There are so many great bars and restaurants on Isla Mujeres, that I certainly can’t name them all. But here is a start.
If you’ve never been, Isla Mujeres is an island off the coast of Cancun, Mexico. You can travel here by taking a 20-minute ferry ride from Cancun. It’s a popular tourist destination, and Playa Norte (North Beach) is known as one of the best beaches in Mexico.
The downtown area, known as El Centro, is on the north part of the island near Playa Norte. And if you’re wondering where to go or what to do, here are a few of the best bars and best restaurants in this area for great tostadas, tacos, cocktails and more. If you have time to explore the island more, I also recommend these other two posts that share more about great places to visit outside of downtown.
- How to Explore Isla Mujeres: The Best Things to Do
- Hidden Gems in Isla Mujeres, Mexico (Bars and Restaurants)
For more information about this wonderful island, make sure to check out my Isla Mujeres Travel Guide!
1. Limón
It’s rarely wise to label something as “the best.” It’s subjective. Plus is this label based on best price? Most authentic? Best value? Quality of food regardless of price?
With that said… Limón is probably the most acclaimed and often considered to be the best restaurant on Isla Mujeres. I cannot disagree.
Chef Sergio Contreras Martínez was born in Mexico and raised with traditional Mexican dishes. But when he began to travel the world later in life, he fell in love with the cuisines of Japan, Thailand, India, Britain, and other places he visited. He began creating recipes that were influenced from all these places. And when he opened Limon in 2012, he brought these dishes to life.
Prices are on the more expensive side for Isla Mujeres, and you will find he has a focus on grilled meats and seafood that he grills outside for you to watch. In fact, he refers to himself as The Grill Master rather than Chef.
Tips: Limón is a cash only establishment, so hit up the ATM before dinner. Also, if you would like to order lobster, you should call ahead to ensure the availability. Reservations required.
2. Olivia
With all the Mexican and Italian restaurants on Isla Mujeres, you might want to mix up your dinner options. Olivia is a Mediterranean restaurant with beautiful back courtyard for outdoor dining. The Moroccan style fish and the chicken with olives are my two favorite dishes. I also suggest starting with the Moroccan Tapas (babaganush, tabule, Moroccan carrot salad, and matbuha). If you need a break from tacos, ceviche, or whatever else then come here. Olivia is one of the best restaurants on the island, and so you shouldn’t be disappointed.
3. Lola Valentina
Lola Valentina has perhaps the best cocktails on Isla Mujeres, with several types of margaritas, mezcal-ritas, and various house cocktails. But prices here are also higher than most other places. Although I didn’t include in the video above, they also have great dinner options (chili relleno is one of my favorite dishes here) and their cochinita pibil eggs benedict is one of my top picks for best brunch on Isla Mujeres.
4. Los Tacos de Humo
Tucked away on Av. Juárez in El Centro, Los Tacos de Humo is perhaps the go-to spot for tacos on Isla Mujeres. The fish tacos are a standout with battered then fried fish. But my favorite are the Carnitas Tres Chiles (pork shoulder).
But whatever you decide to order, the meal isn’t complete without the complimentary “churro-doughnut” dessert.
5. Javi's Cantina
If you’re looking for a standout dinner spot on Isla Mujeres, Javi’s Cantina is a must-visit. Nestled on Avenida Juárez in downtown (just two blocks north of the Ultramar Ferry terminal), this eatery thrives in the converted family home of islander Javi Martínez and his wife, Marla. The intimate setting instantly gives you local character and charm.
The vibe here blends elevated Mexican-Caribbean cuisine with live music and an inviting courtyard under a leafy tree, making it perfect for a special evening out. On the menu you’ll find fresh seafood (like grilled fish filets and lobster bites), flavorful mains (such as parmesan-crusted fish) and inventive cocktails (don’t miss the grilled-pineapple margarita).
Reservations are strongly recommended since seating is limited and it’s closed on Wednesdays.
6. Playa Lancheros
When visiting Isla Mujeres or anywhere in Mexico’s Yucatán Peninsula, make sure to try one of the region’s most traditional dishes — Tikin Xic (pronounced “teek-in sheek”). With deep Mayan roots, this Yucatecan specialty features a whole white fish marinated in adobo de achiote and sour orange juice, giving it a vibrant red color and tangy, smoky flavor.
Traditionally, Tikin Xic was wrapped in banana leaves and slow-cooked in a pit beneath a wood fire, a cooking style passed down through generations of the Maya. Today, many restaurants butterfly the fish and grill it over open flames, which still delivers that same rich, charred aroma.
One of the best places to try this iconic dish on Isla Mujeres is Playa Lancheros, a laid-back beach restaurant on the island’s southern coast. The fish is cooked to order, and it can take up to 40 minutes. So, grab a cold drink, enjoy the view, or even take a quick swim while you wait.
7. La Lomita
Walking into La Lomita feels like walking into your grandmother’s house for dinner. The owner will make you feel welcome as they cook up some classic Mexican and Mayan dishes. I like the ceviche and chicken mole, but the enchiladas are a hit with regulars. If you’re looking for the feel of a homecooked meal with local dishes, then La Lomita is one of the best restaurants in Isla Mujeres.
8. Mahaché
Mahaché is a restaurant I walked by for weeks before deciding to give it a shot. And I was glad I made the stop.
It’s a restaurant that flies under the radar and doesn’t get nearly the credit it deserves. And thus, it’s a borderline hidden gem.
Mahaché brings together refined Mexican-Caribbean cuisine, live music, and an in-house art gallery. The menu features fresh seafood like snapper and hogfish, plus steaks and meat-grill options, all presented with flair and backed by craft beers, inventive cocktails and attentive service.
9. Rosa Serina's
Another mid-island gem is Rosa Sirena’s Restaurant and Rooftop Palapa bar. As the name suggests, it offers intimate rooftop dining with views of the island from above.
Chef Willy Chacón curates a menu focused on fresh, locally-sourced seafood and premium steaks, with thoughtful fusion touches that reflect both Mexican and international flavors.
Meanwhile, the owners greet guests personally, there’s live music most evenings, and the cocktails and desserts are repeatedly praised.
Fish & Gin
I think you can probably guess what Fish & Gin specializes in. Their gin cocktails include such things as the Gin & Thyme, Gin & Lychee, and Gin & Green (cucumber, basil, and kiwi). The seafood tostadas and lobster tacos are some of my favorite smaller food items. But really everything on the menu is good. And thanks to Adam for letting me video him while making my drink!
Other Great Restaurants in Isla Mujeres
There are too many great restaurants on Isla Mujeres to name them all. Although the above are some of my favorites, I recommend you walk all around all of El Centro, explore the southern parts of the island, and try food carts and local restaurants.
The island keeps growing in popularity, and so it changes often. To keep up, I highly recommend downloading the Map Chicks App before coming to Isla Mujeres. This app does a great job listing many bars and restaurants, their open hours, and even linking to menus when possible. Plus, it has other great information for tours, accommodations, and medical services.
Isla Mujeres
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