If you’re looking for a quick guide to cheap eats Playa del Carmen, this is exactly what I have for you. This city can feel a little chaotic especially along the main tourist avenue, Quinta Avenida and finding the best cheap eats can be daunting. Some of my favorite memories here are from grabbing tacos at bustling street food stands and sitting on the little stools watching the world go by.
This city has tons of restaurants across all budgets, and things can get pricey fast. There’s no way to list everything, as Playa has tons of eateries, so I’ve rounded up my top picks for affordable, delicious meals. I’ve included Google Maps links to make finding each spot easy.
📍 Quick Picks: Best Cheap Eats Playa Del Carmen
Short on time? Here are some of my top picks.
- 🍲Doña Paula Restaurant – Small local spot serving classic Mexican dishes with big portions and great pozole.
- 🌮 El Compa – Fantastic birria taco stand with rave reviews.
- 🍽️ La Fondita De La CTM – Great spot for cheap, traditional food and plates of the day.
- 🍻 Manne’s Biergarten – Cheap beer and drinks.
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Street Food Stands & Quick Bites in Playa del Carmen
For fast, cheap, local food that hits every time. If you’re wondering where in general to find the best street food stands in Playa Del Carmen many are located near the MEGA supermarket.
El Compa – Fantastic birria taco stand with rave reviews.
El Che y El Güey: Argentinian Empanadas – Empanadas in a small counter service place. Mostly takeout.
Tamales Ciencia Ficción – Vegan and vegetarian tamale stand.
Budget Restaurants in Playa del Carmen
For when you want a full, sit-down meal without spending much.
Cocina Economica Marisol – Cheap, no frills restaurant with a menu of the day.
Doña Paula Restaurant – Small local spot serving classic Mexican dishes with big portions and great pozole.
La Fondita De La CTM – Great spot for cheap, traditional food and plates of the day.
HC de Monterrey Super Carnes – Casual spot for meat dishes and a bar.
Antojitos el gordo – Small local restaurant with delicious food.
Pizza Renzo – Cheap pizza.
Falafel Nessya – Great place to go to balance out all the tacos.
Asadero el Pollo – Rotisserie chicken and combo plates.
El Fogón – A classic taqueria for food that’s cheap and reliable. There are two locations a couple blocks away from each other.
Mariscos y Clamatos El Doctorcito – Not as cheap as the rest of the list – but for seafood a fantastic place that delivers on value.
Cheap Bars in Playa del Carmen
Manne’s Biergarten – Cheap beer and drinks.
Cheap Eats Playa Del Carmen Map
Looking for more ways to save?
🏨 Budget Stays Playa Del Carmen
Accommodation is often one of the biggest part of travel expenses. If you haven’t already booked a place, I’ve done what I do best and gathered some of my top picks for some budget accommodation options in Playa Del Carmen.
💡 Budget Hotels
- Hotel Colorado – Small, colorful budget hotel right in the center of Playa del Carmen.
- Hotel Yum K’iin – Traditional style budget hotel.
🛏️ Hostels
- SUUT Hostal Boutique – Modern boutique hostel with rooftop pool and calm atmosphere.
📚 More Mexico Guides
Planning a Mexico trip? Here are more guides, travel tips, and cheap eats recommendations to help you travel Mexico on a budget.
🧭 Travel Inspiration & Tips
- My First Solo Trip to Mexico: Lessons & Confidence Boosts
- 5 Affordable International Destinations for a Week-Long Trip from the US — featuring Mexico among other budget-friendly picks
🌮 Cheap Eats in Mexico
🚐 Getting Around