Primer Plato – handmade pasta to order
We stumbled on this little restaurant south of Juarez on 15th st. It is owned and operated by a couple from Sardinia. Everything in the place is fresh and all of the hot dishes are made while you wait, not preheated. It is by far one of the best little restaurants in Playa del Carmen. They only are open during the day because nightime for them is family time. In September, 2019 the hours are 12 – 5 Monday – Friday, but always check first. Best selection is early – they do run out of things by closing time. We usually go when they open and bring it home to have for dinner. The menu is usually in Italian and there are numerous daily specials.
The prices are unbelievably inexpensive and the food is the best. Pasta nero with tender octopus for less than $8 US? Seafood salad with huge shrimps for less than $7. here is only seating for about 20 people at a time and during busy season you will see a line of people waiting to get in. It’s worth the wait!
Le Cinq: My new favorite restaurant!
Le Cinq is my new favorite restaurant!! It’s located on 10th Ave. between Calle 12 and 14. We went early last night because we’d been cooped up with an all-day rain. I love French food and this place is incredibly good. We were the first to arrive and in addition to the menu, they showed us pictures on an iPad of all the dishes and wines. They have an extensive wine list with descriptions of each wine. You’ll see numerous French wines in addition to other wines. We started with escargot surrounded by thin slices of tomatoes and potatoes that was one of the best I’ve ever had. My husband had the best french onion soup he’s ever had. He followed that with lobster risotto and I had shrimp on a skewer with pineapple and other vegetables. Of course the sauce was out of this world. We finished with a warm chocolate dessert. Our waiter, Selomit, spoke French, English and Spanish and was attentive, very informative, and friendly. This is one of the best French restaurants I’ve been to including ones in France. Love it. Not the most expensive restaurant in Playa, but a little above average in price. Beautiful interior with outside seating as well.
Caguameria is the best new restaurant in Playa del Carmen
Located on First street, 1 block north of Constituyentes, Caguameria is the best new restaurant in Playa. It’s got great food, is fun and quirky. Great ambiance. Order the pulled pork served on a bread that’s half pizza dough, half taco shell. Save room for dessert!
Playa del Carmen Restaurant Recommendations
You can wander the side streets, but the real action is 5th Ave. People always ask us where we like to go. The following are some of our favorites. We’re also known to do a progressive dinner: bruschetta and wine at one place, ceasar salad at another, etc.
Yaxche
Yaxche is authentic Mayan cuisine and is on 5th at Calle 22. It has won the 5 Star Diamond Award and is unique. Authentic Mexican food, ambiance is great. Read the Trip Advisor reviews.
Babe’s Noodles and Bar – Recommended by Facebook friends
Babe’s Noodles and Bar, just off 5th Ave. between Calle 5 and 10 is open for lunch and dinner. Babe’s is a Swedish owned Restaurant and Bar with speciality Thai noodles and an Asian European kitchen. The bar makes the best mojitos, blueberry daiquiris, margaritas, smoothies and juices. Everthing is freshly prepared at the time you order.
Los Aguachiles
Los Aguachiles is located on the corner of Avenida 25 and Calle 34. Hands down the best taco place in the Mayan Riviera. It’s fresh, healthy, and where the well-to-do locals go. It closes around 5 and don’t be surprised if there’s a short wait for a table – it’s worth it! Tacos are all made with fresh ingredients that have either been sauteed in olive oil or cooked ceviche style in fresh lime juice.
The Blue Parrot
The Blue Parrot is on the beach and has a fire show on Friday nights, about 11 pm, that draws a big crowd. Food is great, ask for Julio. This use to be the big beach bar during the day. Read the Trip Advisor reviews.