Restaurants you have to know in Oaxaca
Oaxaca isn’t just one of Mexico’s most iconic food destinations—it’s a place where every meal feels like part of a larger story. Beyond the well-known markets and legendary moles, there’s a collection of restaurants that truly define what dining in Oaxaca looks like right now. Some honor centuries-old traditions with remarkable precision, while others push boundaries with contemporary techniques and bold reinterpretations of local ingredients. The magic lies in the contrast: rustic and refined, street-inspired and chef-driven, intimate and vibrant—all coexisting within the same city. If you think Oaxaca is only about what you’ve already heard, there’s a good chance you’re missing the restaurants that are shaping its present and future.
This guide to Restaurants you have to know in Oaxaca is about more than just where to eat—it’s about where to experience the city at its best. These are the spots that locals recommend, travelers rave about, and reservations fill up quickly for. Whether you’re planning a romantic dinner, a lively night out with friends, or a long, flavor-packed lunch, these restaurants deserve a place on your itinerary. Curious which tables are truly worth your time? Let’s explore the ones you simply can’t skip.
1. Defondo Oaxaca
DeFondo Oaxaca is one of those restaurants that feels like a stylish little discovery right in the middle of the city—artsy, welcoming, and easy to fall into. You’ll find it in the Centro neighborhood, on the Ruta Independencia area, where colorful streets and creative energy make every stop feel like part of the Oaxaca experience. The vibe is modern but not intimidating, with design details that make the space feel curated and casual at the same time—perfect when you want a meal that feels intentional without being overly formal.
This spot is especially ideal for dinner, when you’re ready for something satisfying after a day of walking, shopping, and mezcal tasting. The menu leans into bold, comfort-forward flavors with a contemporary edge—think craveable plates that feel familiar but upgraded, made for people who love food that hits the spot and still feels thoughtfully put together. It’s the kind of place where you can build a full meal or keep it simple, and either way, you’ll leave happy.
DeFondo is also ideal for friends and couples. With friends, it’s an easy hang: order a few plates, pass things around, and let the conversation take over. For couples, it’s a great low-pressure date—cool setting, good pacing, and a vibe that makes it easy to talk and stay a little longer. It’s not a loud party spot or a white-tablecloth room; it’s that sweet middle ground where the atmosphere feels lively but still comfortable.
Budget-wise, it’s refreshingly approachable for the experience: the price range is 180–350 Mexican pesos per person. And yes, if you’re traveling with your furry sidekick, you’re covered—this restaurant admits pets, which makes it an even better pick when you want a great dinner plan without leaving anyone behind.
2. Sushido Mazunte
Sushido Mazunte is one of those restaurants that feels like a hidden coastal ritual—fresh flavors, breezy energy, and a vibe that’s equal parts relaxed and intentional. You’ll find it in the Rinconcito neighborhood, just steps from the beach, making it an easy pick when you want dinner to feel like part of the Mazunte experience (not just “somewhere to eat”). The space blends a clean Japanese aesthetic with tropical warmth, with a terrace setup that invites you to slow down and stay awhile.
This spot is especially ideal for dinner, when the town softens into that golden-hour-to-night rhythm and you’re craving something fresh but satisfying. Sushido leans into sushi fusion—classic Japanese foundations with creative touches that feel right at home on the Oaxacan coast. Expect vibrant rolls, poke-style options, gyozas, and bowls that hit the sweet spot between light and indulgent. It’s the kind of menu that makes ordering fun: you’ll want one safe favorite and one “let’s try this” wildcard.
It’s also ideal for friends and couples, because the experience naturally turns into sharing and discovering. With friends, it’s perfect for building a table full of rolls and plates, comparing bites, and keeping the conversation going without feeling rushed. For couples, it’s an easy date-night win—casual, intimate, and just different enough to feel memorable. Whether you sit at a big table or settle into a cozy corner, the vibe stays calm and welcoming.
On the budget side, it’s refreshingly accessible for the quality: the price range is 250–350 Mexican pesos per person. And yes—Sushido is pet friendly, so you can bring your four-legged travel buddy along and still enjoy a proper dinner in one of Mazunte’s most craveable restaurants.
3. Salmastro Playa Zipolite
Salmastro Playa Zipolite is one of those restaurants that feels like a full reset: ocean breeze, toes-in-the-sand energy, and a front-row seat to Zipolite’s wild beauty. Set right by the water, it’s the kind of place where time slows down naturally—no rush, no noise you don’t want—just good food and that “we should stay a little longer” feeling. You’ll find it in the Playa Zipolite neighborhood, close to the beach zones everyone ends up falling in love with.
This spot is especially ideal for breakfast, when the day is fresh and the coastal calm makes everything taste better. The menu is built for easy, satisfying mornings—comforting plates that hit the spot without feeling heavy, perfect for fueling up before a beach day (or recovering from the night before). It’s simple in the best way: fresh flavors, relaxed pacing, and a setting that turns a regular meal into a moment.
Salmastro is also ideal for friends and couples. With friends, it’s effortless: order a few things, share bites, and let the conversation stretch while the waves do their thing in the background. For couples, it’s a dreamy plan—casual, romantic, and naturally scenic without trying too hard. It’s one of those restaurants where the view does half the work, and the food takes care of the rest.
Best of all, it’s easy on the budget: the price range is 100–300 Mexican pesos per person. And if you’re traveling with a four-legged companion, you’re in luck—Salmastro admits pets, so you can enjoy a true beachside meal without leaving anyone behind.
4. Liquen Oaxaca
Liquen Oaxaca is one of those restaurants that feels like a full sensory experience—equal parts rooftop hangout, modern kitchen, and mezcal-inspired playground. It sits in the Centro neighborhood, right in the heart of Oaxaca, making it an easy pick when you want something elevated without losing that local pulse. The vibe is chic but welcoming, with a terrace setting that’s perfect for slowing down and turning “just dinner” into a full night out.
Liquen is especially ideal for dinner, when the lighting softens, the terrace energy comes alive, and the menu really shines. The concept blends contemporary technique with Oaxacan roots, leaning into regional ingredients and flavors in a way that feels both creative and grounded. One standout detail: there’s an in-house micro-distillery element to the experience, which makes the drink program feel like part of the story—not just an add-on.
This spot is also ideal for friends and couples. For couples, it’s a strong date-night move—romantic without being overly formal, with a setting that naturally invites conversation. For friends, it’s the kind of place where you can order a few plates to share, explore cocktails, and let the night stretch out comfortably. The atmosphere adapts: start with a drink on the terrace, move into bites, and suddenly you’ve got a whole plan.
When it comes to budget, Liquen sits in a premium-but-accessible lane, with a price range of 350–500 Mexican pesos per person. And if you’re traveling with a furry companion, you’re in luck—Liquen admits pets, which makes it even easier to choose when you want a great dinner in Centro without leaving anyone behind.
5. Tacos y Más San Judas
Tacos y Más San Judas is one of those restaurants located in the San Martín Mexicapan neighborhood of Oaxaca that keeps things simple—in the best way possible. This is a no-frills, flavor-first kind of spot where the focus is on generous portions, bold seasoning, and that unmistakable comfort that only great tacos can deliver. It’s local, approachable, and built for people who care more about taste than trends.
This place is especially ideal for dinner, when cravings hit and you want something satisfying without overcomplicating the plan. The menu centers around tacos, gringas, tortas, and other Mexican street-style staples—perfectly grilled meats, warm tortillas, and salsas that bring just the right level of heat. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but familiar, and one that quickly turns into a go-to favorite.
Tacos y Más San Judas is ideal for families and friends, thanks to its relaxed, casual atmosphere. With friends, it’s an easy group plan: order a round (or three), share sauces, and keep things lively. Families will appreciate the informal setting and crowd-pleasing menu, where everyone can find something they love. It’s not about fancy plating—it’s about full plates and happy tables.
On the budget-friendly side, the price range is 100–300 Mexican pesos per person, making it one of the most accessible spots on this list. And yes, this restaurant admits pets, so it’s a convenient option if you’re out and about with your furry companion. If you want a place that delivers authentic, satisfying tacos without the hype—just pure flavor—this is one you absolutely have to know in Oaxaca.
The restaurants you haven’t tried yet
Oaxaca isn’t just a destination for food lovers—it’s a place where every meal becomes part of your story. The restaurants you have to know in Oaxaca aren’t defined only by what’s on the plate, but by the feeling they create: a rooftop dinner as church bells echo through Centro, a sushi night that surprises you on the coast, tacos that taste like they’ve been perfected over decades, or a thoughtfully crafted dish that reconnects you to local ingredients in a completely new way. Each of these restaurants represents a different expression of Oaxaca’s personality—traditional yet evolving, bold yet deeply rooted. And the more you explore, the more you realize that dining here isn’t about checking boxes. It’s about discovering the places that make you pause mid-bite and think, this is why I came.
But here’s the exciting part: this is only one chapter of Oaxaca’s culinary landscape. Beyond these must-know restaurants, there are hidden courtyards, chef-driven tasting menus, beachfront gems, brunch spots worth waking up early for, and neighborhood favorites that locals quietly guard. The scene is constantly growing, constantly shifting—and always worth another reservation. If you’re planning your next meal, your next trip, or your next celebration, don’t stop here. Keep exploring, keep tasting, and dive into more of our guides to uncover even more unforgettable restaurants across Oaxaca and beyond.