Seafood Specials

Mexico’s Caribbean coast is a stellar locale for seafood, from locally beloved huachinango (red snapper) to lobsters trapped off Punta Allen. From high-end entrées to street vendor fare, troll for seafood in Cancún and the Riviera Maya at these top spots. 

1. Dr. Taco. 10th Avenue, between 8th and 10th streets, Playa del Carmen (no phone). Belly up to the window at Dr. Taco, a destination-worthy cheap-eats stand in Playa del Carmen, and order up a shrimp taco. Then doctor it yourself with a splash or two from the salsa bar.

2. La Cueva del Chango. 38th Street, between 5th Avenue and the shore, Playa del Carmen, 52.984.804.9190. Super-fresh and healthful describes the all-day fare at this jungle-shrouded, palapa-topped beach hub. At dinner try the tuna tostadas and chili-and-cinnamon shrimp.

3. La Habichuela. Margaritas 25, Cancún, 52.998.884.3158. Grab a seat in the garden of this romantic downtown Cancún spot for the house specialty, cocobichuela, a tropical shrimp and lobster curry served in a coconut shell. 

4. Laguna Grill. Blvd. Kukulcan Kilometer 15.6, Cancun, 52.998.885.0267. For a memorable meal, book a table on the lagoon-front terrace at Laguna Grill. Though the menu changes often, it’s dependably strong on seafood, from ahi to scallops.

5. ¡Que Fresco! Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila Kilometer 5, Tulum (no phone). The funkiest cantina on the shore for fish, whether grilled, sautéed, or stuffed into tacos. ¡Que Fresco! serves it up on brightly colored tables anchored in the sand.