Cafe La Parada in Panajachel

For a light breakfast or lunch and a first-rate cup of coffee or two, Cafe La Parada in Panajachel fits the bill every time. The bagels and croissants are large enough to make a full breakfast for many people.

The toasted bagels are the biggest and most flavorful in town. Cream cheese, marmalade, provolone and tomato, ham and cheese—these are but a few of the toppings.
Another satisfying breakfast item is Parada's croissant. Also oversized and tasty, the most popular croissant is served with ham and cheese. Other toppings include nutella or marmalade.

Blended Atitlan Coffee

The house coffee is perfect with breakfast or for an afternoon refreshment. It is a unique blend of beans from around Lake Atitlan, created by the owner, Romeo Lopez, certified by AnaCafe as a barista since 2004.

Romeo's espresso is a local legend that attracts a regular crowd every morning. You can also get latte, frappucino, cappuccino, or mocacino, any of which will put a fine edge on the morning or afternoon.

Other beverages on the menu are hot chocolate, cocoa and a variety of fresh fruit and vegetable juices, wine, beer, sodas and tea. You can have your tea infused with manzanilla, jasmine, mint or other flavors.

Italian Dessert

La Parada is the only place at the lake that we know of serving Tiramisu, an Italian semifreddo (served cold but not frozen). Made by Romeo's Italian wife, Wilma Criuello, it's a kind of custard made with mascarpone cheese. Then it is topped with powdered chocolate for one of the most luscious desserts you will ever taste.

You can relax there or at one of the tables inside. Both have excellent views of the street for people-watching as well as for the occasional parade that pauses at the intersection out front. Prompt service at the counter is another plus.

Whether you're in a hurry or want to relax and watch the street scene, La Parada is highly recommended. The Tiramisu, doubly so.

Location: Intersection of Avenida Santander and Calle Principal.