Zipolite, Mexico, isn’t just famous for its clothing-optional beach; it’s a haven for those seeking a laid-back, authentic experience, and this extends to its vibrant culinary scene. Forget the tourist traps and pretentious eateries – Zipolite offers a refreshingly “nude” dining experience, where the focus is on fresh flavors, genuine hospitality, and unpretentious settings. If you’re planning a trip to this unique Oaxacan destination and wondering where to eat, look no further. We’ve explored the best spots in Zipolite to satisfy your cravings, from morning coffee to late-night cocktails.
Morning Fuel and Breakfast Delights
Starting your day right is crucial, especially when you’re ready to soak up the sun on Zipolite’s beautiful beach. Luckily, Zipolite has some excellent breakfast options to kickstart your day.
CAFÉ ’84: The Digital Nomad’s Oasis
For those who like to blend work with pleasure, CAFÉ ’84 is your go-to spot. More than just serving up what might be the best coffee in Zipolite, this café provides a welcoming environment for laptop work. In a town not overflowing with digital nomad-style coffee shops, CAFÉ ’84 stands out with its reliable Wi-Fi, excellent coffee, and spacious outdoor area. While the general coffee scene in Zipolite might be considered average (with nearby Mazunte offering a slightly better brew), CAFÉ ’84 is a reliable exception.
Kellyko: Breakfast Meal Deals and Local Flavors
Kellyko is a charming little cafe perfect for a hearty and affordable breakfast. Their “meal deal” options are a great value, but the real star of the show is their chilaquiles. We sampled chilaquiles throughout Zipolite, and Kellyko’s version was undeniably the best. If you’re looking for a taste of authentic Mexican breakfast fare in a cute setting, Kellyko is a must-try.
Vegetarian and Vegan Gems
For travelers seeking healthier or plant-based options, Zipolite offers some delightful vegetarian and vegan restaurants that don’t compromise on flavor.
Alma Verde: Veggie Delights and Healthy Treats
Alma Verde quickly became a favorite during our Zipolite stay. This small, charming veggie/vegan restaurant offers a refreshing change of pace with its meat-free takes on Mexican classics. Beyond the familiar favorites, you’ll also find a variety of healthy treats and fresh juices. If you’ve been indulging in the rich and sometimes heavy Mexican cuisine, Alma Verde provides the perfect opportunity to detox and nourish your body with wholesome, delicious food.
Evening Eats and Cocktail Hotspots
As the sun sets, Zipolite transforms, and so does its dining scene. From excellent dinner spots to lively bars, there’s something for every evening mood.
Entropia: Cocktails and Promising Cuisine
While we only sampled the cocktails at Entropia, which were outstanding, the food menu and glowing reviews suggest it’s a dinner destination worth exploring. The ambiance is also a major draw, promising a great setting to enjoy your evening. Entropia seems to be a place where you can settle in for a relaxed and enjoyable night out.
ChiZme Café + BAR: Gay-Friendly Drinks and Welcoming Vibes
For after-dinner drinks in a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere, ChiZme Café + BAR is an excellent choice. This gay-friendly bar is perfect for unwinding after a meal and enjoying the Zipolite nightlife scene in a comfortable and friendly environment.
Comfort Food Cravings
Sometimes, you crave flavors from home, even in paradise. Zipolite has you covered with some surprising comfort food options.
Marvina Natural Fast Food: Burger Bliss
If you’re in the mood for a classic burger, Marvina Natural Fast Food comes highly recommended. While we didn’t personally try it, the reviews suggest their burgers are a satisfying and tasty alternative to Mexican cuisine when you need a familiar comfort food fix.
Zipoutine: Poutine in Paradise
For a truly unexpected treat in Zipolite, Zipoutine offers poutine! This Canadian comfort food staple might seem out of place in Mexico, but the positive reviews suggest Zipoutine delivers a satisfyingly authentic poutine experience for those craving gravy, cheese curds, and fries.
Falafel Shalom: Middle Eastern Wraps on the Coast
Falafel Shalom provides another international flavor option with their falafel wraps. These wraps have garnered great reviews, offering a tasty and convenient meal for those seeking something different from the local fare.
Italian Interlude?
Surprisingly, Zipolite has a noticeable number of Italian restaurants. While some might seem questionable, one stood out from the rest.
El Mare: Promising Italian Flavors
El Mare caught our eye as a potentially excellent Italian option in Zipolite. Although we didn’t dine there ourselves, the consistently excellent food reviews and word-of-mouth recommendations suggest El Mare is the real deal. If you’re craving pasta or Italian dishes, El Mare seems to be a safe bet for a quality meal.
Zipolite Nights: Beach Parties and Late-Night Fun
Zipolite’s nightlife has evolved from simple beach shacks to more established party venues. You’ll find drag queen performances and beachside parties that can extend into the early hours. The nightlife scene can be unpredictable, with weekends being busier. The best approach is to stroll along the beach and see which spot catches your attention and energy.
Nue La Maxima Cafeteria: Music Dependent Vibes
Nue La Maxima Cafeteria was a personal favorite of ours, but your experience might depend on the music selection. It’s worth checking out to see if the vibe and tunes align with your taste for a potentially great night out.
Steer Clear Of…
Not every spot in Zipolite is a winner. Here are a couple of places you might want to avoid.
Delfina Beach Club: Drinks Beware
Delfina Beach Club might seem appealing with its music and lively karaoke nights, but be warned about their drinks. Despite the prices, the drinks are reportedly weak and watered down – potentially a scam. While Google Maps indicates it might be closed, it’s worth being aware of past negative experiences.
Cabañas Cañada: Questionable Cleanliness
Cabañas Cañada is another spot to potentially skip. The reviews are overwhelmingly negative, with cleanliness being a major concern. It seems like there are much better options in Zipolite to spend your time and money.
Zipolite’s dining scene perfectly mirrors its “nude” beach ethos: it’s relaxed, unpretentious, and focused on authenticity. From beachfront cafes to hidden culinary gems, Zipolite offers a diverse range of dining experiences that cater to every taste and preference, all within a uniquely liberating and natural atmosphere.
