Manzanillo Central Pacific Coast, Mexico Travel Guide
Seafood: Expect an abundance of fresh fish (mahi-mahi, snapper, tuna, sailfish), shrimp, octopus, clams, and oysters. Ceviche is a local staple.
Fruits & Vegetables: Coconut, mango, papaya, limes, avocados, jicama, and various chilies feature prominently. Spices: Cumin, oregano, garlic, onion, and cilantro contribute to the distinct Mexican flavor profile. Corn is a base for many dishes, including tortillas and sopes.
Breakfast (desayuno) 8-10 AM. Lunch (comida) is the main meal, 2-4 PM. Dinner (cena) is lighter, after 8 PM.
Tipping is customary (refer to general travel guidelines). Wait staff are not usually in a hurry to present the bill. Polite to ask for the bill by saying "La cuenta, por favor."
"Buen Provecho" is a common phrase, similar to "Enjoy your meal," often spoken to others dining nearby.
Whole grilled fish, often snapper, marinated in a chili-based sauce. Cooked over coals. Find in beachfront restaurants and seafood eateries.
Fresh raw fish or seafood "cooked" in citrus juices with diced onions, tomatoes, cilantro. Ubiquitous at beachside palapas. Tostadas are crispy fried tortillas topped with ceviche.
Rich and flavorful seafood soup packed with fish, shrimp, octopus, and clams. Pozole Seco is a Colima specialty, a drier version of pozole with pork and red sauce.
Sweet coconut candies, a popular treat.
Artisanal sorbets or ice creams, traditionally churned in wooden barrels. Paletas are Mexican popsicles, frequently made from fresh fruit.
Offers high-end international and Mexican cuisine with romantic ambiance and ocean views.
Numerous options line Boulevard Miguel de la Madrid and Santiago Bay.
Offers quick, flavorful, and inexpensive bites.
Mercado Municipal in downtown offers fresh produce, meats, spices, and food sections. Mercado de Santiago is a smaller neighborhood market with food stalls.
Excellent for an immersive culinary experience.
Find Italian, American (including fast-food chains), and some Asian restaurants, especially within larger resorts or in the Santiago area.
Variety beyond traditional Mexican seafood.
Becoming more common in tourist areas. Vegan options remain challenging outside of specialized restaurants.
Extremely limited, virtually non-existent. Self-catering may be necessary.
Corn tortillas are naturally gluten-free. Be cautious of cross-contamination and hidden gluten in sauces. Clearly communicate allergies.
Use translation apps. Carry an allergy card translated into Spanish. Larger restaurants may better accommodate requests.
Casual, open-air, thatched-roof restaurants directly on the beach, serving fresh seafood in a relaxed atmosphere.
A quintessential Manzanillo dining experience, with direct ocean views.
Be aware of meal times and tipping customs. Ask for the bill politely. "Buen Provecho" is a common courtesy.
Don't leave Manzanillo without trying Pescado Zarandeado, fresh Ceviche, and local seafood soups. Explore street food for tacos and elotes.
A popular spot for seafood, notably ceviche and grilled fish. Known for its fresh ingredients.
Known for its steak and grilled meat dishes, offering a hearty alternative to seafood.
Offers a varied menu in a casual setting, suitable for relaxed meals and drinks.
Fine dining with international and Mexican cuisine, romantic ambiance, and ocean views.
Ideal for a special evening out.
An Italian fine-dining option located within the Barceló Karmina resort, offering sophisticated flavors.
Enjoy a taste of Italy in Manzanillo.
Visit Mercado Municipal for an authentic culinary immersion and fresh ingredients.
Experience fresh seafood right on the sand for a quintessential Manzanillo meal.
Basic Spanish phrases will greatly improve your dining experience and dietary communication.
While Mexican cuisine offers naturally gluten-free options like corn tortillas, cross-contamination is possible in smaller kitchens.
