Playa del Carmen is where Playa Realtors has its main office, and food is a big part of why people choose to live here. This list mixes MICHELIN-recognized kitchens, local taquerÃas and everyday favorites across Centro, Calle 38, the local colonias and Playacar.
Each listing includes the address, a link to the restaurant and a map. Restaurants change, so we check this list regularly; last reviewed October 2026.
Axiote Cocina de México
Calle 34 Norte, Gonzalo Guerrero · Contemporary Mexican and Yucatecan · $$
C. 34 Norte #128, Lote 11-065, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Website | View on map
Why we recommend it: MICHELIN Bib Gourmand for modern Yucatecan dishes such as blue corn tostadas and lamb birria under a palapa roof. A polished dinner without fine-dining prices.
La Cueva del Chango
Calle 38 Norte, Zazil-Ha · Mexican and Yucatecan · $$
Calle 38 Norte Mz. 4 Lote 3, Zazil-Ha, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Website | View on map
Why we recommend it: Open since 2008, with chilaquiles, house-made mole and shrimp in cilantro sauce served in a tropical garden. A favorite for breakfast and weekend brunch near Calle 38.
El Fogón
Av. Constituyentes and other branches · Tacos al pastor · $
Av. Constituyentes, 77720 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
View on map
Why we recommend it: Playa’s best-known taquerÃa, listed in the MICHELIN Guide for tacos al pastor carved from the spit. Open late and a reliable casual meal any night of the week.
HA’
Hotel Xcaret México, south of Playacar · Mexican fine dining (tasting menu) · $$$
Carretera Federal Chetumal-Puerto Juárez Km 282, Hotel Xcaret México, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Website | View on map
Why we recommend it: Chef Carlos Gaytán’s MICHELIN-starred tasting menu built on regional Mexican ingredients, open to non-hotel guests. Dinner only, adults only, with a formal dress code.
Amate 38
Calle 38 Norte · Yucatecan and Mexican · $$
Calle 38 Norte, between 5a Avenida and Calle Flamingos, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Website | View on map
Why we recommend it: Traditional Yucatecan cooking with modern technique, from chaya empanadas to sikil pak and lime soup. A good everyday option near Calle 38, with a strong breakfast.
Ictio Fish House
Centro, Avenida 1 Norte · Seafood · $$
Avenida 1 Norte at Calle 22 Norte, Centro, 77720 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Website | View on map
Why we recommend it: Regional Caribbean seafood such as local oysters, octopus, aguachile and grilled catch of the day. A simple, mid-priced spot near the beach for lunch or an early dinner.
Los Aguachiles
Calle 34 at Avenida 25 · Sinaloa-style seafood · $
Calle 34 Norte at Avenida 25, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Website | View on map
Why we recommend it: Open-air seafood spot named for its aguachile, also known for ceviche and seafood tostadas. Several blocks from the tourist strip, mostly lunch, with a local crowd.
Casa SofÃa
Playacar · Italian, pizza and pasta · $$
Diagonal Aeropuerto s/n, Playacar, 77723 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Website | View on map
Why we recommend it: A family-friendly Italian restaurant with dozens of pizzas and handmade pasta, with terrace or air-conditioned seating. A convenient neighborhood choice for Playacar owners.
De Local
5th Avenue at Calle 40 · Argentine grill · $$
Av. 5ta, corner of Calle 40 Norte, 77720 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Website | View on map
Why we recommend it: Empanadas, milanesas, grilled vacÃo and provoleta on the quieter north end of 5th Avenue. A long-time gathering place for Playa’s Argentine community.
Living in Playa del Carmen
Thinking about buying in Playa del Carmen? Playa Realtors is a licensed boutique brokerage that has represented buyers in Cancún, Playa del Carmen, Tulum and across Quintana Roo since 2008, and we never represent developers.
