($$$$) Cut into the hillside high above Playa La Ropa, the boutique hotel Amuleto’s combines beautiful architecture with the gorgeous views of the bay and Zihuatanejo to provide a unique dining experience. The elegantly prepared meals and fine wines are unforgettable.

just the facts, ma'am: Amuleto’s restaurant is open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner by reservation only. The dining area is small, so it is not suitable for large groups.

don't miss: if you can’t afford this upscale restaurant, go for a sunset cocktail – the view is breathtaking and worth the price.

meet me @: Amuleto Hotel is located on Calle Escénica #9, at the far end of Playa La Ropa.

filed under: @zihua- fancy schmancy- restaurants by Bev (Nov 06)

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($$$$) Bogart’s restaurant goes all out with the Casablanca theme (plus photos of Bogie himself thrown in for good measure) without going over the top, still maintaining the atmosphere of a cool, luxurious restaurant. The outer walls are lines with spacious booths and flowing sheer curtains, and the central part of the restaurant has a beautiful water feature and a grand piano. The food is delicious, and always elegantly presented. The piano music in the background completes the "Play it again, Sam" experience.

just the facts, ma'am: Bogart’s is open for dinner every night. It is one of the only restaurants in the area that is completely air-conditioned. Live piano music every night.

don't miss: The lobster and avocado appetizer arrives in an ice bowl, but is so delicious that it is guaranteed to be gone before the bowl melts. The duck is roasted with figs and is a delightful dish every time.

meet me @: Bogart’s is located on Ixtapa Blvd, next to Hotel Krystal in Ixtapa.

filed under: @ixtapa- fancy schmancy- restaurants by Bev (Nov 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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($$$$) A great option for an elegant night out with a bay view is the restaurant at Kau Kan. Walk through the front door to a breezy bar and foyer that has interesting art work and a great spot for watching the sunset. The restaurant is upstairs, and sports an even better view, and is tastefully decorated to provide a candlelit dinner. The menu has some exciting and unique dishes, such as fresh tuna rolls stuffed with sea bass tartar, black bean soup with chipotle cream, and stingray in black butter sauce.

just the facts, ma'am: Kau Kan is open daily for dinner from 6 pm and is open for lunch during high season. Reservations recommended but not required.

don't miss: The grilled tuna in balsamic vinaigrette is delicious, but the showstopper is the dessert: profiterole with vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce. Also, the view and the service are excellent.

meet me @: Kau Kan is located on the road to La Ropa, on the right-hand side, right after passing the turnoff to Hotel Irma.

filed under: @zihua- fancy schmancy- restaurants by Bev (Jul 07)

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($$$) La Gula is a celebration of gourmet food, beautiful quiet ambiance, and special touches. The restaurant practices the international tradition of "Slow Food" making everything fresh and to order in their open-plan hot and cold kitchens. Every dish is an original La Gula recipe from the empanadas criollas (pasta filled with shrimp, vegetables and string cheese, with pineapple & ginger cold sauce) to the mignon punta madera (filet mignon with "Atoyac" coffee sauce). The menu is filled with surprising appetizers, salads, soups, and entrees, topped off with truly decadant desserts. Most surprising, though, is the generous servings paired with equally generous prices.

just the facts, ma'am: the "Slow Food" practices guarantee fresh, savory dishes but also takes a while to prepare so bring patience, a good conversationalist as a dinner companion, and enjoy a glass or two of wine. Dinner is served Monday-Saturday, 5:30 - 10 pm.

don't miss: the amuse bouche, or "gift from the chef" is a whimsical miniature hor d'oeuvre that will alert you to the culinary delights ahead.

meet me @: La Gula is located on Calle Adelita in Colonia la Madera, a short walk from downtown. Just cross the second footbridge over the canal and look up to see the row of international flags. A narrow staircase on the left will lead you up to the 2nd floor restaurant.

filed under: @zihua- casual dining- fancy schmancy- restaurants by Isahrai (Oct 06)

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($$$$) Among the exclusive beachside villas of Club Intrawest on Playa La Ropa, you will find the restaurant Zi, with its tantalizing menu and breathtaking views. Zi’s menu includes a variety of fresh seafood, steaks and chicken, uniquely prepared to combine traditional local and regional tastes with global cuisine.

just the facts, ma'am: Zi is an open-air restaurant with lovely views of Playa La Ropa and the Bay. Zi is open daily for lunch and dinner

don't miss: the Tuna Trio – hot smoked tuna mousse, tuna tempura and tuna carpaccio is a delicious combination that leaves you wanting more. Also, the crispy coconut crusted calamari is one appetizer you don’t want to miss.

meet me @: Zi is located at Club Intrawest on Carretera Escénica, the road to Playa La Ropa.

filed under: @zihua- fancy schmancy- restaurants by Bev (Nov 06)

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