Antigua has an endless list of restaurants (the Trip Advisor restaurant listing for Antigua is a nightmare) which make it difficult to truly suss out which establishments are worth eating at and spending money. Often times the most popular spots on certain sites are the ones most frequented by tourists, serving below average food at high tourist prices. Expats who have lived in Antigua for a while know the town well and have their favorite haunts. Here are a select few of those expat favorites.
Y TU PINA TAMBIEN
This quaint, laid back spot is located right next to a hostel so it receives a good amount of tourism traffic, but rest assured that Y Tu Pina is a go to spot for expats. It is connected to the hip/rowdy Café No Se Mezcal bar across the street, and Y Tu Pina prides themselves on whipping up breakfasts to cure any hangover. Your typical fare of a tipico breakfast, pancakes, and American eggs are standard here, with show stoppers making an appearance on the weekend. Their version of an Egg McMuffin has a English muffin/egg sandwich speared on top of a Bloody Mary cocktail. While Y Tu Pina is also open for lunch, their main performance is at breakfast, with the menu varying from weekday to weekend.
Website: http://www.ytupinatambien.com/
CERRO SAN CRISTOBAL
A favorite in Antigua, Cerro San Cristobal boasts of dishes made from fresh organic ingredients (grown on the property’s own farm) and stunning views of Antigua and its surrounding valley. Technically a meat free establishment, the restaurant does offer a variety of shrimp and fish dishes at extremely reasonable prices. What really makes this place special are its stunning views. While sitting at a table outside, high above town, you can sip your Michelada and eat ceviche soaking up Antigua’s monuments far below.
PORQUE NO
Porque No is always hopping, which is a testament to its funky vibe and tasty food. Filling up quickly on the weekends, this 6 table establishment surrounds diners with graffitied walls and antique knick knacks. Their small, but widely varied menu gives both vegetarian and meat options. From a beef tenderloin to shrimp curry, or pizzas and burritos, it's guaranteed that you will leave full and satisfied. Beware, 5 out of 6 tables are located upstairs via an extremely steep staircase.
Website: http://porquenocafe.com/
