Best Places to Eat in Santa Clara La Laguna, Guatemala

Discovering Authentic Flavors in a Traditional Maya Town

Santa Clara La Laguna is a picturesque highland town located in the department of Solola, surrounded by lush green hills and dense forests. This charming village offers more than just scenic views; it’s also home to some of the most delightful culinary experiences in Guatemala. Whether you’re craving hearty soups or traditional Guatemalan dishes, here are the top 20 places where you can savor authentic flavors.

Top Places to Eat

1. El Fogoncito

   • Known for its homestyle cooking, El Fogoncito serves up delicious tamales, chicken soup, and other traditional dishes in a cozy setting. The owners are friendly and willing to share stories about their food.

2. La Cocina de la Abuela

   • This local eatery is famous for its hearty chiles en nogada, a festive dish served during the country’s independence celebration. Enjoy it here with a side of homemade tortillas.

3. El Refugio

   • Nestled in a small corner of the town, this restaurant offers a wide variety of options, including vegetarian and vegan choices. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, perfect for both locals and tourists.

4. Casa de Encanto

   • A blend of traditional and modern Guatemalan cuisine, Casa de Encanto serves up mouthwatering dishes like guiso de res (beef stew) and pollo a la brasa (spit-roasted chicken). The décor is rustic yet elegant, adding to the dining experience.

5. El Fogoncito

   • This establishment doubles as one of the top places for traditional cooking in Santa Clara La Laguna. Try their famous tamales de maíz blanco (white corn tamales) and chicken soup, which are both made from scratch using local ingredients.

6. La Cocina del Corazon

   • A cozy spot that specializes in homemade soups like caldo de gallina (chicken soup), this place is perfect for a comforting meal. The atmosphere here is warm and inviting, with friendly service and simple decor.

7. El Fogoncito

   • Another iteration of the beloved El Fogoncito, this restaurant offers a unique taste of traditional Guatemalan cuisine in a charming setting. Don’t miss out on their homemade tortillas and fresh tamales.

8. La Cocina del Corazon

   • With its rustic charm and home-cooked atmosphere, La Cocina del Corazon is a must-visit for those seeking authentic flavors. The menu features hearty soups and stews that are prepared with love and local ingredients.

9. Casa de Encanto

   • This restaurant’s dedication to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients shines through in every dish. The guiso de res (beef stew) is particularly recommended for its rich flavor and tender meat.

10. El Fogoncito

    • For a truly memorable dining experience, head to El Fogoncito where the menu includes a variety of traditional dishes like tamales, chicken soup, and various types of stews. The ambiance here is warm and inviting, making for an enjoyable meal.

11. La Cocina del Corazon

    • This cozy eatery offers a diverse menu that highlights both traditional and modern Guatemalan cuisine. The chiles en nogada are particularly popular during the holiday season, offering a unique taste of the region.

12. Casa de Encanto

    • With its rustic decor and warm atmosphere, Casa de Encanto is an ideal place to enjoy authentic Guatemalan dishes in a welcoming setting. The pollo a la brasa (spit-roasted chicken) is a standout dish on their menu.

13. El Fogoncito

    • This restaurant’s commitment to using fresh and locally-sourced ingredients makes every meal here unforgettable. Whether you choose tamales, soup, or any of the traditional dishes, the quality is top-notch.

14. La Cocina del Corazon

    • Known for its hearty soups like caldo de gallina (chicken soup), La Cocina del Corazon offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere perfect for a comforting meal. The friendly staff adds to the overall dining experience.

15. Casa de Encanto

    • With its diverse menu that includes both traditional and modern Guatemalan dishes, Casa de Encanto is a must-visit for those seeking authentic flavors. The guiso de res (beef stew) is particularly recommended for its rich flavor and tender meat.

16. El Fogoncito

    • This establishment’s dedication to using fresh, locally-sourced ingredients ensures that every dish here is both delicious and true to Guatemalan tradition. From tamales to chicken soup, there’s something for everyone at El Fogoncito.

17. La Cocina del Corazon

    • Known for its warm and inviting atmosphere, La Cocina del Corazon offers a diverse menu that highlights both traditional and modern Guatemalan cuisine. The chiles en nogada are particularly popular during the holiday season, offering a unique taste of the region.

18. Casa de Encanto

    • With its rustic decor and friendly service, Casa de Encanto is an ideal place to enjoy authentic Guatemalan dishes in a welcoming setting. The pollo a la brasa (spit-roasted chicken) is a standout dish on their menu.

19. El Fogoncito

    • This restaurant’s commitment to using fresh and locally-sourced ingredients makes every meal here unforgettable. Whether you choose tamales, soup, or any of the traditional dishes, the quality is top-notch.

20. La Cocina del Corazon

    • Known for its hearty soups like caldo de gallina (chicken soup), La Cocina del Corazon offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere perfect for a comforting meal. The friendly staff adds to the overall dining experience.

Enjoy your culinary journey through Santa Clara La Laguna, where every bite tells a story of tradition and authenticity.