If you’re getting bored of the hotel buffet and crave some authentic Mexican cuisine in Cancun, these are the seven of the best restaurants to visit.
Cancun, Mexico, is a vibrant tourist destination renowned for its stunning beaches, towering hotels, and buzzing nightlife. But beyond the tourist hotspots lies a culinary world waiting to be explored. While Cancun offers a wide range of international cuisine, plenty of authentic Mexican cuisine in Cancun needs to be tasted to be believed. In this guide, we’ll take you on a gastronomic journey to discover Cancun’s seven best authentic Mexican restaurants.
La Habichuela
Located in the heart of Cancun’s Hotel Zone, La Habichuela is a beloved institution that has been serving up exquisite Mexican cuisine since 1977. With its charming Mayan-style architecture, lush gardens, and welcoming atmosphere, this restaurant offers mouthwatering dishes and a memorable dining experience.
Must-Try Dish: The “Cazuela Maya,” a savory shrimp and lobster dish, is a local favorite. Pair it with a traditional margarita for the perfect meal.
Los Aguachiles
For seafood lovers, Los Aguachiles is a must-visit. This casual yet busy eatery specializes in ceviche and seafood cocktails. With a focus on freshness and quality, their dishes burst with bold flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Must-Try Dish: The “Aguachiles Verdes” is a refreshing dish featuring shrimp marinated in a tangy green chili sauce. It’s perfect for a light and zesty meal.
El Pocito
If you’re looking for a hidden gem off the beaten path, El Pocito is a fantastic choice. Located in a residential neighborhood, this family-run restaurant offers authentic Yucatecan cuisine. Their dedication to preserving traditional recipes shines through in every dish.
Must-Try Dish: Don’t miss the “Cochinita Pibil,” a flavorful slow-roasted pork dish marinated in achiote paste and wrapped in banana leaves. It’s a Yucatecan classic.
La Parroquia
La Parroquia is the place to go for those craving mouthwatering tacos and an authentic Mexican taqueria experience. With a menu featuring a wide variety of fillings, salsas, and toppings, you can create your perfect taco combination.
Must-Try Dish: Try the “Al Pastor” tacos, made with marinated and spit-roasted pork, and be sure to load up on fresh toppings and salsas from the condiment bar.
Kiosko verde
If you’re partial to fish, there’s no point on going to Yucatan Peninsula and not sampling the fresh seafood on offer. Kiosko verde is one of best of it’s type incorporating specialty dishes from across the country. There’s even “tostada” mixed with grasshoppers (yes, of the 6 legged variety). If that’s too adventurous for you, try the “mezcal” for a taste of Oaxaca state.
Must-Try Dish: Any cooked fish on a charcoal BBQ.
Mextreme
If you’re in the mood for casual yet mouthwatering street food, Mextreme, is filled with mouth-watering, traditional Mexican fare, including soups, grilled dishes, seafood, tacos, meat and chicken. The Mexican specialties take center stage with house enchiladas, enmoladas, and grand molcajete,
Must-Try Dish: You can’t visit Mextreme without trying their house-made mole. It’s made with various ingredients such as chili, chocolate, almonds, cloves, and more….
El Muellecito
For an unforgettable seafood feast by the water, El Muellecito is the perfect choice. Located in the Puerto Cancun Marina, this restaurant offers stunning views of the boats and the sea. Their seafood is sourced fresh daily, ensuring top-notch quality.
Must-Try Dish: The “Camarones al Mojo de Ajo” (garlic shrimp) is a delectable dish showcasing Mexican coastal cuisine’s simplicity and beauty.
Summary
When you’re next on vacation, take your tastebuds on a culinary tour, too. Step away from bustling buffets and sample some authentic Mexican cuisine by visiting any of the restaurants named here. You never know; it might inspire you to try and make some of the dishes when you get home — or find the best authentic Mexican restaurants in your neighborhood. Happy dining.
