1. Chocolate
Guatemala is considered to be the birthplace of chocolate, as it was created by the Mayans back in the day. So eating some chocolate here is a no brainer!
2. Coffee
Another popular thing to have while in Guatemala! After sugar, coffee is one of Guatemala’s main exports. The volcanic soil and low humidity contribute to perfect growing conditions for coffee beans
3. Shucos
Guatemalan hot dog, which is a popular street food. It can consist of a hot dog, or other grilled meats, guacamole, lettuce, tomato, ketchup, or mayo, just to name a few ingredients. The word, “shuco” translates to “dirty” because of how messy it is to eat, with all its condiments. Although when I saw them making it, it seemed more like a literal translation – I saw the guy wipe his sweaty face with his hands and then continue making food. Unclear if it was our shuco or not, but I just pretended like it didn’t happen
4. Pepián de Pollo
Chicken stew in a tomato-based sauce that’s flavored with seeds and roasted peppers
5. Jocón
Chicken stew in a tomatillo sauce
6. Desayuno Chapin (Traditional Guatemalan Breakfast)
This typically consists of eggs, refried black beans, queso fresco, plantains, tortillas, and a meat (like chorizo)
7. Huevos Divorciados
A breakfast dish, meaning “divorced eggs.” This dish features two eggs on top of tortillas – one with a spicy red tomato sauce, and the other with a mild green tomatillo sauce. If you love sauces and can never pick which one you want, this dish is perfect for you
8. Tortillas
These are traditionally made from corn, and can be accompanied with any meal – especially with stews, or for breakfast
9. Fried Plantains
Like tortillas, fried plantains are a popular accompaniment to any meal
10. Pollo Campero
Chicken chain, founded in Guatemala City. They’re popular for their fried and grilled chicken, but my favorite was actually their french fries
11. San Martín Bakery
A popular bakery chain in Guatemala, where you’ll find freshly baked goods, honey, jam, and coffee, just to name a few things. Some locations also have a restaurant with a breakfast and lunch menu
12. McDonald’s
If you visit Antigua, the McDonald’s there is one to check out. They have their own huge courtyard, where you can enjoy your meal. There wasn’t anything too different on the menu, except they had snack wraps, and patatas bravas, which reminded me of the KFC potato wedges
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