Guatemala City has some excellent restaurants. As with the hotels, the best and most varied selection of restaurants is to be found in zonas 9 and 10. Likewise, there are some good restaurants in Zona 1, particularly for lunch, as the area can be a little sketchy at night. One excellent exception is the 2-square-block pedestrian mall area of Zona 4 known as Cuatro Grados Norte, which is full of bars, restaurants, shops, and art galleries.

For those with problems adjusting to the local flavor, you'll find no shortage of fast-food chains, including McDonald's, Burger King, Pizza Hut, Wendy's, Quiznos, and KFC. If you want to sample a local version, try the fried chicken at Pollo Campero.

Zonas 9 & 10

In addition to the places listed, the restaurant at the boutique hotel Otelito Casa Santa Clara, 12a Calle 4-51, Zona 10 (tel. 502/2339-1811) is an excellent, upscale fusion restaurant with many local fans. For French food, try Jean François, Diagonal 6 13-63, Zona 10 (tel. 502/2333-4786), and for sushi try Sushi-Itto, 4a Av. 16-01, Zona 10 (tel. 502/2368-0181). Refined Italian food can be found at Pecorino, 11a Calle 3-36, Zona 10 (tel. 502/2360-3035). And for excellent Continental fare served up in an elegant, yet relaxed, open-air garden setting, Carpaccio, 14a Calle 0-25, Zona 10 (tel. 502/2368-0690), is a good bet.

Zona 1

Inexpensive -- For a quick coffee break or light bite, head to Cafetería Patsy, 6a Calle 5-13, Zona 1 (tel. 502/2285-0331), a simple and bright cafe on a busy corner of the Plaza Mayor.

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.