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If you're interested in finding the best places to eat in Playa del Carmen, you've come to the right place! Most travelers stop by Fifth Avenue, but I recommend venturing off this street and exploring other areas of fine dining to find the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen.
![Colorful Kochi Loca Mexican taco shop with pink and yellow exterior](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/cochi-loka-ochristine-1268x800.jpeg)
Visit Playa del Carmen
Playa del Carmen is a coastal town located in Quintana Roo, Mexico. It is a diverse and vibrant place with coral reefs, beautiful palm tree-lined beaches, exciting nightlife and amazing food. Use this guide to the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen in conjunction with my PDC travel guide to make your vacation perfect.
Best Tacos in Playa del Carmen
The Chuleton
Av between components. 20 and C. 16 Nte. Bis, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
Check out El Chuleton for one of the best restaurants and cheapest tacos in Playa del Carmen! My personal favorite is Al Pastor, but you can't go wrong with anything they offer. This is a great local place for breakfast or lunch.
![Kitchen counter inside restaurant](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/el-chuleton-restaurant-interior-playa-del-carmen-1067x800.jpg)
![steak tacos](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/el-chuleton-tacos-playa-del-carmen-600x800.jpg)
Coco Loca
Calle 10 Nte 27, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77720 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
If you're looking for the best Cochinita Pibil in Playa del Carmen, head to La Cochi Loka. There are two places, I like them both, but I think the one on Avenida 30 is less greasy and full of locals. What I order is torta, and my husband orders tacos.
Birria de la 30
30 Avenida Nte. 4, Tohoku, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
Birria is a Mexican dish and a must-try while in the country. Birria de la 30 has the best birria I've had in Playa del Carmen at an amazing price. It's a small spot just off 30th street, but worth the effort.
![Birria de la 30 restaurant entrance](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/birria-de-la-30-restaurant-playa-del-carmen-1400x788.jpg)
![Birria Tacos](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/birria-taco-playa-del-carmen-1400x788.jpg)
![Birria Consomme Soup Beef](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/birria-de-la-30-plaa-del-carmen-600x800.jpg)
cockle
Av. Constituciónntes, Quintas del Carmen, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77720 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
El Fogon is highly recommended as one of the best restaurants in Playa de Carmen and is always crowded with locals and tourists. There are three restaurants located off 5th Ave, just a few blocks from the main tourist thoroughfare. El Fogon also offers the cheapest guacamole and reasonably priced drinks.
Best restaurants in Playa del Carmen
Aguachiles
Calle 34 Nte Centro, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
Los Aguachiles has a few locations in Playa del Carmen, but I recommend heading to the one on Calle 34, off 5th Avenue. The tuna tostadas are great and they also offer a variety of cocktails, beers and more!
![Grilled Tuna Aguachile](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/aguachile-tuna-tostada-playa-del-carmen-1067x800.jpg)
Luma Taverna del Mar
38th Street Nte. Between Albatros and Calle Flamingo, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
At the top of my list is Luma Tavena del Mar, an amazing Mediterranean restaurant not far from the beach. If you like seafood and Italian cuisine, this is the restaurant for you. This is one of my favorite places in Play del Carmen and I have been here several times and each time was better than the last.
central restaurant
Calle 26, between Avenida 10 and Avenida 5, Quintas del Carmen, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77720 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
If you want pizza or homemade pasta, Trattoria del Centro should be at the top of your list. The dough used for the pizzas is fresh and baked in a Neapolitan-style wood-fired oven. Additionally, outdoor seating and live music make the experience even more enjoyable.
![Pizza Trattoria](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/pizza-trattoria-restaurant-playa-del-carmen-1067x800.jpg)
patanegra
Calle 26 Nte, Quintas del Carmen, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77720 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
Be sure to stop by Patanegra for traditional Spanish dishes such as Iberian ham and paella. They offer a variety of tapas and sangria at reasonable prices. Sometimes there is live music accompanied by flamenco dancers.
radish. Burger House Av
40 Avenida Nte. 11, between streets 4 and 6, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
For a hearty meal of burgers, fries, and beer, head to Mu. Burger House Av. This burger joint has two locations. There is one on Ave 10 and one on Ave 40. If you want to sit down and have a more chilled out experience, the one on Ave 40 might be best for you.
love 38
Between Calle 38 Norte, 5 Av. Nte. y, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
At Amate 38, you can dine under the tropical shade of Yucatan trees and close to the beach. If you're wondering what to order, the empanadas here are really delicious! However, please note that they only accept cash. So, you must come prepared.
![Olivia eating Yucatan empanadas](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/olivia-eating-yucatan-empanada-amate-38-restaurant-450x800.jpg)
![Grilled Fish with Leaves](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/fish-dish-baked-in-leaf-amate-38-restaurant-PDC-1067x800.jpg)
Flama wood-grilled dishes
10 Avenida Nte. 254, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77720 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
Flama Wood Fired Cuisine serves the best pizza in Playa del Carmen. The dough is great on its own and you won't be disappointed. The atmosphere here is very chill, with outdoor and indoor dining options.
Primo
Avenida 10, C. 14 Nte Corner, 77710 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
Primo is Flama's sister restaurant, but reservations are required to dine here. It is a more expensive option with a price rating of $$$$ on Trip Advisor. Nonetheless, the food and service are fantastic, so it's worth adding to your itinerary if you're on a budget.
La Perla Pixan Cuisine
Calle 38 Norte Between 5th and the beach, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77720 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
La Perla Pixan Cuisine is a lively restaurant with a great atmosphere, amazing food, live music and performances. If you are traveling to Mexico for a birthday or other celebration, this will be one of the best restaurants to enjoy in Playa del Carmen. To awaken the senses, there's nothing better than a plate of eggs or chilaquiles. We also offer vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options for those with dietary restrictions.
![Row of fish tacos on clay pot plate](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/la-perla-restaurant-tacos-playa-del-carmen-ochristine-1067x800.jpg)
Axiote cuisine in Mexico
Calle 34 Nte #128, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77720 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
The atmosphere at Axiote Cocina de Mexico in Playa del Carmen is fresh and cozy. The food served here is very fresh and the staff are very knowledgeable. The executive chef and owners opened this restaurant to support national and local food suppliers.
Best Brunch + Breakfast Places in Playa del Carmen
Shushu Cafe
Av. 20 Calle 24 Norte con, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
Choux Choux Cafe is the best brunch spot! There are great food options and a cute outdoor seating area with swings and vibrant murals. It's very aesthetic and would be a great choice for your next Instagram-worthy destination. However, there may be a bit of a wait during peak meal times.
![Morning brunch food outdoor, bacon, cheese, sandwich, coffee](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/brunch-food-at-choux-choux-cafe-playa-del-carmen-1067x800.jpg)
![Olivia Swing Gorgeous Blue Walls](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/olivia-swing-colorful-blue-wall-choux-choux-restaurant-PDC-1067x800.jpg)
what eggs
Calle Quinta Avenida, Calle 48 Nte Esquina, Luis Donaldo Colosio, 77710 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
Que Huevos is a great breakfast sandwich place. However, if you want to eat there, keep in mind that there will always be a wait. It's worth the wait if you're not in a hurry. The restaurant is located off the touristy Quinta Avenue and the menu is huge, so there are plenty of delicious options for everyone to enjoy.
basic gourmet
5 Avenida Nte between Calle 26 and Calle 28N, Hollywood, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
Basic Foodie is one of my personal favorites. For breakfast and brunch options, I recommend Molette, especially Molette Olivia. It's out of this world and very affordable! They also have really good pastries and outdoor seating.
Under Coffee
Calle 30 Nte LB, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77720 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
If you work and travel around Playa del Carmen, Bajo Cafe is a great co-working space. The outdoor environment makes it unique and comfortable. They offer other healthy choices like good avocado toast, kombucha, and acai bowls.
Restaurants with the best drinks in Playa del Carmen
Plank Gourmet Grill & Patio Bar
Primera Norte Mz 16 Lt 1, Local 22A, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
Plank Gourmet Grill & Patio Bar is a more expensive option, but well worth it! It's definitely a romantic place, so it would be a great choice for a special occasion meal. It's classy, sophisticated, and best known for its seafood.
![Olivia with cocktail, flatbread and salad](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/plank-restaurant-playa-del-carmen-olivia-600x800.jpg)
![Beef dish with ribs and vegetables](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/beef-dish-plank-restaurant-playa-del-carmen-600x800.jpg)
Trujillo's Cantina de Selva
Av 38 Mz 200 Lt 03 1 Era and Calle Flamingo, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
You can't enjoy the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen without trying a typical cantina place. If you're looking for a place with great cocktails, music, and nightlife, head to Trujillos Cantina de Selva. Guacamole and chicharon Boss's Kiss, it's amazing and their cocktails are great. When looking for trendy Mexican food, this is definitely one of the best places to eat in Playa del Carmen.
![signboard bar restaurant outdoor](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/signage-bar-restaurant-trujillos-PDC-1067x800.jpg)
![Guacamole Chicharrones and Trujillos](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/guacamole-chicharron-at-trujillos-restaurant-playa-del-carmen-600x800.jpg)
Caruso Hostaria Pizzeria
Between Calle 26 Nte, Quinta Avenida Avenida 10, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
Caruso Hostaria Pizzeria has a limited food menu, but offers great drink specials after happy hour. It's small and cute and located on a lively street with jazz music playing.
beach cella
Calle 38 entre 1A, Calle Flamingo, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
My husband loved Chela de Playa as a place to have a beer (student (Mexican slang for beer) This place is a comfortable lounge with unique outdoor seating. We were also pleasantly surprised by the food here.
![tacos and beer](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/chela-de-la-playa-PDC-beer-garden-tacos-600x800.jpg)
A unique dining experience in Playa del Carmen
Alux Restaurant & Lounge
Av Benito Juárez Mz 217 Lt2, Ejidal, 77710 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
Among the best cave restaurants in Playa del Carmen, Alux is unrivaled. Of all the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen, this one offers the most unique dining experience. Here you can enjoy a meal in a cave that is over 10,000 years old. Book a table a few days in advance and plan to take a taxi to secure a spot for dinner.
![Drinking cocktail Olivia](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/olivia-cocktail-alux-restaurant-playa-del-carmen-540x800.jpg)
![Alex Dinner Grilled Octopus on a Stick](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/alux-restaurant-octopus-dish-playa-del-carmen-600x800.jpg)
Mamita Beach Club
Mza, Calle 28 Nte. 8-10, Lot, Center, 77710 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
If you want to dine at a stylish beach club by the sea, head to Mamita Beach Club. With prices considerably higher than other restaurants in Playa del Carmen, you pay for the location and modern luxury.
A Playa del Carmen restaurant you never want to go to again
warehouse cave
38th Street Nte. Mz. 4-Lote 3, Zazil-ha, 77710 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
I rarely tell people not to go to a restaurant, but I had dinner at La Cueva de Chango a few times and hated all the dishes, as did my friends and my husband several times. Honestly, we found the food to be bland. Playa del Carmen has so many great restaurants to enjoy that you might want to skip it.
Porphyry's
Corner of 5th Avenue, Calle 12 Nte, 77710 Playa del Carmen, QR, Mexico
Porfirio's is actually a great steakhouse and has great decor, but for the price the food was average compared to other places. Also, noisy and crowded environments were not for me. There were many instances where food (or people) were piled so tightly together that I almost fell over. However, if you like nightlife dining, this could be a dinner option!
![Colorful paper flags hanging on a popular street](https://ochristine.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/avenida-quinta-playa-del-carmen-street-colorful-1067x800.jpg)
My thoughts on the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen
There are so many places to eat and drink in Playa del Carmen that you'll be spoiled for choice.
Here's the culinary scene here: unbelievable, whether it's fine dining in a cavernous restaurant or a simple taco truck, they have food to suit every mood and craving. You don't have to break the bank to eat at the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen. There are plenty of budget-friendly options on this list and beyond.
Playa del Carmen is the jewel of Central America and well worth a visit. With beautiful beaches, an incredible gastronomic scene and Mayan ruins, there's never a dull moment.
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