For many in the US, Mexico is a go-to destination. In fact, in 2023, research suggests that more than 36 million tourists from the US visited the North American country. While Mexico City and Cabo are two popular Mexican destinations, Riviera Maya is, without a doubt, a popular vacation hotspot.
The Riviera Maya, which runs along Mexico’s northeastern coast, is home to several beach resorts and towns, but three of the most popular are Cancun (where most tourists fly into), Playa Del Carmen, and Tulum. Each boasts long, picturesque beaches, bustling nightlife, access to fascinating ruins and museums, and of course, a vibrant food scene—including plenty of plant-based options.
Is Riviera Maya good for vegan food?
If you’re looking for plant-based options in Riviera Maya’s three major hotspots, you won’t be disappointed. According to restaurant guide HappyCow, Cancun is home to more than 50 vegan-friendly restaurants, while Playa Del Carmen has more than 80 and Tulum boasts nearly 100.
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Wherever you go, you won’t be short on options. From traditional Mexican dishes, like tacos and enchiladas, to American classics like pizza and burgers, there’s something for everyone.
7 vegan restaurants to try in Riviera Maya
If you’re booking a trip and want to learn more about where to eat, here are seven of our top vegan picks in Riviera Maya.
Plantivoros
1 Plantivoros
Playa Del Carmen
Situated just a short walk from Playa Del Carmen’s busy main strip, Plantivoros is a peaceful oasis with plenty of delectable vegan options on offer, including a variety of tacos. There’s the Taco Baja, for example, which comes with crispy cauliflower tempura and chipotle, but the Taco Pastor—loaded with tender housemade vegan meat and oyster mushrooms—is a must-try. Other tasty options include tortilla and tomato soup, empanadas, burritos, and much more.
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Comet 984
2 Comet 984
Playa Del Carmen
If you have a craving for a big juicy burger and a thick creamy shake, head to Comet 984. This American-style diner in lively Playa Del Carmen offers a wide range of comfort classics, like chicken patties, jalapeño poppers, loaded fries, and so much more. One HappyCow reviewer describes it as “the best junk food in town.”
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Tierra Verde
3 Tierra Verde
Playa Del Carmen
If you’re not in the mood for junk food, Tierra Verde has plenty of organic, plant-led dishes for you to sample. Located on Playa Del Carmen’s main 5th Avenue strip, it’s the perfect place to soak up the atmosphere while indulging in everything from raw sushi to nachos and lentils to rich and colorful Buddha bowls.
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Laylo
4 Laylo
Tulum
Tulum’s popular plant-based spot Laylo is guaranteed to blow you away. The menu is packed with Mexican classics, like spicy tacos and nachos with plenty of pico de gallo, as well as meaty burgers, fresh brunch bowls, and fruit smoothies. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a busy day taking in Tulum’s sights.
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La Vegan Taqueria
5 La Vegan Taqueria
Tulum
For authentic, flavor-laden tacos, look no further than La Vegan Taqueria. With so many fillings to choose from, like “tofish”, carrot tinga, vegan crispy pork, hibiscus flower, and plenty more, you’ll be spoiled for choice. “Best tacos I’ve had in Mexico so far,” says one HappyCow reviewer. Another added that they tried six tacos and “every one was fantastic.”
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Antojito con Amor
6 Antojito con Amor
Cancun
Cancun, the Yucatán Peninsula’s major city and the gateway to Riviera Maya, also has plenty of choice when it comes to vegan options. At Antojito con Amor, for example, you can feast on hearty mains like birria tacos, vegan steak enfrijoladas, enchiladas with vegan chicken, or a meaty torta sandwich loaded with pineapple and pickled chilies. And that’s just scratching the surface.
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Vegan Style
7 Vegan Style
Cancun
As the name promises, everything at this popular Cancun spot is 100 percent animal-free. All of the pizzas and pastas are made in-house, and if you’re in the mood for a tipple, you can bring your own alcohol with you, too. HappyCow reviewers have described Vegan Style as a “cozy hidden gem” and note that the “food is made with love.”
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Charlotte is a VegNews editor and writer based in sunny Southsea on England's southern coast.
