Welcome to Santas Iguanas, a slice of Italy nestled in the charming coastal town of Sayulita, Mexico. Located at Calle Gaviotas Sur 10, this restaurant is not just a place to eat; it’s a delightful culinary experience framed by the vibrant backdrop of a thriving garden, home to two resident iguanas that inspired the restaurant's endearing name.
Founded by two passionate Italians from Torino, Santas Iguanas is a beacon for lovers of authentic Italian cuisine. The menu proudly showcases a range of house-made pastas, from the rich Pasta Carbonara to the rustic allure of Pasta Bolognese. The delicate flavors paired with quality ingredients leave diners raving about the dishes they’ve enjoyed. As one patron, Sean Cosco, noted, the carbonara was "out of this world," making it a must-try for anyone looking to indulge.
The pasta here is more than just a meal; it is a celebration of flavor. Diners can choose from an assortment of delightful options, including the Pasta Pesto, with its fresh basil and home-style Italian twist, or the comforting Gnocchi enriched by personal preferences in sauce. Vegetarians will also find solace in the thoughtfully crafted Pasta Vegan options that highlight artichokes, mushrooms, and sun-dried tomatoes.
The experience is enhanced by the warmth of the staff who cultivate an inviting atmosphere. As Audrey Gravette noted, the kindness of the team transforms each meal into an exceptional outing. With a philosophy grounded in authenticity and dedication, each dish is thoughtfully prepared, promising an adventure for the taste buds.
From handmade pastas to well-crafted cocktails, Santas Iguanas embodies its motto of delightful dining. A recent diner, Susi Cruz, shared her enjoyment of the handmade pastas, which burst with flavor, even if one appetizer fell short of creamy perfection. Nonetheless, it showcases the commitment to quality that patrons have come to appreciate.
Santas Iguanas is where authentic Italian flavors meet the laid-back coastal vibe, ensuring each visit feels like a mini-holiday. Whether you’re indulging in their classic lasagna or savoring a comforting plate of ravioli with spinach and ricotta, each bite at Santas Iguanas will leave you longing for more. Come and revel in an exquisite dining experience that embodies both culinary authenticity and local charm!
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Earth Explorer
24/10/2025
Excellent food! We had one of the salads and some gluten-free pasta and whatever they did they did it well.
Audrey Gravette
20/09/2025
The food was the best food I had my entire trip, the service and staff were amazing and so kind. They really took care of us and made sure we had a good time. Authentic Italian food that hit the spot. AMAZING. 10/10 would recommend!!
G Whizz
18/09/2025
This cool spot is run by two Italian guys from Torino who moved to Sayulita during the COVID days, about four years ago. The restaurant’s name was inspired by the two iguanas that live in their garden! As you’d expect from Italians, they serve up delicious, authentic pasta, along with a great mix of popular international dishes and well-made drinks. It’s a fun, laid-back place to hang out and enjoy good food in good company.
Sean Cosco
08/09/2025
The Santos Iguana restaurant is the only restaurant we ate at twice. The pizza and meatballs were amazing, the pasta carbonara was out of this world, and the owner and staff made us feel like we were visiting them at home! Such a comfortable place to dine!
Susi Cruz
05/09/2025
It was a really nice experience on Santa’s iguanas! The staff the chef the atmosphere was nice and most importantly.The pastas had wonderful flavors and of course hand made. The only reason I didn’t give a five star was the hummus entree. It wasn’t as creamy as hummus is suppose to be. But that doesn’t change the fact that it was an overall nice experience for us :))
Raquel Villegas
30/08/2025
Fantastic gluten-free experience! I’m coeliac, and this restaurant truly impressed me. They have a clear understanding of gluten-free needs — all pasta sauces are gluten free, they offer gluten-free pasta options, and the menu is clearly labelled for easy selection. The staff was very knowledgeable and careful, and the service was excellent. Delicious food, safe options, and a great atmosphere. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a genuine gluten-free friendly place!
Gabi Castillo
21/07/2025
The best carbonara I’ve ever had!! This is my third time here and I recommend it to everyone! Amazing servers (Quetzal was the best) and drinks, my go to spot.
Alicia Bowling
11/07/2025
Some of my favorite service and vegan ravioli- enjoyed the atmosphere and felt comfortable as a solo traveler found Quetzal was great, will return before leaving Sayulita. Several veg options