Looking for a unique dining experience? Check out the top 10 traditional Mexican restaurants in Playa del Carmen. Featuring authentic flavors from across Mexico, these restaurants are known for their wide variety of dishes and flavorful spices. Be sure to try some of the signature dishes—your taste buds won’t regret it!
A Complete Guide to the Best 10 Traditional Mexican Restaurants in Playa del Carmen
Reviewing the Authentic Mexican Cuisine at Playa del Carmen’s Traditional Restaurant
El Fogon
If you’re looking for an authentic Mexican restaurant with a cozy atmosphere, look no further than El Fogon. Located in the heart of Playa del Carmen on 10th Street and 20th Avenue, this restaurant has been serving hungry locals and tourists alike for more than 25 years. The menu features traditional dishes such as enchiladas, quesadillas, tacos, tasty tortas, massive burritos, steaks, guacamole, and more. Prices are reasonable, and portions are plentiful.
The interior of El Fogon is quite inviting with its festive decorations and colorful ambiance. Large murals of famous Mexican personalities are hung on the wall while traditional music plays in the background. The chairs and tables are comfortably spaced out to ensure that all guests have plenty of room to enjoy their meals without feeling cramped or overcrowded.
We ordered several dishes that were all very tasty and delicious; we especially liked the fajitas, which were cooked perfectly with just the right amount of spice. Service was prompt and friendly too; our waiter was eager to recommend dishes from the menu depending on what we were looking for. Overall, it was a great experience dining at El Fogon—we will definitely be coming back soon!
El Fogon have 3 locations in centro, this one on the map, one near Wal-Mart Centro and another at the end of 5th Avenue, so you can pick the one closest to you.
Opening Hours: Daily from 13:00 pm to 00:00 am.
Birria De La 30
For all the Birria lovers out there! This charming little place prepares Birria in the proper, traditional Jalisco style. The menu offers Birria soup, Birria flour or corn quesadillas, cheesy fried Birria tacos, regular tacos, and much more!
We suggest you order the delicious Birria soup that comes with tacos, and dip the tacos in the soup for the ultimate Birria experience. The tasty salsas they put in front of you are the perfect complement for the tacos. They also have delicious natural fresh fruit waters, such as horchata, chia, jamaica, and lemon. This place is a must-visit and always busy. You can also order to-go. The staff is friendly and the vibe is super chill, you will love this place.
Opening Hours: Daily from 08:00 am to 09:40 pm.
El Doctorcito Clamatos Y Mariscos
More than a seafood restaurant, “El Doctorcito” is full experience. Live music, a laid-back atmosphere, and just people having a good time. The food here have the signature “Sinaloa” style the we love and celebrate so much here in México, well known for its bold flavors and fresh ingredients
Some of the menu highlights include breaded fish gobernador tacos, shrimp ceviche tostadas, their signature iconic tuna sashimi, and delicious grilled fish with roasted peppers. In addition to the yummy food, they also serve tasty cocktails, extravagant clamatos, and micheladas made with shrimp and a unique blend of spices that can cure even the worst hangover.
Opening Hours: Daily from 11:00 am to 22:00 pm.
La Cochi-Loka
You can’t leave Playa Del Carmen without trying the mouth watering and extremely delicious Cochinita! And that being said, La Cochi-Loka is favorite spot for both locals and visitors for offering this traditional dish in different ways, from tortas, to tacos and cheesy tostadas
Cochinita Pibil is a traditional slow-roasted pork dish from Yucatán that will make your taste buds explode! Picture succulent, tender pieces of pork marinated in a mixture of tangy citrus juices, earthy spices, and achiote paste, then cooked to perfection until the flavors have melded together and the meat is so tender that starts falling apart. Served with a squeeze of lime, and some red onions, this dish will transport your taste buds straight to the sunny streets of one of my favorite cities in México, the beautiful Mérida. The combination of the juicy, savory pork and the tangy, crunchy toppings is simply unforgettable. You have to visit this place!
Opening Hours: Daily from 07:00 am to 14:00 pm.
La Coronela
La Coronela is one of my favorite traditional Mexican restaurant in Playa del Carmen. Located on a quiet street, the restaurant has a welcoming atmosphere that transports you to another time and place. The authentic decor with murals on the walls depicting traditional Mexican lifestyles sets the mood for a great experience.
The food at La Coronela is out of this world! All of their dishes are made with fresh ingredients and have an unbeatable flavor that surpasses most other Mexican restaurants in town. My favorite dish is their torta ahogada, which consists of pork carnitas topped with tomato sauce and red onions and served on an artisanal bolillo bun. Their alambre—steak or chicken mixed with bell peppers and onions—is also delicious.
The service at La Coronela is top-notch as well. The waiters are friendly, attentive, and knowledgeable about the menu. They will recommend dishes that suit your taste buds without any pressure or attitude.
Overall, I highly recommend checking out La Coronela if you’re in Playa del Carmen looking for some truly tasty traditional Mexican cuisine that won’t disappoint!
Opening Hours: Daily from 08:00 am to 21:00 pm.
Los Aguachiles
Los Aguachiles is a traditional Mexican restaurant in the heart of Playa del Carmen, and it definitely fits the bill for a delicious and authentic culinary experience!
We were seated immediately upon arriving and had an exceptional server who was very helpful in guiding us through the menu. The interior of the restaurant has a classic Mexican feel, with vibrant colors and traditional decorations, which added to the overall atmosphere.
The food at Los Aguachiles was incredible! Their seafood-based dishes are clearly their specialty, particularly the aguachiles (ceviche-like bites of marinated raw shrimp).
The shrimp were cooked perfectly, and all the other ingredients were high-quality. They also have excellent quesadillas, tacos, burritos, flautas, and more, all of which are served with complimentary salsa verde, which elevates everything it touches. The portion sizes are generous and reasonably priced.
Overall, we had an amazing experience at Los Aguachiles! Not only was the food excellent, but their attentive staff helped make it even more enjoyable. I highly recommend it for anyone looking for some delicious Mexian cuisine or just to enjoy a nice evening out!
Opening Hours: Daily from 11:00 am to 22:00 pm.
La Cueva del Chango
La Cueva del Chango is a traditional Mexican restaurant located in the heart of Playa Del Carmen, Mexico. The restaurant has been open since 1999, and it has quickly become one of the most popular establishments in the area for locals and tourists alike.
The atmosphere is warm and inviting, with vibrant colors and authentic Mexican decorations. The menu offers a variety of dishes, from tacos to enchiladas to specialty platters like the El Chango Special: grilled beef and chicken fajitas served with guacamole, beans, salsa verde, sour cream, rice, and tortillas.
The food is cooked fresh each day using only locally sourced ingredients that are both delicious and healthy. All dishes can be made vegetarian or gluten-free upon request. Prices are reasonable, making this an affordable option for families that want to enjoy some delicious Mexican food without breaking the bank.
The service at La Cueva del Chango is exceptional; all staff are friendly, helpful, and knowledgeable about their menu options. You can tell they take pride in what they do and genuinely care about their customers’ experiences in their restaurant. They also offer catering services for any special event, from small get-togethers to big parties, making sure that your event will be one to remember.
Overall, La Cueva del Chango is an amazing local spot for anyone looking for real Mexican cuisine in Playa Del Carmen that won’t break the bank. This is a great place to have lunch or dinner on your next trip to the Riviera Maya because the food is made with fresh local ingredients and the prices are reasonable.
Opening Hours: Daily from 08:00 am to 22:30 pm.
Aldea Corazón
Aldea Corazón is a traditional Mexican restaurant located in the heart of Playa del Carmen.
This spot has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike due to its amazing selection of authentic Mexican dishes. Aldea Corazón serves a wide range of delicious food, from traditional dishes like tacos and enchiladas to more unique dishes like huaraches and chilaquiles.
The atmosphere at Aldea Corazón is lively and welcoming, with bright colors adorning the walls and ceiling along with the occasional plant in planters.
The staff are attentive and always willing to go above and beyond to ensure that customers have a great experience. The menu offers something for everyone, no matter what their taste preferences might be, so there’s sure to be something they’ll enjoy.
The food served at Aldea Corazón is prepared with fresh ingredients as well as just the right amount of spices, ensuring that every bite packs a punch! It goes without saying that their portions are generous but not overwhelming, making them perfect for both individual meals and family dinners alike. A notable item on their menu is their Seafood Ceviche, which is made from fresh shellfish marinated in lime juice, garlic, onion, and cilantro—the perfect way to whet your appetite before diving into whatever other dishes you may order!
All in all, anyone looking for an authentic experience while visiting Playa del Carmen should definitely stop by Aldea Corazón. Enjoy great food coupled with excellent service—your taste buds will thank you!
Opening Hours: Daily from 08:00 am to 00:00 am.
Axiote
If you’re looking for an authentic Mexican restaurant in Playa del Carmen, you must visit Axiote. This traditional spot on the city’s beach has been a favorite of both locals and visitors for a long time.
The atmosphere at Axiote is relaxed but still vibrant, with a lot of Mexican charm and decorative touches throughout. The day’s menu is written in chalk on the board daily, but all of the classic dishes, like tacos and burritos, are always on offer. The meat is local and organic, and it is cooked simply in its own juices to keep its flavor. There is no need for sauces or other unnecessary toppings.
The staff are welcoming and attentive too, making sure that guests feel as welcome as possible during each visit. Be warned, though: tables fill up quickly in such a popular spot that it may be best to book one beforehand if you don’t want to wait!
All in all, Axiote should be high on any foodie’s list when visiting Playa del Carmen. For those looking for an authentic taste of Mexican culture and cuisine at its best, look no further than this charming little gem!
Opening Hours: Daily from 12:00 pm to 23:00 pm.
La Fisheria
If you are looking for an authentic Mexican dining experience in Playa del Carmen, look no further than La Fisheria.
This restaurant is a staple of downtown and has been serving the community with delicious Mexican food since it opened its doors 11 years ago.
The atmosphere is cozy, colorful, and inviting, and the staff is always friendly and attentive to your needs. Tacos, tortas, chilaquiles rojos or verdes, and a variety of other traditional dishes are available.
The menu includes vegetarian options, which are all truly delicious. Their signature dish is the “Diablito,” a stuffed potato filled with refried beans, cheese, pico de gallo, sour cream, and other yummy toppings like their mouth-watering house-made chili sauce.
For those who are brave enough, you can also get the Diablito topped with shredded beef barbacoa! If you visit later in the day, they offer some seafood specials, such as shrimp tacos and ceviche. Save room for dessert, because here they make homemade paletas flavored with coconut water or horchata.
La Fisheria elevates Mexican cuisine to an art form by creating modern interpretations of family recipes passed down through generations, which beautifully combine traditional values with a lot of creativity. Whether you’re craving spicy goodness for dinner or just want to sit back and relax with a good margarita, this place does not disappoint.
Opening Hours: Daily from 11:00 am to 23:00 pm.
La Floresta
The La Floresta traditional Mexican restaurant in Playa del Carmen is a great spot to eat. Located only a short walk from the busy 5th Avenue, this welcoming eatery serves up authentic Mexican dishes such as homemade enchiladas and classic tacos.
The restaurant has an inviting atmosphere with warm colors and comfortable seating, complimented by cheerful music that makes you feel right at home.
The food itself is nothing short of amazing, bursting with flavor in every bite. From the camarones seviche appetizer to the traditional enchiladas and tacos, each dish was lovingly prepared and presented on colorful plates that make you almost want to eat them!
They also have an extensive selection of freshly made margaritas, perfect for an afternoon of meeting friends or relaxing after a long day at work.
The wait staff are friendly and helpful, making sure each customer’s expectations are met without being overly intrusive or overbearing.
Prices at La Floresta are very low for the quality of food they serve. If you’re looking for delicious Mexican food in Playa del Carmen, you should try it out!
Opening Hours: Daily from 10:00 am to 17:00 pm.
LONCHERÍA Los Machacados
If you’re looking for a truly authentic Mexican dining experience in Playa del Carmen, Los Machacados is an absolute must.
Located in the heart of downtown, this local gem definitely merits a visit for tourists and locals alike. From the moment you arrive, you will be met with warm hospitality that sets the stage for what’s next.
The menu consists of traditional Mexican dishes made using fresh local ingredients, but with a few modern twists and additions to keep things interesting.
Dishes are packed full of flavor and tradition, featuring delicacies such as tortillas hechas a mano (handmade tortillas), tlacoyos (corn masa cakes stuffed with beans or other fillings), and pozole rojo (a delicious soup filled with hominy simmered in a spicy and flavorful broth).
The flavors are unique yet familiar—my favorite dish was their mole nopalitos (a delicious mole sauce with cactus paddles as its star ingredient).
Another highlight are their specialty drinks, like the Jamaica refresco (hibiscus flower tea) or agua de Sandia (watermelon water). These drinks perfectly complement your meal, leaving you feeling refreshed after every sip!
Los Machacados isn’t just about great food, though; the ambience is equally incredible. With its lively atmosphere, colorful décor, and vibrant art pieces adorning the walls, it is no wonder why this spot has become such a popular gathering place!
Overall, Los Machacados offers an amazing culinary experience coupled with a cozy atmosphere that’ll have your taste buds tingling with joy.
Opening Hours: Daily from 16:30 pm to 23:30 pm.
5 Must-Try Traditional Dishes in Playa del Carmen
When in Playa del Carmen, dig in to some of the delicious traditional Mexican dishes, like tacos, tamales, enchiladas, quesadillas, pozole, and more!
Enjoy authentic sauces made with locally sourced ingredients such as chiles and tomatillos. Local seafood is also a must-try; try diversified dishes like ceviche and marinas. Fill up your plate with flavors from many delicious options.
1. Cochinita Pibil
Cochinita Pibil is the iconic dish from the Yucatan Peninsula made of slow-roasted pork that has been marinated in a blend of spices and acidic citrus juices. Cochinita Pibil is a nickname for a young pig that comes from the Yucatec Maya language, where “pibil” means “underground.”
A boneless pork shoulder is usually marinated in a mixture of annatto seeds, garlic, oregano, cumin, cinnamon, clove, and tart orange juice. Banana leaves are used to wrap the marinated pork, which is then slowly cooked in a pit oven or underground oven (known as a “pib”).
When the pork is finished cooking, it is shred and used in tacos, torta or as a main dish with rice, beans, and tortillas. The meal frequently has pickled red onions and cilantro as a garnish.
Yucatecan cuisine’s signature dish, cochinita pibil, is renowned for its tasty, juicy, and soft beef. It is well-liked all over Mexico and is now a staple of Mexican food everywhere.
2. Chilaquiles
Chilaquiles are a quintessential Mexican breakfast dish that can be found all over the Yucatán Peninsula. It consists of fried corn tortillas in a spicy tomato-based sauce, served with cheese, onions, and crema (Mexican sour cream). Depending on your preference, you can add refried beans or some variation of proteins, such as grilled or poached chicken or boiled eggs.
3. Enfrijoladas
Enfrijoladas are a savory snack made of corn tortillas filled with queso fresco, cilantro, and onion. The tortillas are dipped into a warm bean puree before being cooked over heat to give them some crispy texture at the edges while still being soft and chewy in the middle. They are usually served with avocado slices, lettuce, and crumbled chicharrón (pork rinds).
4. Quesadillas
Quesadilla is another Mexican classic that is easy to find in Playa del Carmen restaurants. This dish consists of two soft wheat tortillas filled with melted cheese, onions, and chile strips before being folded and pan-fried until crisp and golden brown outside yet creamy inside. It is usually served with guacamole or green salsa, which makes the filling taste better. It can be filled with Pastor meat, carne asada or Birria meat as well.
5. Papadzules
Papadzules are a type of traditional Mayan dish that can be found in either Yucatán or Quintana Roo. It’s made from corn dough enchiladas drenched in a pumpkin seed sauce known as “uyiak” and toasted ground pumpkin seeds called “Técaln,” which offer a nice crunchy texture combined with a subtle nutty taste reminiscent of sesame seeds. The tamales are usually also stuffed with hard-boiled eggs for some added protein power!
