Catemaco
Av. Américas # 111
Xalapa (Jalapa), VE Mexico
Phone: 815-6582

Excellent seafood and aperitivos from local waters. Simple setting with a comfortable feel.

El Puerto de Alvarado
Azueta No. 3-B
Xalapa (Jalapa), VE Mexico
Phone: 228-815-1401

Great, fresh seafood dishes based on old family recipes; simple, basic ambiance; a bargain for the quality; and Angel is a perfect host. Closed Mondays. $4–$10.

Mariscos Bahía
Primo Verdad No. 18
Xalapa (Jalapa), VE Mexico
Phone: 228-818-9497

There are other locations as well. Call to find alternates. Reliable, long-established Veracruz-style seafood offerings in the heart of the Old Quarter. $6–$12.

Nico’s
Dr. Eduardo R. Coronel No. 42
Xalapa (Jalapa), VE Mexico
Phone: 228-817-9985

Superb local seafood served impeccably fresh. Try the stuffed crab with chile sauce and limes on the side; shrimp-crab-octopus salad; seafood stew with crab, fish, shrimp, and sweet corn in a tomato-chile broth. Closed Sundays. $7–$15.

Nueva Tamiahua
Av. Orizaba No. 183
Xalapa (Jalapa), VE Mexico
Phone: 228-815-2020

Close to the Museum of Anthropology (on Av. Xalapa) you’ll find excellent seafood dishes based on regional cooking from the area north of Veracruz. Eat here and at Nico’s, and you’ll experience both northern and southern styles of local seafood. $9–$18.