Where To Eat: 5 Must-Try Local Spots in Loreto
If you’re looking to truly experience Loreto like a local, there’s no better way than through its food!
I’m “spilling the beans” on some of my favorite spots for a casual bite to eat in a friendly setting. These are 5 places I find myself coming back to again and again and a bonus spot!
El Vikingo
The freshest local catch turned into some of the most delicious tacos you’ll have in Loreto. I used to be a diehard fan of battered fish tacos, but after trying their grilled fish tacos, I was hooked!
What to order: Moist and flaky grilled fish tacos, and Taco Vikingo — quesadilla stuffed with whole shrimp, bacon and a melted cheese crust. Top them off with coleslaw and don’t miss their signature charred-habanero cream sauce!
Location: Calle Salvatierra beside Comex
BONUS: Clamatos La Plebe
Not technically a food, but a drink. Clamatos La Plebe offers the ultimate Mexican thirst-quencher to cool down on a hot day: Clamato Preparado! Clamato juice with worcestershire sauce, maggie sauce, a variety of hot sauces, lime, Tajín, and topped off with your favorite chilled beer—it’s a must-try!
What to order: you can’t go wrong with any of their recipes + your favorite beer. Their “Cecina Especial” is my favorite with beef jerky, tamarind candy spirals, cucumber, and celery. I order mine with Indio beer.
Location: Almost next to Mercado Juarez
El Rey del Taco
Cult classic for a reason! El Rey del Taco has been serving up incredible tacos for over 20 years, and the flavor is still unbeatable. Their two main types of tacos are Fish and Carne Asada – both are great!
What to order: battered fish tacos and a big glass of freshly squeezed orangeade
Location: Benito Juarez and Misioneros
Hours: Their hours are unpredictable, so if you see them open be sure to stop in!
Tostadas Tere
A late night staple of Loreto’s local food scene. This one-woman operation is tucked away in a rustic, colorful restaurant that adds to the charm. Each tostada is made fresh, and the flavors are simple yet mouthwatering.
What to order: Classic tostadas ($40 MXN) – crisp tortillas topped with refried beans, shredded beef, chopped lettuce, crema, and a sprinkle of cotija cheese.
Location: Infonavit, calle Arcoiris
Lonchería Tete
Tucked around the corner from City Hall and the elementary school, this tiny commercial space may seem unassuming, but it’s home to one of Loreto’s most popular breakfast spots. La Tete, as everyone knows her, runs a thriving business offering affordable Mexican staples like burritos and sandwiches, but it’s her empanadas that truly steal the spotlight!
Empanadas are a beloved traditional dish in southern Baja, featuring a flaky, crescent-shaped crust filled with either sweet or savory goodness. The most popular savory option is a flavorful blend of beef, potato, and poblano chile. try the classic choyero filling—sweet bean—made rich and aromatic with whole unrefined cane sugar, cinnamon, and a hint of clove. It’s my personal favorite!
What to order: For a true taste of Baja, go for the savory empanada de carne or the sweet empanada de frijol dulce—you won’t be disappointed!
Location: Around the corner from city hall, behind the primary school
Loreto’s food scene is full of local flavor, heart, and tradition. These are just some of the many delicious and affordable places locals eat. Don’t be afraid to stop by that unassuming taco cart or tucked-away eatery—you just might stumble upon your new favorite spot!
