One of the most common questions I get from guests booking Hermosa Vista is whether they should opt for the meal plan or stick to the à la carte experience. Because our villa features a full, chef-grade kitchen, many guests love the flexibility of cooking at home. However, understanding the Villa La Estancia all inclusive food and drink program is essential if you want a true resort experience without constantly reaching for your wallet. Unlike many massive mega-resorts where quantity often trumps quality, the dining program here is designed to mirror a high-end restaurant experience.
The Basics: How the Meal Plan Works
First, it is important to clarify that Villa La Estancia is not a mandatory all-inclusive resort. It is a luxury residential property where an optional meal plan is available for guests who stay a minimum of three consecutive days. If you choose to add this to your stay, you gain access to the restaurants not just at La Estancia, but also at our sister properties next door: Villa del Palmar and Villa del Arco.
This "dine-out" flexibility is a significant perk. You aren't confined to one or two rooms; you have a whole ecosystem of kitchens ranging from casual poolside tacos to fine-dining Italian and seafood.
Villa La Estancia All Inclusive Food: The Signature Restaurants
When you are staying at Villa 3301, you are just a short elevator ride away from some of the best patio dining on Medano Beach. Here is what is included in the plan at our home resort:
1. La Casona
This is the crown jewel of La Estancia. It’s an elegant steakhouse that serves a fantastic breakfast buffet and a sophisticated dinner menu.
- Breakfast: Think made-to-order omelets, traditional Mexican chilaquiles, fresh tropical fruits, and high-quality pastries.
- Dinner: They specialize in prime cuts of beef and fresh-caught local seafood. While the meal plan covers most of the menu, keep in mind that ultra-premium items (like Lobster Tail or Wagyu cuts) usually carry a discounted surcharge (typically around $15–$25 USD).
2. La Parrilla
Located right by the pool with views of the Sea of Cortez, this is your go-to for a relaxed lunch. The menu features burgers, fresh ceviche, wraps, and salads. It’s the perfect spot for a mid-day break between dips in the resort’s infinity pools.
Dining at Sister Resorts (Included in the Plan)
One of the best ways to get value out of the Villa La Estancia all inclusive food plan is to explore the neighboring properties. Since they are all connected via the beach or the street-side entrance, it’s a 3-to-5-minute walk.
- Neptune (Villa del Arco): This is a beautiful seafood spot situated right on the water above the beach. It’s incredibly romantic at sunset.
- South American Grill (Villa del Arco): Known for its Picanha and grilled meats served in an open-air setting.
- Bella California (Villa del Palmar): A great spot for casual Italian-fusion and wood-fired pizzas. It’s particularly popular for a relaxed lunch with a view of El Arco.
- Carbon Grill (Villa del Palmar): A focused menu highlighting grilled meats and bold flavors.
What About Drinks and Alcohol?
The all-inclusive plan covers a wide range of domestic and international brands. You can order margaritas, piña coladas, house wines, and standard spirits at any of the bars or restaurants.
Pro Tip: If you have a specific high-end tequila or a vintage champagne in mind, those are generally not included. However, the "Gold" or "Premium" tiers of the plan (when available) often cover a broader selection of labels. Always ask for the "All-Inclusive Beverage List" so you know exactly which brands won't result in an extra charge on your folio.
Practical Specifics: Costs and Logistics
- Price Range: The daily rate for the meal plan fluctuates based on the season, but generally falls between $110 and $145 USD per adult, per day. Children (ages 3-12) are usually half price.
- The 3-Day Rule: You must purchase the plan for a minimum of three days. You cannot "pick and choose" days in the middle of your stay; they must be consecutive.
- Gratuities: A service charge is usually included in the plan, but it is customary in Cabo to leave a small additional cash tip for exceptional service ($2–$5 USD for lunch, $5–$10 USD for dinner).
- Room Service: While room service is available, it is often not included in the standard all-inclusive plan, or it may carry a delivery fee. Check the current terms upon check-in.
Is the All-Inclusive Plan Worth It?
Because Hermosa Vista (Villa 3301) is a luxury 2-bedroom residence, you have a massive advantage: a full kitchen with stainless steel appliances. Many of our guests choose to do a "hybrid" approach.
We often recommend visiting the nearby Walmart or La Comer (about a 10-minute taxi ride, $12–$15 USD) to stock the villa with snacks, breakfast items, and your favorite wine. This allows you to enjoy a slow morning on your private terrace without rushing to a buffet.
However, if you plan on having 3+ cocktails by the pool and eating both lunch and dinner at the resort restaurants, the Villa La Estancia all inclusive food plan pays for itself very quickly. Dinner for two at La Casona with wine can easily exceed $150 USD, so the math often favors the plan for social groups or families.
What to Ask Your Server
To avoid any surprise charges, here is a quick checklist of what to ask when you sit down:
- "Is this item included in the All-Inclusive plan, or is there a surcharge?"
- "Which wines are available by the glass on the plan?"
- "Does this dessert carry an extra cost?"
The staff at Villa La Estancia are incredibly helpful and will always be transparent about what is covered, but it never hurts to ask upfront.
Planning Your Stay at Hermosa Vista
Whether you decide to indulge in the full meal plan or prefer to grill fresh shrimp on the balcony while watching the sunset, Villa 3301 provides the perfect home base. By staying in a privately owned villa within the resort, you get the best of both worlds: the space and privacy of a home, with all the amenities of a five-star hotel.
If you have more questions about dining logistics or want to check availability for your dates, please reach out to us directly. Booking Hermosa Vista (Villa 3301) directly through our site allows you to skip the hefty service fees charged by third-party platforms like Airbnb or VRBO, giving you more room in your budget for those sunset dinners at La Casona.
