Top 5 Places to Eat in Bacalar

Written by Andreas Keller, Marika Maslanka, Miguel Lopez
01/08/2025
Adults swimming in a clear cenote with blue water and lush greenery in Halatun, Mexico.
Ali Alcántara, Pexels

Bacalar's dining scene has matured, providing an impressive range of culinary experiences, from vibrant street food to sophisticated fine dining, often featuring fresh local ingredients and stunning lagoon views.

1. Mr. Taco

Cuisine: Traditional Mexican (Tacos, Burritos)

Mr. Taco is a quintessential Bacalar experience for those seeking authentic, budget-friendly Mexican street food. The atmosphere is lively and casual, often bustling with backpackers and locals. You can expect generous portions and a variety of fillings, including classic meats, and good vegetarian options like rajas, mushrooms, cactus, and chickpeas. It is an ideal spot for a quick, flavorful meal, especially after a day on the water.

Price: Tacos around 20-25 MXN / Burritos around 100-115 MXN (approx. $1-7 USD)

Getting There: Centrally located, often described as being right by the main park. Easily walkable from most accommodations in the downtown area.

2. Mango y Chile

Cuisine: Vegan / Plant-Based Comfort Food

Perched on a hill with views overlooking the Lagoon of Seven Colors and the Fuerte de San Felipe, Mango y Chile is a standout for delicious, 100% plant-based and organic meals. The relaxed, airy setting is perfect for breakfast or lunch, offering a menu of creative vegan burgers (falafel, smoked soy, crispy tofu, Maya with regional flavors), tacos, and smoothie bowls. Their chocolate milkshake is a must-try. Despite sometimes being considered on the pricier side for Bacalar, the quality and views make it a worthwhile experience.

Price: Burgers around 200 MXN (approx. $12 USD) including fries.

Getting There: Situated near the Fuerte de San Felipe fortress, easily accessible by walking from the central town area.

3. La Playita

Cuisine: Latin Fusion, Seafood, Mexican

La Playita offers a vibrant, relaxed beach club ambiance right on the lagoon, making it a favorite for both dining and unwinding. The lush, jungle-like setting with hammocks and a jetty extending into the water invites guests to swim before or after their meal. The menu features a Latin fusion approach with high-quality ingredients, excelling in fresh seafood dishes like ceviche and fish tacos. It's a popular spot for both lunch and dinner, known for its fantastic lagoon views and lively, yet laid-back, atmosphere.

Price: Mid-range to expensive for Bacalar, with dishes ranging from 70 MXN for small plates to over 300 MXN for larger seafood dishes (approx. $4-$18+ USD).

Getting There: Located directly on the lagoon, just a short walk from the central square. It's often described as being a few doors down from popular hostels like Yak House.

4. Nixtamal

Cuisine: Elevated Mexican, Seafood, Grilled Dishes

Nixtamal provides an elevated fine-dining experience in Bacalar, set within a beautiful jungle garden with an open kitchen. The restaurant is renowned for its dedication to fire-cooking and grilling, crafting refined Mexican cuisine with a focus on fresh, locally sourced seafood. Signature dishes include the chocolate salmon and grilled lobster tail. The presentation is artful, and the atmosphere is intimate and elegant, making it ideal for a special evening. Reservations are highly recommended, especially during peak season.

Price: Expensive for Bacalar, with dishes ranging from approximately $7-$17 USD, though more elaborate options like lobster will be higher.

Getting There: Located on Avenida 5, a short distance from the main area. It may require a short walk or a taxi depending on your accommodation.

5. La Cabañita Grill & Cantina

Cuisine: Modern Mexican, Steak, Seafood

La Cabañita Grill & Cantina offers a contemporary dining experience with stunning, artfully presented plates and innovative craft cocktails. The menu is diverse, featuring everything from quality steaks to fresh seafood, catering to various preferences. It is also noted for its unique breakfast items, such as avocado toast topped with al pastor. The restaurant provides a modern ambiance, suitable for both a casual meal and a more refined evening.

Price: Mid-range to expensive.

Getting There: Specific address not explicitly stated in snippets, but generally located within Bacalar's restaurant scene. Likely walkable or a short taxi ride from the main town.

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