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Saturday, June 29, 2013

Best traditional Guatemalan food at La Cuevita de los Urquizú, Antigua Guatemala

One of the best known restaurants in Antigua for authentic traditional food is La Cuevita de los Urquizú (2a Calle Oriente # 9d).  It is important to note that Guatemalan cuisine reflects both its history and multicultural nature. Guatemala has 22 departments or regions that have influenced the development of its cuisine. In addition, it is without doubt that what is presently described as Guatemalan cuisine has been influenced by three culinary sources.  Many traditional Guatemalan foods have been influenced by Mayan cuisine. Mayan cuisine usually includes corn, chilies and beans as key ingredients. Guatemala was under Spanish rule (1524-1821). During this time enchiladas, guacamole, tamales and tortillas became part of the diet. The third major influence in Guatemala's culinary history is today's modern republic. During the most recent period Guatemala's traditional cuisine has been influenced by many countries and their culture.

La Antigua, Guatemala is a city with rich traditions. Throughout this beautiful colonial town you will find outstanding Spanish colonial architecture. Many of the beautiful church ruins now function as venues for events throughout the year.  For example, one can attend a ballet performance at Ermita de la Santa Cruz while at Ermita San José El Viejo on the other side of town there is a wedding in progress. Visitors are immediately drawn to Antigua's captivating architecture however, most visitors may not get to experience traditional Guatemalan cuisine. Antigua has a rich diversity of restaurants, with the majority focusing on International cuisine. If you want to experience traditional Guatemalan cuisine then a visit to La Cuevita de los Urquizú is a must.

At the entrance to La Cuevita de los Urquizú you will find terra cotta pots filled with stews. Caldos/Recaldos are popular in Guatemala. If it is on the liquid side it is called caldo (soup) and recaldo (stew) if it is thick. There are many caldos/recaldos that are a part of Guatemala's gastronomy. In an earlier Spaswinefood article on Guatemalan cuisine many of the traditional dishes are described.
Traditional Guatemalan hot dishes © Spaswinefood
Traditional Guatemalan hot dishes © Spaswinefood
At La Cuevita de los Urquizú there is also a great selection of vegetable dishes and salads.
Vegetable and Salad Dishes © Spaswinefood
It is always fun to drop by La Cuevita de los Urquizú.  During my last visit I made a selection from the vegetable and salad section.  I selected an appetizing vegetarian plate for lunch.
A selection of vegetarian options © Spaswinefood
It always exciting to see what other foodies say about a restaurant. Photographer Luis Toribio captured these wonderful food photos at La Cuevita de los Urquizú. Flickr has also posted these food photos on La Cuevita de los Urquizú.
Entrance to La Cuevita © Spaswinefood
La Cuevita © Spaswinefood
Rishi Sankar describes his visit to this traditional food restaurant where he sampled just about all the dishes made at La Cuevita de los Urquizu. Marina Kuperman Villatoro's article focuses on a visit to the restaurant with family and visitors. DotsConnected post describes this typical Guatemalan restaurant. Mmm-yoso review of La Cuevita de los Urquizú is quite descriptive with photos. Chowhound reviewers have commented on their dining experiences. You can also check out diners comments at Tripadvisor.
View of Antigua from El Tenedor del Cerro © Spaswinefood
You will find more on my travels in Guatemala and elsewhere at Spaswinefood

Sharon
March 2013
Antigua, Guatemala
© Spaswinefood

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