You don't have to go to Fifth Avenue to find good food in Playa del Carmen. Eating where the locals eat can be a great way to stretch your budget while experiencing some local charm.
Some places to try:
Bambu
Eighth Street between Quinta and 10th Avenues
Great for inexpensive Mongolian stir-fry. Pork, beef, shrimp, and vegetarian options are available.
Coctelería el Paisano Veracruz
Avenue Juárez, just west of Highway 307
Eat seafood with the locals. The restaurant specializes in shrimp cocktail but also serves fried fish, ceviche, and other dishes.
El Amendro
Fourth Street between Quinta and 10th Avenues
This typical Mexican restaurant is popular with area workers and budget travelers. The shaded dining room has plastic tables, and the menu includes selections from around the country, including sopes, panuchos, quesadillas, and torta sandwiches. Daily lunch specials ($4) include a main dish, small salad, rice, beans, and a fruit drink.
El Faisán y El Venado
Highway 307, just north of Avenue Juárez
This is a popular local spot for tacos, quesadillas, and seafood.
El Fogon30th Avenue between Fourth and Sixth Streets, in front of Harmon Hall
Located along the busy 30th Avenue strip of local restaurants, El Fogon serves a mixed-grill plate (parrillada mixta) big enough to serve three people. Also try the fried Nopal cactus. Highly recommended.
El Fogoncito
30th Avenue between 28th and 30th Streets
Where do the bartenders and restaurant workers go when their shifts are over? Chances are, you’ll find them at El Fogoncito, which is open 24 hours. Top dishes include tacos al pastor (cut right from the fire) and tortas de carne. Very inexpensive and very good.
More:
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