Zihuatanejo's culinary scene can be confusing. With tons of hole in the wall restaurants and tourist traps, it's hard to untangle what is just a pop-up shop and what is a culinary specialty. So before you go reading a million articles, here are the best restaurants in Zihuatanejo! 

Carmelita's - best breakfast in Zihuat! Super local flavors and a very homegrown vibe. Try the cinnamon coffee and corn cake to start, you won't be disappointed! Located off a side street in the heart of Zihuat., this hideaway is a specialty to all the locals. If you arrive before 9:30 am you will most likely see families coming in for their morning coffee. 

Amuletos - You need dinner reservations at this magical oasis. Tucked into the cliffs overlooking the ocean, you will feel like you are in Bali. The menu is a coursed out meal with different variations depending on preference for each plate. There are limited tables, so make sure to call in advance. Everything is prepared on the spot and made fresh the day of depending on how many reservations are booked. 

Casa Que Canta - You also need dinner reservations for this treehouse style restaurant. Always one of my favorites due to the completely unobstructed views of the ocean. Ask for the homemade guac, they make it at your table right in front of you! Make sure you request a table outside on the patio and not under the cabana. 

Coconuts - One of the local favorites, Coconuts is fun for a large group or a romantic dinner under twinkling lights. Located in the heart of Ziuat., this is the perfect restaurant to go to after walking around town or shopping. You do need dinner reservations here, so make sure to call if you are thinking of going! 

The Loot - This is a new restaurant/surf bungalow that opened up right behind the hotel Villa Del Sol. It serves both dinner and breakfast, I actually tried both and was extremely happy with both meals! Half the restaurant is actually an art studio, which is fun to walk around in before dinner or after breakfast. It is also one of the lesser expensive great restaurants in Ziuat. if you are on a budget! 

Tentaciones - A restaurant perched on the hillside of Ziuat., this dinner hot spot is famous for both its dinner and hotel. The views are spectacular and the food is also delicious. This is one of the pricier restaurants to keep that in mind if you are on a budget. You will also need dinner reservations here! 

Kau Kan - This is a completely hidden treasure. A car ride away from Ziuat. into Ixtapa, this restaurant is located down a long dirt road that looks like a construction site. At the end of the road, there is a long rope bridge that leads to an elevator (sorry if anyone is afraid of heights, this is not your restaurant). You take the elevator down to a hole in the cliffs that sits right above the waves. The food was also unbelievable. My suggestion is to always order whatever they say is the freshest! Dinner reservations are required.