By Jessie Festa & Chris Brown
Looking for the best restaurants on Holbox Island, Mexico?
Then you’re in the right place!
I recently visited the fun-filled Isla Holbox, a lovely car-free island on Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula offering an escape from the mainland.
Honestly, because of the island’s semi-remote location, I wasn’t expecting there to be so many amazing restaurants; however, the dining possibilities are endless on Isla Holbox.
Holbox—pronounced “hol-bosh” to honor its Mayan roots—invites visitors to enjoy a slower pace of life. Surrounded by palm trees, you’ll kayak mangroves, swim in bioluminescent waters, relax on soft sand beaches, and eat deliciously fresh seafood.
But, that is far from your only option. From lobster pizza at Roots to homemade pasta with a view at Casa Nostra Rooftop to fresh local ceviche at Las Panchas, here are the best restaurants in Holbox—menu recommendations included!
Best Restaurants On Holbox Island
The recommendations have been separated by meal type to help you choose the perfect Holbox restaurant depending on when you’re hungry and what you’re craving.
Best Cafes On Holbox Island
1) Mr. Happy Holbox
Avenida Damero Camino al Mercadito, Holbox Island
One of the best things to do in Isla Holbox is eat, and one of the best places to eat is Mr. Happy Holbox—especially if you love hip cafe culture.
Set up like a retro yet tropical apartment complete with palm trees, box TV, and analog clock aptly set to 4:20, this lovely cafe serves up all your caffeine favorites: cappuccinos, lattes, flat whites, and more.
There are also delicious breakfast and brunch favorites like baked eggs (which I ordered and were delicious), avocado toast, and waffles topped with fruit. Yum!
2) Clandestino Coffee Shop
Calle Palomino 20, Holbox Island
Clandestino Coffee Shop offers a serene, plant-filled escape perfect for a laid-back morning or an afternoon recharge.
Known for its delicious coffee and pastries, this cozy café also showcases lush greenery for a tranquil vibe. My recommended order: avocado toast paired with a creamy matcha latte!
3) Painapol
Calle Tiburón Ballena s/n, Holbox Island
If you’re wondering where to eat on Holbox Island for breakfast, Painapol is the place for those looking for a healthy start to the day.
This charming café focuses on organic ingredients, and its menu offers a range of smoothie bowls, fresh fruit juices, and light bites like avocado toast and granola.
The tropical setting adds to its relaxed vibe, perfect for unwinding before a day at the beach. Don’t miss their signature acai bowls topped with homemade granola and fresh fruit—easily one of the best on the island—as well as the smoothies (especially the “Green Dream”).
Best Holbox Island Lunch Restaurants
4) Arte Sano
Jeronimo de Aguilar 12, Holbox Island
This vegan restaurant in Isla Holbox immerses you in Mother Nature from the delicious plant-based food to the decor.
Sit at tables made from tree trunks in an outdoor space featuring natural wood walls with open panels, pebble floors, and loads of plants. Above, metal stars and colorful beaded strings hang from the ceiling next to bare-strung bulbs.
On the menu is a mix of light healthy options like smoothies, juices, and bowls as well as heartier fare like chilaquiles, enchiladas, burritos, and a variety of burgers—all made vegan.
While dining there, I ordered a “Green Goddess Burger” featuring lentil meat topped with cucumber, white onion, pumpkin, green peppers, poblano peppers, avocado, and pumpkin and sunflower seeds. Yum!
5) La Cabane
Intersection of Calle Caguama and Calle Charal, Holbox Island
La Cabane is a cozy eatery in Holbox that serves up hearty comfort food with a bit of an international twist. It’s the kind of place where you feel instantly at home thanks to its warm atmosphere and friendly service.
While the menu isn’t large, each dish is made with care, from mouth-watering burgers to crispy fries.
The real reason to eat at La Cabane though is its selection of sandwiches, often described as the best on the island. The “Cubano” is a standout, packed with ham, cheese, pickles, and a delicious sauce that will leave you feeling satisfied.
Whether you’re stopping by for lunch or grabbing a sandwich for the beach, La Cabane delivers consistently delicious meals in a relaxed setting.
6) Bah Bah! Holbox Restaurante
Intersection of Calle Tiburon Ballena and Calle Gerónimo de Aguilar, Holbox Island
This open-air eatery serves healthy bowls as well as Mexican comfort food made with natural ingredients. Picture burritos, tortas, and tacos—plus a full bar and coffee drinks.
Recommendation: the shrimp burrito with a side of rosemary potatoes is delicious, especially paired with a tropical cocktail.
7) Limoncito
Av. Damero in the Central Square, Holbox Island
Limoncito is a local favorite for Mexican comfort food with a casual, friendly vibe. Known for its wide variety of tacos and tostadas, this small eatery serves up flavor-packed meals that are both affordable and satisfying.
Open 8am-3pm Limoncito is perfect for breakfast, brunch, or a casual lunch!
One of the standouts at this Holbox restaurant is the crispy fish tacos, which are perfectly fried and topped with a tangy slaw. They also do tasty shrimp tostadas served with fresh guacamole and a zesty sauce that ties everything together.
What makes Limoncito special is its relaxed, no-frills atmosphere combined with consistently good food. It’s the perfect spot for a quick, informal bite.
Best Holbox Restaurants For Delicious Seafood (Casual)
8) Ceviches La Chingada
C. Carito (between Porfirio Diaz and Geronimo de Aguilar), Holbox Island
Holbox is worth visiting for the food alone, especially the seafood. And if you’re after some of the best ceviche on Holbox, Ceviches La Chingada is hard to beat.
It’s a casual joint with a fun, no-frills vibe, perfect for grabbing a quick bite between beach sessions.
As its name suggests, this spot is all about ceviche—fresh, zingy, and packed with flavor. They offer several varieties, all marinated in zesty lime juice and served with a side of crisp tostadas.
One standout is the ceviche mixto combining fish, shrimp, and octopus into a refreshing, tangy bowl of goodness. They also do a killer shrimp aguachile for those who like a bit of spice.
9) Barba Negra
Av. Damero s/n, Holbox Island
Barba Negra offers a modern twist on traditional Mexican seafood, with a focus on innovative ceviche dishes that have made it one of Holbox’s trendier dining spots.
Their ceviche negro, made with squid ink, is a standout, offering a rich flavor that’s unlike anything else on the island.
Barba Negra also serves up fantastic fish and grilled shrimp tacos packed with filling. They can be ordered in a variety of styles from baja to maya and beyond.
Many nights they also have live music if you’re craving some entertainment with your meal.
10) Big Fish
C. Esmedregal 4730, Holbox Island
Big Fish is all about simple, fresh seafood done right. Located near the Holbox town center, this unpretentious spot is known for its generous portions and high-quality ingredients.
The menu features a range of seafood options, from ceviche and tacos to grilled fish—all prepared with the day’s freshest catch.
One of their standout dishes is the grilled octopus, which is tender, smoky, and packed with flavor.
Big Fish also does a mean seafood platter, perfect for sharing and snapping some obligatory photos of, which includes a variety of the island’s best fish and shellfish.
The atmosphere is casual and laid-back, making it ideal for a low-key dinner after a day of exploring.
11) Las Panchas
Calle Morelos and Avenida Pedro Joaquin Codwell, Holbox Island
Located just a short walk from the beach, Las Panchas is a favorite among locals and visitors for affordable and authentic Mexican seafood with an island twist.
Las Panchas is known for its ceviche, served in generous portions and brimming with freshly caught fish, shrimp, or octopus. Their fish tacos are another standout, perfectly seasoned and fried, capturing the essence of casual coastal dining.
And be sure to try the grilled whole fish; a local favorite, especially when paired with a cold beer and a view of the setting sun.
The thing that really sets Las Panchas apart is the simplicity and freshness of their ingredients. The relaxed, no-nonsense atmosphere lets the food speak for itself, making it a go-to for those wanting a genuine taste of the island.
Best Upscale Holbox Seafood Restaurants
12) Ser Esencia Restaurant
Costado de Secundaria Técnica, Calle Igualdad s/n, Holbox Island
For those wanting a more refined Holbox dining experience, the menu at Ser Esencia Restaurant combines local Mexican flavors with international flair.
The restaurant is part of the stunning Ser Casasandra Boutique Hotel, providing a romantic setting with ocean views. If you are lucky enough to stay at the hotel you can relax in a waterfront hammock after you have had your fill!
Here, the focus is on quality, seasonal ingredients—with a strong emphasis on fresh seafood and Mexico classics with a gourmet twist.
Highlights include the rich and buttery lobster tacos as well as the blackened fish, which comes with a smoky, charred finish that pairs perfectly with a side of fresh salsa.
If you’re like me and love a glass of vino with dinner, their wine list is also worth exploring, especially as it includes both international and Mexican options!
13) Mandarina at Casa Las Tortugas
Av. Damero 310, Holbox
The best time to visit Isla Holbox is during the dry season from December to April when you can enjoy the beach—as well as the island’s best beach restaurants.
Set in the stylish Casa Las Tortugas Hotel & Spa, Mandarina is a beachfront restaurant blending gourmet dining with barefoot luxury.
You’ll see a lot of Mediterranean and Mexican influences on the menu. As the eatery is passionate about eco-tourism, there is also a strong focus on locally sourced seafood, seasonal ingredients, and homemade items (like bread).
The atmosphere matches the food, with tables set in the sand on one of Holbox’s best beaches, Playa Holbox.
A few not-to-miss dishes include the fresh catch of the day, often served with a zesty citrus sauce, and the shrimp risotto.
For those who enjoy cocktails, their mojitos and mezcal margaritas are the perfect companion to a lazy afternoon or sunset dinner. A perfect excuse for a stroll home along the beach after!
Best Mexican Restaurants In Holbox
14) Capitán Capitán Beach Club
Lázaro Cárdenas, Holbox Island
In Isla Holbox, the best place to view the sunset is on the beach. You’ll find loads of beach bar options next to one other, each with its own menu and live entertainment options.
One of these is Capitán Capitán Beach Club, a laid-back eatery and bar where you can sit at benches in the sand enjoying music, tropical drinks (they have beer and wine too), and seafood dishes like burritos, tacos, and tostadas.
Say hi to their cat, Feliz, who adorably naps on the bar!
15) Taco Queto
Holbox Avenida Pedro Joaquín Codwell, Holbox Island
Taco Queto is a no-frills taco joint beloved for its simple, authentic street food. This place is all about the tacos, with options ranging from slow-cooked pork to grilled beef—all served on freshly made tortillas.
One of their most popular offerings is the tacos al pastor, with marinated pork cooked on a vertical spit and served with pineapple and salsa. Thanks to its rich and smoky flavor, it just might be my favorite al pastor taco of all time (and trust me, I’ve eaten a lot of them!).
Another favorite is their carne asada taco, which is perfectly grilled and packed with flavor.
The prices are incredibly affordable too, and the vibe is casual with plastic chairs and tables. When visiting, I came for a quick bite and ended up ordering seconds and thirds!
16) Maiztro
Av. Damero 10, Holbox Island
Maiztro is all about celebrating the humble tortilla, which they make fresh daily, and traditional Mexican street food made from scratch.
This small, casual spot has quickly gained a reputation for its handmade tortillas and delicious tacos, served with a variety of fillings ranging from slow-cooked pork to fresh, marinated fish.
The “Maiztro Taco” is a standout, packed with a hearty mix of ingredients that showcase the best of local flavors.
In terms of the vibe, it’s relaxed and welcoming, making it a great spot for a quick meal or a casual dinner featuring authentic Mexican food.
Best International Restaurants On Holbox Island
17) Aluxes
Calle Tiburón Ballena S/N, Holbox Island
Attached to Casa Barbara Hotel is Aluxes, a beautiful restaurant with tropical vibes, yummy food, and great drinks. There are plants at every turn, which helps to create an ambiance where you want to linger.
When visiting myself I had the pad thai with a glass of dry white wine—both of which came in nice sizes (I love a heavier pour!).
Other items on the menu include mushroom paella, cauliflower pastor, ribeye, octopus in pipián sauce, and rice with mixed seafood. Yum!
18) Roots
Calle Porfirio Díaz S/N between Palomino & C. Carito, Holbox Island
Roots has become famous for one thing: its lobster pizza. This unique dish combining fresh local lobster with a thin, crispy pizza base has earned it a reputation as one of Holbox’s must-try foods.
The restaurant is laid-back and casual with a lovely open-air setting. Aside from the lobster pizza, Roots offers a delicious selection of other smoky wood-fired pizzas—which pair perfectly with their amazing beer selection—and fresh seafood dishes.
Something special about this Holbox eatery is that it combines Mexican and Italian cuisines, which is something relatively unique on the island.
Additionally, when I visited they had a great live band if you like entertainment while you eat.
Best Rooftop Restaurants In Holbox
19) Soulbox by Mittoz
Avenida Pedro Joaquin Coldwell and Avenida Tiburon Ballena, Holbox Island
Want to sip wine, cocktails, or smoothies with a bird’s eye view of the beach? Mittoz Holbox Rooftop is a must!
Located on top of Hotel Mittoz, there is also a small pool if you’d like to swim—though I mainly used it to get fun 360 shots.
In terms of food, they have an all-day comfort food menu. Get the avocado toast topped with a poached egg and bacon if you’re there for breakfast, or opt for guacamole, nachos, chicken wings, or a burger (with cheese or Hawaiian-style) later on in the day.
20) Casa Nostra Rooftop Restaurant
Avenida Pedro Joaquín Coldwell, Holbox Island
Casa Nostra Rooftop Restaurant offers a romantic dining experience that pairs gourmet Italian cuisine with stunning views of Holbox.
Perched on top of the Casa Nostra Hotel, this restaurant gives you a full 360-degree view of the island’s beautiful beaches and vibrant sunsets.
The menu focuses on Italian classics, with a particular emphasis on homemade pastas and fresh seafood.
Signature dishes include their rich lobster fettuccine and the seafood risotto, a must-try for anyone who loves shellfish.
21) Lazaro Wine Bar
Calle Tiburón Ballena, Holbox Island
For something chill and trendy, Lazaro Wine Bar offers a menu of carefully curated wines—including natural wines—and expertly crafted cocktails. While they serve seafood, they also have a wide array of vegan options too.
Sit on their open-air second floor while digging into a watermelon salad, heart of palm ceviche, or blue crab sandwich. For something larger, opt for vegan tacos, charcoal-grilled shrimp, or fusilli arrabbiata. End the meal with a serving of peace crème brûlée or lemon pie.
In terms of atmosphere, the vibe is hip with low lighting and rustic decor, making it a go-to for romantic evenings or laid-back gatherings with friends.
Bonus: They’re open until midnight if you’re looking for some nightlife.
Holbox Restaurants Map
To help give you a lay of the land, here is a map of the best Holbox Island restaurants. It has the above-mentioned eateries pre-plotted:
What To Eat On Holbox Island
Now that we’ve gone over Isla Holbox’s best restaurants, let’s talk about the dishes you must try. Being an island, you can expect lots of fresh and flavorful seafood, though there are also certain specific dishes you’ll want to look out for.
Holbox Lobster Pizza is one of the most famous dishes, and my local guide told me that I specifically had to try it at Roots Pizza a la Leña, as their pizzas are known for having a distinctive smoky flavor from their wood-fired oven.
In Isla Holbox, tacos are a staple, with the ones here being made with corn tortillas (not flour), which are a staple of Mexican cuisine in general. While you can find all kinds of tacos, many places focus on seafood fillings. My tour guide pointed out that drinking Coca-Cola with your tacos is the way to go on the island, with the soda’s fizz and sweetness complementing the tacos’ savory flavors.
Local Holbox Island specialties also include dishes like ceviche, prepared with the freshest catch of the day marinated in lime juice and mixed with chopped onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and avocado.
For those looking to dive deeper into traditional flavors, Tikin Xic is a local favorite. This dish involves fish marinated in a blend of local spices and achiote, then wrapped in banana leaves and cooked slowly over an open fire. The result is tender, flavorful fish that falls off the bone, often enjoyed with a side of rice and beans.
Mexico Travel Insurance
When visiting Mexico, or anywhere else in the world, it’s important to get travel insurance.
For this, I have two recommendations:
SafetyWing. If you’re looking for something straightforward and budget-friendly, you can’t beat SafetyWing. They offer one global policy that you can cancel at any time or continue paying for long-term coverage (making it the perfect option for digital nomads!).
Their plan includes medical coverage, trip interruptions, personal liability, unplanned overnight stays, lost luggage, and more.
World Nomads. For something more comprehensive, World Nomads is a great option. While you’ll pay a bit more, you’ll typically get higher coverage maximums as well as additional inclusions—like trip cancellation.
FAQ About Holbox Mexico Restaurants
Q) How much should I budget for food in Holbox?
You should budget around $15–$30 USD per day for casual meals, with higher-end dining costing upwards of $50 USD per person.
Q) Does Holbox have Michelin-starred restaurants?
No, Holbox doesn’t have Michelin-starred restaurants, the Michelin guide is yet to cover this area of Mexico. It does however offer a variety of excellent local and international dining options.
Q) How much should I tip at restaurants in Holbox?
It’s customary to tip 10-15% at restaurants in Holbox, depending on the service.
Q) Can I drink the tap water in Holbox?
No, it’s best to avoid drinking the tap water in Holbox. Stick to bottled or purified water.
Final Thoughts On The Best Restaurants In Isla Holbox
And so ends my travel guide to Isla Holbox restaurants—hopefully, you’ve found some inspiration to make the most of your time on this beautiful island.
Holbox offers a delicious mix of dining options, from casual eateries to high-end spots, showcasing a variety of cuisines that complement the island’s laid-back vibe.
The food scene in Isla Holbox lends itself perfectly to creating your own little culinary adventure; one afternoon, we even did a taco crawl to experience as many top spots as possible!
Whether you’re craving a meal with your toes in the sand or a rooftop view with 360-degree scenery, Holbox has something to satisfy your appetite and fit your budget.
Further Holbox Travel Planning
- Best Time To Visit Holbox Island
- Is Holbox Worth Visiting?
- 6 Best Beaches On Holbox Island
- 23 Best Things To Do On Holbox
- 15 Best Beach Clubs On Isla Holbox
