Image – Catch restaurant

If you visit Playa del Carmen in the Riviera Maya, the city’s seemingly limitless number of restaurants can make the decision on where to dine a daunting one. We have dozens of recommended staff favorites, ranging from casual beachside eateries to elegant choices. But if you are a foodie with a palette that appreciates lavish textures and flavors, we hope this list of upscale eateries will satisfy your longing for phenomenal cuisine and service.

Catch

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(Located on Calle 12 and 5th Avenue, open from 6pm)

For the best views in the city, we recommend dinner at Catch on the rooftop of the Thompson Hotel Playa del Carmen. Sample artful creations like the Tartar Trio, a cool combination of Salmon, Hamachi and Tuna served with American Caviar. From the entrée menu, choose from delectable options such as aged strip loin, Alaskan King Crab or the savory ‘Catch’ of the day.

From this vantage point, the vistas of the cityscape make you feel like you’ve been transported to a futuristic Playa del Carmen. For cocktails, dinner with friends, or a romantic night out with your loved one, Catch offers big city views with an ultra-chic vibe.

Oh La La

(Located on Calle 14 Bis between 10th & 15th Avenue, open from 6:30pm)

We love this place because of its charming, yet covert location off of 5th Avenue and of course, the exceptional food. Oh La La was born out of Chef George’s deep appreciation for fine cuisine. He and the extraordinarily accommodating staff invite you in with a warm welcome and truly give patrons a unique, memorable dining experience.

On the menu, the seared Tuna Steak is a favorite as is the rich Thai Chicken Curry. For dessert, try the creamy cheesecake, one of the best in town. Oh La La presents a full bar and a sophisticated wine list to accompany your incredible meal.

In October of 2014, Oh La La was rated #1 Traveler’s Favorite Fine Dining Restaurant in Mexico. There are under a dozen tables in this intimate dining establishment, so reservations are highly recommended.

Plank

(Located on Calle 16 between 1st and 5th Avenue, open 9am-2pm and 6-11pm)

This fine dining concept is like no other in the Riviera Maya. Chef Juan Diego Solombrino uses his haute culinary skills to produce superb dishes such as the Grilled Lobster Tails, Chilean Sea Bass in a delightful citrus sauce or the Certified USDA Fillet Mignon in a rich mushroom cream sauce. The unique aspect of Plank is that the gourmet entrees are cooked and served on Himalayan Salt Blocks, Mesquite, Hickory, Cedar and Maple wood planks. The flavors are impeccably infused within each creative menu option and the result is a divine experience for your taste buds.

The stylish and modern ambience matches the elegant cocktail and wine lists. Try signature Plank beverage creations such as the Smoked Mint Julep or the Lychee Martini. Visit this upscale eatery on the weekend for brunch, dig into a cut of tender prime rib on Wednesday nights, or celebrate a special event with a group of friends. In any case, the experience is always a memorable one at Plank!

Imprevist

(Located on 1st Avenue between Calle 14 and 16, open from 7am-2pm and 6-11pm)

This is one of our top picks for breakfast which includes freshly prepared green juice, a basket of sweet breads, a plate of vibrant seasonal fruit with local honey and yogurt, as well as a main brunch favorite like the rich eggs benedict or a delightful leek omelet. The eatery has the ambience of a quaint French bistro with its patio lining the sunny, cobblestone street.

In the evenings, the menu offers an exquisite array of starters like the Tuna Tartare (my personal favorite) and clams cooked in a wine and garlic sauce. The inventive dishes feature an Asian fusion with a selection of international cuisine that is far from ordinary. Nosh on the duck in a flavorful orange sauce or try the red curry with mango and cashews over fragrant jasmine rice.

If you’re in the city during a holiday, Imprevist creates incredible menus just for the occasion. The service and food is consistently impeccable, but the restaurant is intimate so reservations are recommended.

Casa Del Lago

(Located in the Rosewood at Mayakoba, 10 minutes north of Playa del Carmen on the 307 Federal Highway, open from 7am)

Upon setting foot on the vast Rosewood property, one of the most spectacular pieces of land in the Mayan Riviera, you will be awed by its outstanding design and stunning, natural setting. For a serene and chic dining experience away from the hustle and bustle of Playa’s 5th Avenue, we suggest Casa Del Lago.

This delectable restaurant offers unparalleled views overlooking the prestigious resort’s pool and picturesque lagoon. Enjoy the heavenly vistas while sampling interesting Italian inspired dishes made with local ingredients. The blend of Mexican elements within the traditional Italian cuisine is unexpected, yet executed perfectly. The unique fusion is portrayed in entrees such as the Risotto with Huitlacoche (edible corn fungi – a popular Mayan delicacy) and the Catch of the Day bathed in a sauce with a hint of mint, green tomatillos and mild chile guajillo.

Dine al fresco earlier in the day on traditional Mexican breakfast favorites like Juevos Rancheros and witness the sunrise over the glistening waters. Play a round of golf at El Camaleon, Mayakoba’s renowned PGA tour course, then enjoy a light lunch of tuna tostadas and signature cocktails at Casa Del Lago or escape for a private dinner to La Cava, the restaurant’s glass-walled wine room.

There is an elegant dress code for dinner and reservations are recommended.

Sur

(Located on 5th Avenue and Calle 10, open from 12pm)

For the best steaks in the city, Sur is our first choice. The casual yet sophisticated ambience is ideal for lunch, dinner or drinks. The ample outdoor dining areas overlook the colorful 5th Avenue and present the prime vantage point for watching the international characters flock over the city’s most famous street.

Combined with the succulent surf and turf menu, the servers go above and beyond to create an amazing dining experience. As a precursor, enjoy a cucumber martini at the stylish bar, and when you sit down to dinner, choose a bottle from the impressive wine list to accompany a superb filet.

Apart from the large selection of tender cuts of red meat, patrons can also choose from an assortment of poultry and seafood entrees as well. For those warm Mexican Caribbean nights, Sur offers an elegant, air-conditioned dining room.

Passion by Martin Berasategui

(Located in Paradisus Playa del Carmen on 5th Avenue & Calle 88, open from 6:00pm)

The prominent Spanish chef, Martin Berasategui has accumulated 7 Michelin stars over the years. Fortunately for us, he decided to open Passion here in Playa del Carmen. Either on the open terrace or in the refined, yet comfortable dining room, a meal at Passion is a culinary adventure.

Choose from a 7-course tasting menu or create your own delicious line-up from the a la carte menu. Sample exquisite morsels of Kobe beef, divine mushroom ravioli or remarkable foie gras while the in-house Sommelier forms the perfect pairing to delight your palette.

The attention to detail in the service and presentation makes the experience an unforgettable one and is an excellent destination for a special occasion. Passion is an adult-only dining establishment and advance reservations are required. A proper dress code is in effect and valet parking is available.

Cenacolo

(Located on 5th Avenue and Calle 32 in the Lat20 Hotel Building, open from 5pm)

If you appreciate the rich flavors of authentic Italian cuisine, Cenacolo is a fine choice! Handmade pastas in savory, yet light sauces made with fresh ingredients take traditional dishes like lasagna and ravioli to a new level. The Seabass in the leak sauce is exceptional and the crème brulee is an excellent grand finale to a fantastic meal.

The intimate eatery features a sophisticated wine selection and elegant décor with classic white tablecloths. Sit inside and enjoy the staff’s highly professional service, romantic dim lighting and serene atmosphere, or dine on the terrace, which looks onto the effervescent 5th Avenue. Reservations are recommended.

Le Chique

(Located in the Azul Sensatori Resort in Puerto Morelos 20 minutes from Playa del Carmen, open from 6pm)

The delectable menu at Le Chique is a labor of love orchestrated by Chef Jonatan Gomez Luna. Upscale items like the Brioche are anything but typical with their Yucatecan-inspired flavors. Seasonal and regional ingredients are perfectly incorporated into traditional dishes like mole, gorditas and panuchos, taking them up a notch on the culinary scale.

A tasting menu gives you the chance to sample delicacies served to Mayan royals like crickets and Tascalate, a sweetened warm corn, chocolate and vanilla drink. Superior service staff work with the talented culinary team to present the exquisite offerings in such a visually appealing way that you are left astounded. Not only are the mini pedestals used in the presentation impressive, but also the combinations of flavors are out of this world.

An optional wine-pairing menu is available and an elegant resort dress code is enforced. Call in advance to reserve your table and if you want a more private, intimate dining experience, ask for a table in the wine cellar. Although eating at Le Chique requires you to drive outside of Playa del Carmen, the drive is absolutely worth it!

Hechizo

(Located in Tulum on the compound of Rancho San Eric, on the main strip on the right side of the fork that runs along the sea)

We had the great pleasure of dining here for a friend’s birthday a little while back. Hechizo is owned and operated by Chef Stefan along with his wife Pastry Chef extraordinaire Hui and sits along the world-class beaches of Tulum.

Before we ordered, Chef Stefan came out to introduce himself and explain the elaborate menu offerings. We savored gourmet entrees like black peppered prawns and local, sautéed greens, seared Tuna and Salmon dishes and finished with a flourless, dark chocolate cake to mark the special occasion. The servers were stealth-like and we didn’t notice until we picked up our glasses that our waters had been refilled.

There are outdoor tables on the sand, but on the evening we went, it was quite windy. So opted to sit indoors, but still enjoyed the sounds of the waves pounding the shore just a few steps away. The whole experience was definitely one to remember. Although the food and service was deserving of a 10-star rating, the atmosphere was extremely warm, friendly and unpretentious.

The charming, family run business closes periodically during the low season so be sure to call ahead to reserve your table.

This rounds out our top 10 choices for upscale restaurants in this magical city by the sea. We hope that this list provides you with some good direction as you search for the ultimate culinary experience in Playa del Carmen.

Buen Provecho! Bon Appetite!

Playa Del Carmen, once a sleepy fishing village, has blossomed into an effervescent city by the sea.  From its magnetic multicultural community, has immersed a rich bounty of scrumptious dining experiences.  The following is a list of local bistros and cafes visitors can use as a guide to some of Playa’s most delectable breakfast options.

1. IMPREVIST

   Opens at 8am, located on 1st Avenue between Calle 14 and 16

   This delightful, upscale restaurant serves a gourmet menu of international fusion consisting of benedicts, omelettes and traditional Mexican cuisine.  Your choice of hot dish is accompanied with coffee or tea, fresh fruit platter served with local honey, granola and yogurt, basket of pastries and a 100% natural juice (the jugo verde is one of the best in town).

   

2. INDIGO

   Breakfast served from 8am – 12pm, located on Calle 14 and the beach.

   Enjoy Indigo’s famous buffet which includes coffee, fresh squeezed juice, fruit, yogurt and pastry buffet along with your choice of main breakfast entree.  Situated on the cool alabaster sand, brunch while taking in the captivating views of the glistening Caribbean Sea.

   

3. CHEZ CELINE

   Opens at 8am, located on 5th Avenue and Calle 34.

   A local hotspot, this authentic French bakery’s aromatic scents of fresh baked bread can be detected from blocks away.  The enticing menu includes healthful options such as seasonal fruit with granola and omelettes, as well as a succulent offering of sweet works of art from tarts, pastries and of course buttery croissants.  For an inventive twist on traditional lemonade, I recommend the ginger infused Limonada Celine.

   

4. BIO-NATURAL

   Opens at 8am, located on 10 Avenue between Calle 14 and Constituyentes.

   This health food store and restaurant serves a vibrant and fresh vegetarian/vegan menu.  From omelettes to quinoa salads, fruit bowls  to hotcakes, their flavorful combinations please any palate.

   

5. CUEVA DEL CHANGO

   Open at 8am and located on Calle 38 between 5th Avenue and the sea.

   A truly unique dining experience, “The Monkey’s Cave” has a river flowing through its center inhabited by turtles and is set within a lush green environment.  Famous for their vast selection of blended fruit juices, the breakfast menu also includes a selection of traditional Mexican offerings (the enchiladas with chile pasilla are a personal favorite), fresh fruit, omelettes and crepes.

   

With the plethora of options for dining in Playa Del Carmen, it can be a cumbersome task for those visiting to sift through the infinite possibilities.  May this tantalizing top 5 list of exquisite breakfast eateries come in handy as you venture out in the glorious Riviera Maya mornings to satisfy your hunger pangs.

Whether it’s your first-time in Playa del Carmen or you frequently visit this endearing vacation spot, the seemingly endless selection of eateries (with new ones popping up all the time,) can make choosing where to dine a bit daunting.

Luckily, you’ve come to the right place for restaurant recommendations! We not only live in Playa, but we love to eat! Since we receive so many questions from our clientele asking where the best place to find authentic Mexican food is, we thought it would be helpful to put together this guide with of our top picks.

If you’re looking for Taco Bell-style bean burritos, unfortunately, you won’t find any tex-mex establishments on this particular list. These suggestions offer a chance to taste the real deal, delicious regional and traditional Mexican dishes. Some of these places have been around for years and are local favorites, while others are just recently exploding onto the Playa del Carmen gastronomy scene with much fanfare.

When in town, don’t hesitate to explore new options. There are so many restaurants serving savory Mexican cuisine, that it would be a shame to have missed the opportunity to sample the genuine and rich flavors of Mexico!

Veronica picks Nativo

(30th Avenue and Calle 20)

Veronica is one of our amazing ambassadors who has a smile that can light up an entire stadium! When she’s not hosting guests, she takes photos for BRIC and enjoys spending time traveling or cuddling with her loveable dog. She’s lived here over a decade and the girl knows good eats.

Nativo lives up to its name with its colorful native murals and brightly colored seating under a massive thatched palapa roof. On the menu, you can find a large selection of recipes for healthy, blended juices with vitamin-packed fruit and vegetable ingredients like chaya. Also count on traditional Mexican favorites like chilaquiles and chicken enchiladas with a rich mole sauce.

Miguel picks Axiote

(Calle 34th in between 5th & 10th Avenue)

Our very own resident DJ and on-site ambassador extraordinaire at The Elements, Miguel is a man of many talents. When he’s not working hard, he loves heading to the beach or enjoying fine food with his pals.

Axiote does its best to support local vendors and uses 100% Mexican ingredients and products. The menu is a fusion of traditional Mexican with regional flavors. The Chimichangas de Jaiba is a prime example of the exquisite mix of old-style favorites with a contemporary, regional twist. Axiote is open after 1:30 p.m.

Abril picks Doña Mary

(Calle 28 and 30th Avenue)

A stylish mother of two and a key part of our dynamic sales team, Abril has an affinity for fashionable footwear and the Atlanta Falcons.

Doña Mary has been cooking up casual Mexican plates for years now. Just passing by, the aromas of the panuchos, salbutes, empanadas and tostadas coming from the kitchen are bound tempt your taste buds. This little local gem is open from 6 p.m. until late.

Damien picks La Pasteleteria

(Plaza Xaman-ha along hwy 307 on the south end of the city.)

Damien, our Manager of Operations, has dedicated his loyalty to two teams for nearly a decade, Team BRIC and the Denver Broncos. When he’s finished fulfilling his leadership role at the office, he loves to watch sports, hang out with his beautiful wife and their dear dog.

This is our go-to place for amazing birthday cakes for BRIC staff. Not only do they create divine sweets in their bakery, but the plentiful and friendly wait staff in the adjoining restaurant do a terrific job of serving up Mexican and regional plates like tortilla soup and fish fillets steam cooked in banana leaves. For the most delicious assortment of pastries in town and an extensive offering of signature coffees, la Pasteleteria is dessert heaven!

Aurora picks La Parilla

(On the corner of Constituyentes and 5th Avenue)

This numbers wizard has been our hardworking bookkeeper since shortly after BRIC’s inception. She has a healthy obsession with the game of golf and recently realized a longtime dream of visiting Paris.

This eatery is conveniently located in the middle of Playa’s dining and shopping district. You can count on delectable Mexican dishes like enchiladas con mole, and Aurora’s favorite, the fajitas. The nightly entertainment is a fantastic, live Mariachi band and the service staff is a riot. Ask for a fishbowl-sized margarita, which is often delivered to the table on the server’s head!

Isaac picks El Zorro Plateado

(CTM and 5th Avenue on the north end)

Before Isaac became a BRIC ambassador, he was a tennis coach and traveled the region in search of the best spots for kite surfing. He still loves the two sports, but when he’s not working or hanging out with his wife and kids (3 adorable dogs,) you can probably find him on the driving range or playing a round of golf.

This newly established Mexican eatery is receiving rave reviews. On the menu you’ll find tender carne asada (grilled meats), locally caught seafood and their signature cilantro lemonade. They’re open from 8 a.m. for breakfast and serve cold brands of Mexican beer until late.

Lene picks El Fogon

You’ll run into the vivacious Lene around The Royal Palms condominiums where this diligent ambassador is forever on a mission to make every aspect of her guests’ vacation just perfect. She understands that quality service can make a trip that much more amazing, as she is a regular jetsetter herself.

For a truly authentic casual dining experience, Lene recommends El Fogon Taqueria. This popular taco place has 3 locations in Playa del Carmen – Constituyentes near 30th, 30th Avenue and Calle 6 near Wal-Mart and on 30th Avenue at Calle 32.

They have typical Mexican agua frescas like Jamaica (cold, sweetened hibiscus tea,) Tamarind, and Horchata (a sweetened rice milk with cinnamon.) Also a must try are the tacos al pastor, which is marinated pork, slow cooked on a spit and bursting with flavor.

Erika picks La Perla Pixan

(Calle 34 between 5th and 10th Avenue)

One of the many wonderful things about Erika is her contagious laughter, which can often be heard around the office. Her personable nature comes in handy when customers call to make reservations through BRIC. She is a kind-hearted soul with a love for all animals and an appreciation for good food.

We trust her taste 100% when it comes to a restaurant recommendation and her pick is La Perla Pixan Restaurant and Mescal Store. The menu is Oaxaca-inspired, a region of Mexico renowned for their sumptuous cuisine. Erika favors the Tlayudas (flatbread with beans, lettuce, tomato, avocado and strips of meat) as well as the banana empanadas. If you’re looking for an exotic dining experience, where fried grasshoppers, mole and squash blossom flowers are some of the star ingredients in the dishes, La Perla Pixan is the answer.

Josue picks Cocos Cabañas in Xcalacoco

This friendly ambassador always manages to stay cool, calm and collected although he is consistently on the go, preparing for and taking care of all his clientele. He can always be counted on to get the job done and his limitless energy never fails to provide motivation for the rest of us in the office.

This restaurant and bar is located in Hotel Cocos Cabañas through the Princess Hotel entrance on highway 307 under 10 minutes north from Playa del Carmen. Josue loves the Camarones al ajillo (garlic shrimp) and the lobster pizza.

Ivonne picks Los Hijos del Mar

(30th Avenue in between Calle 24 and 26)

For three years now, this sociable ambassador has been charming BRIC guests with her quick wit and fun-loving demeanor. You’ll be well taken care of if you happen to be staying at the beautiful Paseo del Sol condominiums. She’s always on the move, so she has to fuel her body well. That being said, she knows a lot about where to go for a fabulous meal in Playa.

Los Hijos del Mar features a fresh menu with a vast selection of seafood including aguachiles, ceviches and tostadas. The plates come with a side of enticing salsas from red wine to spicy habanero. For her favorite menu item, Ivonne’s pick is the Toro Toro with chile guero topped with shrimp, octopus and avocado.

Angel picks La Cueva del Chango

(Calle 38th in between 5th and 1st Avenue)

Angel is the newest addition to the BRIC team and takes care of business at the BRIC Hotel and Spa. When he’s not at the hotel greeting guests and managing operations, Angel loves to explore new tastes by traveling to different regions in the country. If he meets new people along the way, to him, that’s the icing on the cake.

La Cueva del Chango opens at 8 a.m. and is perfect for breakfast, brunch or dinner. They have an extensive menu of blended, fresh juices and Mexican dishes such as sopes and incredible chicken enchiladas in a mild chile pasilla sauce. For a very traditional brunch item, Angel suggests the chilaquiles (tortilla chips with a red or green salsa, topped with chicken or just lettuce, avocado, sliced onion, crumbled cheese and sour cream.)

Sergio picks El Gran Taco

(Across the street to the north of Centro Maya Mall, on the south end of Playa del Carmen)

When he’s not in the office establishing efficient operations systems within the company and developing customer relations, Sergio is either at a Cross-fit class in the wee hours of the morning, or at the golf course attempting to better his handicap. If he’s not on the links himself, he’s passionate about traveling throughout the Yucatan Peninsula with his family, seeing the sights and watching his son participate in golf tournaments.

This hole-in-the-wall type, family-owned business presents casual fare so enticing, it has a line-up on most days. The menu offers typical Mexican treats like tacos and gorditas. You can choose from a selection of taco fillings from carnitas (shredded meat) and picadillo (ground beef with potatoes and carrots) to savory rajas (poblano chiles in a cream sauce with corn.) The gorditas filled with their fantastic chicken mole sauce will change your life!

There you have it – the ultimate directory for mouthwatering Mexican cuisine in Playa del Carmen! Buen provecho!

Recently, Trip Advisor announced the Travelers’ Choice edition of the 25 top destinations in the world. To those of us who live or spend a significant amount of time in this little piece of heaven, it comes as no surprise that Playa del Carmen found its rightful place on the list. Some members of the Bric team have been residents of Playa del Carmen from two to five years, while others have lived here for a decade or more. Being here as long as we have, we felt it was time to share what we know so that you too can discover the many things that make the Riviera Maya such an attractive destination. Hopefully you can use this info as a guide to some of the lesser-known local gems to help you get the most out of your Mexican vacation experience!

From laid-back hippie-style watering holes to the most posh of eateries to sublime secluded beaches, we have covered a wide range of enticing choices for every type of traveler. Playa del Carmen not only showcases a thriving gastronomy scene, but the once sequestered fishing village, boasts world-renowned beaches, dive sites, and a friendly multicultural community, passionate about the arts.

Some of the most talented painters, writers, performers and musicians on the planet are drawn to the artistic air of Playa. Because of this growing collection of creative virtuosos who are transforming the city, those of us who are not so artistically inclined, can delight in the colorful murals, cultural centers, museums, theatres and sensational live music that continue to pop up around town.This intriguing directory of hot spots gives insight into the Playa lifestyle and the many reasons why we have chosen to call this seaside paradise home!

Here we present to you Bric Vacation Rentals’ go-to list of favorite places to indulge in good food and good times Playa del Carmen!

Claudia, the smiley ambassador at Paseo del Sol recommends the Eggplant Parmesan and Lasagna Bolognese at PapaCharly Pasta Factory. Cheesecake fans can savor a rich slice drizzled with cajeta. This quaint Italian restaurant located on Calle 30 and 25th Avenue features handmade pasta, made fresh daily, and a friendly staff that will make you feel right at home!

For a night out with friends, Claudia likes to head to Bar Ranita in La Rana Cansada Hotel (meaning The Sleepy Frog) on Calle 10 between 5th and 10th Avenue. The easy-going, beatnik ambience and comfortable couches are the perfect place to relax with a cold draft, listen to live music, and meet locals and fellow vacationers.

Aurora, our bookkeeping wizard’s favorite restaurant in town is El Diez, an Argentinean grill located on Calle 30 and 5th Avenue. She raves about the arrachera, a thin, skirt steak grilled over an open fire. To accompany the main dish, Aurora suggests a Piña Colada made with Amaretto instead of the usual Rum. The aromatic coffee is brewed to perfection at El Diez and is a nice end to a fantastic meal.

On a recent outing, Aurora, along with friends and family caught the one-hour ferry from Playa del Carmen to the Cozumel marina. From there they hired a captain to take them on a 4-5 hour journey around Mexican Caribbean Island. There was a special place, El Cielo, an undeveloped beach that she describes ‘Like nothing I have ever seen before. For a moment, I thought I was in Fiji!’ The water was crystal clear with the most striking shade of turquoise. The group loved that they were able to walk out hundreds of feet while the water level never went above their hips! There were also other points where Aurora and her crew stopped for snorkeling. The boat accommodated sixteen passengers and they were allowed to bring their own food and beverages.

For more information, call the Bric office or speak to your Bric ambassador who can arrange for one of these magnificent tours.

One half of our dynamic sales duo Susana, loves to dine at Cenacolo on 5th Avenue between Calle 30 and 32. The menu features a vast selection of exquisite Italian and Mediterranean cuisine, but Susi is always drawn to the Sombreditos Verdes. If you are looking for an upscale locale to enjoy a fantastic meal with friends or a romantic dinner for two, Susana can attest that the service and delectable offerings at Cenacolo will not disappoint!

Since she is a salsa pro, one of the places Susana loves is Zenzi on Calle 10 and the beach. Every night great local talent is featured on the main stage, but on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays, an excellent house band plays from 10-12a.m. It’s an exotic beachside venue where salsa and bachata enthusiasts can tear up the dance floor. For beginners, they offer classes from 9-10pm.

Jonathan, in our administration department, is a very busy guy. Along with working in the Bric office, he is also a local radio host. So to unwind from his hectic schedule, he likes the warm ambience and buttery escargot at Byblos on Calle 24 and 10th Avenue. This charming French bistro has been around for years and offers an impressive selection of French and Italian dishes.

When he feels he needs to de-stress, Jon and a group of friends go to Palazzo Disco on Calle 12. Top local DJs create the ultimate dance environment that can last all night long if you’re in the mood to party!

The cheerful Veronica, one of our efficient ambassadors and longtime Playa del Carmen residents prefers the pasta Carbonara at Cheester’s on Calle 4 and 40th Avenue. The staff and casual atmosphere are fun and the portions are generous, but be sure to save room for one of their sensational desserts!

Cenotes are so inviting in this warm climate. So it’s no wonder Veronica chose Cenote Eden as her favorite spot in the Mayan Riviera. Located approximately 20 minutes south of Playa del Carmen, this open, sink hole has a cliff for jumping into the crystalline, natural pool, underwater caves in which to dive through, and palapa picnic areas with grills. For a memorable day, she loves to pack some food (and charcoal for the barbecue pit,) her snorkel gear, and a towel which comes in handy after swimming in the cool waters and sublime setting at Cenote Eden.

The martial artist of the group, Arturo, front desk representative at the Bric Hotel, loves the easy access to an abundance of fresh seafood in Playa. For tasty shrimp tostadas (Tostadas de Camaron) his pick is Los Aguachiles located on Calle 34 and 25th Avenue or Constituyentes between 1st and 10th Avenue. They also serve one of the best Micheladas (beer, lime and spices) and Ojos Rojos (beer, clamato and spices) in town! This casual eatery is a great place for a cold drink and light lunch after a day on the white sand beaches of Playa del Carmen!

If you are looking for adventure, Arturo suggests Xplor, just 5 minutes south of Playa del Carmen. He loves that he has a chance to play Indiana Jones and partake in an adrenaline-fueled adventure! Arturo has visited the park many times and is still thrilled to fly over hundreds of feet of pristine jungle on zip lines, ride rafts through the stalactite river, explore behind water falls and drive through caves on amphibious vehicles. To take the excitement level up a notch, he recommends going to the park at night with only the light of the moon and torches to guide you!

Lene, our chipper, Norwegian ambassador, spends her workdays mainly at The Royal Palms and Lotus buildings. When she is not taking care of guests, she loves to receive a little pampering of her own at the hip beach club, Papaya Playa, in Tulum. She loves the good food, good music as well as the beautiful beach and declares it her favorite seaside spot to relax and soak up the warm Mexican sun. In fact, when Lene finds it too hard to leave, she’ll even spend the night in one of their cozy bungalows on the beach. Waking up to the sound of the waves is one of her greatest pleasures.

In Playa del Carmen, when she’s got a hankering for great Italian food, Lene goes directly to Romeo’s on Calle 4 between 10th and 15th Avenue. For a starter, she often has the deep fried calamari and the pesto lasagna is her top selection for a main course.

The other half of our dynamic sales duo, Erika, seconds Romeo’s for its superb Italian cuisine. She savors the 4 Cheese Gnocchi with a glass of wine. This busy, little eatery is well known for its fresh, handmade pasta, pizzas and salads including a tangy, warm octopus salad.

For her top choice destination in the Rivera Maya, Erika chooses to head to the Mezzanine Tulum with friends. The beachside hotel presents striking ocean views from its terrace and offers a delicious Thai menu. With her background in culinary arts, she appreciates exquisite food and recommends the Bolsitas de Dinero (Money Bags), or wontons filled with shrimp and jicama served with a spicy ginger sauce. Another favorite are the Triangulos De Oro (Gold Triangles) or wontons stuffed with goat cheese, nuts and basil with mango sauce. For breakfast, lunch, dinner or drinks, this is Erika’s top pick.

Miguel, our easy-going, personable ambassador at The Elements, prefers the octopus tacos and tuna tostadas at Chiltepin on Calle 34 and 20th Avenue. The seafood is fresh, the drinks are cold and the atmosphere is laid-back, just the way Miguel likes it!

If a more secluded beach is what you’re after, he will point you in the direction of Xpu Ha, about 25 minutes south of Playa del Carmen. Miguel suggests walking to the far right side, where he says is the perfect place to chill with some music, food and an ice-cold beer. A few beach clubs speckle the white sand at Xpu Ha, but there is also the option to pack your own cooler and find your very own place under a palm on this rustic stretch of heavenly shoreline.

Damien, our manager of operations at Bric, loves the Japanese dishes at Kampai on 5th between Calle 30 and 32. The upscale sushi eatery sits along 5th Avenue and offers not only delicious food and excellent service, but is a perfect location from which to people watch over drinks with friends.

If you want to hit the town and experience the sensational nightlife of Playa del Carmen, Damien’s favorite places in the city include Diablito Cha Cha Cha for a precursor – drinks and appetizers, then Salsanera for a few spins on the steamy dance floor! Both are located on Calle 12 in the club zone.

One of our longtime employees Abril, who works at the front desk of the Bric Hotel, thinks Piola on Calle 38 between 5th and 1st Avenue deserves an honorary mention. She is a big fan of the pizzas here and believe it or not, Abril’s #1 topping is a beaten egg! Unusual yes, but tasty, she swears. The ambience is fun, casual and welcoming towards families. They offer a vast selection of specialty drinks including a basil martini, and the pizzas are some of the best brick-oven pies in town!

Even on a rainy day, Abril is happy to bring her family to the Coba ruins for a day of exploring by bike and climbing the ancient pyramids. She says that once you arrive at the top, it is the most peaceful feeling to look out over the lush green jungle which reaches as far as the eye can see.

Josue, our fun-loving and always-on-the-go ambassador found it difficult to choose just one restaurant so he offered these for his preferred picks 1) La Floresta, best seafood (mariscos) tacos in Playa del Carmen, located on Calle 14 along the Federal Highway and 2) La Buena Vida beach club in Akumal for casual eats like ceviche and fish tacos. There are hammocks, beanbags chairs and plenty of shade from which to enjoy a laid-back afternoon and incredible turquoise views.

To spend a memorable day by the water, Josue suggests Blue Venado, situated 5 minutes south of Playa del Carmen. After snorkeling or horseback riding along the rustic beach area, the shaded lounge beds are a comfortable spot to relax with a good book or some music and of course, a bucket of ice-cold beer!

For the most delicious homemade hamburgers, sea salted fries and ranch dressing dipping sauce, our spa manager Jackie recommends La Buena Vibra on 115th Avenue just off the new highway 305. It’s a hole in the wall but the food will not disappoint and the staff is very welcoming and friendly.

Zenzi is also Jackie’s choice for a fun night out in Playa del Carmen. The tables are in the powdery-soft sand, surrounded by palms with strings of lights running through them. Quality musicians and DJs every night of the week make this a first rate hang out for locals and visitors alike.

Perhaps one of our most knowledgeable and adventurous ambassadors in the realm of gastronomy, Isaac recently discovered Mar Bella at the Puerto Juarez ferry terminal in Cancun. Next time you are planning a day trip to Isla Mujeres, Isaac suggests making a pit stop at this fantastic seafood restaurant. It is slightly hidden and you have to go through a convenience store front, then up a back staircase, but once you arrive, the panoramic ocean views are captivating. If you love fresh seafood, this is the place to find the best and biggest lobster he’s ever come across in the region!

In his downtime, Isaac likes to visit the Gran Cenote located 4 km from the town of Tulum (south of Playa del Carmen.) There are white sand beach areas, open, natural pools surrounded by lush vegetation, and caves in which to dive and snorkel through.

The fun-loving and spunky Ivonne, one of our on-site ambassadors at The Elements, has spent many nights out with friends at Almirante Pech. She loves the cool vibe and sophisticated environment. Menu items such as the tuna tzatziki and beet salad are flavorful and light and the artisanal beer and extensive bar in this tropical tavern make it a top choice for an elegant dinner out or drinks.

Our take-charge administrative assistant Janet enjoys the simple pleasures of life including cooking for her busy family of four kids. Her ideal meal involves picking up some fresh fish at El Pirata on Calle 40 between 5th and 10th Avenue and preparing a home cooked feast!

There you have it! So now that we let you in on our secret hideaways here in the Riviera Maya, we hope you will take the time to check them out for yourselves! May this list of Bric staff picks come in handy when you are looking for good food and fun options on your next trip to Playa del Carmen!

Fortunately,  I have been blessed with a talent or two, unfortunately a green thumb is not one of my gifts!  In lieu of this, a tall graviola tree in my front yard continues to grow and produce succulent soursop fruit (guanabana in Spanish) year after year. I am relieved that the tree seems to be aware of my gardening limitations. Despite all of them, we have managed to come to a mutual respect and understanding.

Thankfully, the only task required of me (no watering or pruning necessary) is to reap the harvest and enjoy the sweet flavor and health benefits of this cancer-preventing, vitamin-rich super fruit. Blending it with cold water and a natural sweetener (I use stevia), is one of my favorite ways to consume the creamy pulp.

Living in Playa del Carmen, I have had the opportunity to taste the bountiful offerings of exotic fruits and vegetables, many of which I had never heard of before.  Since the climate is typically a hot and humid one, it breeds a tendency to reach for the fruit bowl often, in an effort to quench one’s thirst.

Not too many foods disappear from a plate faster than watermelon on a hot summer day.  But if you have the good fortune to spend some time in this heavenly, tropical region, here is a list of rare fruits grown in the area, worth allowing your taste buds the chance to explore.

• Mamey

  

  This medium-sized brown fruit has a rough exterior and is in the shape of a small football.  The deep salmon-colored pulp has a very distinctive, intoxicating flavor, one that is difficult to describe.  To choose a ripe mamey, it should be firm without blemishes and will give slightly when squeezed lightly in the palm of your hand.

  Including mamey in your daily diet has been shown to alleviate symptoms of cardiovascular disease and hypertension, as well as prevent skin cancer, cataracts and osteoporosis.  Rich in vitamin C, B, A, magnesium, riboflavin, and fiber, mamey makes a colorful addition to a fruit salad.  To serve as a beverage, blend cubed mamey with low-fat milk, a pinch of cinnamon, vanilla and ice.

• Carambola or Star Fruit

  

  These oblong shaped fruit have five angled edges and a waxy peel.  A good source of dietary fiber and vitamin C, star fruits are packed with antioxidants and aid in preventing respiratory infections and constipation.  They are also natural cough suppressors and are excellent detoxifiers which can help to relieve headaches, hangovers insomnia.

  When selecting a ripe starfruit, look for one that is yellow and light green in color.  To consume, slice off the tips of the five ridges, cut the two ends and remove the seeds. Star fruits are sweet with a slight tartness and are similar to an apple, with its juicy, crunchy flesh.

• Pitaya or Dragon Fruit

  

  Perhaps one of the most interesting and beautiful of all fruits, pitayas are vibrant fuchsia-red color.  Its thin rind envelopes a soft white pulp with tiny, black seeds.  This bright fruit is considered a cactus plant, hence the prickly “leaves,” but has a similar taste and texture to a kiwi.  Since dragon fruit are packed in antioxidants, consuming them regularly can help to detoxify the body, boost the immune system and delay the aging of skin cells.  Other vitamins and minerals found in this nutrient-dense fruit include phosphorus, calcium, fiber, Vitamins C, B¹,B², and B³.

  At the market, look for a bright, even-colored surface and similar to a kiwi, the skin of the dragon fruit should give slightly when gently squeezed.  To prepare one to eat, cut it in half, and either scoop the white flesh with a spoon or peel the rind and cut the flesh in cubes.  Dragon fruits have a mild flavor and look stunning as part of a fruit salad.

• Papaya

  

  This once exotic fruit has become a common site in supermarkets in North of the border.  If you have never tried it, the multitude of health benefits might tempt you to place one in your shopping cart next time you are shopping for groceries. Papayas are rich in antioxidant nutrients such as carotenes, vitamin C, potassium, flavonoids, and magnesium.  Due to their high fiber content, papayas aid in digestion and help prevent colon cancer.   Consuming the butter-like, salmon-colored flesh on a regular basis can promote cardiovascular health, decrease inflammation, support the immune system and lower the risk risk of rheumatoid arthritis and diabetes.

  The first time I tried this pungent fruit was years ago on my honeymoon and I recall telling my husband that I thought the melon had gone bad!  After a few more samplings, I became a huge fan and today, it is a staple on my grocery list. To prepare papaya for consumption, cut it in half lengthwise and remove the seeds with a spoon. Peel the skin with a knife, slice and enjoy.

  In our family we often blend papayas in smoothies with mango, milk and cinnamon or we eat it cubed with coconut yogurt or cottage cheese and a sprinkle of cinnamon.  It is so sweet we consider it a dessert! To add a tropical flair to your next meal, try a grilled filet of white fish such as halibut topped with a papaya, mango, cilantro, lime, and jalapeño salsa.

• Guayaba or Guava

  

  These firm, yellow golf ball sized fruits have a strong, floral aroma and are vitamin C powerhouses. Compared to oranges they have more than three times the vitamin C and a lower sugar content.  The consumption of guavas can promote thyroid and brain health, prevent constipation and some forms of cancer, and boost the immune system.  Since these small but mighty fruit are high in Vitamin A, they also help to maintain vision health.

  Guavas are a very delicate fruit and when ripe, bruise easily.  When selecting a guava, choose one that is firm and bright yellow or slightly green and turning yellow.  Wash thoroughly and cut the tips off before eating.  The skin and seeds are edible, but if you are blending it to make a juice, add a little natural sweetener and strain the seeds for a smoother beverage. Guavas are also served as glazes for chicken or used in jellies.

Although grocery stores do not yet provide nearly the interesting variety of [manufactured] products that we are accustomed to back home in Canada and the United States, Playa del Carmen does have an abundance of markets bursting with scrumptious fruit selections. Not only will this myriad of colorful produce make a striking centerpiece on your table, but by opting to include these super fruits in your daily diet, you choose enhanced health and vitality!