The 29 Best Restaurants in Cancun in 2023 | the Ultimate Guide
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This list of the 29 best restaurants in Cancun will give you plenty of eateries on your list to last you your whole trip and more.
Besides the renowned Mexican cuisine that you’re probably hoping for, this list features restaurants offering oriental, Mediterranean, and sorts of cuisines.
I have organized this list based on locations and the type of food they serve. I hope it will be helpful!
There are so many restaurants in Cancun that it’s difficult to choose.
If your trip is a short one and you wish to get the best of it, then I’ll save you the trouble and this shortlist may help you pick among the top restaurants in Cancun.
I have lived in Cancun for 7 years and counting and although I haven’t tried them all, I can easily say that I know a good amount of the best Cancun Restaurants, and my friends and I have managed to gather these honest reviews.
So read on if you want to go on a culinary adventure among the classic Mexican flavors, fresh seafood, vegetarian dishes, international cuisine, and everything in between.
Among all the things to do in Cancun, trying one of the best restaurants is definitely a must. So I hope this guide will help you choose the best one for your taste and budget.
BEST RESTAURANTS IN CANCUN
Cancun Restaurants Map
BEST RESTAURANTS IN CANCUN
Best restaurants in Cancun Hotel Zone
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
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 one of the best 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 available for non-meat eaters, and are just as good.
Though, it’s worth mentioning that the restaurant can weigh a little on your pocket, as the menu boasts a lot of expensive dishes all capable of putting a dent in your budget (and equally filling your mouth with tasteful joy). Do give it a try.
Address — Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 14.1, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún
Contact Number — +52 998 885 2829
4. NI (Nizuc Hotel & Spa)
While you can only have lunch in this elegant place, it has arguably the best Peruvian cuisine. With a view of the water, an amazing menu, and delightful surroundings, this restaurant in Hotel Nizuc is sure to amaze.
Address — Blvd. Kukulcan Mz 59 Lote 1-03 Km 21.26, Nizuc, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 998 891 5700
5. La Punta Grill and Lounge (Nizuc Hotel & Spa)
With elegantly decorated dishes, specialty grilled meat, a variety of seafood, and an atmospheric view of the sea, La Punta Grill and Lounge has it all.
Just like the resort, it’s located inside, this restaurant provides all your cravings and more, while also perfecting the luxurious style of modern-day resorts.
I highly recommend giving it a try and experiencing the luxury for yourself.
Address — Blvd. Kukulcan Mz 59 Lote 1-03 Km 21.26, Nizuc, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 998 891 5700
6. Indochine (Nizuc Hotel & Spa)
Indochine is one of my favorite spots to hang out, unwind, and enjoy mouth-watering food.
Sitting on the wooden deck of this Asian restaurant, with its luminous pool reflecting all the lights shining on it, is such a pleasant experience.
It goes without saying that, like the aforementioned Nizuc restaurants on this list, Indochine offers a great variety of foods that are prepared by the best chefs.
Address — Blvd. Kukulcan Mz 59 Lote 1-03 Km 21.26, Nizuc, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 998 891 5700
7. Thai
Despite being located inside the La Isla shopping village, Thai Restaurants provides a unique fine dining experience and has all the qualities which you would want in a restaurant that’s ideal for intimate dinners and friendly get-togethers.
The tables are situated around the lagoon, giving 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 not only for the good food but for the great ambiance and lovely views of the lagoon.
Address — La Isla Cancún Shopping Village, Blvd. Kukulcan, Zona Hotelera
Contact Number — ++52 998 144 0364
8. 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.
Address — Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 14.1, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún
Contact Number — +52 9981768070
9. Ilio Greek Estiatorio Cancun
If you’re one for 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 views of the sea.
With almost all the reviews rating it five stars, I don’t even need to mention how good their food and service is.
Address — Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 13.5, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 (998) 2516596
10. Ristorante Nicoletta
This is a new restaurant that I cannot wait to try as soon as I go back to Cancun. I love the interior decor and the spectacular views of the lagoon. Definitely, a great place to eat at sunset.
Address – Blvd. Kukulcan Km. 13.5, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R.
11. 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 with a focus on seafood. It’s located on an overwater deck with a stunning view of the Nichupte’ lagoon.
Address – Blvd. Kukulcan Km 13.5, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R.
BEST RESTAURANTS IN CANCUN
Best restaurants in 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.
12. Marbella
Marbella is arguably the best place to eat in Cancun when it comes to 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.
Despite having opened 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 above-linked post.
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.
Address — Carretera Porto Juarez Punta Sam Km2 Mz 2 Lote 2, San Miguel 86, Militar, 77520 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 (998) 843 0202
13. 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.
Address — López Portillo s/n-Mz 84, Puerto Juarez, Juárez, 77505 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 (998) 870 6269
BEST RESTAURANTS IN CANCUN
Best restaurants in Down Town Cancun
Down Town 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.
14. 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 because they have got you covered as well with their delicious lentil burger.
Their menu includes other interesting choices as well as burgers.
Definitely, a place that I love to go back to over and over again without getting tired of it.
Address #1 — Nichupte, SM 51 MZ 51 LOTE 11, 77533 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 (998) 1382813
Address #1 — Av Carlos Nader 44, 2A, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +529981746115
15. Sirena Morena
Even though I’m no longer a raw vegan, I still love vegan food and the places that offer it on their menu. With that being said, Sirena Morena is one of the places I find perfectly tailored to my liking in that regard.
It is in fact one of the most popular restaurants in downtown Cancún among the vegetarian and vegan community.
The service is amazing, the waiters are more than helpful with their friendly niceness, and the overall comfortable, cozy ambiance of the place gives it a personal touch.
I frequent Sirena Morena to just sit there, working while enjoying their wonderful snacks and beverages
16. Socio Naiz Taqueria
Just tried this taco place on the Avenida Nader and I was positively impressed. They have a very eclectic menu that offers a great variety of tacos but also burritos and even pizzas.
I would go for the tacos though since it’s their specialty.
Address — Av Carlos Nader 74, 3, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 (998) 255 6814
17. Che Che
This is now one of my favorite places in Cancun for breakfast and lunch (or snacks) and where I love to go working from my laptop.
It’s located in an old market space where they have now opened a few restaurants and coffee shops which I really recommend. But Che Che is my favorite among them.
They serve healthy food and most of them are vegan and vegetarian.
The coffee is delicious and if you crave dessert you can bring a pastry from the bakery next door.
The space is really cozy and great for working with comfortable chairs and spacious tables. The staff is really nice.
Check their IG page
Address — Av Carlos Nader 7, 5, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
18. La Fonda del Zancudo
Built upon the remnants of an old house, La Fonda del Zancudo takes the cake when it comes to decoration and setting.
It’s my favorite in terms of those two, with its greenery hanging from the old walls and the neat organization of the place.
The food is unique with a touch of Italian and international cuisine, and the same can be said about the service. I definitely recommend trying it.
Address — Av Uxmal Mza 02 Lte 33, 3, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 (998) 884 1741
19. 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 RESTAURANTS IN CANCUN
Best Cafes in Cancun
Now that I’ve covered the restaurants in various areas of Cancun, it’s time to get some cafes on the list as well.
20. Sirena Morena
I know I already mentioned Sirena Morena but I just can’t get enough of this amazing place. Apart from what I have already mentioned about this place in the Down Town restaurants section, this place is my go-to café for coffee/beverages. You will not be disappointed if you’re looking for a quality café.
Address — Av Carlos Nader 66, 3, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 (998) 887 9774
21. Rooster
There are two Rooster cafes in Cancun. One is on the Avenida Nader and they have now just changed location to a bigger place. I usually visit that one to get my soy chai latte or something healthy like juice.
After the wholesome breakfasts, the dishes for lunch include filling sandwiches and salads among other things.
The other one is on Av Suyaxchen, near Mercando 28, also large and comfortable. Stopping by the café while you’re visiting the striking places of the area is a must.
Address — Mero Rtno. 1 30, 3, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 (998) 884 4252
22. Pepe Piraña
Decorated with all kinds of art, hanging lights, wooden tables, and chairs, Pepe Piraña is another place I like visiting to get some work done.
They have excellent cuisine, with amazing desserts like empanadas (pizza-bread with various kinds of fillings from veggies to meat) which is an Argentinian specialty.
Address — Av Tulum 11-MZA 02 LTE 2,3, 11, 77504 Cancún,
Contact Number — +52 (998) 802 1662
23. 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 its 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!).
Address — Al lado de Pabellon Caribe, Avenida Xpuhil M 2 lt 24 sm 19, Centro
Contact Number — +52 (998) 884 6128
BEST RESTAURANTS IN CANCUN
Mexican restaurants in Cancun
24. Los Aguachiles
If you are a seafood fan, but you are looking for a cozy restaurant with a laidback vibe, Aguachiles is your place.
It’s a chain restaurant, with branches in Tulum, Playa del Carmen, and Cancun. I like the Cancun branch.
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.
Address — Lote 1, Av. Nichupté Manzana 4, 17, 77505 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 998 884 0152
25. La Habichuela
La Habichuela is a high-end restaurant in the Downtown area close to Parque de las Palapas that offers a chance to feel like a local.
Here you will find typical dishes in a lovely ambiance, perfect for a romantic date as well. La Habichuela is probably the best restaurant that offers Mexican cuisine and fine dining at the same time.
Address — Calle Margaritas #25, Downtown Cancun, Quintana Roo.
Contact Number — +52 (998) 884 31 58
26. El pocito Comida Yucateca
I haven’t personally tried the place, but, according to my Mexican friends, this place is where you can find traditional Yucatecan cuisine in its true form. So, based on their good opinion, I’m including this restaurant on this list.
Address — 31 Norte Lte 23 Mz35 SM 63, Centro, 77513 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 (998) 2522654
27. 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 feels. Whether you’re a vegan or a meat lover, the menu has a lot of things to offer you. The theme is capped off with art exhibitions, music, and other artsy activities that take place here.
Address — Avenida Palenque 10 sm 62 mz 5 Lote 24, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 998 1151617
BEST RESTAURANTS IN CANCUN
Italian restaurants in Cancun
28. 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.
Address — Plaza Fontana Avenida Huayacan smza 313, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 (998) 596 0749
29. Il Cenacolo
This Italian restaurant is popular for its formal setting and service. It’s so popular that, even though I haven’t been there, all my friends and acquaintances keep admiring the place.
I couldn’t help putting it on the list because of their great praises 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.
Address — Km. 1.5 Boulevard Kukulcan Marina Puerto Cancún Puerto Cancún
Contact Number — +52 (998) 8022109
30. Col Bigolo
I don’t need to say much about this restaurant and pizzeria that 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.
Address — Av Uxmal 33, 3, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 (998) 3132648
31. Frontoni Pizzeria
If you want to taste real pizza “Napoletana” in Cancun is your place. It’s a small restaurant in the heart of Cancun downtown.
The restaurant is nothing fancy, with a laid-back vibe but the pizza is the real deal.
Address —Calle Av Chilam Balam 50, Riviera, 50, 77533 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Contact Number — +52 (998) 372 5612
Best restaurants in Cancun: final thoughts
I hope you found my list helpful but at the same time I invite you to try new ones and explore freely. On my end, I promise you I will continue to try new restaurants and update this list with new places.
If you are planning a trip to Cancun also check out my guide to the best time to travel to Cancun for useful travel tips.
About the Author
Hey there! This is Isabella, the owner, and writer of this site. I have been living in Cancun for the past 12 years and although I have been roaming around Mexico, Cancun’s spectacular turquoise waters and pristine beach draw me back to this popular Mexican beach destination. That is why I decided to start this blog, to show you all the beauty you can find in Cancun and share helpful travel tips to help you plan a fabulous vacation in Cancun!
