Playa del Carmen, Mexico's virtual guidebook written by locals

pdc directory


La Cueva del Chango is one of Playa’s best kept secrets and a real insider’s tip! It’s the perfect way to start your day in peace and tranquility, have a chilled-out lunch or a romantic culinary dinner experience. La Cueva del Chango is a restaurant-bar built in and with nature. Wood and natural stone are the main materials used to create this open-sided palapa. Water is ever-present with waterfalls and fish ponds - even the restrooms have a waterfall sink! With birds flying around in the jungle garden (which also hosts a nursery) the natural touch is complete.

At La Cueva you always have your choice of all fruit in season for your juices, fruit salads and other creations. Create your own mix or go with one of Pedro’s excellent suggestions. Expect it to be fresh: home-made rye bread, freshly made salsas, fresh fish and salads. Even the tortillas are made “en casa”, a rare treat! The Huevos Rancheros here are a must!

The lunch menu has a wide variety of salads and other Mexican treats. For years La Cueva was not open for dinner. Now you can enjoy the new natural Mexican cuisine concept for any meal. At night try the shrimp breaded with Xcatic chile and cinnamon. Other favorites include the habanero chile cream soup (hot but tasty!) and the fresh tuna fish tostadas.

The bar serves fresh juices in all mixed drinks and cocktails. The wine selection includes a large variety of Mexican wines. The owners, Pedro and Andres will make sure you get the best quality and will do their best to accommodate special requests. Add to this reasonable prices, a natural and fresh ambient with Latin music and La Cueva del Chango is an all around pleasant experience.

Very cool and natural breakfast, lunch, and dinner experience. Tasty, homemade Mexican cusine. Full bar with a multitude of fresh juices.