Top 3 “off the beaten path” Playa Del Carmen Restaurants
We just got back from a trip down in Playa del Carmen and we did a bit of searching to find a few of the best “off the beaten path” restaurants or if you will, the “non-tourist traps” and we came up with our 3 favorites. These are a must try if you like seafood and want to try some authentic Mexican tastes.
Here are the Top 3 Restaurants to check out in Playa del Carmen:
Bendito Coyote
Address: 1 Avenida Nte. Manzana 63, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
Overall Experience: 9/10
Entrance at Bendito Coyote
This little place we accidentally stumbled upon while looking for a quick snack and drink. We were pleasantly surprised by their offerings. Firstly the inviting open-air rooftop brought us up to the warm breezy bar where we were greeted by friendly locals quick to get us going.
Mezcalitas on the rooftop
We noticed their impressive mezcal selection followed by an impressive lineup of cocktails crafted with fresh-squeezed juices. The menu boasts an array of enticing snacks, including crunchy crickets and savory guacamole paired with chicharrones. The fusion of authentic flavors and unique offerings makes it a must-visit spot for those seeking something a little more local and different.
Bar on the rooftop at Bendito Coyote
Cielito Lindo
Address: Av. CTM , Calle 46 , Avenida 15 &10 Avenida Edificio nº18, Zazil-ha, 77720 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
Overall Experience: 10/10
On a bustling local street not too far from 5th Ave you’ll find this quaint family-run restaurant. With a limited number of outdoor tables and a charming dining room, it offers an intimate setting to savor its signature dish: birria. Each serving comes with a rich consommé, fresh tortillas, house-made pico de gallo, zesty salsa, and flavorful peppers, delivering an authentic taste of Mexico.
Pig ear tacos, Birria plate, Fresh housemade guacamole
For the adventurous diner, Cielito Lindo also has a selection of a few delicacies, including pig ear, intestines, and pig leg, adding a little twist to the menu. These bold offerings led us to try something we would've never thought we’d love: pig ears!!
If you’d like to indulge in traditional Birria or venture into uncharted culinary territory, Cielito Lindo has you covered.
Birria with all the fixings
El Pirata
Address: Calle 40 5, Zazil-ha, 77720 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
Overall Experience: 8/10
This unpretentious gem ensures you a straightforward and authentic dining experience that any seafood lover will cherish. They offer a no-thrills seafood dining experience in a very casual setting. This place is best known for its emphasis on fresh catches, the restaurant specializes in serving whole fish, allowing you to handpick your desired catch of the day.
Fresh catch of the day Snapper
The focus on local ingredients is what got us in the door. With affordable prices and fresh fish, you really can't beat this place. Important to note it is a cash-only restaurant.
Eat like a local, try something new.
