Iberostar Selection Cancún Planning: food, drinks and dining

The dining at Iberostar Selection Cancún is designed for broad appeal, leaning heavily into international cuisine. You'll find a main buffet that cycles through breakfast, lunch, and dinner, offering a wide array of choices from fresh fruit and pastries to carved meats and pasta stations.

It's efficient and covers most bases, though quality can fluctuate. The à la carte restaurants, which require reservations, offer a more structured dining experience. Options typically include Mexican, Italian, and sometimes a steakhouse or seafood specialty.

While these venues aim for a more refined feel, expect competent rather than exceptional execution; the Mexican restaurant, for instance, serves familiar dishes that are generally well-prepared but lack the depth of regional authenticity. Portions are reasonable, and the presentation is neat.

For those who have visited other Iberostar properties, the culinary offerings here will feel familiar. The biggest challenge is managing expectations; it's a large resort, and consistency across all its dining outlets is a constant effort, meaning some meals will be better than others.

Consider the Japanese restaurant for a change of pace, though it's more about the show than the sushi quality.

The all-inclusive drinks package at Iberostar Selection Cancún covers a standard range of options. House pour spirits are used at most bars, which means your gin and tonic or rum and cola will be made with local brands. While they offer a selection of cocktails, many are pre-mixed or follow standard resort recipes that can be overly sweet.

Premium liquors are usually available for an additional charge, so if you have specific preferences, it's worth inquiring about the upgrade. The swim-up bar is a popular spot, serving drinks throughout the day, and the lobby bar offers a slightly more relaxed setting in the evenings.

You can find coffee, soft drinks, and juices readily available at all bars and dining venues. For those who appreciate craft cocktails or a well-curated wine list, you might find the selection here somewhat limited. Stick to the basics like margaritas or beer if you're unsure.

Catering to diverse dietary needs is a priority at Iberostar Selection Cancún, though it requires proactive communication. The main buffet usually has clearly labeled vegetarian options, and staff are generally helpful in identifying dishes suitable for gluten-free or dairy-free diets.

It's always best to speak directly with the restaurant manager or chef upon arrival, especially if you have severe allergies. They can often prepare specific meals or modify existing dishes. For children, the resort offers standard kid-friendly fare like pizza, pasta, and chicken tenders, available both at the buffet and sometimes in the à la carte restaurants.

While they make an effort, those with very restrictive or complex dietary requirements should be prepared to discuss their needs in detail to ensure a safe and satisfying experience.