Last Updated
Isla Mujeres makes for a great day trip from Cancun. Ferries run directly from the Hotel Zone over to the island, and the trip takes less than a half-hour. As you take your first steps off the ferry, you’ll find yourself in a glorious place that’s ideal to sample some of the best beaches and restaurants in the Mexican Caribbean, as well as exploring some unique attractions.
When you’ve experienced all that Isla Mujeres has to offer, consider trying one of these top restaurants to finish off your perfect day.
Mahaché
Located in the main town on Isla Mujeres, this understated but refined restaurant is tucked away on a side street and is well worth seeking out.
First off, the servers here are consistently super friendly, so you’ll feel welcome from the moment you step inside. The food is delicious, specializing in inventively prepared seafood dishes served with mouthwatering sauces.
When it comes to drinks, if you’re a craft beer aficionado, this is your spot, with some tasty Mexican brews available to sample. House cocktails also come recommended and are perfect for getting the party started, especially on Mahaché’s popular live music nights.
Madera Food and Art
A little way outside the main town, but perfect if you’re spending the day exploring by golf cart, is Madera Food and Art, an oceanview spot on the breezy eastern side of the island. The menu is small but perfectly formed, specializing in healthy rice bowls, packed full of veggies and protein that offers a real farm-to-table experience.
The restaurant is simple but unique, with all furnishings handmade by the owner. And once you’re done eating, pop into the on-site store, which stocks locally-produced artisan furnishings, homewares, and paintings.
Grill Garden
A relative newcomer to the Isla Mujeres foodie scene, this is the third offering from the owners of the perennially popular brunch spot at North Garden, and North Garden Bakery, a small take-out with mouthwatering pastries.
Consider Grill Garden as the grown-up venue of the three. Open only in the evening, this restaurant is set in luscious gardens, with private tables well-spaced and staff eager to help make yours a night to remember. Specializing in grilled meat, the tomahawk steak cannot fail to impress, and the fajitas are stunning.
Lola Valentina
Lola Valentina is a comfortable family-friendly restaurant with a wide-ranging menu that offers something for everyone. Open all day, you can grab brunch, lunch, or dinner while gazing out on Miguel Hidalgo, the busiest street in Isla Mujeres.
Decor is casual, bright, and fun – think swing seats at the bar – and friendly staff do everything right, being attentive but not too attentive. If you’re here for breakfast, try the Mexican hash – a tasty concoction of eggs, beans, chorizo, pepper, and potatoes served with tortillas to create your own breakfast tacos. There are plenty of vegan and gluten-free options too. Payment is cash only.
Mango Cafe Isla
The daily lines outside this cafe are a testament to its quality. Mango Cafe is an Isla Mujeres staple located in the mid-section of the island, easy to get to by golf cart, or a short cab ride. Once you make it into this two-floor restaurant, attention turns to the menu, which at first glance is simple, but on tasting, is accomplished.
Stop in for brunch to try the stuffed poblano chili, full of eggs, meat, and cheese, that will keep you going all day. Listen to the local live music and enjoy the breeze up from the semi-open second floor – it’s a great way to start the day. Breakfast and lunch only, payments in cash.
Plan Your Next Cancun Vacation:
Traveler Alert: Don’t Forget Travel Insurance For Your Next Trip!
Choose From Thousands of Cancun and Riviera Maya Hotels, Resorts and Hostels with Free Cancellation On Most Properties
↓ Join the community ↓
The Cancun Sun Community FB group has all the latest travel news, conversations and tourism Q&A’s for the Mexican Caribbean
Subscribe to our Latest Posts
Enter your email address to subscribe to The Cancun Sun’s latest breaking news affecting travelers, straight to your inbox.