The Best Restaurants in Playa del Carmen as a Local: A True Taste of the Town

When it comes to find the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen, it’s easy to get lost in the countless options available. There are famous and well-known restaurants, but there are also true culinary gems that go beyond the tourist hotspots.

From authentic Mexican eateries to international delights, Playa del Carmen offers a variety of flavors, atmospheres, and price ranges that cater to every taste. Let’s dive into some of the hidden gems and well-loved spots that locals cherish.

What food is Playa del Carmen known for?

Playa is a melting pot of flavors, blending traditional Mexican cuisine with international influences. You’ll find everything from hearty tacos and fresh seafood to exquisite Italian dishes and mouthwatering Asian cuisine.

While the town is famous for its seafood and tacos, the diverse restaurant scene means there’s something for everyone, whether you’re craving local delicacies or global favorites. Don’t forget eating local food is one of the best things to do in Playa del Carmen.

Is it expensive to eat out?

Eating out in Playa del Carmen can be as affordable or as luxurious as you want it to be. While there are upscale restaurants offering gourmet experiences, there are also plenty of budget-friendly spots where you can enjoy a delicious meal without breaking the bank. Let’s explore both ends of the spectrum, focusing on places that offer great value and exceptional quality.

The Best Mexican Restaurants in Playa del Carmen

La Cueva del Chango

• Location: Calle 38, between 5th Ave. & 1st Ave.
• Average Rating: 4.5 stars
• Highlights: Known for its charming jungle-like setting and a menu that focuses on fresh, organic ingredients, La Cueva del Chango is a beloved spot among locals. Their breakfast and brunch options, featuring traditional Mexican dishes, are a must-try.
• Discover more: @lacuevadelchango

El Fogón

• Location: Av. Constituyentes, between 25th & 30th Ave.
• Average Rating: 4.7 stars
• Highlights: If you’re looking for authentic Mexican tacos, El Fogon is the place to be. Their al pastor tacos are legendary, offering a burst of flavors that keep both locals and visitors coming back for more. It’s affordable, delicious, and always lively.
• Discover more: @el_fogon_playa_del_carmen

Mariscos y Clamatos El Doctorcito

• Location: Av. 25 & Calle 12 Nte.
• Average Rating: 4.6 stars
• Highlights: Specializing in seafood, this local favorite offers some of the best seafood dishes in Playa. The ceviche is a standout, and the casual, laid-back atmosphere makes it a perfect spot to unwind with friends.
• Discover more: @eldoctorcitoplaya

Mezcla

• Location: Calle 3 Sur, between 40th Ave. & 45th Ave.
• Average Rating: 4.5 stars
• Highlights: Mezcla brings a contemporary twist to traditional Mexican cuisine. The fusion dishes here are creative and beautifully presented, making it a go-to for a more modern dining experience.
• Discover more: @mezcla_pdc

Anafre Cocina a la Leña y Vino

• Location: Calle 23 Sur, between Diagonal 85 Sur & 85 Bis, Ejido.
• Average Rating: 4.8 stars
• Highlights: This cozy spot is famous for its wood-fired dishes, especially the grilled meats. Pair your meal with one of their excellent wines, and you’re in for a treat. The intimate setting also makes it one of the more romantic restaurants in Playa del Carmen.
• Discover more: @anafre_lenayvino

La Perla Pixan Cuisine

• Location: Av. 38 Nte, between 5th Ave. & the Beach.
• Average Rating: 4.7 stars
• Highlights: La Perla Pixan offers an authentic Mexican experience with a focus on indigenous recipes. The mezcal selection is extensive, and their mole dishes are highly recommended.
• Discover more: @laperlapixan

Los Sánchez

• Location: Av. 38 Nte, between 5th Ave. & the Beach.
• Average Rating: 4.6 stars
• Highlights: This taquería is a local secret, known for its delicious tacos, great mixology, and friendly service. It’s a simple, no-frills spot where the focus is on delivering great flavors.
• Discover more: @lossanchezmx

Los Hijos de la Birria

• Location: 30 Av. & 1ra Sur.
• Average Rating: 4.5 stars
• Highlights: If you’re a fan of birria, this place is a must-visit. Their rich, flavorful birria tacos, birriamen, and quesabirrias are the talk of the town, making it a perfect stop for a hearty, satisfying meal.
• Discover more: @losoriginaleshijosdelabirria

Las Ahogadas de Playa

• Location: Avenida Colosio & 115th Ave.
• Average Rating: 4.4 stars
• Highlights: Specializing in the famous tortas ahogadas (drowned sandwiches) and carne en su jugo from Guadalajara, this is a hidden gem that offers a taste of something different. The spicy, tangy flavors are a hit among those looking to try something beyond the usual tacos.
• Discover more: @las.ahogadas.de.playa

Cantina Don PP

• Location: Calle 14 Nte bis & Carretera Federal.
• Average Rating: 4.3 stars
• Highlights: For a classic cantina experience, Don PP is the place to go. With live music, a wide selection of beers, and a menu full of traditional Mexican dishes, it’s a great spot to soak in the local vibe.
• Discover more: @donppplaya

Plantivoros

• Location: Calle 14 Nte Bis, between 40th & 45th Ave.
• Average Rating: 4.8 stars
• Highlights: This plant-based restaurant is a hit with locals looking for vegan mexican food and flavorful options. Their vegan tacos and tortas are bursting with fresh ingredients, making it a popular choice among the health-conscious crowd.
• Discover more: @plantivorosvegan

Carnitas Silao

• Location: Av. Petempich & Calle Benito Juárez, Nueva Creación
• Average Rating: 4.3 stars
• Highlights: Carnitas Silao is a restaurant where you can find traditional carnitas and lamb barbacoa, typical of central Mexico. With a rustic, comfortable atmosphere and reasonable prices, this spot is perfect for enjoying a truly Mexican lunch.
• Discover more: @carnitas_silao_playa

Top Picks for International Cuisine: The Best Restaurants in Playa del Carmen

La Brocherie

• Location: 15th Ave. between Calle 6 & 4.
• Average Rating: 4.9 stars
• Highlights: A little slice of France in Playa del Carmen, La Brocherie is famous for its rotisserie chicken and homemade sauces. The quaint atmosphere and excellent service make it a hidden gem.
• Discover more: @labrocherierotisserie

Osteria de Roma

• Location: Calle 6 Nte, between 20th & 25th Ave.
• Average Rating: 4.7 stars
• Highlights: When it comes to finding an authentic Italian restaurant in Playa del Carmen, Osteria de Roma is a top choice. You will find pastas, salads and pizzas that will transport you straight to Italy. This one is a favorite for romantic dinners.
• Discover more: @osteria_de_roma

Salento Restaurant & Pizzería

• Location: Av. CTM between Calle Cozumel & Calle Flamingos
• Average Rating: 4.6 stars
• Highlights: Another Italian favorite, Salento offers a cozy ambiance and a menu filled with classic Italian dishes. Their seafood pasta and flavorful pizzas are particularly popular, showcasing the best of local and imported ingredients.
• Discover more: @salentorestaurante

Ferron’s Jerk Chicken

• Location: 10th Av. between Calle 30 & 32
• Average Rating: 4.8 stars
• Highlights: For a taste of the Caribbean, Ferron’s Jerk Chicken is unbeatable. Their jerk chicken is packed with flavor, and the casual, outdoor seating area adds to the laid-back vibe.
• Discover more: @ferronsjerkchicken

La Ronda Parrilla Uruguaya

• Location: Av. Chemuyil between Av. CTM & Av. Colosio, Bosque Real
• Average Rating: 4.5 stars
• Highlights: If you’re in the mood for a juicy steak, La Ronda Uruguaya offers some of the best in town. Their grilled meats are cooked to perfection, making it a go-to spot for meat lovers.
• Discover more: @parrillauruguaya.laronda

Sakura Ramen

• Location: Calle 8 Nte between 20th Av. & 25th Av.
• Average Rating: 4.7 stars
• Highlights: Craving some Asian cuisine? Sakura Ramen brings authentic Japanese flavors to Playa del Carmen. Their ramen is rich and comforting, making it a popular choice on cooler evenings.
• Discover more: @sakura_ramenmex

MU Burgerhouse

• Location: Av. 40 Nte, between Calle 4 & 6
• Average Rating: 4.6 stars
• Highlights: MU Burgerhouse is known for its gourmet burgers made with high-quality ingredients. The creative toppings and juicy patties make it a hit among locals looking for a hearty meal.
• Discover more: @muburguerhouse

Konamon

• Location: 15th Av Nte, between Calle 10 y 8 Nte.
• Average Rating: 4.5 stars
• Highlights: Specializing in Japanese street food, Konamon offers something different with their delicious okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancakes) and takoyaki. It’s a hidden gem for those seeking a unique dining experience.
• Discover more: @konamon_restaurant

India Jones

• Location: 5th Av between Calle 30 & 32 Nte.
• Average Rating: 4.4 stars
• Highlights: India Jones is where you’ll find authentic Indian cuisine with all the rich, spicy flavors you’d expect. Their curries and naan are especially popular, and the vibrant atmosphere adds to the experience.
• Discover more: @indiajonesmx

Tahini

• Location: Calle 38 Nte, between 5th & the beach
• Average Rating: 4.7 stars
• Highlights: Tahini offers Mediterranean delights in a beautiful airy setting. Their falafel and hummus are standout dishes, making it a great option for vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
• Discover more: @tahinirestaurante

Exploring the restaurant scene in Playa del Carmen is like taking a culinary journey around the world, all within the same town. Whether you’re craving Mexican classics, Italian comfort food, or something a bit more exotic, there’s no shortage of amazing places to eat.

For locals, these are some of the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen, spots they keep coming back to—each offering its own unique flavors, ambiance, and experience. So next time you’re in town, skip the tourist traps and dine like a local at these hidden gems and beloved eateries. !Buen provecho!