Playa del Carmen, located in the heart of Mexico’s Riviera Maya, is renowned for its stunning white-sand beaches, vibrant turquoise waters, and the lively pedestrian-only Quinta Avenida (Fifth Avenue). It is a premier destination offering a blend of modern nightlife, upscale dining, and proximity to Mayan ruins. Playa del Carmen’s vibrant food scene reflects its cosmopolitan charm and beach-town energy. From wood-fired kitchens and local Mexican classics to artisan bakeries and kosher dining, there’s a diverse spectrum of restaurants that make this destination a paradise for food lovers. Below are profiles of six notable spots that capture a range of tastes and experiences in town. I was back to visit some cousins and enjoy the hot tropical weather.
Some of my eating highlights included:
Francesca The Italian Bakery @francescaitalianbakery where I had the delicious Divorced Enchiladas and a Cortado. A beloved Italian-style café and bakery nestled on Avenida 10 Norte. It’s well-regarded for its artisanal pastries, fresh breads, and classic Italian breakfast offerings, and locals and visitors alike often praise its pizzas and sandwiches for quality and flavor. The atmosphere balances casual comfort with a hint of European café culture, making it ideal for a morning espresso, leisurely brunch, or a late-afternoon snack.
Sabora @saborapdc where I had the Enmoladas filled with chicken, topped with a delicious chocolatey mole. An increasingly popular restaurant in Playa del Carmen’s Centro district, known for its refined take on local ingredients and thoughtful execution. This venue delivers a contemporary menu that often blends Mexican influences with modern touches, earning high ratings from diners who appreciate its quality and presentation.
Sanchez @losanchezmx I had the huge guacamole with chips that was decorated in the colours of the Mexican flag; and the best grilled mahi mahi tacos. Sanchez stands out as a local favorite for elevated Mexican fare, particularly its creative tacos and social atmosphere. Located just off Quintana Avenida, it’s frequently cited for its bold flavors and high-quality ingredients that go beyond typical street taco concepts. With a solid reputation among both visitors and residents, Sanchez combines casual dining vibes with vibrant presentation, making it a go-to stop for lunch, dinner, or an informal night out with friends.
Santo Bohemio @santobohemio was a great spot to have lunch with my cousins, had the half roasted chicken with potatoes in a sauce, grilled vegetables (sweet potato, squash, tomato, celeriac), a taste of the beet hummus and the orange cake. Santo Bohemio is a wood-fired kitchen and bohemian-styled restaurant that brings a relaxed yet flavorful dining experience to Playa del Carmen. Set slightly away from the busiest tourist avenues, its menu celebrates grilled dishes and slow-cooked specialties, with many patrons recommending it for weekend brunches or leisurely dinners.
Zo’Zen Yogurt @zozen.yogurt a wonderful fro-yo cafe where I had a bowl with flavours: vegan chai, cafe, and natural vegan. Zo’Zen Yogurt is a dessert and frozen yogurt shop that has carved out a niche in Playa del Carmen’s dessert scene with its custom-style fro-yo offerings and seasonal flavor rotations. Beyond the classic creamy base, many visitors enjoy vegan and fruit-centric options, fresh toppings, and a friendly atmosphere that makes it ideal for an afternoon treat after exploring the town.
Moshe Cube Kosher @moshecube and I was back for another visit and I had the Chicken Shwarma dinner. Moshe Cube Kosher brings Mediterranean and Middle Eastern kosher cuisine to the Riviera Maya, serving both local kosher diners and visitors seeking certified kosher meals. Located on Calle 38 Norte, this restaurant has a strong reputation for falafel, hummus, grilled specialties, and other kosher standards prepared with fresh ingredients. Its welcoming environment, attentive service, and flavor-forward dishes make it one of the most talked-about kosher options in the region.
There are many more great restaurants and cafes in the city to discover.
By: Richard Wolak