Mexican food for a last night before flying home in Playa del Carmen
As your trip to Playa del Carmen comes to a close, enjoying a final meal of authentic Mexican cuisine is a perfect way to celebrate. From vibrant cantinas to traditional comida corrida, there are plenty of options to satisfy your cravings. With an early morning flight, it's essential to choose a restaurant that accommodates your schedule and provides a memorable dining experience. Fortunately, many Mexican restaurants in the area remain open late, allowing you to indulge in delicious tacos, enchiladas, and more. Here鈥檚 a guide to some of the best places to enjoy your last night in Playa del Carmen.
Places worth your time
- Lido | Cocina de Playa4.6 (2983) Av. 1era. Norte Bis, Manzana 22 Lote 3, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
Lively beach restaurant with a lengthy cocktail menu, serving tacos, burgers & seafood plates.
- La Perla Pixan Cuisine & La Carboneria4.5 (3739) Calle 38 Norte Entre 5ta y la playa, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77720 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
Traditional dishes & drinks are served in this lively eatery that has a thatched roof & pavilions.
- Fusion Beach Bar CuisineCalle 6 Norte, Playa del Carmen
Fusion Beach Bar Cuisine is a restaurant in Playa del Carmen.
- El Gober4.8 (2325) C. 16 Nte. Bis, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
El Gober is a casual eatery in Playa del Carmen perfect for those seeking authentic Mexican street food.
- Kascabal4.8 (1892) 5av Entre Calle 12 y 14, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
Kascabal is a sophisticated restaurant in Playa del Carmen, ideal for couples and groups seeking a refined dining experience.
- Jungle GastroBar4.8 (225) Playacar Center Shopping Mall, Playacar, 77713 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
Jungle GastroBar is a unique dining experience in Playa del Carmen, perfect for adventurous foodies seeking innovative cuisine.
- Primo4.7 (1095) Av. Constituyentes entre 5ta avenida y 10 avenida, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
Primo is a contemporary seafood restaurant perfect for a sophisticated dinner.
- El Fog贸n4.6 (12571) 30 Avenida Nte. s/n, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
Vibrant 2-story restaurant offering slow-roasted pork tacos, pozole & other meat-based fare.
- La Cueva del Chango4.6 (9899) Calle 38 Nte Mz. 4-Lote 3, Zazil-ha, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
All-day dining spot popular for brunch, with a junglelike terrace plus vegan & vegetarian menus.
- Sonora Grill - Playa del Carmen4.5 (3222) Av 5, esquina, Calle 12 Nte norte S/N, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77720 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
Sonora Grill is a sophisticated steakhouse perfect for a special occasion or a memorable dinner.
Venue locations and contact details include open data from OpenStreetMap contributors (ODbL).
Planning Your Dinner Around Your Flight
When planning your last dinner in Playa del Carmen, consider when your flight is scheduled for the next morning. Aim to finish dinner by 9 PM if you have an early flight. Many restaurants, including El Fog贸n and Kascabal, typically close by 10 PM, but some, like La Perla Pixan Cuisine, may stay open later on weekends. If you鈥檙e staying near the beach, you can walk to these restaurants easily, but if you鈥檙e further away, plan for a short taxi ride. Arriving early will help you avoid crowds, especially on weekends when popular spots can fill up quickly. Make reservations if you're dining in a larger group or want to secure a table at a well-known establishment. This will ensure you have ample time to enjoy your meal without feeling rushed.
Exploring Everyday Mexican Cooking
One of the best ways to experience authentic Mexican cuisine is through everyday dishes found in local restaurants. Comida corrida, or set lunch menus, is an affordable option that includes a main dish, sides, and sometimes a drink, all for a reasonable price. Restaurants like El Fog贸n offer traditional options like tacos al pastor or carne asada, allowing you to savor the flavors of Mexico without breaking the bank. Expect to pay around $100 to $200 pesos for a comida corrida, making it an excellent choice for budget-conscious diners. Additionally, casual cantinas like La Cueva del Chango serve a variety of Mexican dishes in a laid-back atmosphere, perfect for enjoying a leisurely meal before your flight.
Late-Night Dining Options
If you find yourself hungry after a day of exploring, several restaurants in Playa del Carmen cater to late-night diners. For authentic Mexican flavors, try Jungle GastroBar, which offers a range of delicious tacos and traditional dishes until late at night. Another excellent choice is Sonora Grill, known for its vibrant atmosphere and hearty Mexican fare. These venues remain open later than most, making them ideal for late-night cravings. Keep in mind that some restaurants may have limited menus after 10 PM, so it鈥檚 wise to check in advance. If you鈥檙e looking for something quick and casual, food trucks and street vendors along Fifth Avenue can also serve up delicious tacos and snacks into the early hours.
Budgeting for Your Last Night's Dinner
When dining out in Playa del Carmen, prices can vary depending on the type of restaurant you choose. Casual eateries generally range from $100 to $300 pesos per person for a meal, while upscale dining options like Porfirio's may cost between $600 and $1,200 pesos. Tipping is customary in Mexico, so plan to leave a tip of 10 to 15 percent unless a service charge is already included in your bill. It's also advisable to carry some cash, as not all places accept cards. If you are dining in a popular tourist area, be aware that prices may be higher than in local neighborhoods, so consider exploring side streets for better value without sacrificing quality.
Must-Try Dishes Before You Leave
Before you depart, make sure to sample some traditional Mexican dishes that encapsulate the region's flavors. Tacos al pastor, made with marinated pork and served with pineapple, are a must-try and can be found at El Fog贸n or Kascabal. Enchiladas, filled with cheese or meat and smothered in sauce, are another classic option available at various restaurants. If you enjoy seafood, don't miss out on the ceviche served at La Perla Pixan Cuisine, which offers a delightful twist on this traditional dish. With so many options available, you can create a memorable last meal that highlights the culinary diversity of Mexico.
Questions people ask
What is comida corrida?
Comida corrida is a set lunch menu found in many Mexican restaurants. It usually includes a main dish, sides, and sometimes a drink at an affordable price.
Are there Mexican restaurants open late?
Yes, many Mexican restaurants like Jungle GastroBar and Sonora Grill are open late, making them great options for a final meal in Playa del Carmen.
How much should I budget for dinner?
Expect to spend around $100 to $300 pesos per person at casual restaurants, while upscale options may range from $600 to $1,200 pesos.
Is it necessary to make a reservation?
Making a reservation is advisable for popular restaurants, especially on weekends, to ensure you have a table for your group.
Do I need to tip at Mexican restaurants?
Yes, tipping is customary in Mexico. A tip of 10 to 15 percent is appreciated unless a service charge is included in your bill.
What are must-try dishes in Playa del Carmen?
Must-try dishes include tacos al pastor, enchiladas, and ceviche. Each offers a taste of traditional Mexican flavors that you shouldn't miss.