The 10 Best Restaurants in Cancún
Cancún is Mexico’s top resort destination, responsible for over one-third of the nation’s tourism. Travelers from all over the world come to experience the white sand beaches, the shimmering turquoise seas, and of course the world-class food. If you’re looking for the best restaurants in Cancún, we’ve narrowed down the top 10 dining options based on the following criteria:
- User reviews
- Ambiance
- Menu (food quality, taste, freshness, selection)
- The experiences of our editorial staff and customers
- Price (our goal was to include a mix of cheap, casual, and fine dining selections)
If you’re in or planning to visit Cancún in the near future, be sure to check out the following top-rated eateries.
1. La Habichuela
With its savory Caribbean-inspired cuisine and lush garden decor, La Habichuela is a top dining destination for travelers to Cancún.
Address:
Margaritas 25
77500 Cancún, Quintana Roo
Mexico
What Makes It Unique: The food is amazing, but what immediately stands out is the verdant, Mayan-inspired surroundings. People love dining on the garden patio with its lush gardens, Maya statues, and hanging lights.
Notable Dishes: Their signature selection is the cocobichuela, a sweet curried lobster dish served inside of a hollow coconut. It’s one of the most famous local selections in Cancún. They also have an excellent surf and turf dish featuring steak and lobster tail along with a baked potato and vegetables.
Pro Tip: You’ll want to sit outside on the patio to enjoy the full experience. There you’ll have full access to the eclectic decor and nightly tableside fire show.
Ideal For: Date nights, outings with friends.
Price Range: $$$$
2. La Fonda Del Zancudo
Located near the ADO bus station, La Fonda Del Zancudo is a European-inspired eatery located in a courtyard surrounded by the crumbling stucco walls of an old house. The atmosphere is rustic, and the food is to die for.
Address:
Av Uxmal 23
77500 Cancún, Quintana Roo
Mexico
What Makes It Unique: If the aged ruins, crumbling walls, and hanging vines aren’t enough to pique your interest, the food certainly will. Like La Habichuela, this is a place that combines an exquisite menu with a one-of-a-kind atmosphere.
Notable Dishes: Popular appetizers include the tuna tartare and empanadas. For entrees, visitors love the ravioli in black bean sauce; it comes stuffed with goat cheese and prepared with plantains. Other popular selections include the tuna carpaccio and seared salmon.
Pro Tip: Important: Note that this restaurant is only open for dinner. If you have a large group, you can make a reservation on Facebook.
Ideal For: Romantic and formal outings.
Price Range: $$$$
3. Les Cépages
Head downtown to enjoy lunch or dinner at Les Cépages. This pricey but worthwhile spot is the creation of renowned chef Sal Luna. Chef Sal is classically trained in French culinary traditions, and his amazing French-inspired menu is a testament to his skill. He’s known for greeting every guest who comes in, and the whole staff is friendly and hospitable.
Address:
Supermanzana 16
77505 Cancún, Quintana Roo
Mexico
What Makes It Unique: With its seasonal menus and massive wine selection, this is the place to try authentic French cuisine in the Yucatan Peninsula. The fresh produce and meats are locally sourced, and special requests are usually honored.
Notable Dishes: Though the menu changes seasonally, their famous soufflé is available year-round. Other popular items—subject to availability—include the quail and the escargot ravioli. If you’re looking for a worthwhile appetizer, order the portobello mushroom and goat cheese.
Pro Tip: This place can get crowded, but if you visit on a Monday or Tuesday, the crowds are smaller and the dining more intimate.
Ideal For: Special occasions and formal outings.
Price Range: $$$$
4. Irori
If you’re in the mood for sushi, head over to Avenida Tulum. There you’ll find what some have called the best sushi restaurant in Mexico, and it’s very reasonably priced. They also specialize in ramen and tempura.
Address: Av. Tulum 226
77500 Cancún, Quintana Roo
Mexico
What Makes it Unique: This is one of the few great sushi restaurants in Cancún, and the fish is served fresh. If you prefer cooked cuisine, you can gather around one a teppanyaki table and watch expert chefs prepare your food Benihana-style.
Notable Dishes: Their traditional sushi options, like spicy tuna, are delicious, but they also have Mexican- and Caribbean-inspired offerings like Caribbean rolls with shrimp tempura and salsa chipotle. If you’re feeling adventurous, order the Omekase12, consisting of 12 fresh nigiri selections chosen by the chef.
Pro Tip: Not sure what to order? If you sit at the bar, the chefs will chat with you, make recommendations, and offer you some custom selections.
Ideal For: Those times when you want to slip away from the all-inclusive resort food and “catch of the day” offerings and grab some affordable sushi.
Price Range: $$
5. Lorenzillo’s
Ask the locals for a seafood recommendation, and many will point you to Lorenzillo’s, a beloved Cancún institution for more than three decades. If you love lobster, this is easily one of the best restaurants to try.
Address:
Blvd. Kukulcán Km. 10. 5
77500 Cancún, Quintana Roo
Mexico
What Makes it Unique: This is the place for lobster. There is even a lobster farm on the property where the crustaceans are raised fresh. Best of all, you can get a table overlooking the gorgeous Nichupte Lagoon.
Notable Dishes: Any lobster item on the menu is guaranteed to satisfy. The tails are incredible, but you can get just about anything made with lobster. There’s lobster ceviche, soup, and even tacos. In addition, you can get your lobsters grilled, steamed, or boiled, so there are nearly limitless options.
Pro Tip: If you sit out by the lagoon, keep an eye out for Lorenzo, the famed crocodile who occasionally swims by. He’s sort of a local legend.
Ideal For: Splurging with friends in an environment that’s elegant but not stuffy.
Price Range: $$$$
6. Puerto Madero
Puerto Madero is the place to visit for delectable Argentinian food in Cancún. One visit and you’ll see why it’s among the most popular eateries in the city.
Address:
Blvd. Kukulcán km 14.1
77500 Cancún, Quintana Roo
Mexico
What Makes it Unique: With its modern industrial decor, fresh meats, and unobstructed lagoon views, Puerto Madero is a treat for all five senses.
Notable Dishes: Their steak selection is unrivaled. Guests especially love the rib eye. If red meat isn’t your thing, the glazed sea bass is another big hit. They even have a seafood spaghetti for the kids. Whatever you order, make sure to try the chimichurri with your meal.
Pro Tip: They have great prices on bottles of wine, which makes it perfect for cozy date nights. For instance, a bottle of Malbec will run you just $35.
Ideal For: Celebrations and romantic outings.
Price Range: $$$
7. Peter’s Restaurante
Located downtown, this family-run restaurant offers a friendly, intimate atmosphere and incredible artisan cuisine. Most nights, Chef Peter will even come to your table and greet you.
Address:
Manzana 11
77513 Cancún, Quintana Roo
Mexico
What Makes it Unique: At Peter’s Restaurante, you can enjoy the same type of high-end cuisine that you would find in the Hotel Zone, but at a much lower price.
Notable Dishes: The most popular dish, hands down, is the mushroom ravioli, and for good reason. Other popular selections include the pork tenderloin and braised brisket. With a menu that includes beef, seafood, and vegetarian options, there's something for every palette. The desserts are also among the best in town. Try the key lime pie with tequila sorbet.
Pro Tip: The food is incredible, but you’ll have to plan your visit carefully. This restaurant is only open Tuesday through Saturday between 6 and 10 p.m. Arrive early if you can, as there are only about 10 tables.
Ideal For: When you need a bit of quiet time away from the party crowds.
Price Range: $$-$$$$
8. Marakame Cafe
With its jungle-inspired decor and eclectic Mexican and international menu, Marakame Cafe is another one of the best restaurants in Cancún.
Address:
Av. Copán SM 19
77505 Cancún, Quintana Roo
Mexico
What Makes it Unique: The decor is next-level. Both the interior dining room and exterior patio are decorated with trees, wood accents, and hanging vines, so you’ll feel like you’re eating in the world’s most elaborate treehouse.
Notable Dishes: Marakame serves food all day, but they’re best known for their buffet brunch, served from 8 a.m. to noon Monday through Friday. There you’ll find everything you could want in a brunch buffet, including an omelette bar, a taco station, and lots of popular Mexican offerings like menudo, quesadillas, and barbacoa.
Pro Tip: This place is also great for a late-night bite, as it’s open nightly until 1 a.m.
Ideal For: Brunches and late-night dining.
Price Range: $$$$
9. El Granero Grill & Drinks
This is the ultimate low-cost party spot with an incredible selection of beer, whiskey, shots, and tequila. It’s ideal for unwinding without spending a fortune.
Address:
Plaza Dady
77500 Cancún
Quintana Roo, Mexico
What Makes it Unique: With live music, karaoke, and dancing, this is your best all-night party spot. They don’t skimp on the dining and drinking options either.
Notable Dishes: Their menu is diverse and affordable. Their street tacos and fajitas are fan favorites, as are the breakfast chilaquiles. But their varied menu includes so much more than just Mexican food. You can choose from among pastas, salads, steaks, burgers, and more, and it’s all excellent.
Ideal For: Cheap eats in a vibrant party atmosphere.
Pro Tip: Ask them about their “All You Can Eat & Drink” deal for just $35.
Price Range: $$
10. Elefanta
If you happen to find yourself at the La Isla Shopping Village, this is a great option for Indian food in Cancún.
Address:
Boulevard Kukulkán Km 12.5
77500 Cancún
Quintana Roo, Mexico
What Makes it Unique: Like many restaurants in the Hotel Zone, this one offers beautiful views of the lagoon. But unlike most restaurants in the Hotel Zone, this one offers authentic Indian cuisine that tastes amazing.
Notable Dishes: The lamb curry is a popular signature dish. This place is also known for their wide range of vegetarian options including vegetable korma curry and vegetable biryani. Try the garlic naan as an appetizer.
Pro Tip: If you eat out on the patio, the staff will offer you mosquito repellant. Definitely take it, as the mosquitos can be very annoying in this area. If you’re in the La Isla Shopping Center, also check out the Thai Lounge, another excellent option for Eastern-inspired cuisine.
Ideal For: A casual, relaxing shopping break.
Price Range: $$$
Tips for Finding the Best Restaurants in Cancún
If you’re looking for additional places to try, here are some tips to help you find other hidden gems:
- Ask the locals. They know where the best restaurants are, including those you won’t find in tourist guides.
- Get out of the Hotel Zone. When you leave the resort area, you can often find better prices on amazing food.
- If you’re staying at an all-inclusive resort, skip the free food. A private Cancún luxury villa is a better lodging option for many reasons, but the food may be the most disappointing thing about the resorts. Get out and try a variety of restaurants.
- Take a day trip to Playa Del Carmen for even more world-class dining options. Playa Del Carmen is located about an hour south of Cancún, and it has its own selection of amazing restaurants.
Happy dining!