4 Best Restaurants in Cozumel, Mexico

Background Illustration for Restaurants

Dining options on Cozumel reflect the island’s laid-back attitude: breezy and relaxed, with casual dress and no reservations the rule at most places. Generally, restaurants emphasize fresh ingredients, simple presentation, and amiable service. As befits an island, there’s lots of just-caught seafood on the menu. Yucatecan cuisine is harder to come by; you’re more likely to find standard Mexican fare like tacos, enchiladas, and huevos rancheros. For budget meals, head into the untouristed part of downtown, because they’re few and far between elsewhere. Although some restaurants are turning out creative cuisine to suit the most demanding of palates, most visitors say their best dining experiences are in little family-owned spots that seem to have been here forever. While many restaurants accept credit cards, café-type places generally don’t. Cab drivers are often paid to shill for restaurants, so take their dining suggestions with a grain (or two) of salt.

Coconuts Bar & Grill

$$

The T-shirts and bras hanging from the palapa of this hilly, windward-side hangout at the island's highest point are good indicators of its party-time atmosphere. Classic rock and reggae tunes play in the background while crowds down cervezas, fish, fajitas, and garlic shrimp. The meals may not be good enough to write home about, but they are good enough to keep the crowds coming. Be sure to stroll out to the quieter, outer edges of the dining area and admire the stunning view. Playing with the lazy house dogs and cats (all rescues) is always fun. The party closes at sunset, and the carved coral steps going downhill can be tricky: use caution.

Dick's Dive

$$ | San Miguel

Hardly a dive bar, this place's name refers to Cozumel's great diving experience. Rub elbows with friendly expats and locals alike while you dine on burritos, shrimp bruschetta, and burgers. The atmosphere is fun and the drinks are always cold. There are a couple of TVs to catch a game. Live bands play on weekend evenings and frequently on weeknights, too.

El Foco

$$ | San Miguel

Popular among locals, this taquería captures some of the charm of the barrios and remains open late (until 1 am daily). The soft tacos stuffed with pork, chorizo (sausage), cheese, or beef aren't the cheapest tacos on the island, but they're tasty and filling. Eat in, take out, or have your food delivered.

Mexican $$ Dinner Quick Bite
Av. 5 Sur, Suite 433, Cozumel, 77600, Mexico
987-107–4108
www.facebook.com/ElFocoCozumel
Known For
  • Good fast food
  • Chorizo tacos
  • Late-night atmosphere
Restaurant Details
Closed Wed.
Reservations not accepted

Something incorrect in this review?

Recommended Fodor's Video

Rock 'n Java Caribbean Bar & Grill

$$ | San Miguel

A favorite of expats and locals, this restaurant has an extensive breakfast menu that includes whole-wheat French toast and cheese crepes. For lunch or dinner try the vegetarian tacos, linguine with clams, or one of the many salads. Pies, cakes, and pastries are baked on-site daily. You can savor your healthy meal or sweet snack (and take advantage of free Wi-Fi) while enjoying a sea view through the back windows. New Rock 'n Java spots—Noodle Bar and Sushi and Tex-Mex Island Grill (both in the nearby Mega Shopping Center)—round out the offerings of this popular Cozumel brand. Pay in pesos for a lower bill—the exchange rate here is not the best.