Patio Mexica

Monica’s cooking class and market tour was excellent! Such a great way to see and learn more about Zihuatanejo. We particularly loved the market tour, where Monica’s son took us on a short tour of downtown and we got to try several different foods. We also loved the local coffee shop where Monica taught us about growing coffee beans, cacao, and we got to try several samples of coffee, chocolate, molasses, and more! This was definitely a highlight of our trip and would absolutely do it again. Monica then taught us how to make several dishes local to the region, which were delicious! Would highly recommend.

Monica opened her home and shared stories, recipes, and her love of Mexican cuisine. She made me feel as if she were my abuelita!

Spent 10 days in Zihuatanejo and this was the best thing we did. Understand that Patio Mexica is not so much a restaurant as it is a class. A real, authentic experience. We met Monica at her patio (enter through Rufos Grill) and she shared the menu plan and were shortly off to the local market where she showed us local foods - even items not part of our menu. She was happy and proud to show us her town and heritage. It was like having our own, personal guide. Once we got back to her patio we cooked civeche and tuna tacos. Honestly the best tacos I’ve ever had. (We attended a different cooking class while in Mexico but this was far superior because Monica’s recipes were superb and many steps (in other words, she did not just whip out easy food to get us out the door)). If you are the type of traveler that likes to experience local culture and not just pool-side waiters, this is a great thing to do. Check out her website for more details including how to book.

All the rave reviews are true! This market tour, cooking demonstration, and the quality of the food exceeded all expectations. Monica and her crew are friendly, professional and share their love of their culture and homeland. Gracias for a wonderful time.

We did 2 cooking classes with Patio Mexica in March and we loved it! The food was amazing and the tour of the Mercado was essential for us gringos, it opened up so much of Zihua to us. We shopped exclusively in the Mercado after the tour. Highly recommend doing these classes early in your trip! That way you can schedule a second or third later on :) You do want to set up the times with them in advance because they fill up.

Lovely shady garden setting. Monica (chef) has authentic Mexican recipes and amusing ancedotes and wisdom passed down from her grandmother. She has a mirror angled above her stovetop so that all can watch her and prepare their own food step by step. Some classes include a shopping trip to the nearby outdoor market for fresh veggies and other ingredients. Had a great time, a tasty lunch and met some nice people as well. Bravo!

The best homemade salsa that I have ever had. Awesome catch of the day fish, cooked on a mesquite grill. We will be back many times.

Monica offers a great Mexican cooking class and is a darling teacher about food, culture and Zihuatenejo. Don't miss a chance to enjoy this experience.