A Guide to the Best New Playa del Carmen Restaurants

Forget your average taco stands and tourist traps – Playa del Carmen's culinary scene is hotter than a habanero salsa. This year, the vibrant beach town has seen a wave of new openings, each with a unique personality and mouthwatering offerings. So, ditch the all-inclusive buffet and embark on a gastronomic adventure with this guide to the Best New Playa del Carmen Restaurants 2023.

For the Foodie with Flair:

• La Brocherie: Imagine a French bistro plucked straight from the streets of Paris, dropped onto a quiet Playa del Carmen side street. This charming restaurant boasts a menu that's as authentic as it is delightful. Savor succulent rotisserie chickens, melt-in-your-mouth duck confit, and decadent chocolate mousse – all while sipping on a glass of French wine. Pro tip: don't miss their signature “moules frites” (mussels and fries) for a taste of the French coast.
• C-Grill: This sleek and modern restaurant is a playground for adventurous palates. Their innovative menu takes classic grilling techniques to new heights, with dishes like smoked octopus carpaccio and Wagyu beef burgers with truffle mayo. The open kitchen allows you to witness the culinary magic firsthand, while the chic ambiance sets the scene for a memorable dining experience.

For the Health-Conscious Hedonist:

• Cocina Milagro: This restaurant is a haven for health-conscious gourmands. Their plant-based menu bursts with creativity and flavor, using fresh, local ingredients to create dishes as nutritious as they are delicious. Indulge in their signature “Buddha bowls” brimming with colorful vegetables, grains, and protein, or try their innovative vegan ceviche made with jackfruit.
• Spread Global Kitchen: This vibrant spot celebrates the diverse flavors of global cuisine, all while adhering to sustainable and healthy practices. From fragrant Thai curries to Moroccan tagines, their menu is a passport to culinary adventure. Don't forget to try their signature “rainbow smoothie bowls” for a healthy and Instagram-worthy treat.

For the Experience Seeker:

• YA´AX Market: This bustling marketplace is a feast for the senses. Wander through stalls overflowing with fresh produce, artisanal crafts, and local delicacies. Sample exotic fruits, savor authentic Mayan dishes, and grab a refreshing drink at one of the many bars. YA´AX Market is more than just a meal; it's a cultural immersion.
• Alux Restaurant Bar and Lounge: Prepare to be transported to a magical world at Alux. This unique restaurant is housed within a vast underground cave, adorned with colorful lighting and inhabited by resident bats. Their menu features contemporary Mexican cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. But the real showstopper is the ambiance – dining in a cavern lit by flickering candlelight is an experience you won't soon forget.

For the Oceanophile:

• Luma Taverna Del Mar: Situated on a rooftop overlooking the turquoise Caribbean Sea, Luma Taverna Del Mar offers a breathtaking setting for a romantic dinner or a special occasion. Their menu highlights fresh seafood, with dishes like grilled lobster tails and ceviche made with the catch of the day. As the sun sets and the sky explodes with color, Luma's sophisticated atmosphere and delicious food create an unforgettable dining experience.
• Amor A Mar: This beachfront restaurant is a love letter to the sea. Their menu celebrates the bounty of the ocean, with dishes like coconut shrimp tacos, grilled fish skewers, and fresh ceviche. Relax on the beachside patio, soak in the ocean breeze, and indulge in the flavors of the sea.

Beyond the Plate:

These restaurants are just a taste of what Playa del Carmen's culinary scene has to offer. With its ever-evolving landscape and diverse flavors, this vibrant city is a paradise for foodies. So, come hungry, be adventurous, and prepare to be amazed by the incredible food experiences that await you in Playa del Carmen.

Bonus Tip:

To truly immerse yourself in the local culinary experience, don't be afraid to venture off the beaten path. Explore the hidden gems nestled away from the tourist crowds, try street food from local vendors, and be open to unexpected culinary discoveries. You might just stumble upon your new favorite dish.

Happy Eating!