Welcome to DonDe Franco
Welcome to DonDe Franco, a charming eatery nestled in Playa Zipolite, Oaxaca. Here, the fusion of authentic Italian cuisine and local flavors creates a delightful culinary experience. Patrons rave about the homemade pasta, particularly the gorgonzola sauce and ravioli, elevating Italian dining on the coast. The warm and attentive service enriches your visit, making every meal memorable. Signature offerings like their exquisite pizzas and decadent tiramisu showcase the passion behind each dish. With a relaxed ambiance perfect for any time of day, DonDe Franco invites you to savor fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors in a picturesque seaside setting.
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Playa Zipolite, 70902 Playa Zipolite, Oaxaca, Mexico Hotline: +52 958 584 3290
Welcome to DonDe Franco!
Nestled in the captivating shores of Playa Zipolite, DonDe Franco offers a culinary escape that perfectly blends local charm with a touch of Italian flair. Known for its warm and friendly atmosphere, this restaurant is not just a dining destination; it is a delightful experience waiting to be savored. The heart of this establishment is evident in the attentive service provided by the charming staff, including the chef, who not only takes pride in his culinary creations but also contributes personal touches, such as sourcing local mascarpone cheese for the tiramisu.
Culinary Highlights
The menu at DonDe Franco is a testament to authenticity. Guests rave about the variety of dishes, with standout options like the freshly baked pizzas and homemade pasta. Each bite tells a story: from the mouthwatering ravioli enveloped in exquisite gorgonzola sauce to the delectable sicliana pizza that leaves food lovers wanting more. Patrons have highlighted the shrimp pasta, praised for its freshly cooked ingredients and perfectly balanced tomato sauce. It’s clear that the chef’s dedication to quality is reflected in the food, ensuring every dish is not only appetizing but also memorable.
Refreshments and Desserts
What complements a good meal better than a refreshing drink? At DonDe Franco, patrons can indulge in locally made kombucha and thoughtful juices that enhance the dining experience. The smoothie bowl, lauded for its vibrant flavors and refreshing texture, is a must-try. Save room for dessert, as the recommended tiramisu delivers a satisfying conclusion to your meal, showcasing the chef’s commitment to locally sourced and exquisite ingredients.
Atmosphere and Service
Located on the bustling main strip, the ambiance of DonDe Franco is both inviting and relaxing. The mix of indoor and open-air seating creates a beachy vibe, making it an ideal spot for a casual meal or a romantic dinner. The staff’s welcoming demeanor adds a personal touch, turning first-time visitors into repeat customers, as demonstrated by many reviews highlighting warm interactions with staff like Angelica.
Conclusion
In summary, DonDe Franco is more than just a restaurant; it’s a delightful exploration of flavors, culture, and hospitality. While the prices may edge towards the higher side in some instances, the quality of both food and service justifies every peso. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, this culinary gem in Playa Zipolite is not to be missed!
After a few nights in Zipolite trying the local Oaxacan cuisine, my husband and I came here to switch things up and try some pizza instead. The staff is super charming, friendly, and attentive. We had lovely conversations with our server and also the chef, who is the son of the owner. The chef’s wife also makes the desserts. We loved everything - the pizza, the locally made kombucha that we tried, and service/staff - so much that we came back a few nights later to try the desserts. Don’t skip the tiramisu, which is made using a mascarpone cheese made and sourced by the chef’s friend! 10/10 experience!
Cute, busy place on the main drag. Very good chicken burger. That’s all.
This is my husband and I’s top favorite place to eat Italian food in Zipolite! Every bite is as delicious as the next! Authentic homemade pasta, and the best gorgonzola sauce. Get the raviolis you will not be disappointed. All the staff are super nice and friendly; especially Angelica in the kitchen. Every time we go she greets us with a smile HIGHLY RECOMMEND this restaurant!
Donde Franco Café Restaurante Playa Zipolite 70902, Playa Zipolite, Oaxaca Located in the shores of Zipolite, Donde Franco Café Restaurante offers a tranquil setting for a casual morning bite or a light afternoon meal. The menu leans toward healthy, beach-appropriate fare, with a few classic breakfast staples and fresh juices to match the coastal climate. Food & Beverage Huevos con Tocino The plate features two sunny-side-up eggs served alongside crispy bacon, a light vegetable salad, and your choice of bread or tortillas. The eggs were decently cooked, though they lacked adequate seasoning, which left the dish somewhat flat. The salad, while fresh, was minimally dressed and could have benefitted from a touch of acidity to lift the flavors. Overall, it’s a serviceable but unremarkable breakfast option. Smoothie Bowl A generous serving of mango smoothie topped with granola, banana, and mixed berries. This was easily the standout dish—vibrant, well-balanced, and thoughtfully assembled. The combination of textures and natural sweetness made it both refreshing and satisfying. Rating: 8/10 Beet El Yes (Juice) A cold-pressed blend of beetroot, orange, lemon, and carrot. The juice was fresh and invigorating, with the earthiness of the beet mellowed by the citrus elements. It’s a well-composed drink that delivers both nutrition and refreshment without being overly sweet. Rating: 7/10 Iced Coffee Unfortunately, the iced coffee did little to impress. While served cold, it lacked depth and richness, and was marred by the long wait time. It arrived well after the food had been served, detracting from the overall experience. Service Service at Donde Franco was notably slow, even during off-peak hours. While the staff were courteous, the lack of attentiveness and delayed drink orders suggest a need for better front-of-house coordination. This is an area that significantly hinders what could otherwise be a charming dining experience. 6/10 Ambiance The café has a relaxed, beachy vibe with both indoor and open-air seating. The upper level, which appears to open only during the evening, offers elevated views that likely enhance the ambiance after sunset. During the day, the space feels simple and unpretentious—well-suited to its surroundings, though not particularly memorable in design. 7/10 Pricing Pricing is fair and appropriate for the area. Portions are modest but satisfying, and the menu reflects a good balance of value and quality. Verdict Donde Franco Café Restaurante delivers fresh, honest food in a laid-back beach setting. The smoothie bowl is a standout, and the fresh juices are worth trying. However, inconsistent seasoning, lackluster coffee, and sluggish service keep the experience from reaching its full potential. With modest improvements in kitchen execution and service efficiency, this café could become a dependable favorite for visitors to Zipolite.
Amazing shrimp pasta. So hot from the kitchen I had to blow on it! That’s fresh! Tomato sauce was on point! Pasta could have been cooked with more salt, but that’s just a personal preference. Was VERY happy with the quality, and price.
Nice place, good food, everyone was very happy with their choices. Very affordable. We were 4, shared a bottle of the house white wine, with tip, 1000 pesos, only 250 each. I recommend.
Absolutely delicious pizza! My gosh. The price of course is not cheap but it is fair because the quality is very high. We had the siciliana pizza and savoured every moment. The service is warm and wonderful and the atmosphere of the place is gorgeous from the way it’s decorated to the lovely music. Bliss
Delicious tuna steak. Staff was very kind. Not the cheapest place in town, but good food and a clean atmosphere. Good options for veggies, maybe less so for vegans.