20 Air-Conditioned Restaurants In Playa del Carmen To Grab A Good Meal and Beat The Heat

One of the perks of living in a tropical paradise like Playa del Carmen is being able to dine al fresco 365 days a year. However, it’s nice to have the option to enjoy a meal in a temperature-controlled atmosphere, especially for visitors who are unaccustomed to the sultry weather.

For this reason, we’ve put together a  list of 20 excellent eateries with air-conditioned dining rooms in Playa del Carmen. 

 

Mexican Menu

 

Lara & Luca 

(Avenida Aviacion west of the airport on the south end of Playa del Carmen)

Photo courtesy of Lara & Luca

 

Open daily from 7:30 a.m. (except for Mondays – 8 a.m.) this is one of the best brunch spots in town.  The delectable menu features fresh pastries, creamy eggs benedicts, and chilaquiles, a traditional Mexican brunch staple. Add a rich hot beverage or a mimosa for the perfect breakfast combination.

 

Cantina Don PP

(307 Federal Highway between Calle 14 & 14 bis)

Photo courtesy of Cantina Don PP

 

This favored watering hole for locals presents a superb array of rich and hearty Mexican dishes. From molcajete to chile relleno to chamorro, you’ll love the classic flavors and friendly service. Best of all, the prices are reasonable and the cantina is open everyday from 1 p.m. except for Sundays (closed.)

 

Coffee/Brunch/Casual Lunch

 

Ferron’s Jerk Chicken

(10th Avenue between Calle 30 & 32)

Open daily from 1 to 10 p.m, Ferron’s was so popular on the other side of town that it has since opened 2 more locations. The popular downtown eatery showcases top notch Jerk chicken and ribs, as well as a specialty Rasta Pasta dish. But savory sides such as the creamy mash potatoes and mac and cheese perfectly complement the stars of the show. 

 

Sabrina Tradizioni Italiane

(Avenida Constituyentes between 10th & 15th Avenue and CTM between )

This savory Italian restaurant opens early every day to serve smooth coffees and a vast assortment of divine sweet treats. Along with air conditioning, Sabrina’s afternoon Aperol Spritzes help to combat the midday heat. Plus, on Fridays they often have pizzas on special— just another one of the many reasons to pay them a  visit!

 

Salade

(15th Avenue and Calle 10)

This fresh salad bar concept offers an array of colorful and nutritious ingredients to build your own salad. Signature cucumber lime juice alone is worth popping in for, but you can also choose from an extensive smoothie list to start your day right. Beyond salads, you can delight in nourishing bowls including tuna poke and acai. This wonderfully fresh concept is open daily from 9 a.m. – 9 p.m.

 

Green & Fit

(10th Avenue and Calle 24)

Photo courtesy of Green & Fit

 

Similar to the above-mentioned salad bar, Green & Fit allows you to customize your own salad or opt for one of their delicious feature ensembles. Furthermore, there are loaded wraps, bowls, and paninis to choose from. As well, their juice bar presents a long list of regional fruits and veggies to create the perfect concoction. Although they’re open from morning until the evening, it’s best to check their hours of operation as they change from day to day. 

 

Chez Celine

(Calle 34 and 5th Avenue)

This established French bakery has been serving exquisite artisanal pastries in Playa del Carmen for well over a decade. They have not only perfected the art of croissant and baguette making, but also offer an all-encompassing list of divine baked goods. 

Those in the know will trek across town on a 40 degree day, just for their ginger lemonade and coconut flan. From crepes to quiches to vol-au-vent, this charming eatery is the place to go for fabulous French favorites. Chez Celine is open daily from 7:30 a.m. to 11:30 p.m.

 

Casual Dinner

 

Casa Sofia

(Plaza Paseo Coba on Aviacion Road on the south end of town)

Some of the Bric crew enjoying a posada at Casa Sofia

 

While offering a large outdoor patio, Casa Sofia’s elegant dining room is ideal for enjoying a lovely Italian meal in a friendly, air-conditioned setting. Their thick crust gourmet pizzas are piled high with fresh ingredients and pastas such as salmon with rose sauce are robust with flavor. 

Casa Sofia is always an upbeat dining experience and often hosts fun events and live musicians. The restaurant on the south end of town is open daily from 1:30 to 11:00 p.m. and is an ideal venue if you’re traveling in a large group.   

 

Babe’s Noodles & Bar

(15th Avenue between Calle 8 & 10)

Photo courtesy of Babe’s Noodles & Bar

 

Winner of a TripAdvisor’s Travellers’ Choice for 2022, Babe’s has been serving their Asian-inspired noodle dishes for over 20 years. Their Pad-Thai and curry dishes never disappoint. 

Babe’s presents an upbeat diner environment with outstanding cocktails and live music on the weekends. It’s been a favorite local hangout for decades. Fortunately, since it’s off of 5th Avenue (Playa’s main tourist thoroughfare) the menu prices are decent.  

 

Po Thai

(10th Avenue between Calle 14 and 14 Bis)

Photo courtesy of Po Thai

 

Enjoy the taste of authentic Thai food at Po Thai, an excellent addition to the Playa del Carmen gastronomy scene for over 10 years. Serving classic dishes like cashew chicken and green papaya salad, Po Thai is a terrific alternative if you’re hankering for a tasty meal beyond traditional Mexican fare. To complete the experience, the mango and rice pudding made with coconut milk is a must. This tantalizing Thai bistro is open everyday from 3 to 10 p.m. except for Wednesdays (closed.)

 

 

Mid to Upper Scale Dining

 

India Jones

(5th Avenue between Calle 30 & 32)

Photo courtesy of India Jones

 

This relative newcomer is making big waves in the Playa del Carmen restaurant pool. Indian cuisine lovers are raving about dishes such as the Chicken Tikka Trio, coconut cream Fish Moilee, as well as the homemade garlic Naan. Not only are their chutneys including mint and tamarind homemade, but also their unique cocktail menu is a sensational treat. 

Open daily from 4 to 10 p.m, the India Jones passionate owners and friendly staff are eager to please your palette.

 

Wine O’Clock

(Avenida Constituyentes on the corner of 90th Avenue)

Although this popular upscale restaurant and wine bar is not in the tourist hub, its impressive wine list and succulent tapas menu are worthy of a visit from across town. The unpretentious vibe is complemented by modest, local musicians with tremendous talent. 

The romantic ambience and attention to detail in the service and the presentation of each plate deserves a nod for being one of Playa’s bests. On Saturdays, the knowledgeable wait staff host enticing wine tasting and tapa pairing sessions that make for a memorable night out. 

 

Perche No

(Avenida Balamkanche on the east side of the 307 Federal Hwy across from Centro Maya Mall)

Photo courtesy of Perche No

 

Open everyday from 12:00 to 11:00 p.m, Perche No provides incredible handmade pasta and pizza crusts baked in a wood fire pizza oven. From the octopus carpaccio to the salmon gnocchi to the warm brownie with pistachio ice cream, you can expect nothing but the highest in quality. 

Despite being on the fine side of dining, Perche No’s vast menu, which showcases top-shelf wines and liquors, is surprisingly well-priced. Whether you’re traveling with a larger group or you’re looking for a romantic dinner out,  the expansive dining room is stylish and ideal for any occasion.

 

Yum Yum

(10th Avenue & Calle 6)

The Asian-inspired menu by George is an intriguing mix of Thai, Indian, and Vietnamese cuisine. Whether opting for samosas or satays, we suggest the  Lychee Martini as an excellent accompaniment to your starter.

Due to a passionate enthusiasm for creating artful culinary masterpieces, The George Group has managed to establish 3 thriving restaurants in Playa del Carmen. No matter if you visit for  breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner, you’ll relish the dining experience. Yum Yum is open everyday from 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.

 

Off the Vine

(Calle 40 & 5th Avenue)

Photo courtesy of Off The Vine

 

Since Off the Vine occupies a charming north end spot on 5th Avenue, it’s a great nearby option for BRIC guests staying at The Elements, Luna Maya, Casa Soleada, and Meridian. 

Choose from a selection of superb Mexican and international wines that perfectly pair with their elegant tapas, pizzas, salads, and cheese and charcuterie boards. Although it is an extraordinary Wine Bar, the bartenders are expert mixologists and are happy to prepare exquisite cocktails. Moreover, Off the Vine features amazing local artists who perform nightly from 7:30 to 9:30 p.m.

 

Posh Dining

 

Harry’s Prime Steakhouse & Raw Bar

(5th Avenue between Calle 12 and 14)

Photo courtesy of Harry’s Prime Steakhouse & Raw Bar

 

As far as first-class dining in Playa del Carmen, Harry’s is definitely a contender for top spot. In addition to providing premium meat cuts such as Wagyu, Kobe, and Black Onyx, the menu offers a mouthwatering assortment of succulent seafood. From oysters to crab claws to lobster tails, the dishes are divine and the service impeccable.

Without a doubt, if you’re in search of a memorable rooftop culinary adventure in Playa del Carmen, Harry’s consistently delivers excellence in every category. Open daily from 1:00 p.m. to 2 a.m, prepare to be dazzled!

 

Oh Lala!

(Calle 14 between 10 and 15th Avenue)

For certain, if you could describe Oh Lala’s menu in one word, it would be decadent. Revered dishes include the soy and butter grilled tuna steaks, foie gras, and filet mignon. The setting, with its quaint courtyard, is ideal for a romantic occasion and the service is 5-star. 

Open every evening from 6:00 to 10:30 p.m. it’s recommended to book your table well in advance. Also by The George Group, Oh Lala! is one of Playa del Carmen’s best kept secrets.

 

Bovino’s

(10th Avenue and Calle 12)

This Brazilian steakhouse and seafood restaurant provides an enormous dining room complete with a sweeping buffet of gourmet appetizers and side dishes. This dining concept invites patrons to choose from a variety of select cuts of superior quality meats. In fact, the types of meat presented on skewers by a revolving line-up of friendly servers are seemingly endless. It’s important to note that to fully enjoy the Bovino experience, arrive hungry!

Being in the heart of downtown, it’s a leisurely walk away from most of BRIC’s properties. Open from 1:00 p.m. to 1:00 a.m, Bovino’s is a unique and fun experience for a special occasion. 

 

Pub-style Dining 

 

The Admiral Sports Bar

(Diagonal Aeropuerto, Playacar Fase 2)

Whether it’s a boozy brunch or a UFC fight night, The Admiral Sports Bar on the south end of Playa del Carmen is a perfect place to convene with expats and travelers alike. The personable owner is invested in providing a professional, yet fun-loving atmosphere for good food and good times. 

Known for the fish ‘n chips, The Admiral also serves up delicious vegetarian and pub-style options including burgers, pastas, and classic steak frittes. Open everyday except for Mondays, The Admiral is a short walk from one of BRIC’s most spectacular rentals, Villa Uxmal.

 

Boston’s Playa del Carmen

(Constituyentes & 115 Avenue)

Similar to Boston Pizza in Canada, you can catch the game and enjoy ice cold beers, wings, and pizza in the comfort of an air-conditioned lounge. With important sporting events showing on multiple televisions throughout the lively dining room, you never have to miss a game.

Open daily from 12:00 p.m. until late, it’s a great taste of home if you’re coming from Canada and the United States. Plus, Boston’s casual atmosphere  is ideal for families and groups.  

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We hope this list of air-conditioned eateries in Playa del Carmen is helpful when you’re needing a break from the heat. For more activities to keep you cool, be sure to check out our monthly travel blog.