"Local Favorite" No name
Southwest corner of Hernan Cortés and Privada
Xalapa (Jalapa), VE Mexico

Finding this place is half the fun! Opens around 6 or 7 a.m. and closes around 10 p.m.; it’s known citywide for its wonderful antojitos, tamales, and atole drinks. Most customers grab-and-go or eat standing up on the sidewalk. $1–$3.

Café Gourmet Cubanias
Callejón González Aparicio 1 Local 1
Xalapa (Jalapa), VE 91000 Mexico
Phone: 044 228 111-68-49

Rustic, european feel to this restaurant. Sit in an alley reminiscent of Italy, on a balcony overlooking the street, or inside at wooden tables. Huge baguettes, sandwiches, burritas, beer and wine. $3 - $5.

El Salto de Xala
Rafaél Murillo Vidal Av. No. 238
Xalapa (Jalapa), VE Mexico
Phone: 228-818-0385

Owned by the same folks who own La Casa de Mamá (see other listing); similar high-quality food made with fresh ingredients; excellent service. $7–$15.

La Casa de Mago
Morellos No. 46
Xalapa (Jalapa), VE Mexico

Popular with the workingman for its excellent comida corrida lunches—full three-course meals that may include stews, soups, or casseroles, for only $3.

La Casa de Mamá
Av. Camacho No. 113
Xalapa (Jalapa), VE Mexico
Phone: 228-817-3144

Wonderful molcajete (a mixed grill of meat and poultry, with chile and cactus strips) and great steaks are served in an elegant building that resembles a renovated farmhouse. Closed Mondays. $9–$20.

La Casona del Beaterio
Zaragoza No. 20
Xalapa (Jalapa), VE Mexico
Phone: 228-817-8009

In an old colonial building, you’ll find live music on weekend nights and a good wine and spirits selection. Food is fresh and reliable, with everything from cazuela (stews) to parilla (grilled meats) and antojitos (fried snacks). $4–$12.

La Churrería de Recuerdos
Victoria No. 158
Xalapa (Jalapa), VE Mexico
Phone: 228-841-4961

Right across the street from the Hotel Xalapa Finca Real (see Lodging below), this decades-old favorite specializes in regional dishes. Excellent mole enchiladas (listed as enmoladas); any specials of the day should not be missed. $3–$10.

La Fonda
Callejón de Diamante No. 1
Xalapa (Jalapa), VE Mexico
Phone: 228-818-7282

On an artsy and popular strolling alley, this family-run business is a good bet for breakfast, coffee, and lunch. $4–$8.

La Sopa
Callejón de Diamante No. 3-A
Xalapa (Jalapa), VE Mexico
Phone: 228-817-8069

You can hear live music Friday through Sunday and hang with a mixed bohemian crowd. Great comida corrida lunches and evening antojitos; and don’t forget to try the specialty, tostados de pescados (crisp tortillas topped with seafood). $3–$10.