Zipolite, known for its laid-back atmosphere and stunning beaches, also boasts a diverse and delightful culinary scene. While it may not be overflowing with typical “digital nomad” cafes, Zipolite offers a range of dining experiences, from beachfront casual to hidden culinary gems. If you’re planning a trip and wondering where to satisfy your taste buds, look no further. Here’s a curated guide to some of the best restaurants and bars Zipolite has to offer.
Café ’84: Coffee and Comfort for Laptop Days
Cafe ’84 in Zipolite stands out as a top spot for coffee lovers in Zipolite. For those needing to get some work done while enjoying the Zipolite vibe, Café ’84 provides a welcoming setting. They serve up arguably the best coffee in town and offer ample outdoor space. It’s worth noting that compared to places like Mazunte, Zipolite’s coffee culture is still developing, making Café ’84 a true find for quality coffee and a comfortable workspace.
Kellyko: Breakfast Bliss and Chilaquiles Champions
For a delightful start to your day, head to Kellyko. This charming little cafe is a breakfast haven, offering various ‘meal deal’ options to kickstart your morning. A must-try at Kellyko are their chilaquiles – they were, hands down, the best we sampled in Zipolite. If you’re like us and chilaquiles are your go-to breakfast in this part of Mexico, Kellyko is your place.
Alma Verde: Vegan & Veggie Delights for a Healthy Reset
Alma Verde is a true gem for vegetarian and vegan travelers. This small, adorable restaurant specializes in meat-free versions of classic Mexican dishes, alongside a wide array of healthy treats and freshly squeezed juices. If you’ve been indulging in the rich and delicious, but sometimes heavy, Mexican cuisine, Alma Verde is the perfect spot to detox and nourish your body with flavorful and healthy options.
Entropia: Cocktails, Cuisine, and Captivating Ambiance
While we only experienced the cocktails at Entropia, we were thoroughly impressed. Their cocktails are expertly crafted and delicious. However, the food at Entropia also looks incredibly appealing, and the reviews consistently rave about the quality of their dishes. Adding to the experience is Entropia’s fantastic setting, making it a great choice for a memorable evening out.
ChiZme Café + BAR: Gay-Friendly Drinks and Lively Afternoons
ChiZme Café + BAR is a welcoming and vibrant little bar, perfectly suited for enjoying after-dinner drinks in a friendly atmosphere. Known for its gay-friendly environment, ChiZme offers a relaxed and inclusive space to unwind and enjoy the Zipolite nightlife.
Beyond Mexican: Comfort Food Cravings Satisfied
Sometimes, you crave flavors from home, and Zipolite delivers even on that front. For those moments, Zipolite has some great options to satisfy your comfort food cravings:
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Marvina Natural Fast Food: (maps) If you’re in the mood for a juicy burger, Marvina Natural Fast Food comes highly recommended.
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Zipoutine: (maps) For a taste of Canada in Mexico, Zipoutine offers poutine that has garnered excellent reviews.
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Falafel Shalom: (maps) Craving Mediterranean? Falafel Shalom’s falafel wraps are a popular choice and have received glowing feedback.
El Mare: Italian Elegance in Zipolite
Surprisingly, Zipolite has a notable number of Italian restaurants. While some might seem questionable, El Mare stood out to us as a promising option. Although we didn’t personally dine there, the food reviews are overwhelmingly positive, and locals we spoke with confirmed that El Mare offers genuinely delicious Italian cuisine. If you’re looking for a change from Mexican flavors, El Mare is worth checking out.
Zipolite Nights: Beach Parties and Late-Night Vibes
Zipolite’s nightlife has evolved. From simple shack bars of the past, the beach now hosts larger, more permanent party venues that come alive at night. Drag queen performances are a common and entertaining feature of the Zipolite evening scene, and the party can continue well into the early hours. The nightlife scene can be dynamic, with weekends being busier. Take a stroll along the beach and see which venue catches your eye – there’s bound to be something to suit your mood.
Nue La Maxima Cafeteria: Music and Moments
Nue La Maxima Cafeteria was a personal favorite, although our experience was heavily influenced by the music playing. Depending on the night, Nue La Maxima can be a perfect spot for enjoying the Zipolite atmosphere.
A Word of Caution: Places to Potentially Skip
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Delfina Beach Club: We advise caution with Delfina Beach Club. While the music and lively karaoke nights might seem appealing, the drinks we had were weak on alcohol despite the prices. It felt like a potential scam, and Google Maps even indicates it might be closed. If you have recent experiences, do share in the comments!
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Cabañas Cañada: Cabañas Cañada is another place that might be worth skipping based on consistently dreadful reviews and concerns about cleanliness.
Zipolite’s food and drink scene is part of its charm. From healthy vegan options to comforting international flavors and lively nightlife, there’s something for every taste. Explore these recommendations and discover your own favorite spots in this unique Mexican beach town!
