The Ultimate Guide to the 21 Best Cancun Restaurants (Updated 2024)

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!