The incalculable richness of Michoacan's culture and history is also apparent in the variety of typical local cuisine, which is full of tradition and features dishes deep-rooted in the hearts of the indigenous people who inhabit the region.
The cuisine of Michoacan is still created with the ingredients and procedures of the Purepechans, the indigenous group that originally populated the region. When the Spaniards arrived to Mexico, the descendants of the natives combined their cooking skills with the Spanish cuisine, creating an amazing variety of dishes that each feature specific nuances and subtleties depending on the region of the state.
Some of the most famous local dishes include Patzuaro's white fish, which has delicious delicate meat, the "uchepos," small tamales made of tender corn, and "corundas," meat-filled tamales with an irregular shape. Other dishes such as Tarasca soup and the famous "Carnitas de Michoacan," have become popular in every corner of Mexico. As for beverages, the "charanda" (sugar cane liquor), stands out as the most traditional.
When it comes to desserts, don't miss out on trying the "Nieve de Pasta," a delicious ice cream made out of a milk-based paste, and also the rich, thick "Chongos Zamoranos". An extensive variety of traditional candies, which can be found all over the state of Michoacan, completes the display of flavors and aromas that makes Michoacan one of the most varied, original states when it comes to local gastronomy.
El Campanario
El Campanario is a must-see restaurant in the city of Zamora. It features a 100% Mexican, family-friendly atmosphere, with fast and friendly service, excellent food, an incredibly varied menu, and delicious desserts. If you visit at night, you will have twice the fun, because there is always live music and a vibrant atmosphere. The impressive variety of beverages, truly generous portions, and a folkloric atmosphere ensures a great time.
La Compania
Located in downtown Patzcuaro, La Compania is a casual restaurant serving both international dishes and regional specialties including the traditional white fish from Lake Patzcuaro. Decorated with beautiful local handicrafts, La Compania features a spacious bar, and has friendly yet professional service, delicious cuisine, and live relaxing music on weekends. It is a great choice for an evening out in this magical town.
La Pantera Rosa
This is one of the most picturesque, traditional restaurants in the city of Zamora. It offers delicious food in a real Mexican atmosphere. Its colorful feel includes small, typical wooden tables, clay ware, and fresh tortillas made right in the entrance of the restaurant. The specialty of the house is grilled beef in its drippings, a typical dish from the western side of Mexico. With a totally family atmosphere, La Pantera Rosa (The Pink Panther) is usually crowded with groups of people and is an excellent option to gather with friends or relatives.
Mistongo
With a huge variety of dishes and a cozy bar area, this restaurant and art gallery is one of the most traditional Argentinean eateries in Patzcuaro. Located in a colonial building, Mistongo features a central patio where live music is occasionally performed, although there is always a good selection of background music. The decor includes paintings by different artists and most pieces are available for sale, although they are frequently changed to maintain the restaurant-gallery concept.
La Basilica Restaurant
The only restaurant with a panoramic view of the magic town of Patzcuaro is located in front of Our Lady of Health Basilica, inside the hotel of the same name, offering among other specialties the fabulous white fish of Patzcuaro. It is a great place to enjoy a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner. With generous portions, hand made tortillas, delicious sweet rolls and a good selection of white and red wine, this restaurant is perfect for a relaxed evening and a great meal with friends and family.
La Mesa Ranch
Less than two miles away from downtown Patzcuaro, via the road to Santa Clara del Cobre, this ranch-restaurant offers excellent Mexican cuisine, exotic specialties and fantastic desserts as well as a delicious selection of traditional snacks. Since the restaurant is located on a hillside, it overlooks the Patzcuaro Lake, offering spectacular views and a superb atmosphere to enjoy any of the extraordinary specialties.
La Mesa Ranch also farms ostriches and other poultry, so don't forget to ask for the exotic ostrich burger. In short, La Mesa means traditional food, a breathtaking view and an excellent opportunity to share a great time with friends in a wonderful "country" atmosphere.
Cafe Europa
With more than half a century of tradition in the state of Michoacan, Cafe Europa offers a select variety of roasted and ground coffee as well as a selection of flavored and prepared coffees.
If you want to accompany your cup of coffee with something apart from a good conversation, Cafe Europa also serves delicious crepes and other desserts. Using fresh coffee beans cultivated in the highlands of Mexico, which are roasted to perfection and freshly ground, Cafe Europa produces an aromatic, intense, and delightful beverage.
To ensure that distinctive flavor in every cup, the Cafe uses a semi-handmade technique, in which the expert staff plays an important part to produce the optimal cup and stamp an artistic feel on the specialty coffees. Undoubtedly, the recommendation is the Italian cappuccino, which will impress you greatly due to its slightly different, more intense flavor. Don't forget to also try Cafe Europa's smoothies, teas, and fine desserts!
La Antigua
Located in downtown Zitacuaro, within the peaceful atmosphere of the El Conquistador Hotel, this restaurant is a pleasant place to enjoy a casual gathering or a meal with friends.
Featuring a good selection of background music and a varied menu of Mexican specialties prepared in a wonderful homemade style, as well as kind and personal attention, this is definitely one of the best restaurants in Zitacuaro. Comfortable and quiet, with simple, yet distinguished decoration, fresh and high-quality ingredients, dishes prepared to order and an outstanding breakfast buffet, La Antigua ensures a fantastic gastronomic experience.