Cozumel, Mexico

Eating out in Cozumel, Mexico

Mexican cuisine is centered around 3 national staples tortillas, fried beans, and chili peppers. Of course, you can find much more than just tacos and such in Cozumel. Chain eateries are plentiful throughout Mexican tourism spots and, for its size, Cozumel also has a surprising variety of ethnic dining catering to every budget and taste from Italian and French to Lebanese and Japanese. And almost all places serve the famous mezcal and tequila.

Gourmet

The French Quarter Restaurant is a taste of Louisiana dining set in the charming environs of Mexico. Whether it's elegant yet casual dining inside the air-conditioned banquet area or al fresco on the airy terrace, an evening at this fine restaurant is a first-rate experience. 5th Avenue South between Salas and 3rd Avenue.

Local Flair

La Choza looks like it was plucked right out of the ancient Mayan civilization, and is a favorite with both locals and tourists alike. The simple décor consists of a thatched roof and stucco walls perfectly complementing the home-cooked local cuisine. 198 Salas on 10th Avenue South.

Romantic

Pancho's Backyard is a lovely place to spend a secluded afternoon on a shady stretch of the waterfront. It's a restored colonial mansion turned restaurant with an outdoor patio. Surrounded by lush vegetation and fountains, you can escape the bustle and enjoy some margaritas before dining on authentic Mexican cuisine. 27 Avenida de Rafael E Melgar.

Going party in Cozumel, Mexico

This is actually a place you go to get away from the bright lights and blaring music of the mainland's hotbeds of tourism. But everybody loves a night out on the town from time to time, so there are a few nightspots. Additionally, many of the larger hotels and resorts offer nightly entertainment, including karaoke, shows, and discos. If you really want to party hearty, hop a ferry for a quick trip to the legendary nightlife of Cancun.

Carlos 'n Charlie's

This restaurant and bar is the place to go for rock and roll, American cuisine, and some good old-fashioned drinking contests.

El Foco

A locally-owned restaurant known for its casual and fun atmosphere. They serve ribs, steaks, soft cheese tacos, and a plentiful variety of cerveza (beer).

Mexican Fiestas

Some resorts and tour operators throw these grand parties where you can enjoy the traditions of Mexico, including delicious food, talented dancers, and mariachi music.

Hard Rock Café

The rock 'n' roll-theme restaurant/bar offers all the fun and memorabilia you would expect from this international chain.

El Estadio (The Stadium)

An all-American sports bar with big-screen TVs serving juicy cheeseburgers and generous portions of crispy fries.

Scruffy Murphy's

This international chain is billed as an authentic Irish pub, where you and your "drinking mates" sit on stools while a friendly bartender works the tap.

Common events in Cozumel, Mexico

Carnival

The big bash precedes Lent, a 40-day period of abstinence. This 5-day celebration begins with parades, floats, fireworks, food, music, and dancing in the streets. February or March, the week before Ash Wednesday.

Descending Deity

At the main temple at Chichen-Itza, the serpent deity Kulkulkan appears to descend the stairs in shadow during the vernal and autumnal equinoxes. The appearance was supposed to ensure a good harvest. March and September.

Holy Week

Ends the 40-day Lent period and is marked by festive traditional celebrations and processions in observance of Christ's resurrection. Mid-April.

Cinco de Mayo

A national holiday commemorating Mexico's defeat of the French in the Battle of Puebla in 1862. May 5.

International Billfish Tournament

Brings fierce competitors from around the world vie for the biggest catch. May.

Independence Day

Celebrates the 1821 independence from Spain. The festivities include fireworks, folk dances, mariachi bands, speeches, and plenty of decorations in Mexico's national colors of red, green and white, of course. September 16.

Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead)

The souls of the dead are believed to return to earth, and relatives and friends visit graveyards for "reunion" picnics, bringing garlands and gifts for their dead ancestors. This is perhaps Mexico's most characteristic fiesta, and features sweets resembling human skeletons. November 2.

Anniversary of the Mexican Revolution

A celebration of the Mexican Revolution of 1910, highlighted by parades, speeches, and ceremonies. November 20.

Christmas Week

Includes the breaking of piñatas, candlelight processions, and nightly re-enactments of the birth of Jesus. December 25 - January 2.