20 Best Restaurants In Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Mexico

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A magical and tropical fish village, Puerto Escondido has been known as the prime surfing spot for many tourists & locals. 

That’s not all; for the last few years, this majestic beach town is also in the limelight for the variety of delicious delicacies it has to offer.

From backpackers to world explorers, tourists at Puerto Escondido have all found a taste at the local restaurants that they have never known before. 

Although underrated, Puerto Escondido is rich in flavors and culture. This article will introduce you to some of the best restaurants in Puerto Escondido that I found on my Oaxaca Trip. 

Did You Know?

Puerto Escondido is translated as “The Hidden Port,” after a legendary lady who escaped her captors and hid in this village. The port was initially established in the early 1900s to ship coffee, and by the 1930s, an entire town settled around this port and became “Puerto Escondido.”

It’s a perfect vacation spot, especially if you’re a beach person. In Oaxaca, Mexico, Puerto Escondido is still low-key, and we might as well add “underrated” for all the beauty and delicious things it has to offer. 

What Does Puerto Escondido Offer? 

• Beautiful sunsets on sandy beaches.
• An array of scrumptious foods.
• A wide variety of fun and adventurous activities and sports.

Honestly, this town holds everything within—there are mountains, ocean blues, a cozy nightlife, surfing, sunsets, etc. It’s a place where you can explore the undiscovered while enjoying delicious food. 

Remember that haunting question, “where to go and eat?” every time you’ve to find a restaurant? Well, we’ve found just the correct answer for you, let’s find out! 

Fun Fact: Puerto Escondido was included in the “Where to Go” list by the New York Times in their 2017 edition. But, before you enter Mexico—learn everything on “What to pack for Mexico?”

Here’s a list of restaurants that are a “must-try” for the best food in Puerto Escondido on your next trip to Mexico:

20 Best Restaurants In Puerto Escondido, Oaxaca, Mexico

Want to eat something simple but traditional? Here are some classic Oaxaca-style restaurants offering you vegan varieties, seafood, and non-vegetarian delicacies. 

Be introduced to traditional dishes like Oaxaquenos, ceviche, etc. It’s mostly seafood with a Mexico touch. 

CocoFam

Av. Camino Real, Juárez, 71984 Puerto Escondido //+529545594338

CocoFam is located in Juarez, Mexico. It is a popular “authentic” spot among its guests. The restaurant is rated excellent in terms of food. 

CocoFam is primarily vegan and vegetarian, and its vegan dessert tarts are a big hit. It is a small eatery on the street and also serves flavored water.

Note : Monday through Saturday, 10:30am–7:00pm; Sunday 10:30am – 6:15pm

El Cafecito

Boulevard Benito Juárez 1, Seccion C, Local 11, Rinconada, 71983 Puerto Escondido //+529541245162

El Cafecito is located in two different locations—one is in the main town, and the other is at Zicatela beach in Puerto Escondido. Both restaurants offer delicious food and are a popular breakfast spot among the many tourists in Puerto Escondido. 

The place is known for its heavy meals and filling portions. The mouth-watering dish Oaxaquenos (eggs cooked in a spicy tomato sauce, topped with quesillo), served with beans and chips with a side of tortillas, is a must-try when visiting the port. It’s breathtakingly good! 

The cafe also has a bakery for all the bread lovers.

Costenito Cevicheria

Av. Del Morro S/N, Marinero, 70934 Puerto Escondido //+529545403338

Aguachile, Tuna Carpaccio, and fried fish are some delectable dishes served at this bar. You can also find samples of intoxicating beer, wine and gin combinations to start your day boozy at this incredible place.

Even during rush hour, Costenito Cevicheria’s convenient location makes it easier to get to it even when there is heavy traffic. It’s located right at the beach and offers an amazing view for your breakfast/lunch.

Mama Malu

Playa Zicatela, 70934 Brisas de Zicatela, Oaxaca, Mexico

This small restaurant, located off the main lane in Zicatela, is the most delicious and reasonably-priced eatery in all of Puerto Escondido, especially in the posh neighborhood of Zicatela. 

It’s tucked away down an alley next to the OXXO on Av. Del Marro, and it might hide away in the alley. Make sure you look around to find this eatery for reasonable, affordable food prices. 

Tlayuda, fried eggs and salsa made from fried beans on top of cheese-stuffed tortillas are definitely a must-try at Mama Malu. You can order coffee with any meal you eat at this restaurant.

The coffee served by Mama Malu is Oaxaca-style, which means it’s brewed in a clay pot with spices like cinnamon, brown sugar and orange peel. It’s not overly sweet, and the slight hint of cinnamon is delicious!

Holy Moly

Benito Juárez, Lazaro Cardenas, 70934 Puerto Escondido

Holy Moly is a one-of-a-kind vegan restaurant that serves a fixed-price vegan dinner, drinks, and desserts every evening. Show up and eat whatever is on the menu that day; it’s guaranteed to be delicious no matter what you choose. 

Holy Moly is unique at creating new menus and delicacies every day! The place, its aura, and interior will make you feel at home—Holy Moly is comfortable, cozy, and very personal! 

Note: They are closed on Sundays.

Hotel Santa Fe

Av. Del Morro s/n, Marinero, 70934 Puerto Escondido //+18558259876

This iconic restaurant, located on the Hotel Santa Fe’s covered terrace, is a must-visit for any foodie. 

The cuisine is primarily Oaxacan-Mexican, completely pescatarian, and occasionally vegan—tamales Oaxaquenos, fried fish, shrimp-stuffed avocado, and various types of ceviche are some famous dishes at the venue. 

Santa Fe’s egg scramble made with tofu is one of the best breakfast menus in town, and it goes perfectly well with the breathtaking view of Zicatela Beach.

Espadin

Cam. Carrizalillo, Carrizalillo, 71983 Puerto Escondido //+529541643363

Espadin, a restaurant named after the type of agave that grows here in Puerto Escondido, is owned by Amy Hardy and Arik Torren—two American travelers who also own the mezcal brand Fidencio. 

Mezcal is an agave plant mostly used to create alcoholic drinks, and Espadin definitely aces those drinks. 

To go with all that mezcal, there are signature dishes like coconut shrimp, the catch of the day in the almond crust, and the octopus chicharrón. 

At Espadin, take in the breathtaking view of Carrizalillo Beach, which you can also enjoy in the morning during breakfast.

La Olita

Bajada Brisas s/n Brisas de Zicatela, 70934 Puerto Escondido //+529541831099

Do you want simple food at a reasonable price close to the beach? 

Visit La Olita, a neighborhood where you come across streetside timber tables, kitschy surf murals and bamboo shacks. The walls appear to have changed little since the 1960s when surfers first arrived in Escondido to set up a restro. 

Tacos of every variety are available on the menu, and they serve them in generous portions. Spicy shrimp with guacamole and fish of the day with grilled vegetables are two of my most popular options.

International Restaurants In Puerto Escondido

I have been a fan of traditional country foods for a long time now! However, we all crave a little international once in a while. 

Puerto Escondido offers multiple international restaurants offering various country foods. There was thai-Japanese fusion, Italian, Mediterranean, and so much more! 

Take a look at what I found in Puerto Escondido.

La Hosteria Bananas

Av. Del Morro s/n, Playa Zicatela, 71980 Brisas de Zicatela //+529545820005

The Conti-Avogaro family opened Bananas on Playa Zicatela’s main street in 1984 and became an instant hit. It is now considered a must-visit for all Italians looking to experience the essence of the old days, which director Gabriele Salvatores immortalized in his 1992 film of the same name. 

The pizzeria and family-style restaurant serves traditional Italian dishes from the sea and the countryside. Their homemade pasta will make you revisit the restaurant every evening. 

Note: Open from 11:30 a.m. to 12 a.m., seven days a week.

Lychee

Alejandro Cárdenas Peralta S/N, Brisas de Zicatela, 70934 Brisas de Zicatela

Lychee Thai Food was one of the first restaurants in La Punta to gain a following, and it continues to be a classic. It is known for its Thai and Japanese fusion cuisine, served in a beautiful interior that encourages guests to linger. 

Thursdays are a must-attend because of the sushi nights accompanied by excellent live music, it can be blues, jazz or bossa nova. 

The bar offers a variety of entertaining cocktails, including a few made with sake, as well as sippable mezcal and other spirits. 

Note: The restaurant is open Monday through Sunday from 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.

El Sultan

Benito Juárez, Rinconada, 71980 Puerto Escondido //+529545820512

El Sultan serves healthy, gluten-free Lebanese and Mediterranean cuisine in a very lively atmosphere—this is a famous meeting spot for many locals. 

Wraps filled with various hummus, falafel, shawarma, and kebab combinations are El Sultan’s outstanding dish choices. In addition, there is an extensive juice and smoothie bar. To this date, the best Mediterranean food I have ever tasted in Puerto Escondido. 

Note: The restaurant is open from Monday to Saturday, from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Chicama

Alejandro Cárdenas Peralta s/n, Brisas de Zicatela, 70934 Brisas de Zicatela //+529541494571

Visitors to Puerto Escondido agree that Chicama is one of their favorite food spots—I personally admire the bamboo wall and village-like appearance.

It’s a Peruvian restaurant with one of the best kitchens located in La Punta de Zicatela. It provides excellent service in a cheerful environment. 

Everyone waiting outside will catch your attention if you pass by. You should get there early to make sure you get a seat at one of the best Peruvian ceviche places. 

Chicama will surprise you with fast service, a great music scene, and delicious cocktail combinations. The place is a vibe that you’d like to return to every morning/night.

Best Places To Eat Seafood In Puerto Escondido

While Puerto Escondido is rich in Mexican-fish flavors, there were some restaurants that truly aced seafood flavors. Here are my personal favorite restaurants and dishes serving delicious Puerto Escondido food. 

I would consider Octopus Tostadas, fish in green mole, and seafood risotto. 

Agua Sala

Av. Del Morro Local 3, Playa Zicatela, 70934 Brisas de Zicatela //+529541044258

Located at the Playa Zicatela beach (in front of the Shavanna Hotel Boutique), Agua Salá is a popular eatery for beach weddings because of its incredible sunset view over the Pacific Ocean. 

The casual atmosphere and bohemian outlook will invite you inside for a bite and make you stay for the vibe. Agua Sala includes Cabanas to add further aesthetics to your sunset snacks and dinners. 

The restaurant is also popular for signature cocktails, such as the Ron Carambola, Jamaica, and Basil, drawing in affluent young people from all over the world. 

Along with beautifully-plated salads, it serves seafood dishes such as chargrilled octopus, oysters on the half-shell, and octopus tostadas, among other things. 

Note: Tuesdays are off-limits.

Pez Gallo

Bacocho, 71983 Puerto Escondido //+529545881655

Pez Gallo will greet you with oceanfront palapa (thatched-roof), fairy lights and a cozy dinner at night. It’s a perfect avenue to try out seafood & Mexican delicacies in Bacocha. Dishes such as the “catch of the day encrusted in coconut” are popular at this beach club. 

Pez Gallo also offers free access to one of Puerto Escondido’s most swimmable beaches and their large on-site pool for guests to enjoy.

Almoraduz

Benito Juárez 12, Rinconada, 71983 Puerto Escondido //+529545823109

When I think about Mexican cuisine, one significant restaurant that comes to mind is Almoraduz. Nestled in Rinconada’s scenic neighborhood, the restaurant offers a small, tasteful and distinctive menu along with outdoor eating space. 

Their most popular dishes include black seafood risotto, fish in green mole and chocolate lava cake. The menu changes frequently, so you will be introduced to multiple varieties on different occasions.

Take advantage of the seven-course tasting menu if you want to experience the Mexican vibe. The drinks menu, which includes handmade mezcals, craft beers and creative fruit juices, is excellent.

Turtle Bay Restaurant

boulevard benito juarez L. 9 y 10, Rinconada, 71980 Puerto Escondido //+529541477469

In addition to being recognized as one of the most incredible seafood restaurants in Puerto Escondido, Turtle Bay also distinguishes itself by the freshness and elegant ambiance. 

With a wide selection of gourmet dishes, you can experience a range of flavors and gain a complete overview of the cuisine this excellent place offers. 

Turtle Bay is unquestionably the place to go if you prefer the tried and tested method. The chef always cooks with fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from the nearby region. 

Best Puerto Escondido Mexico Restaurants

I found some of the most delicious local food in Puerto Escondido. There’s no doubt in saying that Puerto Escondido has many fine Mexican Restaurants. Amongst them, I have hand-picked a few that I personally loved. 

Filomena

Benito Juárez 306, Rinconada, 71983 Puerto Escondido //+529541352669

Argentina and fusion are the buzzwords at Filomena. Here you’ll find excellent cuts of meat, classic empanadas (including Argentina’s traditional “lomito”) sandwiches, and specialties such as calamari stuffed with red mole and chile poblano, stuffed with spicy Argentine chorizo.

You shouldn’t miss their dulce de leche ice cream, as well as any glass of wine from the extensive Argentine wine list.

Also, don’t forget to try their specialty on the menu “White Mexican,” a twist on the classic White Russian. It’s made with mezcal infused with coffee, coffee liqueur, milk cream, and Fernet-Coke, among other ingredients. 

Note: Filomena is closed on Wednesdays.

La Morena

Calle Tercera Pte., Centro, 71980 Puerto Escondido //+529541543799

This laid-back and welcoming spot serves some of the freshest fish in Puerto Escondido’s fishing community. 

Ceviche, peccadillos (fried fish tacos), tostadas, and tiritas are just a few of the dishes served to celebrate the sea (strips of fish marinated in lime). The beer is cold, and the prices are reasonable. 

Pancita: A traditional Mexican cuisine dish that you can find on Sundays. It’s a type of tortilla (beef belly), and it’s truly mouthwatering!

Note: Open from 12 p.m. to 9 p.m., Tuesday through Sunday.

Restaurante El Curandero

Camino a Puerto Angelito, Primera Sur Esq, 71980 Puerto Escondido //+529541118293

The traditional Mexican food at Restaurante El Curandero is sure to leave you wanting more.

The delicious must-haves from this restaurant are Laing, fish and sashimi. I highly recommend some yummy berries to kickstart your meal before you dive right into the food menu.

The fantastic service offered by El Curandero is possibly one of the main reasons why the restaurant is amongst some of the best food places in Puerto Escondido. The ambiance brings a sense of comfort and warmth and is perfect for just about any meal.

A fan of traditional Mexican food? If you are planning on continuing your tour forward and diving into the Central American culture, I have a complete restaurant guide ahead for you:

• 11 Traditional Guatemalan Foods You Must Try | Best Guatemalan Food
• Best El Salvador Food | 12 Must-Try El Salvadoran Foods
• Must-Try Yucatan Food | 12 Of My Favorite Traditional Mayan Dishes
• What is Panama Food? | The 11 Best Dishes Representing Authentic Panama Cuisine
• Wondering About Honduran Food? | 11 Honduran Foods That Will Make Your Mouth Water

Bacocho

Bacocho is located 4km west of the town center of Puerto Escondido, and it is easily accessible via a tar-sealed road that runs down to the coastline. 

It is the longest and one of the most idyllic beaches in Puerto Escondido, with an endless strip of glistening white sand and bluish-green water, making it the longest and most scenic beach in the world. Sit by this breezy beach and enjoy mocktails offered by a wide variety of restaurants around it.

Conclusion: The Best Restaurants In Puerto Escondido , Oaxaca, Mexico

It’s hard to choose the best restaurants among all the different eateries and options in Puerto Escondido. Each one of them is unique and tasty in its own food-style. 

This brief article introduces you to every dish and restaurant I have tried out in Oaxaca as a first-time traveler. They were all truly terrific in terms of ambiance, nightlife, good vibes, and especially, flavors.

How to get to Puerto Escondido?

You can book your ground and sea transportation with Bookaway, so click here to book your tickets.