The population of Playa del Carmen has exploded in the past few years, thanks primarily to its discovery by Europeans who have made Cozumel a hot tourist spot. Cozumel is just across the straits from Play del Carmen with easy access if the visitor wants to snorkel on the coral reefs. As Playa del Carmen’s popularity has increased, so have the many wonderful restaurants in whatever price range fits your budget or your taste.
Some Budget-Priced Restaurants in Playa del Carmen
La Tarraya
This seafood restaurant has an excellent location. You can see the dock and the shops from here. On the beach between Calle 2 and Calle 4, it’s one of the few older restaurants left on the beach. You can dine outdoors if you choose, but you need to plan the time of your arrival because it’s popular and the beach tables fill up fast! Some say a meal here on the beach under a palm tree is an experience not to miss. Service is excellent, the price is good, and even the margaritas are budget-priced.
Sabor
If it’s vegetarian you want, this restaurant on Avenida 5 between Calles 2 and 4 is for you! Locals hang out here, and the juice drinks can’t be beaten.
Los Amigos
This highly-rated budget-priced restaurant features Mexican, Russian, Seafood, and Steakhouse cuisines and is a very good choice for breakfast or brunch. If you have a family, especially if you have teenage boys, this is a good choice. The servings are large and with some selections, the waiters will bring a small barbeque to your table where you can choose from an assortment of meats. High customer ratings. Located at 26th St. and 30th Ave.
Some Medium-Priced Restaurants in Playa del Carmen
La Parrilla (The Grill)
This restaurant located on Avenida 5 at Calle 8 is on the 3d floor where you can look down on the pedestrian walkway. It specializes in Steak, Lobster, and Fajitas. Also known for its excellent Mexican food, the atmosphere is pleasant, and your meal will be accompanied by Mexican folk music.
Las Mascara Pizzeria
This pizza restaurant offers thin-crust pizzas cooked in a wood oven along with other Italian food such as pastas, which are home-made, as well as fish dishes. It’s located on the Avenida Juarez.
Yaxche
This restaurant that specializes in Mayan specialties is categorized on the high side of medium in pricing. Located on Calle 8 between Avenidas 5 and 10, the décor is Mayan, reflecting the owners’ fascination with that culture. Recently remodeled and expanded, the kitchen in the new restaurant is open so you can see the chefs at work.
Some Higher-Priced Restaurants in Playa del Carmen
Blue Lobster
Extraordinary lobster, shrimp, and seafood. Atmosphere plus fine foods make this a memorable place for a romantic dinner. Only a few blocks from the beach in a corner of the famous 5th Avenue at Calle 12 in Playa del Carmen. In addition to the seafood, Blue Lobster also offers fine cuts of beef and poultry.
Ajua!
Five-Star Dining and Fun! Specialties: Fresh Mayan Lobster and Seafood as well as USDA Angus Steaks. Mixture of authentic Mayan and Mexican Cuisine. Also offers New York style cheesecake. Located at Calle 4 between Avenidas 5 & 10, the restaurant offers relaxed dining with the Latin Music of Tierra Vera nightly. Excellent service.
El Diablito Cha cha cha
This restaurant is a bit pricey, but you’ll find that it’s worth whatever you spend. Highly rated food, service, value, and atmosphere make it an eating place worth looking at. Asian, Mexican, Seafood, Contemporary, and Asian fusion cuisines are featured. It has outdoor seating as well as indoor and is located at Calle 12 between 1st and 5th.
