Los Cabos is more than just beautiful beaches; it also has a rich local food scene. For years, seafood has been a highlight, but now you’ll find fresh organic produce and meats featuring prominently on many restaurant menus.
Though not a major agricultural site, Los Cabos produces a good amount of organic fruits and vegetables. “We are the number one region in Mexico for organic produce,” says Rodrigo Esponda, Managing Director of the Los Cabos Tourism Board. He emphasizes that the focus is on local consumption rather than exports.
### The Farm-to-Table Movement
The farm-to-table trend is strong here. Restaurants like Flora Farms, which started in 1992, lead the charge. They grow around 135 different types of fruits, veggies, and herbs on a seven-acre farm, relying entirely on organic methods. What’s extra special? Any excess food goes to local charities.
Acre Restaurant is another popular spot in the area. Operating adjacent to its own 20-acre farm, it sources ingredients for both its meals and unique cocktails.
### Agriculture and History
In places like San José del Cabo, Miraflores, and Santiago, farming has deep roots. A century ago, these areas were bustling with cattle and crop production. Today, Miraflores is recognized as the organic farming capital, growing over 70 types of produce. For instance, local grower Carlos Manuel González offers everything from tomatoes to basil.
Interestingly, Cabo San Lucas, known for its fantastic seafood, wasn’t always able to grow much else. It had a thriving cannery, producing a huge share of Mexico’s canned seafood in the 20th century.
### Local Production Stats
In 2023, Los Cabos had nearly 5,000 acres of farmland, yielding over 24,000 tons of produce. Tomatoes and mangoes stand out as local favorites. Additionally, local ranches produced nearly 4 million liters of milk and around 130 tons of eggs that year.
Despite the rise in eco-friendliness, commercial fishing has dropped significantly. Less than 1% of all fish caught in Baja California Sur comes from Los Cabos today, primarily focusing on sport fishing. However, around 300 tons of fish, mainly scale fish and clams, are still produced locally.
### Events Celebrating Local Produce
Summer brings special excitement with festivals celebrating local fruits like mangos and pitahayas. The Festival de la Pitahaya in Miraflores and the Festival del Mango in Todos Santos attract many visitors and highlight local produce.
While farm-to-table restaurants are the best bet for fresh, local meals, even many hotels and restaurants in Los Cabos source ingredients from nearby farms. It’s always good to ask your server what’s fresh and local, as not all eateries prioritize locally-grown ingredients.
In summary, Los Cabos is a hidden gem for food lovers eager to enjoy fresh, organic produce and local seafood. Whether you dine at a farm-to-table establishment or a local pizzeria, you can savor the flavors of this beautiful region.
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