A link to the past is a good entry point, and is the most easy to get via virtual console. Ocarina of time is good too, but is kind hard to find, since there is no more reprints, but its still on the eshop. These 2 are probably the only universal acllaimed games in the series, all other have a big amount of critcism. Even ocarina get some, but not near as big as the others.
Another things to consider: 2D zelda games are hard. You will get lost pretty easily and some bosses really kick your ass. 3D zeldas are easier in combat and in puzzles, but have some handholding.
Most of the 2D games are shorter, specially the portables ones, but some of them doesn't involve zelda at all.
Almost every zelda game can be played independentily, since their history is not linked. But not all of them. The following games have some correlation between then, so consider that before chosing one.
Zelda 2 is a direct sequel to zelda 1.
Majora mask is a direct sequel to ocarina of time.
A link between worlds is a sequel to a link to the past
Phatom hourglass is a direct sequel to Wind waker
Oracle of ages and oracle of season can unlock content one from the other.
The minish cap, Four swords and four sword adventure are linked in some ways, but nothing too big.
"Hardware design isn’t about making the most powerful thing you can.
Today most hardware design is left to other companies, but when you make hardware without taking into account the needs of the eventual software developers, you end up with bloated hardware full of pointless excess. From the outset one must consider design from both a hardware and software perspective."
Gunpei Yoko
