Two Ways to Enjoy Fine Dining in Akumal
The Riviera Maya, including the vibrant beach towns of Playa del Carmen, Tulum and Akumal, is increasingly becoming a top culinary destination and it's home to some incredible restaurants. Each of them is an important representation of Mexican gastronomy and fusion cuisine, and by visiting them and savoring their delightful local menu, tourists and locals can get an amazing taste of what our region has to offer.
Over the past two years, we’ve published several food blogs about the amazing restaurants, eateries and food trucks in Playa del Carmen and Tulum. This time we decided to drive down from Playa to Akumal to introduce you to these two spectacular fine dining restaurants. We’re sure they’ll make you want to move to this lovely beach town so you can eat at both of them every single day.
La Lunita
This delightful restaurant is located on the breathtaking beach of Half Moon Bay, and for many years it has been captivating diners with beautiful dishes that respect both tradition and technique. The menu is presented with a contemporary and modern concept that will excite all of your senses.
Mediterranean octopus ceviche
Coconut Jumbo Shrimps with mango chutney (My favorite!)
Beef Angus burger with blue cheese, bacon and caramelized onions
Catch of the day (Red Snapper) with garlic, chipotle and tamarind, guajillo chile and green escabeche with side of grilled corn and creamy spinach.
From the moment you arrive at this charming beachfront eatery, you’ll feel like you’re truly in paradise. The dreamy ocean breeze, the fresh aroma of delicious ingredients, the sight of tropical cocktails on the tables... and it only gets better! The menu is unique, fresh, creative and oh so heavenly. Our insider tip: Ask for the lobster fest…
White chocolate brownie with passion fruit ice cream
Margarita
Mojito
The wine list is fabulous and was created to perfectly pair with the ingredients that Spanish Chef Isaac Lopera carefully and thoughtfully chooses for his menu.
Not only is La Lunita an amazing culinary and foodie experience, it’s also the perfect place to dine on exquisite local seafood while enjoying the gorgeous ocean views.
Taverna Pizzeria and Risotteria
This outstanding Italian restaurant with a Caribbean twist is located at the entrance to Akumal, right after the famous arch. Taverna is a warm and inviting neighborhood restaurant that offers an authentic Italian experience like no other. The Italian Chef Leonardo Leonetti strives to create the perfect menu using seasonal and local ingredients. Taverna is known for its fabulous risottos, delightful wood oven thin crust pizzas and handmade pastas, just to name a few!
Avocado Fries: Breaded and fried avocado with lemon-cilantro aioli (So tasty!!! LOVED it!)
Risotto al Fruti di Mare: Saffron risotto with seasonal seafood (Also my favorite!)
Pizza Salamino: Tomato sauce, spicy Italian salami, fresh tomato, mozzarella and goat cheese
Hand made Garganelli bolognese
The passion that the chef, manager and owners have for food is palpable, and it’s evident that they have years of experience in the industry. Every single detail of this remarkable Italian eatery was carefully thought out to create a fresh and authentic fine dining menu. As a foodie, I can hardly wait for my next visit and to taste every single item on their dreamy menu. The ambiance and friendly staff are also reasons to go back and spend an entire day enjoying the food and great company.
Mousse al Cioccalato Picante e Maracuia: Guajillo chocolate mousse with passion fruit coulis
Homemade Cannoli with sweet ricotta, orange and chocolate filling
Manager Ale Ruiz and Chef Leonardo Leonetti welcome you everyday from 12 pm to 10 pm for an outstanding Italian dining experience
After seven years of living in Playa del Carmen, I can say with certainty that I’m so pleased to have found two of my all-time favorite restaurants in Akumal. I highly recommend both of these exceptional restaurants to anyone who wishes to experience fine dining at a fair price in a charming and cozy upscale setting. Both restaurants will be offering a special menu for Christmas and New Year's, so make sure to ask about their specials!
If you've been thinking about purchasing a vacation home or condo in Akumal, now is a great time! We’re experts in Riviera Maya real estate and we’d love to help guide you through the process of buying your dream home in paradise. You can browse our property listings at BuyPlaya.com.