Cancun is widely recognized for its stunning beaches, vibrant nightlife, and luxurious resorts. However, this tropical paradise also boasts a rich and diverse culinary scene that often goes overlooked. From traditional Mexican eateries and bustling taquerias to upscale dining experiences offering international cuisines, Cancun's restaurant landscape is as varied as it is delicious. Whether you're seeking authentic local flavors or innovative culinary creations, there's something to tantalize every taste bud. This guide highlights the top 10 restaurants in Cancun, showcasing the best places to savor the city's gastronomic delights. Each recommendation is carefully selected to offer a unique dining experience, ensuring that your culinary journey in Cancun is as memorable as the city's picturesque sunsets.
| Restaurant | Description | Location | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Porfirio’s | Upscale Mexican cuisine with waterfront views and traditional entertainment. | Blvd. Kukulcan 1, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún | Couples, Food, Luxury |
| Kiosco Verde Marisquería | Long-standing seafood restaurant known for ceviches and grilled oysters. | Av. Lopez Portillo S.M. 85, Puerto Cancun, 77520 | Food |
| El Fish Fritanga | Casual beachside dining with a focus on fresh seafood. | Blvd. Kukulcan, La Isla, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún | Food |
| Irori | Popular Japanese restaurant offering ramen, tepanyaki, and fusion sushi dishes. | Avenida Tulúm Oriente 226, Plaza del Mar, 77500 Cancún | Food |
| Ilios Greek Estiatorio | Greek cuisine with live entertainment and a lively atmosphere. | Blvd. Kukulcan Km 13.5, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún | Food, Luxury |
| Harry’s Steakhouse & Raw Bar | American steakhouse serving USDA prime beef and other dishes with waterfront views. | Km. 14.2, Kukulkan 1, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún | Food, Luxury |
| Lonchería El Pocito | Classic lunch spot specializing in Yucatecan cuisine like cochinita pibil. | 31 Norte Lte 23 Mz35 SM 63, Centro, 77513 Cancún | Food |
| Lorenzillo’s | Renowned seafood restaurant known for its lobster dishes. | Kukulkan Km 10.5, Punta Cancun, Zona Hotelera, 77500 | Couples, Food, Luxury |
| Elefanta | Authentic Indian and Thai cuisine in a scenic lagoon setting. | Blvd. Kukulcan, La Isla, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún | Food |
| El Socio Naiz Taquería | Modern taqueria with unique tortillas and creative fillings. | Av Carlos Nader 74, 3, 77500 Cancún | Food |
1. Porfirio’s
A Gourmet Take on Traditional Mexican Recipes
Location: Blvd. Kukulcan 1, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Open: Daily from 1 pm to 1 am
Phone: +52 998 840 6040
Porfirio’s epitomizes upscale Mexican dining, offering a fusion of traditional recipes with modern haute cuisine. Enjoy gourmet tacos and churros by the Nichupte Lagoon, with a side of traditional dancers and mariachi bands.
2. Kiosco Verde Marisquería
Long-Standing Seafood Excellence
Location: Av. Lopez Portillo S.M. 85 Lotes 14 y 15. M.Z. 2 Frente a la Naval, Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Open: Daily
Phone: 998 234 9098
A staple in Puerto Juárez since the '70s, Kiosco Verde Marisquería is known for its fresh seafood dishes like ceviches, fish fillets, and grilled oysters. The boquinete (hogfish) is a must-try, served either fried or cooked over an open fire.
3. El Fish Fritanga
Tasty Fresh Seafood in an Unassuming Locale
Location: Blvd. Kukulcan, La Isla, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Open: Daily from 11 am to 11 pm
Phone: +52 998 840 6216
El Fish Fritanga serves up casual, beachside seafood that’s cooked to perfection. Known for its signature ceviche and late-night taco stand, this spot is ideal for both locals and tourists looking for authentic Mexican flavors.
4. Lonchería El Pocito
Yucatecan Cuisine at Its Finest
Location: 31 Norte Lte 23 Mz35 SM 63, Centro, 77513 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Open: Daily
Phone: 998 252 2654
A classic lunch destination, El Pocito is famous for its cochinita pibil, a pork dish stewed with achiote. Look out for dishes featuring chaya, a local shrub that adds a unique flavor to traditional Yucatecan cuisine.
5. Irori
Delicious Japanese Cuisine with a Twist
Location: Entrada por, Avenida Tulúm Oriente 226, Plaza del Mar, Viento, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Open: Daily from 1 pm to 9 pm
Phone: +52 998 892 3072
Irori offers the best Japanese food in town, with highlights like ramen, tempura, and tepanyaki meats. Their Mexican sushi fusion dishes are a delightful surprise, blending the flavors of two distinct culinary traditions.
6. Ilios Greek Estiatorio
Fantastic Greek Cuisine with a Show
Location: Blvd. Kukulcan Km 13.5, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Open: Daily from 1 pm to 11 pm
Phone: +52 998 251 6596
At Ilios, Greek cuisine meets lively entertainment. Enjoy broiled meats and fresh fish while watching costumed dancers and a live DJ. The ouzo-infused cocktails and sensational baklava are well worth the splurge.
7. Harry’s Steakhouse & Raw Bar
A Classic American Steakhouse Serving Prime Imported Beef
Location: Km. 14.2, Kukulkan 1, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Open: Daily from 1 pm to 11 pm
Phone: +52 998 840 6554
Harry’s is known for its USDA prime beef and exceptional service. While the steaks are the star, the menu also includes sandwiches and Mexican treats. Sit on the waterfront deck for a perfect sunset view.
8. Lorenzillo’s
The Best Place for Lobster in All of Cancun
Location: Kukulkan Km 10.5, Punta Cancun, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Open: Daily from 1 pm to 11 pm
Phone: +52 998 883 1254
For lobster lovers, Lorenzillo’s is a must-visit. With its own offshore lobster farm, this restaurant ensures the freshest crustaceans, served in a variety of styles. The nautical-themed dining area offers stunning lagoon views.
9. Elefanta
The Flavors of India and Thailand Come to Cancun
Location: Blvd. Kukulcan, La Isla, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Open: Daily from 5 pm to 11 pm
Phone: +52 998 176 8070
Elefanta combines the exotic flavors of India and Thailand. Popular dishes include tandoori chicken and paneer, served hot from a charcoal oven. The lagoon-side setting adds to the dining experience.
10. Cambalache
An Awesome Argentine Steakhouse Where Red Meat is King
Location: Blvd. Kukulcan, La Isla, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Open: Daily from 1 pm to 10:30 pm
Phone: +52 998 883 0902
Cambalache is the place for Argentine meat lovers. Serving up hefty portions of bife de chorizo and other cuts, this steakhouse is perfect for those craving a hearty meal.
11. Cenacolo
Handmade Pasta and Other Italian Goodies
Location: Torre La Europea, KM 12.6, Blvd. Kukulcan, La Isla, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Open: Daily from 2 pm to 10 pm
Phone: +52 998 885 3603
Cenacolo is renowned for its handmade pasta, such as spaghetti alla chitarra and pesto gnocchi. The lagoon views and fine Italian wines enhance the dining experience.
12. Captain’s Cove
A Popular Place for Beef and Seafood by the Lagoon
Location: Blvd. Kukulcan KM16.5, Zona Hotelera, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Open: Monday–Saturday from 5 pm to 10:30 pm, Sunday from 8 am to 10:30 pm
Phone: +52 998 885 0016
Captain’s Cove offers a romantic setting with lagoon views, specializing in surf and turf. It’s a part of the Royal Resorts group, making it a reliable choice for a fine dining experience.
13. El Socio Naiz Taquería
Modern Taqueria with Creative Tacos
Location: Av Carlos Nader 74, 3, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Open: Daily
Phone: 998 255 6814
El Socio Naiz redefines the taqueria experience with its extraordinary tortillas and inventive fillings. The pa’l puerquecito taco and alucinogeno taco are standout options, offering a modern twist on traditional tacos.
14. Esquites in Parque Las Palapas
Iconic Corn Stand in Cancun’s Town Square
Location: 77500, Tulipanes LB, 22, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Open: Daily from 4 pm
For over 30 years, this stand has been serving delicious elote and esquites in Parque Las Palapas. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, offering a taste of traditional Mexican street food.
15. Huelic Tortillería
Raising the Bar on Tortillas
Location: Avenida Carlos Nader 110 MZ 7 LT 107 Local 1, 3, 77500 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Open: Daily
Phone: 998 894 2748
Huelic specializes in heirloom corn tortillas, providing a genuine tortilleria experience. Try their tlacoyos, sopes, and tamales for a taste of authentic Mexican cuisine.
16. Taste of India
Specializing in South Indian Cuisine
Location: Plaza Nayandei Av. Bonampak, Cancún, Quintana Roo 77500, Mexico
Open: Daily
Phone: +52 998 892 7107
Taste of India has been a local favorite for years, offering a wide range of curries, grilled meats, and traditional desserts. Their weekend buffet is an excellent way to sample a variety of dishes.
17. Mar de Miel Café y Cocina
A Kitchen with Charm
Location: Av Huayacán mz 269-lote 5, 77560 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Open: Daily from 7 am
Phone: 998 329 2360
Mar de Miel offers a charming setting for breakfast and lunch. Their bakery produces fresh cinnamon rolls, sourdough, and croissants, while the menu features creative dishes like huitlacoche omelets and hibiscus enfrijoladas.
18. Icaza Cocina de Herencia
Family Tradition in Every Bite
Location: Orquideas N, San Miguel 313, 77560 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Open: Daily
Phone: 998 260 4621
The Icaza family has brought their catering expertise to a brick-and-mortar establishment, offering a variety of dishes that reflect decades of culinary tradition. Located in one of the first houses in the neighborhood, the restaurant provides a cozy atmosphere to enjoy a brunch featuring both global and local morning staples like rye bagels and chilaquiles.
19. Herbívoro
Vegan Paradise
Location: Plaza Aria, Av Huayacan 23, Mz 153, Lote 22-23, San Miguel 310, 77560 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Open: Daily
Phone: 998 336 1178
Herbívoro is a haven for vegans, offering an all-day menu that includes options with zero animal products or derivatives. Enjoy creative dishes like lentil-quinoa burgers, soy al pastor tacos, and gluten-free sweet potato nuggets. This restaurant ensures that even omnivores leave satisfied with their delicious plant-based offerings.
20. Le Chique Restaurant
Avant-Garde Mexican Cuisine
Location: Azul Beach Resort Riviera Cancun by Karisma, 77586 Cancún, Q.R., Mexico
Open: Daily
Phone: 998 872 8450
Le Chique, located in Puerto Morelos, offers a seasonal tasting menu that showcases nearly 30 dishes, using local ingredients and sustainable practices. Dishes like esquites with bone marrow and smoked quail egg with ha’ sikil p’ak highlight the restaurant's innovative approach to traditional Mexican flavors. The wine pairing provides an additional layer of sophistication to the dining experience.
21. Axiote Cocina de México
Celebrating Mexican Cuisine
Location: Calle 34 Nte #128, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77720 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
Open: Daily
Phone: 984 803 1727
Axiote Cocina de México, run by Chef Xavier Pérez Stone, offers a menu that is both local and national in its scope, emphasizing fresh and sustainable ingredients. Signature dishes include duck tacos with chile paste and smoked marlin with pumpkin seed and burnt habanero salsa. The bar features an impressive selection of tequila, mezcal, and wines from across Mexico.
Cancun’s culinary landscape is as vibrant and diverse as the city itself. Whether you're in the mood for traditional Mexican flavors, exquisite international cuisine, or innovative vegan dishes, Cancun has a restaurant to satisfy your cravings. From upscale dining experiences to charming local eateries, this guide highlights the essential spots to visit in 2024. Enjoy your gastronomic journey through Cancun!
Discover Cancun\'s top 21 restaurants in 2024, offering the best in local and international cuisine. Perfect dining spots for every palate and occasion.
Lauren,
2024-05-21