The best restaurants in Cancun

No-frills authentic Japanese bar, small and local, zero tourist gimmicks

Specialty: Nigiri and sashimi — fresh fish, Japanese-owned and run

Pro tip: Skip the rolls — go for nigiri and sashimi, that's where the quality shows

Beach club over the sea, sunset views of Cancún skyline

Specialty: Fresh catch by weight — grilled, ceviche or raw bar style

Pro tip: Skip the cocktails (overpriced) — focus on the food and sunset

Open-air colonial courtyard, 17th-century mansion, local crowd

Specialty: Cochinita pibil, longaniza de Valladolid, queso relleno estilo Valladolid

Pro tip: Order the Platón de la Casa — best sampler of regional dishes on the menu

Alfresco pizzeria, owner-run, passionate Neapolitan vibes

Specialty: Wood-fired Neapolitan pizza — Funghi e Salsiccia, Broccoli e Salsiccia

Pro tip: Owner makes every pizza himself — ask for his recommendation

Local taquería, casual street-food energy, no-frills

Specialty: Tacos al pastor with pineapple, campechano

Pro tip: Skip the Zona Hotelera — this Huayacán spot is the local version

Lush courtyard garden, live music, off the tourist strip

Specialty: Gourmet burgers — La Lolita (blue cheese + caramelized onion) is the one

Pro tip: Away from 5th Ave crowds — worth the walk or short taxi ride

Rustic open-air courtyard, tree trunk stools, live music at night

Specialty: Wood-fired lobster pizza — thin crust, fresh catch from the island

Pro tip: Bring mosquito repellent — they have it on tables but don't forget yours