4 Best Restaurants in Manzunte, San Agustinillo, and Zipolite, Oaxaca

If you have time for only one restaurant in Zipolite, then this should be it. Expect creative takes on the traditional in dishes such as Oaxacan shrimp or beef medallions in aromatic hoja santa (Mexican pepperleaf) butter. Reserve for one of two nightly seatings, and arrive early to enjoy a mezcal cocktail in the stylish bar. The restaurant tends to close down during the low season, which can begin as early as September and continue as late as November.

It may not have the easiest name to remember, but Estrella Fugaz (which means "shooting star") is one of Mazunte's most popular hangouts. This funky Mexican café-restaurant offers an impressive collection of artisanal mezcal, good Wi-Fi, strong coffee, and a breezy second-floor location with fantastic views of Playa el Rinconcito, Mazunte's most swimmable beach. The menu is packed with choices from Mexican breakfast specialties to seafood to pasta, but if you're undecided, the chiles rellenos stuffed with vegetables (or seafood or cheese) is a whopping portion that will fuel you for the rest of the day. Live jazz and special theme nights keep the action happening until long after dark.

With a calm beachside atmosphere, fresh seafood, and attentive service, it's hard to top this local favorite at the west end of Playa Agustinillo. Begin your afternoon by settling into one of the comfy loungers, where you can sip on a La Ola cocktail, a mojito of mezcal, cucumber, and lime that tastes as healthy as it is delicious. Good options for lunch are dorado tostados or arrachera (grilled steak) served with a perfect trio of black beans, tortillas, and rice. There's also a wide selection of ultrafresh salads. You'll appreciate the spiffy clean washrooms, showers, and prime views of bodyboarders riding and wiping out on the waves.

This Italian restaurant serves salads, calzones, and artisanal pizzas with a vast choice of toppings baked to perfection in a wood-burning oven. Try the nutella-banana pizza for dessert. The bar and the restaurant are under one big palapa, and there are small palapas with individual tables on the beach. With the sounds of the waves and soft lighting, it makes for a romantic night out. La Termita also serves a hearty Mexican-style breakfast (but closes for lunch). Five clean, ocean-view guest rooms are available, but book early.