizable burger being my favorite. Their chicken wings may be the best in town with buffalo, parmesan, and lemon pepper flavors.

Buclas Brewery is more than just a place to enjoy exceptional craft beer; it embodies the spirit of community and collaboration. With their dedication to great flavors, support for local craft breweries, and inviting beer garden atmosphere, Buclas has established itself as a must-visit destination for both beer enthusiasts and those seeking a vibrant culinary experience in Bucerías.

Barchelata Beer Bar

With over 12 TVs, Barchelata is the ultimate beach sports bar in Bucerias with a large selection of craft & draft beer and a delicious bar food menu. Try the locally brewed Buclas beer that they have on draft, or some other Mexican favorites like Pacifica (lager) or Bohemia (Vienna-style, oscura) beer for ~$30 MXN each.

The micheladas are great and they have a few different flavors like mango, tamarind, cucumber, & the classic Cielo Rojo (michelada with Clamato). The margaritas made by Julio may be the best ones in town! Their weekly specials include:

  • Thursdays and Sundays they have 10 wings for $80 MXN.
  • Fridays they offer cheeseburgers for $99 MXN.

They have a great happy hour (11 am – 1 pm & 3 pm – 5 pm) with 2×1 House Drinks, White Wine, & Draft Beer:

  • House drinks include: Margaritas, Daiquiris, Piña Coladas, Bloody Caesars, Rum & Coke, Tequila Sunrises, Vodka Sodas, & Gin Tonics
  • White wines include: Sauvignon blanc & Chardonnay

Food delivery available: +52 322 134 6978
Website: https://facebook.com/Barchelata/

Jax Bar & Grill

If you’re looking for live music in Bucerias, look no further. Jax Bar & Grill in Bucerías has live music almost every night (especially during high season), and the bands play a little bit of everything from classic rock to Latin reggae. They recently expanded and took over the space where the Drunken Duck was, which means they now have a large outdoor patio that is great to hang out at. They have a large selection of drinks, beers, and bar-style food.

Website: https://www.jaxbucerias.com/
Weekly Live Music Calendar: https://www.facebook.com/JaxBucerias

Jax Bar & Grill with Live Music

More Information

How do you order the check at a restaurant?

In Mexico, you need to ask your waiter for the check as they will not bring it to you automatically. That would be considered rude. Simply say, “la cuenta, por favor” and add in the universal scribbling hand movement. ✍️

How much should you tip at a restaurant?

The tipping culture here is very similar to the US or Canada. It is customary to tip around 15%, depending on the service.

Are there any vegetarian restaurants in Bucerias?

Many of the restaurants in Bucerias will offer vegetarian options. For a vegetarian restaurant, we would suggest trying the pulled jackfruit at Ixi’im Vegano, or at Lamara you can substitute the fish in any of their ceviches with quinoa and jicama.

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