La Parilla
A Cancun institution for over 50 years, La Parrilla offers a vibrant dining experience with live mariachi music and authentic Mexican cuisine.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Lively atmosphere & mariachi
La Parilla
Best Time
Lively atmosphere & mariachi
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A Cancun institution for over 50 years, La Parrilla offers a vibrant dining experience with live mariachi music and authentic Mexican cuisine.
"It's honestly the best restaurant in Cancun’s Downtown. The meat platter we had was the best meat I’ve had in ages."
🎯 Huge Portions, Don't Overorder
Portions are generous! Order wisely to avoid waste and enjoy every bite.
🎶 Enjoy the Live Music
The mariachi band adds a fantastic vibe. Tip them if you enjoy their performance!
Quick Facts
Hours
Rating
4.4 · 6,579 reviews
Type
Mexican Restaurant
Visitor Verdicts
Reviews Summary
La Parrilla is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere, live mariachi music, and authentic Mexican cuisine, particularly its molcajetes and moles. Many guests find the portions generous and the overall experience festive and memorable, making it a long-standing favorite in Cancun. However, some diners report the food and service as average, and one review mentioned an issue with tip overcharging.
"Amazing all the way around! I see low reviews and they must be off nights. The food was delicious. Ordered the octopus and guacamole for apps and not a bite was left. Our group of 10 ordered all different things, ceviche, mole enchiladas, shrimp skirt steak tacos and fajitas, all with fresh hot tortillas. Our server, Memito, made the visit spectacular! He obviously loves his job and took great care of us on top of being a consummate performer💕 If you're on vacation this is definitely a place you should check out! It's been here for 51 years and there is a reason!"
Summer Jacobsen
"The place might be full of tourists and I understand why everyone raves about it. It is honestly the best restaurant in Cancun’s Downtown. The meat platter we had was the best meat I’ve had in ages, everything was cooked to perfection. The portions are huge so I would recommend you don’t overorder.
Service and atmosphere is relaxed and fun too. The waiter who is very talented and friendly served every customer’s drinks on top of his head and is always smily and friendly."
Kayley Ho
"Absolutely stunning place to eat. The atmosphere, great, the people, great, the food was even better! Passed by this place once or twice for but will definitely be bringing the others with me next time!!! Mario Rodriguez was an amazing waiter and had everything perfect !"
Jeremy Troutman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Asked and Answered
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
La Parrilla is located in downtown Cancun. Many visitors take a taxi or public bus to reach the restaurant. Some reviews mention it's well worth the journey, even if it requires a bus and then a taxi.
Yes, public buses are a common way to reach downtown Cancun, where La Parrilla is situated. From the bus stop, a short taxi ride might be necessary depending on your exact location.
From the hotel zone, taking a taxi is the most convenient option. Alternatively, you can catch a public bus heading towards downtown Cancun and then potentially take a short taxi ride.
Information on dedicated parking is scarce, but given its downtown location, street parking or nearby public lots are likely options. Taxis are a popular alternative.
While specific details are not widely available, restaurants in this area often have ground-level access. It's advisable to call ahead to confirm accessibility if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While not always mandatory, reservations are highly recommended, especially for dinner or during peak seasons, to avoid long wait times.
La Parrilla is typically open for lunch and dinner. It's best to check their current operating hours online or by calling, as they can vary.
No, there is no entrance fee. La Parrilla is a restaurant, and you pay for the food and drinks you consume.
La Parrilla often has promotions, such as their 50th-anniversary 2x1 tacos al pastor special during October. Keep an eye out for ongoing deals.
While direct online booking links aren't always prominent, you can usually find contact information on their social media pages or website to inquire about reservations.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The molcajete is a showstopper, and many guests rave about the various mole dishes. Steaks, seafood, and tacos al pastor are also highly recommended.
While specific kids' menus aren't always highlighted, the variety of dishes like tacos and quesadillas can often appeal to younger diners.
La Parrilla is considered mid-range to slightly upscale, offering good value for the quality and portion sizes. Expect to pay more for seafood and premium meat dishes.
While the menu heavily features meat and seafood, some vegetable-based dishes like guacamole and certain enchiladas might be adaptable. It's best to inquire with your server.
The atmosphere is lively, festive, and fun, with decor that immerses you in Mexican culture. Live mariachi music adds to the vibrant ambiance.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the vibrant decor, the theatrical molcajete presentation, the mariachi band in action, and of course, your delicious food! The overall festive ambiance is very photogenic. +1
Yes, it's generally acceptable to take photos of the mariachi band and other performers, especially if they are interacting with the dining area. A small tip is always appreciated.
Evenings offer the most vibrant atmosphere with the lights and live music. However, daytime visits can provide better natural light for food photography.
Feel free to capture the restaurant's ambiance, but be mindful of other diners' privacy. Focus on the decor, food, and performances.
The molcajete presentation is a unique visual experience. The colorful decor and the performers create many memorable photo opportunities.
How to Plan
A practical guide to visiting without stress
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Beware of Potential Upselling
When to Plan For
How to dodge the busiest hours and months
What Locals Know
things only repeat visitors notice
🎯 Huge Portions, Don't Overorder
Portions are generous! Order wisely to avoid waste and enjoy every bite.
🎶 Enjoy the Live Music
The mariachi band adds a fantastic vibe. Tip them if you enjoy their performance!
💯 Mole Lover's Paradise
If you love mole, this is your spot! Many rave about the incredible mole dishes.
💰 Be Mindful of the Bill
Double-check your bill for any unexpected charges, especially regarding tips.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Huge Portions, Don't Overorder
Portions are generous! Order wisely to avoid waste and enjoy every bite.
🎶 Enjoy the Live Music
The mariachi band adds a fantastic vibe. Tip them if you enjoy their performance!
💯 Mole Lover's Paradise
If you love mole, this is your spot! Many rave about the incredible mole dishes.
💰 Be Mindful of the Bill
Double-check your bill for any unexpected charges, especially regarding tips.
📸 Great for Photos
The vibrant decor and lively atmosphere make for excellent photo opportunities.
Where to Start
A curated tour of the essentials
Molcajete Magic
Main Dining Area
Experience the theatrical presentation of a molcajete, a traditional stone mortar filled with sizzling meats and salsas.
Mariachi Music & Festive Atmosphere
Throughout the Restaurant
Immerse yourself in the lively ambiance with live mariachi music that adds an authentic touch to your dining.
Authentic Mexican Flavors
Menu
From rich moles to perfectly cooked steaks and fresh seafood, savor the diverse and delicious tastes of Mexico.
50th Anniversary Taco Special
Menu
Celebrate their golden anniversary with a fantastic 2x1 promotion on tacos al pastor!
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit