Throwback to Summertime: A Trip to Acapulco

It’s getting to that point where wearing a sweater outside is no longer up for discussion. It has officially reached below 70 degrees in California.

Cue the world’s smallest violin

Not to worry, here is a bit of sunshine to warm you up!

This past August, I had the pleasure of visiting my birthplace Acapulco, Guererro. Not only did it have breathtaking views but the food was to die for! On top of that, the dining experience is nothing compared to the US.

Starting up with something that is a little familiar to the tongue, Mickey Dee’s! Next to bald eagles and freedom, McDonald’s is a clear staple of American culture. Although I went to Acapulco for the local experience, I had to give these little jalapeño and cheese potatoes balls called Chiliquesos a try. It makes me wish we had something similar in the US.

I allowed my comparison mentality get the best of me because before reaching for an authentic dish, I reached for one of my favorite dishes… sushi. Unlike the traditional cucumber, avocado and crab base that is ever so popular in the U.S., Mexico tends to use cream cheese as their primary base on the inside of their rolls (I had a similar experience with dining in Tijuana).

After I killed my curiosity with a couple of meals, I finally started to get into the grove of eating like a local. I started off by going to the obvious place, the beach! Unlike beaches in the U.S. that usually have a small food court to purchase food (then restaurants as you get on the pavement), Acapulco was different.

Quesadillas, Quesadillas de pescado! 

Nieve de coco por 10 pesos!

Mango con chile!

There was a vendor coming to your area every couple of minutes convincing you to buy food! From fresh oysters to micheladas, to ceviche, the beach vendors tempt you with a slew of tasty items; a must try when visiting Acapulco.

After stuffing myself at the beach, I went ahead and visited the Colonia that I was born in, La Mira (named after its breathtaking view of Pie de las Cuesta and the beaches of Acapulco.) After many twist and turn, I found myself in a taco shop, Tacos La Mira. The owner and his impressive trompo full of pineapple and juicy meat lit up the room.

Tacos al Pastor

In addition to tacos, Tacos La Mira had a variety of platillos that included a mix of chicken, ham, peppers, onions, and melted cheese!

And to wash it all down Acapulco’s exclusive soda, Yoli.

Next, I got to experience one of the most long-lived food traditions; pozole on Thursdays. This hominy stew is a mixture of savory, spicy, and comfort.

 

After a week in Acapulco I learned a couple of things; never be afraid of the street food, the beachside vendors always have the freshest seafood, and drink as much Yoli as you can because after you leave Guerrero it is impossible to come by it!

Hope you enjoyed this ray of sunshine in this summertime throwback, until the next #TBT!