Flavors to Fall in Love With: 5 Must-Try Local Dishes in Mazatlán

5 Local Dishes You Have to Try

Aguachile: The Spicy King of the Coast

Have you ever tasted something that instantly wakes up all your senses? That’s aguachile. Raw shrimp “cooked” in fresh lime juice, blended with serrano chilies, red onion, and crisp cucumber. It’s spicy, bright, and incredibly refreshing — basically made for hot beach days. One bite, and you’ll know why it’s a coastal favorite. Pro tip: the spicier, the better.

Tacos Gobernador: The Taco That Put Mazatlán on the Map

This isn’t just a taco — it’s a story, a legend. Born in Mazatlán, the Taco Gobernador is packed with sautéed shrimp, melty cheese, peppers, and onions, all wrapped in a warm corn tortilla. It’s juicy, cheesy, slightly smoky, and absolutely unforgettable. If you're by the ocean and you don’t try one of these… did you even go?

Chilorio: Bold, Slow-Cooked, and Full of Heart

Chilorio is comfort food with a kick. Shredded pork, slow-cooked in a rich chili sauce made with dried peppers, spices, and just a touch of vinegar. It’s savory, slightly tangy, and made to be tucked into tacos, burritos, or even eaten straight with a fork. Originally from Sinaloa, but honestly, it tastes like home no matter where you are.

Zarandeado Fish: Smoky, Juicy, and Full of Tradition

This is more than just grilled fish — it’s a ritual. A whole fish, marinated in spices, butterflied, and grilled over open flames until perfectly smoky and tender. Pescado zarandeado captures the essence of coastal cooking: bold, rustic, and always made with love (and fire). Follow the smell of smoke, and you’ll probably find a grill sizzling with this masterpiece.

Shrimp or Sierra Ceviche: Citrus, Crunch, and Pure Coastal Vibes

If the beach had a flavor, this would be it. Ceviche — made with either shrimp or fresh sierra — is marinated in lime juice and mixed with chopped tomato, onion, cucumber, cilantro, and just the right touch of chili. It’s zesty, crunchy, light, and best served on a tostada with an ice-cold beer in hand. Summer in a bite.

Taste Mazatlán at El Cid Resorts

From the first bite to the last, dining in Mazatlán is about more than just food—it’s about experiencing the heart of the city. At El Cid Resorts, we celebrate that spirit through every dish we serve.

You’ll find these local specialties at select restaurants like La Concha Restaurant and La Alhambra Restaurant, where our chefs highlight the city’s most iconic flavors using fresh, regional ingredients.

While El Cid Resorts offers a variety of dining options, it’s in these restaurants where you’ll enjoy the most traditional Mazatlecan dishes, thoughtfully prepared in a relaxed, oceanfront setting.

Whether you're visiting for the first time or returning to a favorite vacation spot, Mazatlán’s flavors will stay with you long after your trip ends.