Sitting in a row of Mexican eateries, La Parroquia (Av. Central at Calle Central Pte., 8 a.m.–11 p.m. Mon.–Sat., 9 a.m.–11 p.m. Sun., US$3–6) is a cut above the rest. Food is prepared to order, portions are hearty, and the service is attentive. Best of all, there are outdoor tables, all with great views of the central plaza.

If all the tables at La Parroquia are full, try Helen’s Enrique (Av. Central 19, tel. 963/632-1730, 8 a.m.–midnight daily, US$6–10) at the far end of the same block. It offers a good variety of international and Mexican dishes that are reliable, if not particularly notable.

Restaurant Alis (Calle Central Pte. near 2a Av. Nte. Pte., no phone, 8 a.m.–6 p.m. daily, US$3–5) is a locals’ favorite, offering tasty Chiapanecan meals at good prices. Best of all is the daily comida corrida, lunch specials that include soup, choice of main dish, dessert, and drink (US$4.25).

Matisse (1a Av. Pte. Nte. 14, tel. 963/632-5172, 2 p.m.–midnight Tues.–Sat., 2–6 p.m. Sun., US$8–16) is a chic restaurant with streamlined furnishings, billowing fabrics, and Matisse-inspired artwork on the walls. The class extends to the food—Italian gourmet all the way—with a number of creative pasta and meat dishes to choose from. It’s a particularly bright spot on Comitán’s restaurant scene.

Mercado Primero de Mayo (2a Av. Ote. Nte. at Calle Central Ote., 6 a.m.–5 p.m. daily) is a classic Mexican market selling all sorts of fresh vegetables and fruits, meats, and breads. It makes a good place to stock up on snacks or meals if you’re heading to the Lagunas de Montebello (or beyond) for a while.