Quetzal

Quetzal sits just off the main road in Troncones, an easygoing café where mornings unfold slowly and the breeze moves easily through the shaded patio. It’s the kind of place people wander into for coffee and end up staying for breakfast — locals, surfers, travelers, and anyone looking for something fresh after a walk on the beach.

The menu leans colorful and nourishing. Chilaquiles share space with smoothie bowls, protein bowls, bright salads, and house favorites like the chicken burrito. Vegan and vegetarian options are well represented, but the appeal is broader than that. It’s simply good, satisfying café food made with care.

Behind the café is Zali, a young local entrepreneur who opened Quetzal at just 23. What began as a leap of faith — with the support of her parents — has quickly become one of the town’s most welcoming breakfast and lunch spots.

We asked Zali a few questions about how it all started.

How did Quetzal begin?

This project started from the desire to experience what it means to have a business of my own. With fear, very little experience, and very little capital, we decided to bet everything on creating it.

I say we because my biggest pillars in this journey have always been my parents.

What has your experience with Quetzal been like?

I feel very happy and proud to have this space at such a young age and to be able to share a little part of myself with people.

For me, Quetzal is like a baby that I have to take care of so it can grow and become something bigger. Running a restaurant at 23 years old is a challenge. Every day is a new adventure. Sometimes you think you have everything under control, but there are always small details that appear and need attention.

Of course there are moments of fear. But I try to see the positive side of that fear. It gives you strength and reminds you that you are capable of creating something meaningful.

I never imagined I would be able to do many of the things that are now part of my daily life. I didn’t have experience in many areas. But as I often say: it’s not about experience — it’s about never lacking love for what you do.

What do your customers think about Quetzal?

They love it. I’ve honestly been left without words hearing and reading the positive comments people share about our work and service.

Guests especially enjoy our coffee and smoothies. And when it comes to the food, one of the favorites is the chicken burrito.

Everything we do is made with care so that each person has a great experience. And we’re achieving that thanks to the amazing work of the Quetzal team.

What is your menu based on?

At Quetzal you can find everything from traditional Mexican dishes like chilaquiles to healthier options like our protein bowls and smoothies.

We enjoy creating new dishes and experimenting with drinks as well.

What’s next for Quetzal?

One of our goals is to open our own small bakery so we can offer better quality and a wider variety of baked goods.

We believe that small steps can take you to great places.

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