Whether you’re craving tacos, tamales, or burgers, Playa del Carmen has no shortage of cheap eats that won’t sacrifice flavor or authenticity. From local favorites to off-the-beaten-path gems, the best cheap eats in Playa del Carmen will keep your stomach happy and your wallet full.
The city’s food prices can vary widely depending on the area and the type of atmosphere you desire. If you are ready to venture away from the restaurants Playa del Carmen 5th Avenue is known for, we’ve rounded up some top picks. Some of these are street food stands, and others are spots that to the untrained eye may seem like nothing – but rest assured we’ve found the best flavor to peso ration in town!
Tip: As many of these places are very local, you might not find them online or social media – you might just need to find the place for yourself.
Here are some of the best cheap places where locals eat in Playa del Carmen!
Top 13 Cheap Places to Eat in Playa Del Carmen
Tacos Díaz 100%
115 Ave & Calle 3 Sur
What to Order: Tacos, Tacos, and more Tacos
Known for its simple setup, Tacos Diaz 100% is a local favorite for anyone looking to feast on delicious tacos without spending more than a few pesos. One of the best cheap places to eat in Playa del Carmen, The tortillas are made fresh daily, and the fillings range from carne asada to spicy al pastor. Don’t miss out on their homemade salsas, which take the tacos to a new level.
Don Chava
28th Ave, Plaza Las Americas
What to Order: Homemade Mexican favorites
Don Chava offers a menu del día, a daily set menu that’s perfect for a hearty, homemade meal at a low price. From tacos to traditional Mexican stews, this spot has a little bit of everything. Located away from the touristy areas, it’s where locals go to enjoy comforting and flavorful food.
Gran Taco
Calle 41, across from Centro Maya
What to Order: Tacos (of course!)
If you’re looking for another taco fix, Gran Taco delivers. Just across from Centro Maya, this spot is a go-to for affordable tacos with generous portions. Locals rave about their taco al pastor and quesadillas, and it’s not uncommon to find a line of people waiting for their delicious, cheap eats.
La Bamba Jarocha
Multiple Locations
What to Order: Seafood dishes
For fresh and affordable seafood, La Bamba Jarocha is a local staple. From ceviche to shrimp tacos, the dishes here are flavorful, and the portions are large. It’s a casual spot where you can enjoy seafood without the upscale restaurant price tag.
Mega Taco Stands
Across from Mega supermarkets, Calle 30 y Calle 14 Nte. Bis
What to Order: Street Tacos
Street tacos are the best part of Playa del Carmen’s food culture, and the taco stands near Mega supermarket are not to be missed. These small, casual spots offer some of the cheapest and most delicious tacos in town. Whether you prefer carne asada, chorizo, or al pastor, the tacos are always hot, fresh, and served with mouth-watering toppings.
DAC Tamale & Taco Stands
Next to DAC Market, Calle 30 Norte
What to Order: Vegan & Healthy Tamales and Tacos
If you’re looking for a healthier option, the taco stands next to the DAC Market offers vegan and vegetarian tamales and tacos that are packed with flavor. The produce is incredibly fresh since it’s sourced directly from the DAC market next door, making it a favorite spot for health-conscious eaters.
Uno Taco Mas
Calle 22 & 50th Avenue
What to Order: Tacos (but get there early!)
If you’re in the mood for tacos, Uno Taco Mas is a must-visit. Their tacos are so good that they often sell out early, so be sure to arrive before lunchtime. Known for its affordable prices and fresh ingredients, this taco stand is a hit with both locals and visitors looking for quality without the tourist mark-up.
Camors
Calle 6, between 10 & 15 Ave
What to Order: Carne Asada Panuchos, Picadillo Empanadas
For 34 pesos, you can enjoy a meal that will leave you stuffed! Camors is located in the new Mercado Playa Del Carmen and offers some of the cheapest empanadas in the city. The carne asada panuchos and picadillo empanadas are not to be misse.. The homemade salsa alone makes it worth the visit.
La Cochi Loka
30th Avenue between 22 y 24 / Calle 10, between 5 & 10 Ave
What to order: cochinita pibil
Known for its delicious cochinita pibil tacos, La Cochi Loka is a casual eatery serves up traditional Yucatecan flavors that locals and visitors love. The slow-cooked pork, marinated in citrus and achiote, is served with handmade tortillas, making it a must-try for anyone seeking a cheap and satisfying meal for less than 100 pesos.
La Brocherie
Avenida 15, between Calle 6 & 4
What to order: half chicken combo
La Brocherie is a staple in Playa del Carmen, offering delicious rotisserie chicken with a French-Mexican twist. Located just off the tourist-heavy streets, this small, unpretentious spot is known for its affordable yet flavorful meals. Their popular half-chicken combo includes perfectly roasted chicken, served with tortillas, rice, and the owner’s homemade hot sauce, all for just 110 pesos.
Branton Burger
Avenida CTM, between 5 & 10 Ave
What to Order: Double Cheeseburger
For those looking for a good burger in Playa del Carmen, Branton Burger is a favorite for finding the best cheap eats Playa del Carmen offers. Known for its juicy patties and fresh ingredients, it’s a great place to visit after a long day on the beach. This casual eatery features an open grill where you can see your burger being made!
According to visitors, one of most popular choices is the Double Cheeseburger because of its generous portion size, featuring two juicy patties stacked with melted cheese, fresh lettuce, tomato, and onions, all packed into a soft bun. Simple, satisfying, and quick, Branton Burger hits the spot.
La Cocinita “Sazón Playense”
Av. Solidaridad, Mision de las Profesas
What to order: Chicken mole or flautas
La Cocinita “Sazon Palyense” is across the highway just west of Centro and worth traveling for. This eatery is a local favorite for homemade, flavorful meals at budget-friendly prices. For less than 100 pesos, you can enjoy their daily menu, which includes a main dish and two sides. It’s the perfect spot for anyone looking for authentic, homemade Mexican food such as chicken mole, flautas, and chilaquiles.
Los Molcajetes
10 Ave. Nte, Colosio
What to order: Barbacoa tacos
Located in the Colosio neighborhood, Los Molcajetes is a popular spot to find hearty dishes such as chicken, pork and ribs with plenty of tortillas, beans and rice. On Sundays, you can enjoy barbacoa by the kilo or per taco at an unbeatable price.
Enjoy a Meal, Empower a Student’s Future
Playa del Carmen’s food scene is packed with affordable options, whether you’re grabbing tacos from a local stand or enjoying a budget-friendly burger joint. But while you’re satisfying your cravings, remember there are young students in this community hungry for something more—an education that could change their lives.
For less than the price of your favorite street tacos ($2 USD per day), you could help a student stay in school. That’s like skipping one meal to make sure a student doesn’t miss out on a brighter future.
So, next time you’re indulging in Playa’s delicious, budget-friendly eats, consider sharing the wealth by donating to KKIS. Your contribution can feed their dreams and fuel their journey toward success.
Reach out today to see how you can donate or volunteer. Because feeding a student’s future feels even better than finding the perfect cheap meal!