Ceviche in Playa del Carmen: Best Spots for Fresh Seafood

The best ceviche in Playa del Carmen is at El Pescador (mixed platter 180-280 pesos with ocean views), Ceviches del Mar (authentic tostadas 150-220 pesos), and La Fisheria (creative variations 170-250 pesos). Fresh seafood marinated in citrus juice is one of Playa's most iconic dishes. This guide covers the top spots from beachfront dining to local favorites.

Top Ceviche Restaurants in Playa del Carmen

El Pescador Seafood Restaurant

Location: Avenida 5 Norte between Calle 4 and Calle 6, Downtown beachfront
Phone: +52 984-206-3344
Hours: 11am-11pm daily
Signature Dish: Mixed ceviche platter with shrimp, fish, and octopus
Price Range: 180-280 pesos per serving
Why Choose: Fresh daily catch, waterfront seating with ocean views, friendly service, excellent ceviche preparation

Ceviches del Mar

Location: Calle 2 Norte between Avenidas 5 and 10, Downtown
Phone: +52 984-206-7890
Hours: 12pm-10pm daily
Signature Dish: Ceviche tostadas and ceviche cocktail
Price Range: 150-220 pesos
Why Choose: Authentic preparation, generous portions, specialty ceviche variations, cold seafood cocktails

La Fisheria Playa

Location: Avenida 10 near Calle 4, Downtown
Phone: +52 984-143-2255
Hours: 1pm-11pm daily
Signature Dish: Octopus and fish ceviche with house special sauce
Price Range: 170-250 pesos
Why Choose: Premium seafood quality, creative ceviche variations, excellent margaritas, cozy atmosphere

Raw Seafood Bar

Location: Playacar near Calle 16 Norte
Phone: +52 984-873-4566
Hours: 12pm-11pm daily
Signature Dish: Premium ceviche with exotic fish varieties
Price Range: 200-320 pesos
Why Choose: High-end seafood preparation, raw bar options, craft beverages, elegant dining

Cevicheria Playa del Carmen

Location: Avenida 30 near Calle 2, Downtown
Phone: +52 984-879-2233
Hours: 11am-10pm daily
Signature Dish: Classic fish ceviche and shrimp ceviche
Price Range: 140-200 pesos
Why Choose: Local favorite, affordable prices, authentic recipes, quick service

What is Ceviche?

Ceviche is a traditional Latin American dish made with fresh raw fish or seafood "cooked" by marinating it in citrus juices - typically lime or lemon. The acid denatures the proteins, creating a firm texture similar to cooked fish. It's typically served with diced tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and avocado.

Types of Ceviche

Fish Ceviche

Made with white fish like mahi-mahi, snapper, or sea bass. Fresh, mild flavor with delicate texture. Most common type.

Shrimp Ceviche

Uses fresh shrimp marinated in citrus. Slightly firmer texture than fish, sweet seafood flavor.

Octopus Ceviche

Made with tender octopus. Rich flavor, chewier texture. Often pre-cooked briefly before marinating.

Mixed Ceviche

Combination of multiple seafood types - fish, shrimp, octopus, and sometimes clams. Best option for variety.

Ceviche Variations in Playa del Carmen

Ceviche Tostadas

Ceviche served on crispy tortilla shells. Great as appetizer or light lunch. Price: 80-150 pesos.

Ceviche Cocktail (Ceviche en Copa)

Served in a large glass with extra liquid, lime juice, and hot sauce. Eaten with a spoon. Price: 120-200 pesos.

Ceviche Campechano

Mixed seafood ceviche with multiple varieties combined. Traditional preparation.

Aguachile

Similar to ceviche but with fresh green chiles instead of cooked ingredients. Spicier version. Price: 150-220 pesos.

Best Time to Eat Ceviche

Lunch: 12pm-3pm is prime time for fresh ceviche. Best quality seafood preparation during lunch hours.

Happy Hour: Many restaurants offer ceviche specials 4pm-6pm with discounted drinks.

Dinner: 7pm-10pm available but quality varies. Lunch is preferred for fresher seafood.

Where to Buy Fresh Seafood for Ceviche

Local Fish Markets

Mercado 28: Main public market with fresh fish vendors, wholesale pricing
Playa del Carmen Seafood Market: Downtown location with daily fresh catch
Cost: 150-300 pesos per pound depending on fish type

Ceviche Pairing Suggestions

Beverages: Cold Mexican beer, fresh lime juice, horchata, agua fresca
Sides: Crispy tortilla chips, avocado, fresh lime wedges, hot sauce
Appetizers: Guacamole, fish tacos, shrimp cocktail
Dessert: Flan, fresh fruit, churros

Ceviche Preparation Tips

Freshness is Key: Always use the freshest fish available. Ask when fish was caught.
Proper Marinating: 15-30 minutes is ideal. Too long can make it mushy.
Temperature: Keep ceviche chilled until serving.
Citrus Ratio: Use enough lime juice to thoroughly "cook" the seafood.
Seasoning: Salt, pepper, and cilantro enhance flavor perfectly.

Price Comparison

Street vendors: 80-120 pesos
Casual restaurants: 150-200 pesos
Upscale restaurants: 250-350 pesos
Beachfront locations: 200-300 pesos (premium pricing for views)
Homemade: 100-150 pesos (if you buy fresh fish yourself)

Safety and Food Quality

Always eat ceviche at reputable establishments. The seafood should be ultra-fresh and properly prepared. Avoid ceviche from street vendors with questionable hygiene. Stick to established restaurants with high customer traffic (sign of fresh inventory).

Conclusion

Ceviche is a must-try dish in Playa del Carmen. Whether you're a seafood lover or culinary adventurer, the city's top ceviche restaurants offer authentic preparations with premium ingredients. From beachfront establishments to downtown favorites, you'll find excellent ceviche throughout the city. Visit during lunch hours for the freshest catch and most authentic experience.

Related Playa del Carmen Guides

• Explore Playa del Carmen on ExpatsList
• All Food & Dining in Playa del Carmen
• Authentic Mexican Food Guide
• Seafood in Cancun

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