The 21 Best Restaurants in Cancun, Mexico [local guide]
Are you wondering where to find the best restaurants in Cancun? Look no further!
Please note that this post is being continuously updated with new restaurants, but with all the rapid changes in the Cancun cuisine, please bear with me while I am constantly trying new ones and deleting the eateries that have closed down.
Having lived in Cancun for over seven years, I’ve developed a keen taste for the local dining scene. While I haven’t tried every eatery, my culinary adventures and passion for good food have led me to discover some of the city’s finest dining spots.
In collaboration with my local friends, I’ve curated a list of the top restaurants in Cancun, complete with our honest reviews. As a fellow traveler, I understand how daunting it can be to choose where to eat in a new city. With so many options, it can feel overwhelming. This guide aims to make your decision easier.
I’ve organized the list by location and cuisine type. Beyond the mouthwatering Mexican dishes you’re eager to try (don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!), this list includes a variety of restaurants offering oriental, Mediterranean, and other international cuisines.
BEST RESTAURANTS IN CANCUN
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Cancun Restaurants Map
Best restaurants in Cancun Hotel Zone, Mexico
The Zona Hotelera isn’t just for stays and lodgings, although you find some of the best hotels in Cancun, you can also find a variety of restaurants in the area, which are just a few minutes away from where you’re staying. There are so many options that it’s difficult to choose so let me help you out.
1. Puerto Madero (among the top Cancun restaurants)
Situated on the lagoon side, in Cancun’s hotel zone with amazing views of the sea and both indoor and outdoor seating, Puerto Madero is claimed to be among the top restaurants in Cancun among the high-end.
It’s known for its grilled meat and lobsters, but its menu has countless other delicacies that are just as good for non-meat eaters.
However, it’s worth mentioning that the restaurant can be a little pricey, as the menu boasts many expensive dishes that can put a dent in your budget (and equally fill your mouth with tasteful joy). Do give it a try.
Location: Google Maps
2. Thai
Despite being located inside the La Isla shopping village, Thai Restaurants provides a unique fine dining experience and has all the qualities you would want in a restaurant ideal for intimate dinners and friendly get-togethers.
I have been there several times, and I believe this restaurant serves the best food in Cancun among the Asian Restaurants. It also has a unique location and setting.
The tables around the lagoon give it a very picturesque vibe. In fact, you can even plan a perfect date completed with a romantic dinner at a convenient distance after going on a shopping spree.
Thai Restaurant is a popular restaurant in Cancún’s hotel zone among expats and locals alike. It is known for its good food, great ambiance, and lovely views of the lagoon.
Location: Google Maps
3. Elefanta
If you like spicing things up (your food among them), the Elefanta—which is located right beside the Thai—is exactly the place for you.
The menu is full of Indian cuisine, spicy enough to sate the spice lover in you. What’s more, the surroundings are so delightful with their elegant decoration that you wouldn’t wish to leave.
Location: Google Maps
4. Ilio Greek Estiatorio Cancun
If you’re into Greek cuisine, head over to Boulevard Kukulcan’s lagoon side, where you will find excellent-quality Greek food at Ilio Greek Estiatorio, accompanied by stunning sea views.
With almost all the reviews rating it five stars, I don’t even need to mention how good their food and service are.
Location: Google Maps
5. Ristorante Nicoletta
This is a new restaurant that I cannot wait to try as soon as I return to Cancun. I love the interior decor and the spectacular views of the lagoon. It is definitely a great place to eat at sunset.
Location: Google Maps
6. Puerto Santo Laguna Sunset
The same owner of Puerto Santo restaurant in Puerto Juarez opened a new one on the Hotel Zone right in front of the lagoon.
The menu is similar, with international cuisine focusing on seafood. It’s located on an overwater deck with a stunning view of the Nichupte lagoon.
Location: Google Maps
Best restaurants in Cancun, Mexico: Puerto Juarez
Away from the teeming activity and luxurious surroundings in the Hotel Zone, Puerto Juarez (which usually goes unnoticed by travelers) has become a wonderful area filled with serene lodgings, spectacular views of its all-inclusive resorts, and amazing restaurants that sprang up there with local cuisine in mind.
The area was originally a fishing village, so you can never go wrong if you’re craving fish for lunch/dinner.
But there’s more to the restaurants there than exceptionally fresh and flavorful fish. Below is a list of Puerto Juarez restaurants that offer surprising Cancun flavors.
7. Marbella
Marbella is arguably the best place to eat in Cancun for fish and seafood.
They have a history of catching their own fish, selling it, and later even operating as a restaurant excelling in fish and many other dishes.
Their history isn’t the only unique thing about them. The menu offered at this establishment is nowhere else to be found.
The customizations, choice of ingredients, spices, and many other things that you can decide about what you’re ordering are exclusive to Marbella.
So if you are looking for a good restaurant in Cancun to eat seafood, Marbella is your place.
Despite opening a second branch on Isla Mujeres, the restaurant is usually very busy. Make sure to reserve a seat before visiting.
► If you are wondering if it’s better to travel to Cancun or Isla Mujeres, I’ve got you covered as well. Check out my post linked above.
Their staff is excellent—always up and about to help you with your decisions, recipes, and anything else you would like help with.
The amazing food and service are complemented by beguiling views of the sea. It’s safe to say that words won’t suffice, so you should go see it for yourself.
The Cancun branch is only open from 1 p.m. to 7 p.m. so you should keep that in mind while making plans for this place.
Location: Google maps
8. Puerto Santo
Puerto Santo was a family-owned little restaurant located on the beach inside the Residential Amara, and it has now become one of the trendiest places to spend a night in Cancun, dining to the rhythm of local and international music.
Their menu includes a lot of things to choose from. Whether you want to try their delicious seafood items, or just sit by the beach and enjoy your drinks in a lovely ambiance, with live music on some nights, this restaurant is for you.
Location: Google Maps
Best restaurants in Cancun downtown
Downtown Cancun has some of the fanciest bars and restaurants on its lively and nightlife-filled streets. Although there’s so much more in this area, below are the places I have tried and would recommend.
9. Mu. Burger House
Mu has become one of my favorite places to dine in Cancun. They have two spots now but I loved the one on the Av. Nichupte.
Both the interior space and the garden have a cozy atmosphere with a welcoming staff and delicious food.
The food is delicious, and if you are a vegan, worry not—they have you covered as well with their delicious lentil burger.
Their menu includes other exciting choices as well as burgers.
It’s definitely a place that I love to go back to over and over without getting tired of it.
Location # 2 – Google maps
Location #1 – Google Maps
10. Socio Naiz Taqueria
I just tried this taco place on the Avenida Nader, and I was positively impressed. Their eclectic menu offers a great variety of tacos, burritos, and pizzas.
I would go for the tacos, though, since it’s their specialty.
11. La Fonda del Zancudo
Built upon the remnants of an old house, La Fonda del Zancudo is the epitome of decoration and setting.
It’s my favorite of those two, with its greenery hanging from the old walls and neat organization.
The food is unique, with a touch of Italian and international cuisine; the same can be said about the service. I definitely recommend trying it.
Location – Google Maps —
12. Yamamoto $$$$
If you love Japanese cuisine, this is the place for you.
Yamamoto has become the most popular and high-end Japanese restaurant in Cancun. Sushi addicts are fans of their raw bar, but their cuisine is quite eclectic, and you won’t be disappointed if you are not particularly fond of sushi.
Address — Av Uxmal 31, 3, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 (998) 8873366
Best Cafes in Cancun
Now that I’ve covered the restaurants in various areas of Cancun, it’s time to add some cafes to the list.
13. Rooster
There are two Rooster cafes in Cancun. One is on the Avenida Nader, and they have just moved to a bigger location. I usually visit that one to get my soy chai latte or something healthy like juice.
After wholesome breakfasts, the dishes for lunch include filling sandwiches and salads, among other things.
The other is on Av Suyaxchen, near Mercando 28. It is also large and comfortable. It is a must to stop by the café while visiting the striking places of the area.
Location: Google Maps
14. Antoinette
Everything about this café is French to the core. As a result, their croissants are arguably the best in the whole of Cancun.
The big space with French decorations and a back garden makes it a unique place to visit. But, unlike the previous café, the WiFi sometimes doesn’t work (boo!).
Location: Google Maps
15. Comida Fit
After two of my favorite restaurants/cafes closed, this cute place opened in the Avenida Nader/ Calle Mojarra. It has a cozy ambiance and offers a variety of healthy dishes. Perfect for breakfast, brunch, or lunch. They are open every day except Monday from 8 am to 4 pm.
Location: Google Maps
Best Mexican restaurants in Cancun
15. El Timon de Cancun
It used to be Los Aguachiles, but the new ownership seemed to take the already great restaurant to a different level. I haven’t had the chance to go yet, but I saw great reviews. I can’t wait to go and try it myself.
If you are a seafood fan but are looking for a cozy restaurant with a laid-back vibe, this is the place for you.
The atmosphere is comfy and bright, with a variety of delicious Mexican cuisine to choose from. It’s one of the best places in terms of seafood.
Location: Google Maps
16. El pocito Comida Yucateca
EL pocito Comida Yucateca is one of the best places to eat in Cancun to try the real Yucatecan cuisine.
I have personally tried the place during an amazing food tour where I just had a taste of their delicacies, and I promised myself I would go back and have a full meal. It was delicious.
The area where it’s located is not one of the safest, near the Avenida Lopez Portillo, but if you go by car or taxi, you are just fine. Just avoid going out for a walk after the meal.
Location: Google Maps
Read more about all the amazing food tours in Cancun
17. Mora Mora Urban Cuisine
Going to this restaurant is more like visiting your highly cultured, sophisticated friend whose mother makes amazing food.
You have to ring a bell before you get to enter the restaurant (so make sure you have a reservation), the surroundings are comfortable and give you a home-like feeling, and it has a garden too!
But it goes further with the homey feel. Whether you’re a vegan or a meat lover, the menu has a lot to offer. The theme is capped off with art exhibitions, music, and other artsy activities that take place here.
Location: Google Maps
Italian restaurants in Cancun
18. La Familia Don Corleone
One of the prominent Italian restaurants in Cancun, La Familia Don Corleone, came into being after Giulia, the chef (a very good one), merged her two separate restaurants: I Famosi Pasta and Don Corleone.
The menu is full of authentic Italian selections. So, if you’re looking for pleasurable Italian dishes and friendly service, this is the place to hit up.
Location: Google Maps
19. Il Cenacolo
This Italian restaurant is popular for its formal setting and service. It’s one of the most popular places to eat in Cancun, and even though I haven’t been there, all my friends and acquaintances keep talking about the place.
That’s why I had to include it on the list: because of their great praise for the place.
From what I have gathered, the food is remarkable, and the atmosphere is very sophisticated with the restaurant’s enjoyable location in the new Puerto Cancun mall.
Location: Google Maps
20. Col Bigolo
I don’t need to say much about this restaurant and pizzeria, which is praised for its pizza as the best in Cancun.
The claim is even corroborated by an Italian, so you know you can trust them with your pizza cravings.
Location: Google Maps
21. Frontoni Pizzeria
Frontoni Pizzeria is arguably Cancun’s best restaurant if you want to eat real Italian Pizza.
If you want to taste real pizza “Napoly-Style” in Cancun is your place. It’s a small restaurant in the heart of downtown Cancun.
The restaurant is nothing fancy; on the contrary, it’s kind of shabby, but the pizza is the real deal.
Location: Google Maps
Best restaurants in Cancun FAQ
Is tipping mandatory in Cancun?
What is the most famous food in Cancun?
How much is for a nice dinner in Cancun?
What’s an off-the-grid eatery in Cancun?
Best restaurants in Cancun: final thoughts
I hope you found my list helpful, but I invite you to try new ones and explore them freely. I promise I will continue to try new restaurants and update this list with new places.
If you are planning a trip to Cancun, check out my guide to the best time to travel to Cancun for useful travel tips.
