Ixtapa Central Pacific Coast, Mexico Travel Guide
The cuisine of Ixtapa-Zihuatanejo stems from Mexico's Pacific coast traditions. It features fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and classic Mexican staples.
Dishes often appear simpler than in other regions, emphasizing ingredient freshness.
Fresh fish (huachinango, mahi-mahi, dorado), shrimp, octopus, clams, and oysters dominate the local cuisine.
Coconut, mango, papaya, limes, avocados, and plantains are commonly used, adding fresh notes.
Corn (tortillas, sopes), beans, and rice are staples. Flavors come from cilantro, garlic, onion, and various chilies.
A regional specialty: whole red snapper, butterflied and grilled, served with tortillas, rice, and salad. Available at beachfront restaurants on Isla Ixtapa (El Indio, La Granja) or Playa La Ropa (La Perla).
Highly recommended for a true local flavor experience.
Fresh raw fish or seafood marinated in lime juice, mixed with diced onions, cilantro, tomatoes, and sometimes avocado. Found at most seafood restaurants.
A refreshing choice for warm days.
Shrimp served in a savory, tangy tomato-based sauce with avocado, onions, and cilantro, often with crackers. Found at seafood restaurants throughout the area.
Different from American shrimp cocktail.
Aguas Frescas (jamaica, horchata, tamarindo), Limonada/Naranjada, Mexican Beers (Corona, Pacifico), Tequila/Mezcal, and Micheladas.
Churros (fried dough with cinnamon sugar), Paletas (fresh fruit popsicles), Arroz con Leche (rice pudding), Flan (caramel custard).
Zihuatanejo: La Escollera (Hotel Catalina) and Tentaciones (The Tides) offer upscale ambiance and gourmet cuisine with bay views. Ixtapa: Many luxury resorts feature their own fine dining restaurants.
Zihuatanejo: La Perla (Playa La Ropa, seafood), Mariscos Chendo (local seafood), Carmelitas (traditional Mexican). Ixtapa: Most resort main restaurants fall here, plus independent spots at Marina Ixtapa.
Zihuatanejo: Areas around Mercado Municipal for authentic, inexpensive food stalls and small family-run "fondas". Look for busy taco stands in evenings. Offers a true taste of local life.
Vegetarian is relatively easy; many traditional dishes become vegetarian ('sin carne'). Vegan is more challenging; prioritize vegetable-based dishes. Confirm no animal products.
HappyCow app helps locate friendly spots.
Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free. Cross-contamination exists in smaller kitchens. Inform staff: 'Soy celiaco/a' or 'sin gluten'. Communicate allergies clearly.
Carry an Allergy translation card in Spanish.
Some boutique hotels or private chefs offer hands-on Mexican cooking classes.
Informal food tours of Zihuatanejo market and street food stalls may be available.
Enjoy fresh seafood at palapa restaurants directly on the sand.
Many Zihuatanejo restaurants highlight the day's fresh catch from local fishermen.
Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free. Many dishes based on rice, beans, and fresh ingredients can be gluten-free.
Cross-contamination is a risk in smaller kitchens. Inform staff: "Soy celiaco/a" (I am celiac) or "sin gluten" (without gluten).
Clearly communicate allergies, for example, "Soy alérgico/an a los cacahuates" (I am allergic to peanuts).
Carry an Allergy translation card in Spanish for clear communication.
Engage with the local food culture through hands-on experiences.
Farm visits are not a prominent tourism activity in Ixtapa. Focus on market visits for direct interaction with food producers.
Some local chefs or boutique hotels in Zihuatanejo offer hands-on Mexican cooking classes.
Small, independent studios in Zihuatanejo might offer informal art classes for interested visitors.
Some independent tutors or small language schools in Zihuatanejo may offer informal Spanish lessons.
Enjoy fresh seafood directly on the sand at one of the island's many palapa restaurants. Boats bring fresh catch directly to the island.
A true island culinary experience.
Many Zihuatanejo restaurants boast about serving the day's fresh catch directly from local fishermen.
Ask for the pescado del día for the freshest option.
Try this regional specialty on Isla Ixtapa for a memorable and authentic meal.
Explore Zihuatanejo's municipal market for true local flavors and street food.
Enjoy a relaxed evening meal at a beachfront restaurant on Playa La Ropa with stunning views.
Always carry small bills for street vendors and local markets.
