Oh Taco, My Love: A Guide to the Best Tacos in Playa del Carmen
Punta Esmeralda, Playa del Carmen.
Written by Alex Ruelase
Tacos. If there is one thing Mexico is famous for, that’s its people’s obsession with wrapping delicious ingredients in tortillas. The compulsion to make everything into a taco, to pair it with the right salsa, and to tilt one’s head slightly to take the first bite is part of our country's DNA.
It is also one of our favorite things to share. At Maya Luxe, we want to help you find the best tacos in Playa del Carmen, because we can think of no worse tragedy than someone traveling all the way to the Caribbean just to go back home without that incomparable rush of flavor and joy in their memories. So, without further ado, here’s what we consider the best of the best, a pool of empirical knowledge and expertise put together by our team and now at your disposal to use it wisely. ¡Buen provecho!
Al pastor
Recommended tacos: El Fogón
We also like: El Ñero / Don Sirloin
There is arguably no dish in Mexico that is more popular than the taco al pastor. This achiote-seasoned pork meat put in a small tortilla, with a touch of onion, cilantro, and pineapple (these last three, at your taste), is considered by many the quintessential taco. And you can find some great pastor in Playa.
Possibly the best in town is at El Fogón, a traditional joint that reminds of the classic taco spots in Mexico City. Here, not only the typical taco al pastor is excellent, you can have gringas (al pastor meat with cheese in a wheat-flour tortilla), bistec (beef), chorizo, and other non-tortilla based complements, like their excellent frijoles charros (beans cooked with onion, garlic, chile, bacon, and sausages).
El Fogón has three locations, the largest of them on Av. Constituyentes, right across the street from Mega supermarket. Bright yellow sunshades and eclectic decor –including famous cartoon characters dancing on the walls– make it hard to miss. The other two locations of El Fogón are on Av. 30. Also very popular are El Ñero and Don Sirloin, both with multiple branches around town and excellent food.
The Pinshi Poema at Mariskinky.
Seafood tacos
Recommended tacos: Los Aguachiles
We also like: Mariskinky
Would any trip to the Caribbean be complete without great seafood? This kind of tacos is its own thing, very different from what you might be used to. Not only for the obviously different ingredients but also for the salsas, specially crafted to go with the flavors of the ocean.
Our favorites are at Los Aguachiles. Shrimp and fish take on new meanings cushioned in tortillas and spiced with their fine salsa selection. And while you’re at it, you can also have some tostadas, essentially a crispy tortilla that goes marvelously well with ceviche and fresh tuna. Los Aguachiles has three locations, each with its own vibe and all with delicious food.
Another great option is Mariskinky, where Sinaloa-style cuisine comes to life very close to 5ta Avenida and one of the best beaches in town.
Tacos de guisado
Recommended tacos: Un Taco Más
We also like: El Gran Taco
If this is the first time you've ever read the word guisado, we’re not surprised. This kind of taco is intimately linked to Mexican culture and there is no literal translation for it. But what is it? Think of a homemade casserole dish… but Mexican. Mole, chicharrón in green sauce, potatoes with chorizo, rajas with sour cream. The possibilities are endless.
This kind of taco is born from the custom of putting anything in a tortilla. Warm homemade food, usually complemented with rice and refried beans, is wrapped in one to make it more delicious and filling.
Without question, the best tacos de guisado in Playa are found at Un Taco Más. Exceedingly popular among locals who crowd it during their office lunch breaks, this restaurant has mastered the art of making people feel at home and bringing them joy with a delicious meal.
Veggie tacos
Recommended tacos: Bio & Natural
In Mexico, everyone’s welcome to the table. So if you’ve decided to forgo the meat, we are determined for you to still find great tacos. Actually, even if you’re not a veggie, you should go to this place to have some proper plant-based meals.
We’re talking about Bio & Natural, an organic store and vegetarian restaurant that serves, among other delicious things, mean and completely vegan tacos al pastor. Soy meat, vegan cheese, onion, and cilantro will make your palate and tummy happy. And, if after a few tacos you feel like having a smoothie, coffee, or dessert, there are many options available
Gourmet tacos
Recommended tacos: Porfirio’s
We also like: Primo
Tacos are the ultimate Mexican street food. However, this tradition has evolved to become part of the high-end gastronomic scene. So if you’re looking for a more upscale experience that takes tacos to a different level, Playa has some excellent options for you.
Porfirio’s, in the heart of 5ta Avenida, is the perfect place to relish evolving tradition. As summarized by the title of their short video series, From the Streets to your Table, they specialize in bringing popular flavors to a sophisticated ambiance. And their tacos are spectacular.
Ribeye suadero, tacos de canasta, cochinita pibil, grilled mushrooms... The options just keep coming, each as good as the last. Moreover, the experience is complemented by the presentation of their dishes, which combine craft, design, and truly outstanding service.
Another good option for top-notch dining is Primo, a small but stylish restaurant on Av. 10 where you can have terrific firewood cochinita and enjoy the care-free vibe of this trendy part of town.
