A neighborhood seafood spot in the Del Maestro area of Xalapa, known among locals for coconut shrimp and paper-wrapped fish fillets.
Nicos Restaurante is a neighborhood seafood spot in the Del Maestro area of Xalapa, popular with locals rather than tourists, and its menu draws on Veracruzano coastal cooking adapted for an inland city. Filete de pescado empapelado (fish fillet baked in paper), camarones al coco, and ceviche veracruzano are the dishes that have built its local reputation over the years. The dining room is modest and neighborhood-oriented, with simple furnishings, a relaxed weeknight atmosphere, and busier weekend service when families and regulars fill the tables; there is no dress code and no dedicated wine list, with beer and aguas frescas covering the drinks menu. Reservations are recommended on weekends given the restaurant's popularity with locals, while weekday visits are typically walk-in without difficulty.
Signature dishes
- Filete de pescado empapelado
- Camarones al coco
- Ceviche veracruzano
Good to know
- Known for
- Neighborhood seafood restaurant popular with Xalapa locals
- Hours
- Daily, lunch and dinner
- Reservations
- Recommended on weekends
Location
J.J. Coronado 301, Del Maestro, 91040 Xalapa, Ver.
19.5230, -96.9170 View on map
Highlights
- Camarones al coco, a coconut-shrimp specialty
- Filete de pescado empapelado, fish baked in paper
- Popular neighborhood spot in the Del Maestro area
- Loyal local following rather than a tourist crowd
Tips for visiting
- Reserve ahead on weekends, when the restaurant fills with local regulars
- Weekday visits are generally easy to walk into
- Camarones al coco is the dish most requested by first-time visitors
- The restaurant is oriented toward locals, offering a more authentic neighborhood experience
Accessibility
The restaurant is at street level with simple table seating, generally manageable for wheelchair users.
Frequently asked questions
Is it touristy?
No, it is a neighborhood restaurant known mainly among Xalapa locals rather than a tourist destination.
Should I reserve ahead?
Reservations are recommended for weekends, though weekday visits are usually easy to walk into.
What should I order?
Camarones al coco and filete de pescado empapelado are the dishes most associated with the restaurant.
Is it formal?
No, it is a casual, modest neighborhood restaurant with no dress code.