What should I order at El Merkado?
El Merkado
Tacos
Recommended multiple times across different stalls, especially Cantina and La Carreta, because reviewers called them amazing, to die for, and among the best items they ordered.
Sushi
One of the most frequently praised items, with reviewers repeatedly describing it as fresh, delicious, amazing, and even the best ever, including specific rolls and tuna dishes.
Gelato
Mentioned positively more than once as a standout dessert item, praised for being great and delicious, with one reviewer noting it compared favorably even after recent travel to Italy.
Sea Bass Ceviche
Specifically recommended for being really delicious, with reviewers enjoying the Seattle bass ceviche and also the sea bass dish from Isla Serena.
Pizza
Mentioned as a solid option in the food hall, with reviewers saying it was good and another noting it as a worthwhile takeaway choice.
Lasagne
Called great in one review, making it one of the clearly recommended Italian dishes.
Burgers
Ground Burgers was singled out as serving the best burgers the reviewers had had in a long time, making this a strong recommendation for burger lovers.
Poke Bowl
Praised at the sushi restaurant as amazing, with the reviewer calling it one of the best items they tried.
Tuna Tostada
Also highlighted at the sushi spot as amazing, reinforcing the tuna-based seafood dishes as a top choice.
Location details
Carretera Transpeninsular, Bv. Cerro Colorado, San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur, 23400, MX
Open in Google MapsHours
| Monday | 8 AM to 10 PM |
|---|---|
| Tuesday | 8 AM to 10 PM |
| Wednesday | 8 AM to 10 PM |
| Thursday | 8 AM to 10 PM |
| Friday | 8 AM to 10 PM |
| Saturday | 8 AM to 10 PM |
| Sunday | 8 AM to 10 PM |
About El Merkado
El Merkado is a fresh food market and multi-restaurant food hall in San José del Cabo, Baja California Sur. It brings together Mexican, sushi, Italian, burgers, seafood, and other cuisines in one courtyard-style space. Reviewers consistently praise the variety of food, the fresh sushi and seafood, the burgers, and the reasonable prices compared with higher-end restaurants. The setting is described as lively and spacious, with a two-story layout, outdoor seating, and a mix of restaurants, bars, and shops.
Amenities & services
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Frequently asked questions
What is El Merkado known for?
El Merkado is best known for its wide variety of food in one place, especially sushi, burgers, Italian dishes, and Mexican stalls like Oaxaca and Cantina. Reviewers repeatedly mention fresh tuna, octopus tacos, tlayudas, and the ability to try several high-quality spots in a single visit.
What dishes are most recommended at El Merkado?
The most recommended items include sushi rolls like the Playboy Roll and Chef’s Special Koi Roll, the tuna tostada and poke bowl, and seafood dishes from Isla Serena such as sea bass ceviche, octopus tacos, and fish and chips. Other standouts mentioned by reviewers are Oaxacan mix and asado, lechon tacos, shrimp tacos, lasagne, and tres leches cake.
What is the atmosphere like at El Merkado?
El Merkado has a fun, festive, and spacious food-hall atmosphere with a two-story layout, courtyard seating, and plenty of room for groups. Reviewers say it works well for large parties, casual meals, and people who want different cuisines in the same visit, with music and a lively vibe adding to the experience.
Is El Merkado good value, and what is the price range?
Yes, reviewers often describe El Merkado as reasonably priced or affordable, especially for the amount and quality of food. People mention getting dishes like Oaxacan plates, sushi, burgers, and Italian food for less than they would pay at a hotel or higher-end restaurant, and the market is seen as a good value in San José del Cabo.
What should I know about visiting El Merkado at busy times?
El Merkado is popular with groups and travelers, so it can fill up when people come for dinner or to sample multiple stalls. Reviewers note that food is usually served quickly, there is ample seating, and some vendors deliver to your table, which helps when the place is busy.
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