Nestled along the golden shores of Mexico’s western coast, Mazatlán is a haven for those who are tapped into the culinary scene. This seaside paradise is famous for its shrimp, but the rich history of how the dishes are prepared and served is as integral to their community as their flavours. Whether visiting for the first time or returning to a favourite spot in this beloved destination, vacationers will experience true culinary bliss in Mazatlán.

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Cenadurias

Cenadurias are restaurants found in Mazatlán that open around 5:30 p.m. and close at 11 p.m. (or until the food runs out) and serve authentic Mexican dishes like tacos dorados, gorditas and enchiladas, but it’s their broth that makes them a neighbourhood staple. In the afternoons, visitors will bring plastic containers and cooking pots to carry home the delicious broth left over from the restaurant’s morning food prep to use as the base for their own soups and sauces. Luckily, cenadurias are as open to travellers as they are their own neighbours, so visitors are encouraged to step in and engage with the locals during their stay.

Aguachile

One of the most popular ways to savour Mazatlán’s renowned delicacy, aguachile was an ancient marinating method for seafood. Travellers will find this dish across Mexico but none quite as memorable as those served in Mazatlán, as the shrimp are some of the largest and most delicious in the county. While ceviche, a similar fresh seafood dish, typically marinates from 20 minutes to even a few hours, aguachile is tossed in a marinade of chile and water and is served almost immediately with a mix of cilantro, cucumber and red onion. This dish is also often topped with avocado, giving it a unique richness and contrast of textures.

Fresh Oysters

Along with the shrimp found in many of Mazatlán’s dishes, fisherman haul up another popular delicacy that’s loved by tourists and locals alike – oysters. The pearl oyster, or pinctada mazatlanica, can be found at restaurants and seafood bars all over Mazatlán. Visitors can make the most of their excursions along the Malecón, the town’s beachfront promenade, by savouring oysters caught and shucked right in front of them; they may even catch a cliff diving show while they’re there. Whether topped with zesty lime juice or a dash of hot sauce, these shellfish can be enjoyed as an appetizer or a full course meal. For how important they are to the town, it’s only logical that Mazatlán is referred to as the Pearl of the Pacific.