One of the best things about Playa del Carmen is the abundance of dining options all within a short distance! Foodies who want to experience the best authentic Mexican food Playa del Carmen offers will find everything from traditional cantinas to modern restaurants with fresh twists on modern dishes.
While many of these restaurants are located in the city center, some require a willingness to venture off the beaten path, which is a big part of the fun. With these top picks, you’ll have no shortage of options for enjoying the best Mexican food in Playa del Carmen. From simple street tacos to more refined regional dishes, there’s many ways to experience authentic Mexican food and fill your belly!
11 Restaurants With Authentic Mexican Food in Playa Del Carmen
Cantina Don PP
Avenida 50 & Calle 14
Cantina Don PP offers a memorable dining experience reminiscent of Mexico’s old-world charm. With its cozy ambiance and décor, this cantina takes you back to the late 19th century. Visitors rave about the platon garnachero, a sampler dish that provides a taste of many different Mexican favorites all on one plate.
From quesadillas to mole, chamorro, and homemade salsas, Cantina Don PP is perfect for those seeking a traditional Mexican meal in Playa del Carmen. Don’t miss their table-side salsa-making where you control the level of heat!
The chamorro at Don PP is delicious – and big enough for 2!
La Perla Pixan Cuisine & La Carbonería
Calle 34 Norte, between 5th and 10th Avenue
This vibrant eatery offers more than just delicious food; it delivers a cultural experience with its traditional Mexican dishes and lively atmosphere. With its signature thatched roof and rustic design, La Perla Pixan Cuisine & La Carbonería is for anyone who wants a welcoming and lively dining experience.
The restaurant specializes in mole, tacos, and fresh seafood dishes. They also offer a wide selection of traditional Mexican drinks, including mezcal and pulque. La Perla is the perfect spot to enjoy the best Mexican food while immersed in a tropical, laid-back vibe.
Los Portales del Mercado
Calle 6, between 10th and 15th Avenue
For those who want an authentic Mexican dining experience off the beaten path, Los Portales del Mercado is located inside a market where locals shop and eat. It offers Mexican street food favorites like tacos, quesadillas, and gorditas. Known for its large portions and affordable prices, this is an ideal spot to immerse yourself in local culture while enjoying some of the best tacos in Playa del Carmen.
El Fogon
Several locations across Playa del Carmen: Av. Constituyenes, 30 Avenida Norte, Paseo de Pedregal
El Fogon is one of the most beloved taco spots in Playa del Carmen. Known for its tacos al pastor, this restaurant serves generous portions of well-seasoned pork marinated and cooked on a vertical spit, then shaved onto fresh tortillas and topped with the perfect amount of queso.
If you are looking for the best tacos Playa del Carmen has to offer, El Fogon is the go-to spot for late-night dining and is a favorite for tourists as well as locals looking for affordable and flavorful Mexican food in Playa del Carmen.
The Tacos Pastor from El Fogon are a firm favorite!
Amate 38
Calle 38 Norte & 5th Avenue
A hidden gem on Playa’s tree-lined Calle 38, Amate 38 serves traditional Mexican food with a modern twist. Their dishes highlight ingredients sourced from the Yucatan Peninsula, incorporating local flavors into their menu.
From cochinita pibil to salbutes, their menu is designed to celebrate Mexico’s rich culinary hertigage. Amate 38 is located in a lush garden setting, offering a serene environment for a relaxing meal.
Pik Nik Playa
Avenida 10 & Calle 22
A charming spot that serves regional dishes, Pik Nik Playa is known for its homestyle cooking and attentive service. The cozy restaurant has built a reputation for serving some of the best Mexican food in Playa del Carmen while also maintaining reasonable prices.
Popular dishes include enchiladas verdes, sopes, and the fan-favorite tacos de cochinita pibil. If you want to enjoy authentic flavors with a relaxed atmosphere, Pik Nik Playa is worth a visit.
Carboncitas
4th Street and 5th Avenue
Looking for the best mexican food on 5th ave Playa Del Carmen? Carboncitas is known for offering classic Mexican dishes with a contemporary presentation. The restaurant’s menu is full of traditional favorites like fajitas, margaritas, and tacos. What sets Carboncitas apart is the warm hospitality and the quality of the ingredients, making it a great option for tourists seeking an upscale take on Mexican street food.
El Gobernador
Avenida 1 & Calle 16
El Gobernador is a relatively new addition to the Playa dining scene, offering an elevated take on traditional Mexican dishes. Known for its fresh seafood, here you’ll find octopus, fresh tuna tostadas, fresh ceviche as well as traditional dishes such as stuffed chiles. El Gobernador is a great spot for seafood lovers who want to enjoy sophisticated Mexican food in Playa del Carmen.
Birria de la 30
30th Avenue & Calle 38
For fans of birria, the famous slow-cooked Mexican stew, Birria de la 30 is a must-visit. This local favorite is known for its juicy, flavorful birria tacos served with a side of rich consommé for dipping. The restaurant is small and unassuming, but the food packs a punch, making it a great spot for a casual, authentic Mexican meal. Be sure to get here early especially on weekends as it it common to find a line out the front.
Loncheria Doña Mary
Avenida 30 & Calle 28
If you’re craving traditional Mexican breakfast or brunch, Loncheria Doña Mary is a long-standing local favorite. Known for its tortas, empanadas, and hearty soups, this no-frills restaurant offers a true taste of Mexican home cooking in a relaxed, cafeteria-like setting. Popular with locals, it’s a perfect place for a comforting meal at any time of day.
Tacos El Nero
Avenida Benito Juarez
A local favorite, Tacos El Nero is known for its mouthwatering tacos al pastor, and flavorful carne asada tacos. A short walking distance from the popular tourist-heavy areas, this spot offers a true taste of local taco culture with a selection of meats such as tripe, suadero, and chuleta.
The no-frills setting and affordable prices make it a great choice for those looking to enjoy delicious, authentic Mexican street food on the cheap. Don’t miss their famous salsas, made fresh daily and perfectly complement their tacos.