Hotel Riu Cancun: Your Food and Drink Guide

The main buffet at Hotel Riu Cancun presents a sprawling array of international dishes, from carved meats to pasta stations and a substantial salad bar. While the variety is commendable, especially for breakfast and lunch, the quality leans towards mass appeal rather than refined flavors.

Expect standard fare; it's plentiful and generally well-maintained, but rarely surprising. The resort's specialty restaurants offer a change of pace, with options typically including Italian, Mexican, and Asian themes. The Mexican restaurant often receives praise for its ambiance and more localized flavors, though service can be slow.

The Italian and Asian venues tend to be more generic, serving dishes that feel like international interpretations rather than authentic regional cuisine. Reservations are often required for these, and it's wise to book upon arrival. For a more casual bite, the poolside grill offers burgers and snacks, a reliable if uninspired choice for a quick lunch without straying far from the sun lounger.

The all-inclusive drinks at Hotel Riu Cancun cover the essentials, with local spirits, beer, wine, and standard cocktails readily available. House pours are typical for this category of resort, meaning they are acceptable but not premium. The swim-up bars are the heart of the daytime scene, serving refreshing, if sometimes overly sweet, concoctions.

Evenings bring more options, with several bars scattered throughout the property, including a lobby bar and a sports bar. While the resort advertises numerous bars, many serve similar menus. If you're looking for top-shelf liquor or expertly crafted cocktails, you'll likely need to seek them out or be prepared for an upcharge.

The focus here is on volume and accessibility rather than artisanal mixology. Stick to simpler drinks like tequila sodas or local beers if you want to avoid the syrupy versions of popular cocktails.

Navigating dietary needs at Hotel Riu Cancun requires proactive communication. While the main buffet usually has clearly marked vegetarian options and a good selection of fruits and salads, those with stricter requirements like vegan or gluten-free diets should inform the staff in advance.

The resort can often accommodate, especially if given notice, preparing specific meals or modifying existing dishes. It's best to speak with the restaurant manager or a server upon arrival at each dining venue. For families, children's menus are typically available in the specialty restaurants, offering familiar favorites.

Allergy sufferers should be particularly diligent in confirming ingredients, as cross-contamination can be a risk in a high-volume buffet setting.