Aldea Corazón (Playa del Carmen)

Step into a magical environment surrounded by dream catchers, lush tropical greenery, ancient trees, and underground cenotes to enjoy a fusion of Mexican cuisine with a Mayan twist, featuring mouth-watering dishes like 'cochinita' (slow roasted pork), roasted cauliflower, and the catch of the day with bean sauce and pico de gallo, along with frozen cocktails and beers.

• Web:

  www.instagram.com/aldeacorazon

• Address:

  5 Avenida Norte, Centro, Playa del Carmen

• Phone:

  +52 984 803 1942

• Opening hours:

  Daily 8am–midnight

Alux (Playa del Carmen)

Nestled in a millenary underground cave with colourful lighting and wait for it...real bats, Alux offers visitors a once-in-a-lifetime fine dining experience in Playa del Carmen. The contemporary Mexican cuisine served here delights with fresh ingredients and a symphony of flavours, while the enchanting atmosphere transports guests to a realm of wonder and delight. While the experience is pricey, the unique cenote setting and exquisite food make it worth every penny.

• Web:

  www.aluxrestaurant.com

• E-mail:

  contacto@aluxrestaurant.com

• Address:

  Avenida Benito Juárez Mz 217 Lote 2, Ejidal, Playa del Carmen

• Phone:

  +52 984 206 1401

• Opening hours:

  Daily 6pm–11pm

Buccanos (Cozumel)

Buccanos is both a vibrant beach club where tourists can swim, snorkel, and enjoy the sun and a laid-back restaurant serving simple and modern Mexican food, with an infusion of local seafood and other street-food favourites. Everything here is made with fresh ingredients and their menu also features vegetarian and vegan options. Drop by Buccanos to sip some margaritas while watching the sunset or come here for a romantic dinner on their terrace overlooking the ocean and decorated with torches and candlelight.

• Web:

  https://www.instagram.com/buccanos/

• Address:

  Carretera San Juan Km 4.5, Zona Hotelera Norte, Cozumel

• Phone:

  +52 987 114 5607

Burritos Gorditos (Cozumel)

Burritos Gorditos is a great pit stop for something fast, cheap, yet delicious. The menu offers around 20 types of burritos, made fresh to order with the freshest ingredients—from vegetarian and vegan to traditional meat-based, as well as salad burritos, quesadillas, and tacos. Yucatan-style burritos filled with 'cochinita' (pulled pork shoulder marinated and braised in achiote paste, orange juice, and lime) are also on offer.

• Web:

  https://burritosgorditos.wixsite.com/burritosgorditos

• Address:

  5a Avenida Norte, Centro, Cozumel

• Phone:

  +52 987 116 7214

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Sat 8am–5pm, Sun closed

El Asadero (Tulum)

For a delightful break from typical Mexican cuisine, visit El Asadero, a quality steakhouse in the centre of Tulum. Upon entering, you are greeted by the enticing aroma of grilled meats and spices. At the heart of El Asadero is an impressive charcoal grill where cooks expertly prepare flank steak, sirloin, ribs, and chorizo. Fresh guacamole and salsa are also made table-side.

• Web:

  https://lurobledo.wixsite.com/elasaderotulum

• Address:

  Calle 2 Ote, Centro, Tulum

• Phone:

  +52 984 157 8998

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Sat 2:30pm–10:30pm, Sun closed

Guido's (Cozumel)

Guido's brings the authentic taste of Italy to the sun-kissed island of Cozumel. With top-notch Italian food from wood-oven pizza to lasagna, homemade pasta and fresh seafood, it's easy to understand why the beloved restaurant is an institution to locals and a lovely find to tourists.

• Web:

  https://guidoscozumel.com

• E-mail:

  info@guidoscozumel.com

• Address:

  Avenida Rafael E. Melgar 23, Centro, Cozumel

• Phone:

  +52 987 872 0946

• Opening hours:

  Sun–Wed 2pm–10pm, Thu–Sat 2pm–11pm

Batey Mojito and Guarapo Bar (Tulum)

Batey is a lively venue serving up local bites and cheap drinks, with an unbeatable atmosphere that captures the heart of Tulum. This vibrant spot boasts a beer garden where you can enjoy a drink or two — and by drink, we mean their famous mojitos, which give Havana a run for their money — fresh 'guarapo' (sugarcane juice) that you can help press from a little station set up in an old Volkswagen Beetle, and last but not least, live music. If your stomach starts to growl, be sure to order their delicious shrimp burritos, a big hit among patrons.

• Web:

  www.instagram.com/bateytulum

• Address:

  Calle Centauro Sur, Tulum Centro, Tulum

• Opening hours:

  Mon–Sat 7am–1am, Sun closed

Coco Bongo (Playa del Carmen)

Coco Bongo redefines nightlife with its unique blend of Cirque du Soleil, concert, theatre, and disco, offering an unforgettable night of entertainment. Instead of the usual dance floor and DJ, this vibrant venue dazzles with musical performances featuring talented local artists impersonating famous celebrities, while trapeze artists and dancers deliver jaw-dropping acrobatics. With its top-notch production, excellent music selection, and cutting-edge technology, Coco Bongo promises a spectacular show that leaves audiences with memories to cherish for a lifetime.

• Web:

  www.cocobongo.com/show/playa-del-carmen

• Address:

  Avenida 10 Norte, Playa del Carmen

• Phone:

  +52 984 803 5939

La Bodeguita del Medio (Playa del Carmen)

La Bodeguita del Medio will transport you to Cuba's heyday with its enticing atmosphere, the best Mojito in Playa del Carmen, and its infectious salsa rhythms that fill the air, inviting you to let your hair down and have a memorable night.

• Address:

  5ta Avenida Calle 34 Norte, Gonzalo Guerrero, Playa del Carmen

• Phone:

  +52 984 803 3950

• Opening hours:

  Daily 10am–2am

Mandala (Playa del Carmen)

Mandala is a popular bar in the heart of Playa del Carmen, where the attractive Asian decor immerses you in an oriental atmosphere full of mystery and glamour. Dance the night away on the ground floor, where DJs mix the latest pop and techno tunes, or head to the mezzanine for a vibrant party scene. For a more relaxed vibe, the open-air terrace on the top floor offers a perfect spot to enjoy a drink and chill out under the stars.

• Web:

  https://mandalatickets.com/en/playa/disco/mandala

• Address:

  1 Avenida Norte, Centro, Playa del Carmen

• Phone:

  +52 998 883 3333

• Opening hours:

  Daily 8pm–3am

Mistico Tulum

Mistico Tulum is a vibrant bar and lounge that pulses with electrifying energy and infectious vibes, perfect for travelers seeking a lively nightlife experience. Dance to the rhythms of Afro beats, soca, and hip hop while savouring exotic cocktails under the starlit sky. The eclectic cuisine and flavourful hookah add to the allure, making Mistico Tulum a must-visit destination for an unforgettable evening in Tulum.

• Web:

  www.mistico.mx

• E-mail:

  misticotuluminfo@gmail.com

• Address:

  Andromeda Oriente Calle Centauro Sur, Tulum Centro, Tulum

• Phone:

  +52 984 202 7048

• Opening hours:

  Daily 9am–2am

Señor Frog's (Playa del Carmen)

Señor Frog's is a bar and grill chain known for its festive atmosphere, tasty food, gigantic drinks, and lots of singing and dancing. So, join the conga line and make the best out of your time here.

• Web:

  https://senorfrogs.com/what-to-do-in-playa-del-carmen

• Address:

  Plaza Marina Condos

• Phone:

  +52 984 877 2347

• Opening hours:

  Daily 10am–10:30pm

Ah Cacao Chocolate Café (Playa del Carmen)

Discover the rich flavours of Mexican cacao in every delicious bite and sip at this unique café. Delight in energising coffee and chocolate drinks, savour mouth-watering cocoa treats, and indulge in their renowned dark chocolate brownies and Mayan chocolate ice cream—probably one of the best you'll ever taste.

• Web:

  https://ahcacao.com/en

• Address:

  Avenida Constituyentes, Playa del Carmen

• Opening hours:

  Daily 7:15am–11:15pm

Aqui + Ahora Coffee Bar (Cozumel)

More than just a coffee shop, Aqui + Ahora Coffee has everything you would want in a hangout spot: amazing coffee, tasty food, super friendly staff, games, a cool urban vibe, and occasional live music. With excellent WiFi, it's also a great place for digital nomads to get some work done. A standout feature is the rooftop with ocean views, perfect for watching the sunset. Come by for breakfast, lunch, drinks, or a late-night snack as they stay open until late.

• Web:

  www.aqui-ahora.co

• E-mail:

  hello@aqui-ahora.co

• Address:

  Avenida Rafael E. Melgar 111, Centro, Cozumel

• Phone:

  +52 987 800 3804

• Opening hours:

  Sun–Thu 8am–1am, Fri & Sat 8am–3am

Chez Céline (Playa del Carmen)

Chez Céline is a beloved bakery and breakfast spot offering a delightful taste of France on the Mexican Riviera Maya. From freshly baked baguettes and buttery croissants to crepes, éclairs and the classic crème brûlée. Complementing these French treats is their exquisite Mexican, organic, 100% Arabica coffee sourced from the highlands of Chiapas.

• Web:

  www.instagram.com/chez_celine_

• Address:

  Avenida 5ta, Calle 34 Norte, Playa del Carmen

• Phone:

  +52 984 803 3480

• Opening hours:

  Daily 7:30am–11:30pm

DelCielo (Tulum)

DelCielo is a popular breakfast and brunch spot known for its healthy dishes and delicious pastries. The menu features Mexican favourites alongside unique twists on international breakfast staples. Since DelCielo is a hit among locals and tourists alike, be sure to arrive early.

• Web:

  www.instagram.com/delcielo_tulum

• Address:

  Satélite Sur 5, Tulum Centro, Tulum

• Phone:

  +52 984 211 0752

• Opening hours:

  Daily 8am–2:30pm

El Coffee Cozumel

Located near the cruise ship terminal, El Coffee Cozumel fills the neighbourhood with the aroma of freshly baked goods, from pies to pastries, and delightful, locally sourced coffee. The chilaquiles come highly recommended.

• Web:

  https://www.instagram.com/elcoffeecozumel

• Address:

  Calle 3 sur, Local 9, Centro, Cozumel

• Phone:

  +52 987 869 0456

• Opening hours:

  Daily 8am–11pm

Marley Coffee (Playa del Carmen)

Marley Coffee is a small coffee shop in Playa del Carmen offering a relaxing retreat from the Mexican heat. Named after the world’s most famous reggae singer, this café boasts a super chill atmosphere with reggae music playing in the background and a comfy sofa in their air-conditioned space. Dedicated to sustainability and ethical farming, Marley Coffee sources its artisan roasted beans from top locations like Ethiopia, Central and South America, and Jamaica. Enjoy the highest-quality flavours paired with delicious croissants, doughnuts, and cakes, making it the perfect spot for a rejuvenating coffee break.

• Web:

  www.instagram.com/marleycoffeepdc

• Address:

  Avenida 10, Calle 2 Norte, Playa del Carmen

• Phone:

  +52 984 206 5500

• Opening hours:

  Daily 7am–10pm