(BPT) – Foodies with adventurous palates might be tempted to vacation in El Salvador just to enjoy its array of delectable local dishes.
Of course, the green and lushly tropical country called “Land of Jewels” by the locals has much to offer beyond cuisine. Visitors can enjoy volcanoes, beaches, archaeological sites, artisan communities and culturally rich villages along the country’s nine established tourist routes.
Follow these tips for experiencing the destination’s top attractions — and eating like a local along the way.
The capital of San Salvador
Start your trip in the capital exploring a range of stylish restaurants. Fusion-focused cuisine representing Spanish, Mediterranean and American dishes is served at trendy restaurants like Lobby, Oleos and Hacienda Real. The city is also home to historical monuments, theaters, museums and street markets where visitors can order traditional favorites such as pupusas, the national dish. Visitors to San Salvador the second Sunday of November each year can experience the country’s largest National Pupusa Day festival, celebrating with the locals by feasting on the savory corn or rice pancake stuffed with pumpkin, beans, pork crackling, jalapeños, and/or cheese.
Joya de Cerén
A visit to El Salvador’s UNESCO World Heritage archaeological park offers travelers a history lesson on Salvadoran culture and cuisine. In studying the city buried intact under lava circa 600 A.D., archaeologists learned its ancient Mayan residents consumed the same basic foods of today’s Salvadorans. Tried-and-true favorites include the flavorful shellfish stew mariscada; the traditional breakfast “plato tipico” (fried egg, refried beans, corn tortillas, cheese and fried plantains); yucca fritters; empanadas and the sweet-and-salty snacks totopostes (sweet, charred corn tortilla chips).
The Flowers Route
El Salvador’s Flowers Route guides visitors through the Apaneca-llamatepec mountains, showcasing culturally rich artisan towns including Nahuizalco, Salcoatitan, Juayua, Apaneca, Concepcion de Ataco and Ahuachapan. Catch the weekend food festival in Juayua, where vendors from across the country serve up traditional fare such as tamales, soups and filled corn tortillas. Afterward, hike to Los Chorros de la Calera to view waterfalls and take a refreshing swim. Tour coffee plantations in Apaneca and Ahuachapan, stopping for a cup of locally grown java complemented perfectly by native sweets featuring coconut, molasses, toffee, caramel, sweet nance, tamarind or panela. Another must-try? El Salvador’s take on the quesadilla, a rich dessert cake that also pairs well with coffee.
The colonial city of Suchitoto
The nation’s cultural capital boasts well-preserved colonial architecture and cobblestone roads dating to the 15th century. Gourmands can dine at the many restaurants or cafes, sample local cuisine at weekend food festivals, and learn to prepare their own pupusas during interactive workshops at area pupuserías. Visit Santa Lucía church, learn ancient indigo dying techniques through workshops at Arte Añil, or hike to nearby waterfalls, caves and Lake Suchitlán while observing the area’s 200 bird species.
La Libertad Coast
This internationally known surfing destination is also a favorite among seafood connoisseurs who feast on fresh fish, shrimp, octopus and ceviche at top eateries such as Beto’s Restaurante and Café Sunzal. Visit La Libertad Pier for an up-close view of how the local fishing industry thrives. Another not-to-be-missed dining experience is at Acantilados, the newest luxury hotel to open along the country’s Pacific coastline. On-site restaurant FAUSTO puts seafood center stage and is popular for its sushi and tropical beverages.
For more information on El Salvador’s attractions, including its many culinary offerings, visit www.elsalvador.travel.
