Once a quaint fishing village, Playa del Carmen has burst in recent years into a hub of action. Now one of the trendiest spots for luxury travel in Mexico, this town boasts more than beautiful beaches. In fact, with a bevy of quality restaurants along on Avenida La Quinta (5th Avenue) & in the surrounding area, Playa has become a top culinary destination in Riviera Maya. Between the cosmopolitan European vibe & innovative fusion cuisine, dining here is nothing short of an adventure. Whether you're looking for an five-star Italian restaurant or a traditional Mexican meal, you can find it on your luxury vacation here.
These are a few spots you don't want to miss:
Yaxche Yaxche is the place to go if you're seeking authentic Mayan fare. The menu lends a modern spin to old world dishes for a truly unique & flavorful experience. Try traditional venison tsi'ik with radish, red onion, coriander & sour orange. Or, for something lighter, order the Xochitl-Nicte salad, which is a refreshing mix of fresh vegetables, edible flowers, grilled papaya, mango & honey with crispy corn & mustard dressing. Even familiar favorites like enchiladas are given an interesting twist with duck breast, cabbage, cotija cream & Black Maya Mole sauce. If you're overwhelmed by the foreign lingo on the menu, don't fret – the wait staff is happy to provide insight & even make pairing recommendations from the restaurant's extensive wine collection.
Casa del Aqua What do you get when Mexican & German restaurateurs collaborate? A highly unusual eatery with dishes that are bound to please any foodie's palate. Casa del Aqua's menu emphasizes seafood, but there's certainly something for everyone, from hearty pasta dishes to mouth-watering steaks. If you're feeling adventurous, try a fusion option like the shrimp puff pastry strudel with fresh plums, mashed sweet potato, Oaxaca cheese & white wine sauce. With 140 different selections on their wine menu from around the world, you'll definitely find an ideal varietal to complement your food. The best part about Casa del Agua is that it features five different atmospheres with a distinct ambiance, including a swanky bar area, an elegant terrace & a roof garden overlooking the ocean & island of Cozumel.
La Cueva del Chango The laid-back atmosphere at La Cueva del Chango is ideal for a late leisurely lunch or even a casual dinner. While surrounded by lush vegetation, you can savor an exotic juice made from fresh fruit, a refreshing mango tequila cocktail or one of the many Mexican wines. The main dishes are reasonably priced & big on flavor, like the fish filet with mole over banana & guava sauce or the grilled tuna with hibiscus flower reduction. Just don't forget to save room for the homemade vanilla flan with orange sauce.
