21 Best Restaurants in Playa del Carmen, Mexico in 2024
The restaurants in Playa del Carmen represent nothing short of a foodie's paradise, boasting a vibrant culinary scene that caters to every taste bud. Get ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure as we unveil the crème de la crème of restaurants in Playa del Carmen.
Whether you're a seasoned foodie or simply looking to savor the flavors of Mexico, our carefully curated list of 21 top-notch restaurants in Playa del Carmen will guide you through the best dining experiences this coastal gem has to offer.
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21 Best Places To Eat in Playa Del Carmen, Mexico
1. Los Aguachiles
Craving fresh seafood at the restaurants in Playa del Carmen? Look no further than Los Aguachiles! This popular spot boasts rave reviews for its delicious Mexican dishes with a focus on seafood. It also has vegetarian options.
The Vibe
Open-air and relaxed, Los Aguachiles offers a casual atmosphere perfect for enjoying a meal with friends or family.
What to Order
Go for the Aguachiles, the namesake dish. Choose from various types of marinated shrimp or other seafood in a citrusy, slightly spicy sauce. The Mexican street food like fish tacos and the smoky and tangy mezcal margarita are what make this one of the best seafood restaurants in Playa del Carmen.
Los Aguachiles | Multiple Locations | $$
2. El Fogon
Considered one of the great restaurants in Playa del Carmen, El Fogon is known for its delicious and authentic Mexican fare. The chefs use wood fire to slow-roast meats and offer a wide range of options, from tacos to family-style platters at reasonable prices.
The Vibe
With vibrant colors and a casual setting, El Fogon is an amazing restaurant in Playa del Carmen for a lively and friendly dining experience.
What to Order
The slow-roasted pork tacos are a must-try. For something a bit heartier, have the carne asada plate with grilled onions and fresh tortillas followed by a steaming bowl of traditional pozole, a rich Mexican stew.
El Fogos | Multiple Locations | $$$
3. Don Sirloin
In Playa del Carmen for some seriously satisfying eats? A local favorite among restaurants in Playa del Carmen, Don Sirloin offers generous portions of grilled meats and classic Mexican dishes. It's open late, perfect for grabbing a late-night bite.
The Vibe
Don Sirloin offers a casual, open-air atmosphere that's perfect for a laid-back meal.
What to Order
Dive into the signature "tequiza," a massive platter overflowing with grilled meats, onions, cheese and tortillas or arrachera tacos, with perfectly seasoned, tender steak and all the fixings. Renowned as one of the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen, the guacamole is known for being fresh and flavorful.
Don Sirloin | Multiple Locations | $$$
4. Amate 38
You’ll find authentic regional Yucatan cuisine in a beautiful, tropical setting served in this local gem. One of the top-rated restaurants in Playa del Carmen, Amate 38 focuses on fresh, local ingredients and traditional recipes, with options for vegetarians and vegans too.
The Vibe
A stylish yet relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a special occasion or a memorable meal with friends.
What to Order
Try the cochinita pibil from this sensational restaurant in Playa del Carmen and also the panuchos de pescado. Don't miss out on the refreshing papadzules — rolled tortillas stuffed with pumpkin seeds.
Amate 38 | Calle 38 Norte entre, 5 Av. Nte. y, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710, Playa del Carmen, Mexico | $$$
5. La Trattoria Palacio
If you're craving a taste of Italy, look no further than La Trattoria Palacio, one of the finest Italian restaurants in Playa del Carmen. This upscale spot offers a delicious menu of homemade pastas, pizzas and classic Italian fare, featuring live music for a touch of ambiance.
The Vibe
Elegant and inviting, La Trattoria Palacio provides a romantic and sophisticated dining experience.
What to Order
Start with the flavorful caprese salad. The pollo al mattone or the fettuccine Alfredo with creamy Parmesan sauce helps rank the spot as one of the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen.
La Trattoria Palacio | Platón 270, Polanco, Polanco II Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11530 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico | $$$
6. El Sabrosito del Fogon
A regional gem, El Sabrosito del Fogon is one of the top-rated restaurants in Playa del Carmen, praised for its authentic Mexican cuisine at local prices. This family-friendly spot offers a wide range of dishes, from tacos to regional specialties, all made with fresh ingredients.
The Vibe
El Sabrosito del Fogon offers a casual and friendly atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed meal.
What to Order
The al pastor, mole poblano and the elote, all tantalizing options, are what make this one of the spiciest restaurants in Playa del Carmen.
El Sabrosito del Fogon | Av. Constituyentes lote 6, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77720 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico | $$$
7. El Chuletón
One of the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen for meat lovers, El Chuletón is renowned for its succulent grilled steaks and a menu focused on all things meaty. It also offers a variety of Mexican classics and vegetarian options at budget-friendly prices.
The Vibe
El Chuletón offers a casual and lively atmosphere, perfect for a fun and satisfying meal with friends.
What to Order
The churrasco Argentino (a skirt steak marinated in chimichurri sauce), the pollo a la plancha (grilled chicken breast with fresh toppings) and the elite (fire-roasted corn on the cob) with all the classic Mexican fixings are just some of the fresh choices that make this a firm contender among the top restaurants in Playa del Carmen.
El Chuletón | Avenida Constituyentes 180 Loc. 13 Plaza Las Perlas, Playa del Carmen 77710 Mexico | $$
8. La Perla Pixan
Another hidden gem among the many restaurants in Playa del Carmen that fuses traditional Mexican cuisine, La Perla Pixan focuses on fire-grilled dishes and an impressive selection of mezcal. With a commitment to fresh, local ingredients, this restaurant is a great choice for a unique and flavorful dining experience.
The Vibe
La Perla Pixan offers a lively and festive atmosphere, with open-air seating, thatched roofs and sometimes even live music.
What to Order
Delve into the namesake dish, La Perla Pixan, featuring various marinated seafood options, or opt for the arrachera tacos — perfectly seasoned and tender steak served on fresh tortillas. The delicious tamarind mezcal margarita is also worth ordering.
La Perla Pixan | Calle 38 Norte Entre 5ta y la playa, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77720 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico | $$$
9. El Patio de la Milanesa
This popular spot offers a wide variety of milanesas alongside other Argentinian specialties and delicious empanadas. One of the top restaurants in Playa del Carmen for generous portions, El Patio de la Milanesa wants you to come hungry!
The Vibe
Cozy and welcoming, the joint features a cute interior and sometimes even live music, creating a delightful atmosphere.
What to Order
Start with the empanadas followed with the Milanesa a la Napolitana, a classic and delicious choice, or the Milanesa Patagonia, featuring a blue cheese and pear topping for a sweet and savory combination.
El Patio de la Milanesa | Calle 28 Nte Manzana 88 Lote 3-Local 111, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77720 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico | $$$
10. Corazón Contento
There are two Corazon Contento outlets, both revered among the great restaurants of Playa del Carmen and Cozumel. Both focus on healthy and delicious vegan and vegetarian Mexican cuisine made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. They also have some gluten-free options.
The Vibe
Corazon Contento offers a tropical and welcoming atmosphere, perfect for a relaxed and healthy meal.
What to Order
Start your meal with the refreshing house-made juices. For your main course, the elite burger is a popular choice. Craving something lighter? The waffle with seasonal fruits and agave nectar sounds delightful!
Corazón Contento | Multiple locations | $$$
11. Birria de la 30
A local favorite and one of the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen, Birria de la 30 is known for its delicious stewed and shredded birria (savory meat dish) and rich, flavorful consommé (broth). While some reviews mention a wait, most agree the birria is worth it!
The Vibe
Birria de la 30 offers a casual, no-frills setting perfect for a quick and satisfying bite.
What to Order
Try the Birria de Res (slow-cooked beef birria) or the quesa birria (birria filling stuffed inside a melted quesadilla). Don't forget a cup of the consommé to warm your soul.
Birria de la 30 | 30 Avenida Nte. 4, Tohoku, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico | $$$
12. Señor Taco
Hitting the streets for restaurants in Playa del Carmen serving no-nonsense tacos? Look for Señor Taco, a local favorite with rave reviews for its authentic and affordable Mexican eats. It boasts a wide variety of fillings and has vegetarian choices, too.
The Vibe
Busy and friendly, Señor Taco offers a casual atmosphere perfect for grabbing a quick and delicious bite.
What to Order
The tacos come on fresh tortillas and you can choose from a variety of fillings like juicy carne asada or savory carnitas. Don't forget to try the house-made salsas for an extra kick of flavor.
Señor Taco | Calle Fernando Montes de Oca # 22 Colonia Condesa, Delegación Cuauhtémoc, 06140 Mexico | $$$
13. Toro Riviera Maya
Seeking a taste of modern Latin cuisine in the restaurants in Playa del Carmen? An upscale restaurant featuring innovative dishes, Toro Riviera Maya is inspired by various Latin American regions, all made with fresh, imported ingredients.
The Vibe
Elegant and sophisticated, Toro Riviera Maya offers a perfect ambiance with stunning ocean views.
What to Order
Indulge in the signature short rib tacos with a unique twist or go for the filete a la brasa, a dish that makes this one of the best Latin American restaurants in Playa del Carmen.
Toro Riviera Maya | Paseo Kanai 15, Solidaridad, Playa Del Carmen 77730 México | $$$$
14. Piaggia Playa del Carmen
One of the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen, this beachfront restaurant offers a unique Italian-Mediterranean culinary experience with creative dishes prepared by renowned Chef Eugenio Villafaña. The restaurant boasts fresh ingredients and impeccable service.
The Vibe
Romantic and elegant, Piaggia offers a breathtaking oceanfront setting that's perfect for a special occasion.
What to Order
Start with the crowd-pleasing octopus carpaccio for a light and flavorful appetizer. For your main course, dive into the pappardelle al ragù di cinghiale — a hearty pasta dish featuring wild boar ragù — or the pescado a la plancha — perfectly grilled fish with seasonal sides.
Piaggia Playa del Carmen | Edificio IT Beach, Albatros, 77720 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico | $$$
15. ITZAM
ITZAM celebrates regional flavors using fresh, seasonal ingredients sourced from local farmers and fishermen. One of the top-rated restaurants in Playa del Carmen, ITZAM offers a sustainable menu with innovative takes on classic dishes, catering to adventurous and discerning palates.
The Vibe
ITZAM boasts an elegant yet relaxed atmosphere, perfect for a memorable meal with stunning views (depending on your table location).
What to Order
Experience the freshest flavors with the seasonally-changing aguachiles (lightly marinated seafood) and the bone marrow rubbed with adobo. Vegetarians will love the inventive plant-based options on the menu.
ITZAM | Paseo Kanai 16, 77740 Q.R., Mexico | $$$$
16. Tauro
Carnivores rejoice! Tauro Steakhouse, one of the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen, focuses on exceptional cuts of meat with an emphasis on dry-aged steaks but also offers a raw bar and Mexican-inspired dishes. High-quality ingredients and classic techniques guarantee a satisfying meal.
The Vibe
Elegant and sophisticated, Tauro provides a perfect ambiance for a special occasion with a focus on attentive service.
What to Order
Start with a selection of fresh oysters from the raw bar. Afterwards, indulge in the signature dry-aged ribeye or the Chilean sea bass with a citrusy sauce.
Tauro | Hotel Fairmont Mayakoba, Carretera Federal Km 298, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico | $1000+
17. Sonora Prime
Craving a high-end steakhouse experience while exploring the restaurants in Playa del Carmen? Catering to carnivores with a focus on premium cuts of meat, Sonora Prime includes classic New York strips and indulgent Kobe options. It also boasts a wide selection of appetizers and delicious sides.
The Vibe
A sophisticated yet inviting atmosphere, perfect for a special occasion or a memorable meal with friends.
What to Order
Go all out with the signature bone-in ribeye or try the wagyu tomahawk steak — a decadent and flavorful choice. Devour special dishes at this amazing steakhouse restaurant in Playa del Carmen and don't forget to order some chimichurri sauce on the side.
Sonora Prime | Av 5 norte S/N, esquina, Calle 12 Nte, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico | $$$$
18. Nektar at Vidanta Riviera Maya
Nestled in Vidanta Riviera Maya resort, Nektar offers a taste of authentic Yucatan cuisine. Rated highly among the restaurants in Playa del Carmen, this eatery boasts a menu rich with regional specialties alongside creative takes on classic cocktails.
The Vibe
With colorful décor and lush jungle surroundings, Nektar offers a lively and energetic atmosphere.
What to Order
Experience a Yucatecan restaurant in Playa del Carmen with the namesake dish — Nektar — featuring marinated seafood in a citrusy and slightly spicy sauce. Alternatively, savor the cochinita pibil — slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote paste — before finishing with the tamarind mezcal margarita, a smoky and tangy twist on a classic.
Nektar | Carretera Federal Cancún Playa del Carmen Km 52, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico | $$$
19. Zapote Bar
Nestled in the Rosewood Mayakoba resort, the award-winning Zapote Bar, one of the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen, honors the region's heritage with innovative takes on Mayan flavors and utilizes fresh, local ingredients. They also boast a menu of delicious small plates and snacks.
The Vibe
Tropical chic with a relaxed, living room feel, perfect for enjoying a craft cocktail or bite with friends.
What to Order
At this wonderful Mayan restaurant in Playa del Carmen, start with a refreshing venado cocktail, featuring oregano-infused rum and local citrus. Try the signature dish — the cochinita pibil tostada — and don't miss the house-made guacamole, known for its fresh and flavorful ingredients.
Zapote Bar | Carretera Tulum — Cancún Carretera Federal, Cancun — Chetumal Km 298, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico | $$$$
20. Asadero El Pollo
Craving perfectly grilled chicken on your tour of restaurants in Playa del Carmen? Asadero El Pollo is a local favorite known for its delicious and affordable rotisserie chicken, served with a variety of sides like rice, beans and tortillas. The chefs also offer vegetarian options.
The Vibe
Asadero El Pollo offers a casual, friendly atmosphere and a quick, satisfying meal, making it one of the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen.
What to Order
Dive into the signature pollo asado — a juicy and flavorful rotisserie chicken and add on refried beans and fresh rice. Go for the rajas con crema — strips of poblano peppers and onions simmered in a creamy sauce.
Asadero El Pollo | 20 Avenida Nte. 652, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico | $$$
21. El Pirata
Dive into fresh, homemade seafood at El Pirata, one of the locally renowned restaurants in Playa del Carmen. Be prepared to wait for a table, but rest assured it's worth it for a taste of authentic Mexican seafood.
The Vibe
El Pirata offers a casual and lively atmosphere, with local street musicians often adding to the ambiance.
What to Order
Seafood options include the classic coctel mixto, the pescado tikin xic and a side of patacones — making it one of the most enjoyable restaurants in Playa del Carmen.
El Pirata | Calle 40 Mza 143 LT 7 Col.Zazil-Ha Entre 5 Av Y 10 Av, Playa del Carmen 77710 Mexico | $$$
Learn To Cook Playa del Carmen Foods
While dining out at the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen may seem convenient, consider deepening your culinary journey by taking cooking classes in Playa del Carmen. Learn the secrets behind the region's most beloved dishes. Not only will you gain valuable cooking skills and learn some of the secrets behind your favorite restaurants in Playa del Carmen, you'll also gain a deeper appreciation for the local cuisine and culture.
Join 200,000+ Culinary Enthusiasts
Exploring the culinary landscape of Mexico is a true adventure, with the restaurants in Playa del Carmen offering unique flavors and experiences. Whether you’re in the mood for fresh seafood by the beach, authentic Mexican cuisine or an innovative fusion of flavors, the restaurants in Playa del Carmen have something to satisfy every palate.
As you plan your visit, be sure to indulge in the diverse dining options that make this destination a food lover's paradise. With so many outstanding restaurants in Playa del Carmen, your taste buds are in for a delightful journey that you'll remember long after your trip ends.
For even more ways to explore Playa del Carmen and beyond, check out other experiences happening on Cozymeal.
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