The Pig and Whistle Pub in San Marcos, Lake Atitlan
On a midweek night in February, a golden "Chinese Fortune Cat" in a party hat waving nonstop welcome to an animated crowd of friendly people from around the world and around the lake as they entered the newest bar in San Marcos. A few of the reasons for the sudden popularity are low-priced drinks and snacks, an eclectic playlist, a low key setting of wood and stone and tile, and understated lighting.
Even the bar stools invite you to sit and drink awhile in San Marcos new place to chill: the seats are padded with four inches of foam and covered with local textiles. The bar has comfortable sofa and windows facing the garden, where tables are surrounded by huge green leaves and a bamboo fence. (Smoking is permitted outside.)
In the Deep South of the United States, The Pig and Whistle would be called a “real down home place.” Hanging out here is more like chilling in a friend’s living room or back yard than carousing in a typical bar. The music system consists of a small boom box playing flamenco, Latino and other sounds that are never so loud that they drown out the lively conversations.
Top Shelf Liquor at Low Prices
Drinks are surprisingly affordable: Moza, Gallo or wine for Q15, and top shelf liquors such as Famous Grouse scotch, Bombay Sapphire gin and tonics, Jack Daniels and Coke, and Bailey’s for Q20. Drinks I have seen in few Guatemalan bars include Grog and Hot Toddies.
Licuados, “Lava Love” hot chocolate made with organic cacao, Earl Grey tea and other non-alcoholic drinks are also on the menu. The licuados are definitely different, made such unusual options as royal jelly and ginseng or aloe vera.
"Pub grub" at The Pig and Whistle ranges from sandwiches such as tuna or cheese and onion, to nachos and other snacks. Service was prompt and cordial. But save room for dessert! Because The Pig and Whistle is also the home of Sugar High Desserts in the evenings. When we were there, a half-dozen varieties of homemade cakes and pies were on hand.
The chocolate pie with chopped Brazil nuts and blackberry topping is highly recommended. But if you can’t decide, you can always get a sampler plate. (Lots of locals arrived during the night and took their desserts home.)
So the next time you visit this gem of a town, drop in on The Pig and Whistle, the new chill spot in San Marcos. And be sure to wave back at the Chinese Fortune Cat!
Where: Across from Hotel Unicornio
When: Wednesday through Sunday, 5 PM-10 PM. Sugar High Desserts: Thursday through Sunday, 6 PM- 9 PM