Our Favorite Restaurants & Bars
Leslie & Gary's Favorite Restaurants & Bars
One of the questions we're asked most often is, "Where should we eat?" After years of visiting—and now calling Cozumel home—we've discovered quite a few favorites along the way. These aren't necessarily the top 10 restaurants on the island—they're simply the places we genuinely enjoy returning to and confidently recommend to our guests. There are many wonderful restaurants we haven't included, but every restaurant below is a place we look forward to returning to for its exceptional food, inviting atmosphere, and outstanding service.
01 · Our Favorite Casual Spot
Thirsty Cougar Seaside Boozery & Kitchen
Thirsty Cougar is our favorite casual spot in Cozumel—and the place
we probably visit more than any other. Sitting on one of the liveliest
corners along Melgar, it is the perfect place to enjoy delicious food,
a cold drink, and all the energy of downtown Cozumel.
We are usually here for a relaxed early-afternoon lunch, but we also
love coming back in the evening when local bands are playing. Between
the ocean views, music, people watching, and constant activity along
the waterfront, it perfectly captures the fun, laid-back spirit of
the island.
Why We Love It
Our Favorite Spot: If you cannot decide where to sit, head for the bar inside. The elevated seating offers one of the best vantage points in the restaurant, with sweeping views of the ocean and the lively corner where Melgar comes to life.
From Casa Graciela: 12-minute walk along the waterfront.
02 · Our Favorite Breakfast & Game-Day Spot
Aquí + Ahora Restaurant
Aquí + Ahora is one of our favorite casual restaurants in Cozumel,
especially for breakfast and coffee. The atmosphere is relaxed, the
menu offers plenty of variety, and it is an easy place to settle in
and enjoy a leisurely start to the day.
It is also one of our favorite Sunday NFL spots. With plenty of
televisions and access to virtually every major game, there is a very
good chance you will find us here during football season enjoying
breakfast, coffee, and a full afternoon of football.
Why We Love It
Our Favorite Order: Gary loves the steak and eggs, and they also make an excellent carajillo. It is the perfect combination for a leisurely Cozumel breakfast—or a little game-day indulgence.
From Casa Graciela: 7-minute walk north along Melgar.
03 · Our Favorite Coffee & Avocado Toast
Coz Coffee
Coz Coffee is one of our favorite places to stop when we are spending
time in downtown Cozumel. The coffee is roasted fresh on site, and the
quality really comes through in every cup. It is relaxed, colorful, and
perfectly located in the main square.
It is also home to the best avocado toast we have found on the island.
Pair it with a freshly brewed coffee, then spend the rest of the morning
wandering the square, browsing the shops, and enjoying the atmosphere
of downtown.
Why We Love It
Our Favorite Order: The avocado toast with a side of bacon and a freshly brewed coffee. It is simple, delicious, and something we genuinely look forward to every time we visit.
From Casa Graciela: 15-minute walk to the main square.
04 · Our Favorite Open-Fire Steak
Mingo’s Place
Mingo’s Place has quickly become one of our favorite restaurants in
Cozumel. The food, service, and atmosphere consistently check all three
of the boxes that matter most to us, and the pricing is a very pleasant
surprise.
The restaurant has no traditional sign out front, giving it a fun,
tucked-away feel. Once inside, you are often welcomed by Mingo himself
or a member of his family. Built around their home, the setting feels
warm, personal, and completely unique.
Why We Love It
Don’t Miss: The open-fire grilled steak. In our opinion, it is easily the best steak on the island—perfectly cooked, full of flavor, and one of the main reasons we keep coming back.
From Casa Graciela: Just a short 3-block walk.
05 · Our Favorite Special-Occasion Dinner
Buccanos
Whenever someone asks us where to celebrate an anniversary, birthday,
or other special occasion in Cozumel, Buccanos is our number-one
recommendation. The evening menu is a true culinary experience, with
beautifully presented dishes, exceptional flavors, and service that
consistently makes the night feel special.
The setting is every bit as memorable as the food. With its refined
oceanfront atmosphere and spectacular Caribbean views, Buccanos creates
the kind of evening that feels elegant, relaxed, and unmistakably Cozumel.
Reservations are essential.
Why We Love It
Our Tip: Make your reservation for about 30 minutes before sunset and request outdoor seating. The views are spectacular, and watching the sky change over the Caribbean makes the entire evening even more memorable.
From Casa Graciela: A short taxi ride to north end of San Miguel.
06 · Our Favorite Italian Restaurant
Guido's Italian Restaurant
Whenever someone asks us where to find the best Italian food in
Cozumel, Guido's is always our answer. From the homemade pasta and
wood-fired pizza to the excellent wine selection, every meal is
consistently outstanding.
What truly sets Guido's apart is its beautiful open-air courtyard.
Dining beneath the mature trees with attentive service and a relaxed,
welcoming atmosphere makes every visit feel like a special occasion,
whether you're celebrating or simply enjoying a wonderful evening out.
Why We Love It
Don't Miss: If you're craving Italian while visiting Cozumel, this is the place. We especially recommend requesting a table in the courtyard, where the beautiful setting makes the entire dining experience even more memorable.
From Casa Graciela: Easy 20-minute waterfront walk or a short taxi ride.
07 · Our Favorite Sushi
Cozumel Dreaming Sushi
If you're craving sushi while visiting Cozumel, this is our recommendation.
The fish is consistently fresh, the rolls are beautifully prepared, and
every visit reminds us why we consider it the best sushi on the island.
Whether you order from the à la carte menu or choose their popular
all-you-can-eat option, you can expect outstanding quality in a relaxed,
welcoming atmosphere just a block from the waterfront.
Why We Love It
Good to Know: Their hours are limited and occasionally change, so we recommend checking Google Maps before heading over. It's well worth planning around.
From Casa Graciela: About a 13-minute walk. Cash only.
08 · Our Newest Favorite
Azul Madera
Azul Madera has quickly become one of our newest favorite restaurants
on the island. Tucked inside a beautifully restored historic home, it
offers an intimate garden setting, excellent service, and a creative
menu built around fresh ingredients and memorable flavors.
The atmosphere feels relaxed and refined without ever becoming formal.
It is just different enough from anywhere else in Cozumel to make the
entire evening feel special—and it is already a place we look forward
to returning to.
Why We Love It
Our Favorite Order: The pork shank. It is unbelievably tender, packed with flavor, and one of the most memorable dishes we have had anywhere on the island.
From Casa Graciela: About a 15-minute walk or an easy bike ride.
09 · Our Favorite Jungle-Garden Dinner
Kondesa Cocina Moderna
Kondesa feels like a hidden oasis in the heart of downtown Cozumel.
Surrounded by lush tropical greenery and softly glowing lights, the
open-air setting creates a beautiful atmosphere for a relaxed and
memorable evening under the stars.
The menu blends modern and traditional Mexican cuisine with creative
touches and thoughtful presentation. Combined with attentive service
and one of the most distinctive dining settings on the island, it is
an experience that feels unmistakably Cozumel.
Why We Love It
Our Favorite Part: The atmosphere. Dining beneath the trees and soft lights feels almost magical, making Kondesa a wonderful choice when you want an evening that feels a little different and especially memorable.
From Casa Graciela: About a 10-minute walk into town.
10 · Our Favorite Sunset Stop
Hemingway Restaurant
Hemingway is one of our favorite places to slow down at the end of the
day with a few appetizers, a really good cocktail, and one of the most
beautiful sunset views on the island. We do not usually come here for a
full dinner—the setting and relaxed late-afternoon atmosphere are what
keep bringing us back.
As the sun begins to drop, the calm Caribbean water gently moves through
the tide pools at the edge of the restaurant, reflecting the warm light
in a way that feels unmistakably Cozumel. Some of our favorite sunset
photos have been taken right here.
Why We Love It
Our Tip: Arrive in the late afternoon, order a cocktail and a few appetizers, and give yourself time to enjoy the changing light. The tide pools and reflections on the calm Caribbean water create one of the most beautiful and unmistakably Cozumel sunset scenes on the island.
From Casa Graciela: About a 28-minute waterfront walk, or an easy bike or taxi ride north.
Your Cozumel Story Starts Here
Your Table Is Waiting.
Whether it is fresh seafood by the water, tacos from a neighborhood favorite, or a sunset dinner you will still be talking about years from now, we hope this guide helps you discover some of the restaurants we have come to love. Now all you need is the perfect place to stay while you enjoy them.
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