Top 5 Restaurants in Playa del Carmen
It is no secret that Playa del Carmen delights locals and visitors alike with its wide selection of restaurants to please every imaginable craving. From authentic Mexican taquerías to hidden gems and high-end dining, Playa has it all!
Navigating the food landscape can be pretty daunting, which is why we have put together a list of the Top 5 Restaurants in Playa del Carmen you simply cannot miss!
La Cueva del Chango
La Cueva del Chango is one of the Top 5 Restaurants in Playa del Carmen and has been open for almost 20 years. Loved by long-timers and newbies alike, the restaurant gives off a lush, tropical vibe with its own mini waterfall, a fishpond, exotic birds, and green surroundings. The most popular time to visit the restaurant is for breakfast, where guests can enjoy rich local coffee, fresh-squeezed juices, the Cueva’s legendary chilaquiles or eggs topped off with homemade salsas and tortillas. Dinner faves include their delicious mole, a dish you cannot miss!
Insider tip: The place is usually packed on weekends. Arrive early to avoid long waits.
Price range: $$$
Location: Calle 38 Nte. Mz. 4-Lote 3, Zazil-ha, 77710
Don Chendo
Don Chendo serves Playa del Carmen’s only Chicago-style deep-dish pizza, which is truly delicious! The owner, Russell, is originally from New York but worked at Uno’s Pizzeria in Chicago. Don Chendo’s menu also includes spaghetti and meatballs, chicken parmesan, and other delights. You can also enjoy a wide selection of beer, wine, and spirits. Don Chendo is open Monday through Saturday from 3:00 p.m. to 10:50 p.m. and from 3:00 p.m. to 10:00 p.m. on Sundays.
Insider tip: Like many area restaurants in Playa, Don Chendo is usually closed for maintenance in September.
Price range: $$
Location: 30 Avenida Nte, C. 24 Nte &, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710
Papa Charly
Papa Charly is another of our Top 5 Restaurants in Playa del Carmen that locals and expats love, located away from the bustling 5th Avenue in Playa Del Carmen. Even though it is actually within an easy walking distance from downtown, the vibe feels completely different.
This chill little restaurant offers the escape you need every now and then. They have a daily menu for only $6.00 USD which includes a starter of soup, salad, or pasta, a main dish, and a fresh drink.
Insider tip: They also have great veggie and vegan-friendly options! Their falafel is simply delicious!
Price range: $$
Location: Calle 30 Nte LB, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77720
Manne’s Biergarten
Manne’s Biergarten is one of the pioneer restaurants in Playa, and its owner, Manne has been in living in Playa for over 20 years now. This is the go-to place for hearty and authentic German food and beer in Playa.
Manne runs the restaurant with his wife, Susie. They are both often present and put the utmost care and attention to all their regulars and newcomers alike. You will really be impressed with this warm couple that will take care of you and asks how you are doing in whatever language you speak.
Tip: Don’t miss out on Manne’s legendary Sunday roast!
Price range: $$
Location: Calle 4 Nte S/N, Centro, 77710
Los Tabernacos
Los Tabernacos is a Quebec sports restaurant bar. Founded by a Canadian, Los Tabernacos features several TVs and a giant screen to broadcast mainly Montreal Canadiens hockey games in French as well as other sporting events. They serve typical Quebec food such as their infamous Quebec poutine and other snacks like nachos, hamburger steak, and meat and cheese cuts. With a friendly, cozy atmosphere, Los Tabernacos is a must for all sports fans visiting Playa del Carmen.
Insider tip: Catch your favorite sports game here! Los Tabernacos is one of the few venues in Playa to stream ice hockey live!
Price range: $$
Location: Calle 10 Entre 10 Y, 15 Avenida Nte, 77710
Before You Go!
There is more to Playa del Carmen than meets the eye. Did you know that many children living in Mexico are not able to go to high school because they are charged a fee – it is not free!
While 12 years of education in Mexico is compulsory, the average number of years of education is only 9. Students who want to go on to high school need to pay for an entrance exam, school fees, transportation, and uniform costs. We believe in public education. It is not a perfect system in any country, but we believe that all children should have access to 12 years of education.
The good news is it costs less than $2 USD per day to keep a student in high school.
If you are anything like us, you will agree that so much of why we love Playa del Carmen has to do with the amazing locals. So why not do something for the community in return?
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