Friday Favorites: Favorite Mexican Restaurant in Playa del Carmen
Every Friday, we like to share with you our favorite spots around town, whether it be beach clubs, cafes, a good spot to watch the sunrise, or the Mexican restaurant in Playa del Carmen to have dinner. There are so many things we love about living full-time in the Riviera Maya, particularly in Playa del Carmen and Tulum, and one of those things is to be able to share with our visitors and new neighbors the amazing and sometimes hidden hot spots around town.
Because Playa is such a diverse city, we are lucky to have incredible international cuisine restaurants. But it has to be said, there’s nothing better than a delicious taco or traditional Mexican dishes, like enchiladas or pozole. And when we’re craving Mexican cuisine, with great service and ambiance, the place we choose is La Perla Pixan, our favorite Mexican restaurant in Playa del Carmen.
Located on our favorite street, Calle 38 between 5th and the beach, La Perla has been a staple in Playa del Carmen for years and offers authentic Mexican food from the Oaxaca region. With a delicious brunch on the weekends and a nightly show, ranging from live music to Mexican dancers, La Perla is a go-to spot for us any time of the day. This is also one of our favorite spots to take visiting friends and family for dinner because you are always guaranteed great service and delicious food.
Our Favorites:
Guacamole with fresh panela cheese and chapulines (more about this salty snack later)
Cecina Tacos
Chamorro, a braised pork shank
Chicken Mole
Duck Tacos
Pozole
La Perla also has amazing vegetarian options, this is really the perfect place to take just about anyone, there really is no wrong way to order at La Perla, the only mistake you could possibly make is not getting a shot of mezcal to go with your dinner. With a HUGE menu of different mezcals from Mexico, ask your waiter for recommendations if you’re not quite sure what to try. The shot is typically sipped, with a side of orange, and chapulines, which are dried roasted grasshoppers! Please give this creepy-sounding treat a try, they remind us of salt-roasted peanuts and they are the perfect side for your mezcal.
Whether you are new to Playa del Carmen, a resident for many years, or just visiting our city, make sure to put La Perla Pixan on your list for dinner!!
