Antigua is a food lover’s city that offers many tasty meals at low prices. For people who want to save money, finding the best cheap eats in Antigua is not hard, it is a fun food adventure. This lovely city in Guatemala has many affordable restaurants that serve local food with great taste and good quality. In this article, you will find the best cheap eats Antigua spots for healthy meals, so you can enjoy delicious food and still save money.
1. Mercado Central (Best Cheap Eats Antigua)
Located in the center of Antigua, the Mercado Central is full of sights, sounds, and smells, and it is a must visit place for anyone looking for cheap eats in Antigua. The lively place is busy with locals and tourists, all coming to see the colorful stalls filled with fresh fruits, vegetables, clothes, and, most importantly, tasty Guatemalan food. As you walk through the narrow paths of sellers, the strong smell of spices fills the air and makes you want to try traditional dishes that share the long history of this special country.
| Tip: The food court is hard to find because it is inside small paths. Use Maps.me and search “lunch,” or ask someone to show the way 🍽️ |
| Top 3 hotels in Antigua GuatemalaExplore all hotels |
| Hotel Museo Spa Casa Santo Domingo ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rating 8 Hotel Las Farolas ⭐⭐⭐⭐ Rating 8 Meson de Maria ⭐⭐⭐ Rating 8 |
2. Rincon Antigüeño (Famous Cheap Eats Antigua)
Located in the center of Antigua, Rincon Antigüeño is a special place that shows the true taste of traditional Guatemalan food. Famous for its lively atmosphere and inviting smells, this restaurant is known for its wood fired chicken, a dish that not only tastes amazing but also shares the story of local cooking traditions. As you enjoy each bite, the slightly burned edges and juicy meat give a mix of flavors that show the area’s rich farm produce.
💰 40 Q (5 USD)
3. Urbano (Most Surprising Cheap Eats Antigua)
Hidden in the busy streets of Antigua, Urbano Restaurante is a special place for anyone looking for cheap eats Antigua. This popular local restaurant has a varied menu that shows the best of Guatemalan cuisine while also pleasing modern tastes.
The main attraction is the menu del dia Antigua, a daily changing selection of special dishes that give a great food experience without spending much. For just a few quetzales, visitors can enjoy tasty local meals, making it a top choice for both tourists and locals.
💰 35 Q (4.5 USD)
4. El Porton Tipico
Located in the center of Antigua, El Porton Tipico is a great place to enjoy traditional Guatemalan food. With its lively atmosphere and friendly service, this restaurant invites visitors to try the authentic taste of Pepian Antigua, a tasty stew full of spices and local ingredients. Each bowl shares a story, showing the area’s food traditions and the care of the chefs who make every dish.
💰 45 Q (6 USD)
5. La Taquiza Antigua
Located in the lively center of Antigua,La Taquiza Antigua turns the usual taco meal into a fun food adventure. Known for its authentic Mexican flavors, this restaurant serves a delicious variety of tacos, all made with fresh ingredients and a special touch that makes street food feel like art. You can try everything from classic al pastor to unique vegetarian choices, perfect for both traditional taco lovers and adventurous eaters who want to try new flavors.
6. Tierra Linda
Tierra Linda is a special restaurant that shows the rich flavors of Guatemala, especially with its famous Pepian Guatemala. This traditional dish is a colorful mix of spices, vegetables, and grilled meats, cooked perfectly. At Tierra Linda, the Pepian is more than just food; it is a warm expression of Guatemala’s food traditions, letting you taste a range of flavors from smoky and savory to a little sweet.
💰 25 Q (3 USD) / 38 Q (5 USD)
| Read also: How to Eat Cheap & Healthy while Traveling |
7. La Casa de las Mixtas
Located in the center of Antigua, La Casa de las Mixtas is a special place that gives a wonderful dining experience. Famous for its Menu del dia Antigua, this rooftop restaurant not only tastes amazing but also delights with wide views of the city’s colonial buildings and lively streets. Visitors can enjoy a daily changing selection of traditional Guatemalan dishes, all served in big portions, making it one of the best places for cheap eats in Guatemala.
💰 25 Q (3 USD) / 40 Q (5 USD)
8. Restaurante El Punto
Located in the center of Antigua, Restaurante El Punto is special not only for its lively atmosphere but also for its tasty menu del dia. Here, the true taste of Guatemalan cuisine is celebrated, with daily specials made from fresh, local ingredients. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes with modern twists, making every visit a fun food adventure.
💰 35 Q (4 USD)
9. Pupusaria
Originally not from Guatemala, pupusas are a favorite cheap eats in Antigua for some locals. They are the national dish of El Salvador and are made from corn, similar to the Colombian and Venezuelan arepa. Personally, it is not my favorite because it is quite doughy and soft, made from simple ingredients. I prefer many other cheap eats from this list. But if you want to try it, there is a good place in Antigua that serves them, located at the entrance to this hotel.
💰 18 Q (2.5 USD)
| Tip: To make it less greasy, order it without cheese. But it will be less filling. |
Antigua Food Tour
Going on a Street Food Antigua Guatemala Tour gives a great chance to enjoy the rich flavors of Antigua. Every bite tells the story of the city’s lively culture — like tamales wrapped in banana leaves, spicy pepián stews, and the popular elote, grilled corn with creamy cheese. Walking through busy markets and streets, the smell of fresh snacks fills the air, guiding you to food stalls that are little treasures to discover.
| You can book the Food Tour here or here 👇 |
Antigua Cooking Class
Located in the beautiful areas of Antigua, a Guatemalan cooking class gives a fun way to experience the heart of Guatemalan cuisine. Participants learn the secrets of traditional recipes, including how to make tortillas from scratch, a basic food that shows the spirit of the country. This hands-on activity not only teaches cooking skills but also lets you connect closely with Guatemala’s rich food traditions.
Final thoughts
In conclusion, Antigua has many inexpensive dining options for food lovers without spending too much. From local street sellers serving tasty rotis to cozy cafes offering delicious seafood, the city is perfect for budget-friendly food adventures. Each place gives a taste of the area’s rich culinary heritage and lets you meet the friendly local community. Eating well in Antigua does not have to be expensive; it can be a fun adventure full of flavors and experiences that do not hurt your wallet. So, get ready to eat and explore, your next favorite meal is waiting!
FAQS
How much does it cost to eat in Antigua?
Eating in Antigua is mostly cheap. You can get meals from street food or small restaurants for around $3–$10 per meal.
What kind of food is Antigua known for?
Antigua is famous for Guatemalan food, like Pepian (spicy stew), tamales, tortillas, and tasty street snacks like roti and elote (grilled corn).
How much money do I need for a week in Antigua?
For a week, a budget traveler can spend about $100–$150 on food, if you eat at cheap restaurants or street food stalls.
What do Antiguans eat for breakfast?
People in Antigua usually eat eggs, beans, tortillas, fresh fruit, or small local dishes in the morning.