Dining in Cancun includes a wide range of cuisines and price levels to satisfy your palate and your wallet. In addition to predictable (seemingly global) chains like Bubba Gumps and Ruths Chris, you'll find unique local gems like the Laguna Grill and La Habichuela. Of course, many hotels have good restaurants but you are encouraged to venture out and taste the local flavor as well!
Where to eat
LAGUNA GRILL. Fodor’s Guide Favorite Restaurant 2005 and 2006. The architectural concept that surrounds the restaurant, coupled with its gastronomic-fusion cuisine, makes Laguna Grill a truly unique restaurant. The lush tropical garden at the entrance, the intricate handmade tile work on the floor and walls, the small flowing creek that traverses the restaurant, and the elegantly-finished tables hewn from trunks of tropical trees create the almost-mystical atmosphere one experiences at Laguna Grill. The large terrace is right on the water’s edge, where the spectacularly-romantic sunsets are surpassed only by the gastronomic experience that includes seafood, steak, and pasta with a contemporary flair. Elegant and comfortable, the next-door Lounge Bar Trágara offers a wide variety of wines and liquors, while you listen to soft background music and enjoy the charm of the lagoon. ADDRESS: BLVD. KUKULCÁN KM 15.6, HOTEL ZONE (998) 885-0267 Open Daily from 2 pm to midnight. WWW.LAGUNAGRILL.COM.MX
RUTH'S CHRIS Steakhouse--Located in what is now know as "Luxury Avenue", Ruth’s Chris Steakhouse is world famous for it’s tremendous service, and world-class steaks. It is on the expensive side, but, it is well worth it. Reservations, though recommended, are rarely needed. www.ruthschris.com
PUERTO MADERO: Great steakhouse, great service, good wine selection, lagoon views, etc. A little pricey, but worth it. Make reservations. http://www.puertomaderocancun.com/
PALOMA BONITA: Great food in a wonderful atmosphere at great prices. Everynight there is a live mariachi band that plays traditional music as well as anything you request. There is also an enclosed room with a great view of the ocean. A great and clean place for the price!
YAMAMOTO'S: 15 years of serving sushi to Cancun. Located downtown (you'll need a taxi from the Hotel Zone) because it caters to locals. Best sushi in the Yucatan.
What to wear
Casual restaurants, of course, have casual dress code but, despite the tropical climate, people do tend to dress up a little more at the nicer restaurants. For example, at Bubba Gumps most people are very casual...shorts, sandals, etc. At locations like LaDolce Vita, Laguna Grill or La Habituela, men were in long trousers and women wore dresses and skirts. Shorts are allowed but tank tops are frowned upon. Dressing up to go to dinner is a matter of respect, and most restaurants in Cancun deserve it.