There are some fantastic restaurants in Cozumel, including those serving the best fajitas and margaritas in all of Mexico.
Many of the top restaurants are situated in the main town, but there are others dotted along the coastline.
There are three cruise ports in Cozumel, so I’ve picked the best Cozumel restaurants you can visit that are close to all of them.
Punta Langosta
If you’re sailing with NCL, MSC, or Holland America, you’ll likely dock at Punta Langosta, the cruise pier that is actually much closer to the downtown area. But the other two Cozumel cruise terminal options are around 3 miles south.
International Cruise Terminal
The International Cruise Terminal or International Pier Cozumel hosts Disney Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, Celebrity Cruises and some MSC ships.
Punta Maya
The Punta Maya pier is just a couple of hundred yards further south from the International Cruise Terminal and is used by ships owned by the Carnival Corporation.
Here are 19 of the best restaurants that you can easily reach within a short walk of all three piers.
Best restaurants near the International Cruise Terminal
1. IX Kool
- Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 2 min walk
- Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 50 min walk
- Cuisine: Mayan
- Price: $$$
IX Kool is without a doubt the most popular restaurant within walking distance of the Cozumel cruise port, with a fantastic reputation for both its cuisine and its service.
Offering a mix of dishes from across Central America, you’ll enjoy some incredible dishes with a wide selection of vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options. And throughout, you’ll learn everything you need to know about the dishes served thanks to the large video screens.
The wait staff are personable and hard-working, making you feel like a special guest and ensuring you have an amazing experience every time. Definitely try to get a table here if you have the chance.
Tip – some Carnival cruises offer a cooking course excursion here – book it if you can!
2. Three Amigos
- Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 5 min walk
- Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 55 min walk
- Cuisine: Mexican & Caribbean
- Price: $$
A friendly and lively restaurant with tables overlooking the ocean, this is a fun place to visit and sample some classic Mexican dishes as well as other options inspired by the Caribbean.
But just as much as the food, the wait staff at Three Amigos have an amazing reputation for making your meal an experience. They’re engaging, light-hearted and extremely welcoming, with most reviews mentioning the servers by name and how good they were.
Tip – everybody raves about the nachos here, so if you’re a nacho fan then make sure to sample them.
3. Senor Frog’s Costa Sur
- Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 2 min walk
- Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 55 min walk
- Cuisine: Mexican and International
- Price: $$$
Senor Frog’s is a chain that offers a fun and lively time. If you want fine dining, then avoid – this is all about great food and great company, ideal for the whole family.
Alongside Mexican dishes, there are plenty of international options for the fussy eaters in your group, including a popular but messy Mac & Cheese burger. Don’t be surprised if your waiter brings you various tequila shots to try as well…
Tip – if you’re planning a trip to Senor Frog’s, there’s a larger and more popular venue in the town centre but that’s an hour away – make sure you put the Costa Sur one into your phone for directions.
4. Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville
- Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 4 min walk
- Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 53 min walk
- Cuisine: Caribbean
- Price: $$
Another chain that you may have heard of or visited elsewhere, there really isn’t a party like a Jimmy Buffett’s party. With a range of meals and light snacks available along with plenty of tasty margaritas, tequila shots and other drinks, there’s a lot to love here.
The menu has a wider Caribbean influence, so expect spicy fajitas, seafood dishes and lighter sandwiches, as well as various nachos and chip(crisp) options as sides.
Tip – while this is a fun-packed venue, it’s not always the best for families. People enjoy a drink here, and it can get a little rowdy.
5. Paprika Mexican & Caribbean Cuisine
- Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 8 min walk
- Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 44 min walk
- Cuisine: Caribbean
- Price: $$
Not every venue in Cozumel is super-lively, and if you want a more relaxed and traditional dining experience then Paprika is a solid choice. It offers a menu that has some Mexican dishes but is very much Caribbean-inspired, including some excellent seafood options.
It tends to attract more locals than tourists, despite its proximity to the cruise port and beach, which can be a good thing if you want to try to beat the crowds and enjoy a little more downtime with your food. Service is also excellent.
Tip – the outdoor tables have a wonderfully relaxing view across the beach, so try to grab one of those.
6. Alberto’s Beach Bar & Restaurant
- Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 5 min walk
- Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 55 min walk
- Cuisine: Seafood
- Price: $$
In a little more of a secluded spot, Alberto’s offers stunning views across the ocean as well as some of the freshest fish and shellfish that you’ll find in all of Cozumel. It does have a good selection of vegan options too.
The atmosphere is pretty chilled and welcoming – it’s not a posh restaurant, but it’s not gaudy either. Expect some live music to be playing, which can get a little lively at times.
Tip – listen to the servers, as they’ll know the best seafood dish of the day to sample.
7. Ernesto’s Fajitas
- Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 6 min walk
- Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 46 min walk
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Price: $
If you just want to try some simple but seriously tasty Mexican dishes then Ernesto’s is a solid bet, especially as they have some fantastic dishes for vegetarians and vegans too. It’s in a busy area, so don’t expect a really relaxed meal, but the food is served quickly, it’s full of flavour, and the service is also friendly and efficient too.
It does get a little bit crowded at times as both tourists and locals love Ernesto’s, but it’s worth it if you have the chance – the fajitas are just excellent, and really affordable too.
Tip – Ernesto’s also serves a fantastic breakfast, and going here early will help you beat the crowds.
8. Sereno Roof Bar & Restaurant
- Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 15 min walk
- Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 37 min walk
- Cuisine: International
- Price: $$$
Sereno is a little further afield if you’re arriving at Punta Maya or the International Cruise Terminal, away from the port but still within comfortable walking distance, and your reward for the journey is an incredible roof-top view out across the ocean. But the food is also outstanding – with a fantastic menu that includes Mediterranean, Caribbean and Latin American influences.
The service is stunning too, with an attitude of doing everything possible to please you – and the atmosphere feels a world away from the bustling port despite being so close.
Tip – there’s no lunch menu, only brunch until 2pm and then dinner, so if you’re visiting earlier then expect a range of lighter bites.
9. Tikila Beach Bar
- Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 7 min walk
- Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 44 min walk
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Price: $
The Tikila Beach Bar is a friendly spot that’s popular with divers – so it’s fun to sit here and grab a bite as you watch people heading off on their exciting excursions.
The menu is pretty small but includes some cheap and cheerful dishes including Mexican favourites and fantastic spicy shrimp. Definitely more of a “bar with food” than a restaurant, but it’s still a good place to enjoy a light lunch.
Tip – because it’s a diving spot, it does get busy. If you want a calmer atmosphere then head somewhere else.
10. Carl’s Jr
- Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 3 min walk
- Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 52 min walk
- Cuisine: Mexican Fast Food
- Price: $
You won’t find a McDonalds or similar fast food restaurant within walking distance of the Cozumel cruise port, but Carl’s Jr is your next-best bet.
It’s a clean and modern fast-food joint with plenty of indoor seating where you can enjoy burgers, potato wedges and more with a Mexican twist. If you just want a cheap bite to tide you over for the day, this is the place to go.
Tip – try the monkfish if you want to sample something a little more unusual for a fast food joint, it’s very popular.
11. Hard Rock Cafe
- Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 3 min walk
- Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 50 min walk
- Cuisine: American
- Price: $$$
The Hard Rock Cafe in Cozumel is a good choice if you’re not particularly adventurous and you just want a chain restaurant that you know you can rely on. Serving a wide-ranging American menu with a few Mexican dishes, there’s something for everyone.
Nothing is particularly exciting, but the good is generally good. It’s expensive, though, even for a tourist restaurant, and while most reviews are positive, there are some that criticize the value for money of the venue.
Tip – head here if you want simple burgers or sandwiches, but for Mexican dishes there are much better choices nearby.
Best restaurants near the Punta Langosta pier
12. Bajau Seafood & Steakhouse
- Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 5 min walk
- Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 64 min walk
- Cuisine: Steakhouse and Seafood
- Price: $$$
This upmarket restaurant is only a short walk from the Punta Lagosta Pier and it is definitely worth the trip. The service is stunning, and the food is even more so.
Expect beautifully fresh fish dishes, and steak that melts in your mouth. This is definitely a fine dining experience, so don’t turn up in your t-shirt and shorts, ideally. Reservations are recommended and the ocean views are incredible.
Tip – the most popular options here tend to be the seafood tacos, especially the salmon and the shrimp, so give those a go.
13. Crazy King Burrito
- Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 5 min walk
- Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 63 min walk
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Price: $
The reviews for Crazy King Burrito rave about the quality of the food here, with many naming it as the best place in all of Cozumel to get a burrito. High praise indeed.
The burritos are absolutely loaded with quality fresh ingredients, with a range of menu choices to suit those who prefer subtle flavors and the brave folks who like something with a serious kick to it. Service is highly rated too.
Tip – as well as the burritos, be sure to try the homemade drinks here – reviewers comment on just how refreshing they are.
14. K’ooben Laab
- Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 16 min walk
- Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 59 min walk
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Price: $$
While most people want to try traditional Mexican cuisine in Cozumel, there are some great Mediterranean restaurants too, and K’ooben Laab is ideal if you want a refreshing salad or a beautiful homemade pasta dish.
It’s not fine dining – it’s simple, good-quality food in a relaxed atmosphere with friendly, attentive service. Dishes are packed with flavour and extremely fresh, and the desserts are just as tasty too.
Tip – K’ooben Laab has a really good reputation – which means it is often busy. If you’re able to reserve a table in advance, you won’t feel rushed.
15. Hooters Cozumel
- Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 9 min walk
- Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 50 min walk
- Cuisine: American
- Price: $$
Obviously, Hooters is a chain restaurant and also one that is not going to suit everybody. It is a bar and restaurant with a relatively fun atmosphere, and the service is very pleasant and friendly. Despite the ‘seedy’ reputation of Hooters, it’s actually quite family-friendly these days.
And the reviews on TripAdvisor for this branch are absolutely excellent, praising the good quality American food and the attentive staff. There’s a good chance these reviews are skewed by Americans looking for a taste of home on their cruise, but if you like burgers and wings, it’s a good spot to check out.
Tip – you probably know this, but don’t head here for a quiet meal or drink. It tends to have live sports and quite a raucous atmosphere.
16. Caribe Burger & Grill
- Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 5 min walk
- Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 58 min walk
- Cuisine: Mexican/Burger
- Price: $
Anyone looking for a quick but delicious bite to eat will love a pit stop at Caribe. The burgers here are incredible, and there is a selection of burritos and other Mexican dishes to try, too.
Very family-friendly, this is like a Mcdonald’s but better – fresh, hot, tasty food, thick and gooey milkshakes, and a calm, relaxing atmosphere. Families will love a stop here while exploring the town.
Tip – If you’re travelling with a large group, this might be one of your better options for a last-minute lunch. It’s not super-spacious, but you won’t wait long for food.
17. Colores Y Sabores
- Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 6 min walk
- Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 54 min walk
- Cuisine: Mexican and Seafood
- Price: $$
Translating as “colours and flavours”, this restaurant absolutely lives up to its name with beautiful, fresh dishes combining authentic Mexican cuisine with a selection of fresh seafood options.
You’ll enjoy music from surrounding locations and a wonderful, personable service team, including the friendly owner. But the main attraction is the food, which is packed with sumptuous flavours. Oh, and the margaritas are popular too.
Tip – try the lobster – everyone raves about it.
18. La Mission
- Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 4 min walk
- Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 61 min walk
- Cuisine: Mexican and Seafood
- Price: $$
La Mission is another restaurant that excels with its range of Mexican dishes that includes a lot of fresh seafood fare – the fish tacos, in particular, are extremely popular.
The restaurant certainly offers a slice of authentic Mexican cooking and atmosphere, with a lot of live music and the chance to try tasting platters of different foods. With soups, seafood, meat, burritos, steaks and more, there’s something for everyone.
Tip – as part of the experience, expect to be serenaded by Mariachi singers, and offered tasters of tequila – but they’ll also be expecting tips.
19. Guido’s
- Distance from the Punta Langosta pier: 5 min walk
- Distance from International Cruise Terminal/Punta Maya: 63 min walk
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Price: $$
Guido’s is an Italian-style restaurant with wonderfully fresh food on offer, including homemade pasta and beautiful salads. It has a picturesque outdoor seating terrace too, surrounded by vines and offering a haven of calm in this busy port town.
As with so many of the restaurants near the coast in Cozumel, the seafood here is often a favourite of guests. In particular, the scallops and the calamari often get a specific mention in reviews, so give those a try if you’re a fan.
Tip – a super popular restaurant, Guido’s doesn’t accept reservations, so get there early if you want to experience their great food.
Recommendation
If you’re only going to try one restaurant close to the Cozumel cruise port, then definitely aim for IX Kool. The food and service are amazing, and if your cruise offers a cookery course here, then you’ll have a ton of fun and you’ll enjoy incredible flavors while you do it.
There’s plenty you can see and do around Cozumel too, so make sure you leave enough time in your busy day to grab yourself a meal at one of the Cozumel cruise port restaurants.
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Jenni Fielding is the founder of Cruise Mummy. She has worked in the cruise industry since 2015 and has taken over 30 cruises. Now, she helps over 1 million people per month to plan their perfect cruise holidays.
Hi Jenni,
Thanks for the info. You may already know this, but there are two cruise ports in Cozumel. The other one is only about a 5-10 minute walk from downtown. The restaurants you mentioned are are great. It’s also a 5 minute cab ride from the port you are referring to in this article to get downtown where there are a lot more great eateries and bars.
Cheers!
Robin
Thanks Robin, I also added some that are near the other ports too to make it clear for everyone. Appreciate your input. Jenni