Playa del Carmen completely stole our hearts—and honestly, a big part of that is the food and bar scene. This place is packed with amazing spots to eat and drink, from trendy restaurants and cocktail bars to small, authentic local gems. Whether you’re in the mood for something fancy or just tacos and a cold beer, you’ll find it here.

On this page, we’re sharing some of our favorite places. the ones we keep coming back to again and again. But just to be clear: we’re not food critics. These are simply the places we love, based on our own taste and experiences. You might totally agree with us… or you might discover your own favorites somewhere else. And that’s kind of the beauty of Playa, there’s just so much to choose from.
Mexican (off course), Italian, meat, fish, burgers, Japanese......they have it all.

You’ll also find something for every budget. Quinta Avenida is probably the most well-known street, and it’s definitely fun and lively, but it can also be a bit more expensive, especially near the ADO bus station where most tourists hang out. If you walk a bit further down, or explore the side streets, things quickly become more relaxed, a bit more local, and often more affordable.

One of our absolute favorite spots is 38th Street. Not just because of the restaurants and bars, but because of the whole vibe. It’s full of trees, has this laid-back atmosphere, and just feels a little different from the rest of Playa. Luckily, our condo is just minutes away from 38th Street and the more relaxed part of Quinta Avenida.