La Cueva del Pescador translates to The Fisherman’s Cave, a fitting name for this Akumal landmark restaurant. Gonzalo, the man behind the bar, is the driving force behind the success of the restaurant. Now, if you have been a patron, you’ll know Carlos or Ivan, but it’s Gonzalo who keeps Pescador running as smoothly as possible.
Gonzalo came from Altotonga•, Veracruz about 18 years ago. He tells me that he hasn’t been back for14 years. Over the last few years, his son has helped him with the bar, but now his son handles the accounting and the day to day office work needed to keep things humming. Gonzalo makes killer Margaritas, so be careful if you order a pitcher. Everything that comes from the bar is top notch and the beer is always icy cold.
The first time I ate at La Cueva del Pescador was in the summer about 17 years ago. There weren’t many people around and we pretty much had the place to ourselves. The food was great, so we ate there a few more times. Now Monday night has turned into Akumal locals’ night. Luis Lobo, who handles insurance for many of us, comes from Cancún every Monday and the table can be as small as two or as many as twenty. During high season, the restaurant is packed with people waiting for tables.
Although the menu carries many seafood items, there are other entrees to enjoy. The Tortilla Soup is a favorite of many and is a meal in itself. The recipe follows at the end of this article. One of my favorites is Shrimp Ajillo – garlic bits, ajillo chiles, and shrimp are fried together and served over pasta. La Cueva del Pescador is open daily from 11 AM till about 9 PM. On or about March 1st of this year – today! – there will be a smaller version of Pescador at YalKu lagoon. It will be open from 9 AM until 5 PM with their full menu.
La Cueva will also arrange fishing trips. Talk to your waiter and he will help you arrange a fishing trip with Ali. Their moto is “ You Hook It, We Cook It”. Right now you can buy a colorful T-shirt with the Cueva logo, as long as the supply lasts.
La Cueva del Pescador is open daily from 11 am till about 9 pm. About March 1st of this year – today! – there will be a smaller version of Pescador at YalKu lagoon. It will be open from 9 am until 5 pm with their full menu. Go to Pescadores, as I call it, and have a great meal and a fun time.
• In a large saucepan, add the chicken, tomatoes and lime juice, along with the water. Simmer until the chicken is cooked thoroughly
• Remove chicken from the pot and set aside.
• Puree the remaining liquid in a blender or food processor.
• Shred the chicken and place into soup bowls. Add the liquid.
• Top the soup with sliced avocados, lime slices, and fried tortilla strips. Salt and pepper to taste.
Makes 4 servings
Leave a Reply