($$$) During the day, Bandido's takes advantage of its location directly across from the Artisan's Market to offer a sampling of traditional Mexican food and refreshing beers and cocktails to passersby. At night, they ramp it up with live music by some of the best local and imported bands featuring popular Mexican music, standard Cuban salsa favorites, and the occasional jazz tune. The waiters can double as dance partners and, many nights, you'll find locals celebrating special occasions here and welcoming you to join la fiesta.

just the facts, ma'am: open from 11 am - 2 am, 7 days a week during high season (closed on Sundays during green season). With close proximity to where most cruise ship passengers disembark, there can be quite a lunch time crowd on cruise ship days. Live music often doesn't start until 11:30 so plan to meet up for cocktails somewhere else if you don't want to pay "live music" prices beforehand. Credit cards are accepted with a 400 peso minimum.

don't miss: the bartenders make a brisk mojito, a mean margarita, and can serve up just about any cocktail you order with their broad bar selection.

meet me @: Bandido's is easy to find at the edge of Zihua Centro on Cinco de Mayo, next to the Catholic Church and across from the Artisan Market (not to be confused with the central Mercado).

filed under: @zihua- @zihua- bars- casual dining- live music- nightlife- restaurants by Isahrai (Oct 06)

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($$$) Mere steps away from the Artisan's Market, transport yourself from Zihuatanejo Centro to a trendy downtown lounge for drinks on the velvet chairs of Caprichos Grill House. After a cocktail or two, continue the experience by stepping into the candlelit hacienda-style patio for dinner from Caprichos unique mesquite grilled menu. The decor, ambiance, and food all take the very meaning of Capricho -- "on a whim" -- to an irresistible level. The patio's fountains, lush plants, art, and copper chandeliers will lure you to stay a while longer for another glass of wine from their broad selection, another cup of espresso, another taste of their homemade ice cream, or another song from the intimate live weekend performances.

just the facts, ma'am: Caprichos is open every day from 4 until 11 PM with live music on weekends.

don't miss: whether you just have a cocktail or indulge in a 4 course meal, Capricho's menu is eclectic, inspired by world music and the flavors of a mesquiite grill. The owner, Joaquin, is on the constant lookout for new wines, new tastes, and new music to expand the restaurant's charms.

meet me @: Avendida 5 de Mayo #4 in Zihua Centro next to the Catholic Church (Iglesia de Guadalupe).

filed under: @zihua- @zihua- casual dining- fancy schmancy- live music- restaurants by Isahrai (Oct 07)

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