6 affordable restaurants to eat in Playa del Carmen

For those of us who venture into the beautiful Riviera Maya, Playa del Carmen often finds its way into our travel plans, even if just by chance. While it may not always be the first choice of destination in Mexico, it undeniably has its own unique charm. If you're planning to spend a few days exploring Playa del Carmen and want to dive into its culinary delights, we’ve compiled a list of some of the best restaurants where you can eat well and affordably.

Are you ready to embark on a tasty adventure?

* We strive to keep our articles up to date, but occasionally, things may change. If you find any of the restaurants listed here closed or notice different prices, please let us know to keep our information accurate. Thank you 🙂

El Fogón: The Taco Haven

When it comes to eating well and economically in Playa del Carmen, El Fogón stands out as a top contender. This bustling eatery is known for its swift and friendly service, reasonable prices, and, most importantly, its delicious tacos. The tacos al pastor with cheese are a must-try—simply irresistible!

Here are a few highlights about El Fogón:

• Quick and friendly service.
• Unbeatable prices for the quality of food.
• Casual, vibrant atmosphere perfect for a quick bite.

El Chuletón: A Taco Lover's Dream

Continuing our taco journey, El Chuletón presents another fantastic option. This spot is renowned for its flavorful tacos, specifically the tacos de chuletón and tacos al pastor. Pair your meal with their homemade guacamole and totopos for an authentic experience.

Don't miss out on:

• Sampling various taco types to find your favorite.
• Enjoying refreshing aguas frescas to complement your meal.
• The lively ambiance that enhances your dining experience.

La Cueva del Chango: Breakfast Bliss

For a delightful breakfast or brunch, look no further than La Cueva del Chango. The inviting garden setting and relaxed vibe make it an ideal spot to start your day. With a menu that caters to various tastes, including many vegan options, there's something for everyone.

Recommended dishes include:

• Huevos motuleños with turkey ham and tomato sauce.
• Enfrijoladas filled with chicken or cheese, served with a side of hoja santa.
• Deliciously fried plátano macho as a side.

Nativo: The Healthy Choice

Another gem in Playa del Carmen is Nativo, renowned for its health-conscious offerings. Here, you can enjoy fresh fruit juices and hearty chilaquiles, with the nativos topped with mole from Oaxaca being a standout.

Don’t forget to use your Revolut card for hassle-free transactions while traveling!

Tropical: A Fun Spot on 5th Avenue

Located right on 5th Avenue, Tropical boasts a lively terrace adorned with colorful flags. Though it offers great drink specials, the extensive menu features a variety of dishes, from traditional Mexican cuisine to juicy hamburgers and seafood.

This place may be slightly pricier than others we've mentioned, but the quality of the meals is worth it. We particularly enjoyed the ceviche!

Expect to spend around:

• €12-15 per person for a meal.
• Great atmosphere for socializing with friends.
• A diverse menu that caters to all tastes.

Ferron’s Jerk Chicken: A Taste of Jamaica

If you're in the mood for something different, Ferron’s Jerk Chicken specializes in Jamaican cuisine. With an affordable menu, this restaurant is famous for its jerk chicken, marinated in a signature sauce and Jamaican spices.

Here’s what you can expect:

• ¼ chicken served with bread and sauce at an incredible price of just €3.
• Options like fried chicken and pork ribs are also available.
• Delicious sides including white rice, beans, fried plantains, or mac & cheese.

To help you find these culinary hotspots, here's a map with the locations of the recommended restaurants in Playa del Carmen:

As they say in Mexico, "the stomach comes first!" Have you filled your belly and satisfied your cravings? We hope this guide helps you discover must-visit restaurants in Playa del Carmen where you can eat well without breaking the bank.

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