Restaurante El Fenicio (Av. de los Héroes at Calle Zaragoza, tel. 983/832-0026, 24 hours, US$4–10) is a local favorite, not only because it’s open around-the-clock but also because of its tasty, reliable meals. Be sure to try the “make your own taco” dish, a platter stacked with chicken, chorizo, beef, and melted cheese, served with tortillas and all the fixings.

A buzzing little place, Café Los Milagros (Calle Ignacio Zaragoza near Av. 5 de Mayo, tel. 983/832-4433, 7:30 a.m.–9 p.m. Mon.–Sat., 7:30 a.m.–1 p.m. Sun., US$3–7) serves up strong coffee drinks and especially good breakfasts. The best seating is outdoors—snag a table where you can, as it can get crowded fast.

Located on the breezy Malecón, Las Arracheras de Don José (Blvd. Bahía at Calle Josefa Ortiz de Dominguez, tel. 983/832-8895, 6 p.m.–1 a.m. daily, US$4–10) serves some of the best tacos in town. If in doubt, try the tacos de arrachera, broiled skirt steak marinated in lemon and spices, which can only be improved when downed with a cold beer. A perfect spot for a leisurely late-night meal.

Sergio’s Pizza (Av. 5 de Mayo at Av. Alvaro Obregón, tel. 983/832-0491, 7 a.m.–midnight daily, US$5–17) serves much more than pizza in its dimly lit dining room. The extensive menu covers the gamut of Italian and Mexican dishes—from meat lasagna to molletes rancheros. Meals are hearty, making it popular with families.

Super Bodegón (Calle Cristóbal Colón btwn Avs. Belice and de los Héroes, 5 a.m.–9 p.m. Mon.–Sat., 5 a.m.–3 p.m. Sun.) is a grocery store with an impressive selection of fresh fruits and veggies. Canned goods, dry foods, and basic toiletries also are sold.