Rio Lagartos

Río Lagartos is a town in the state of Yucatán, Mexico. The town lies 42 kilometres north of Tizimín. Mérida is approximately 230 kilometres further west. Río Lagartos is located at a lagoon, the Ria Lagartos, which is part of a natural reserve. This makes it an ideal place for birdwatching. Wikipedia.
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Top places to eat

4.7
(515)
4.9
(192)
Mentioned on 
cheap
Restaurant
La Mojarrita de Rio Lagartos is a popular restaurant and tour provider known for its delicious Mexican and Caribbean cuisine. Visitors rave about the perfectly prepared laing, tender fried fish, and homemade fillet. The attentive service, affordable prices, and knowledgeable guides make it a must-visit spot in Rio Lagartos. Guests also recommend taking one of their tours for an excellent experience.
The food was incredibly delicious! Despite the language barrier, the service was exceptionally friendly and very attentive, making us feel welcome right away. The food was freshly prepared, and the quality was outstanding. You can tell they value high-quality ingredients here. The terrace is particularly lovely, located right on the waterfront promenade. It offers a beautiful view of the harbor, which makes the experience even more special. The prices are absolutely fair and reasonable for what you get. I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone who values great food, warm service, and a fantastic atmosphere.
Andreas K — Google review
We shared the whole fried fish and the grilled fish filet between three people and it was delicious and plenty. The seasoning of the grilled fish was perfect. The whole fried speckled trout was one of the best we have had. We were treated to complimentary desserts, a squash dish cooked underground with a sweet syrup topping and a coconut rice with mango and fried plantains. Wish I took more pictures.
Sean P — Google review
We joined for the Las Coloradas- Ria Lagartos guided tour from Valladolid. A driver picked us up from our accommodation and took us first to Las Coloradas. Then we were transferred to the boat and spent about 3 h watching birds and crocodiles on Ria Lagartos. At the end we were taken to LA Mojarrita restaurant for lunch. They have vegetarian options and I was very happy with my stuffed squash. The staff was kind and professional.
Anna G — Google review
We had an amazing experience at La Mojarrita. The restaurant was about a block from our hotel. We sat at the terrace that has two amazing murals painted by a local muralist. The service was outstanding. The food ingredients and preparation were fresh. The chef was willing to make a sweet plantain dessert with her personal touch and to explain to us how she arrived to that original recipe as a courtesy of the house for us. I did have a ceviche mixto and my sister had the camarones al mojo de ajo. Both dishes were deliciously prepared. My sister also liked the small fruit salad that came as a side with her dish. The lemonade drink was outstanding we asked no ice and no excessive sugar and was perfectly prepared as we requested it. I am more than happy to recommend this place when you visit Rio Lagartos.
Enoch B — Google review
Absolutely amazing food. Fresh fish from that morning cooked with delicious local spices. Generous portions and very reasonable prices. The service is so friendly and the rooftop restaurant space gets a great breeze and wonderful view of the water and the harbor.
Prema P — Google review
AMAZING! Emanuel was such a great guide, we went on a best boat trip ever! It was a last minute decision to go on this boat trip but i am so glad we did. We saw so many crocs and birds including flamingoes. After the boat trip we returned to the restaurant and had the best meal we had in Mexico in 10 days. 10 stars, do not hesitate! I would give 50 if i could!
Elena G — Google review
Insanity delicious food. We had the ceviche, seafood soup and lobsters. Omg! The food was so good that we asked to have our picture taken with the Chef. I could go on in detail about each dish, but a picture is worth 1000 words.
Stephen B — Google review
Great lobster and amazing service! They dont have coctails in the menu but i asked for a margarita and they brought me a huge class, when i asked they kept coming back and asking if i want more inside and didn’t charge for that. Right next to the water and perfect atmosphere for this beautiful village. Food and drinks better than in lots fancy places! Highly recommend!
Marit M — Google review
4.3
(981)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Seafood restaurant
Breakfast restaurant
El Perico Marinero - Marisquería is a delightful spot that promises an unforgettable seafood experience right by the water. After exploring the stunning Coloradas and Ria Lagarto, we were eager to indulge in fresh fish, something we had struggled to find during our travels through Merida and Valladolid. At El Perico Marinero, we finally found what we were looking for!
We came here as strangers, and left as friends 🧡 Wonderful place to eat, very nice staff. Great location close to the waterside. Amazing views! Must do when you're in Rio Lagartos
Luc P — Google review
Great restaurant for seafood in rio lagartos. we‘ve been there twice: for dinner we had filet relleno and parillada, a mixed fish plate. it was delicious! for breakfast on the next morning we had two smoothies and a breakfast dish with eggs (forgot the name). the smoothies were ok, but did not fully convince us. the eggs were very good! we totally recommend this place, especially for (seafood) dinner.
Nikolaus W — Google review
Juan Pablo took care of us and even opened up the upstairs section so we could have a fantastic panoramic view of the water and the boats coming and going. The best view on the Yucatán coast and with a wonderful sea breeze to cool us. The food was fresh and abundant and included some free botanitas, the beers were cold and the wine chilled and well priced. It was my birthday- they surprised me with a slice of flan and apologized for not lighting a candle due to it being a potential fire hazard for the palapa. Such lovely people!
Anita S — Google review
Amazing!! The dish of Fish Fillet comes with enough food to get completely satisfied. Also the place has one of the best views one could ask for a have such a tasty meal.
Eugenio R — Google review
Great option if you’re at town, coconut shrimps 🍤 is the jewel of the crown!
Lord F — Google review
Ate lunch, dinner and breakfast here within 24 hours. The fish was fantastic. The guac and chips were good. The margaritas were nice and the beer was super cold. The omelette was good for breakfast too. The bar upstairs has good views and the pizzas that were coming from the kitchen looked awesome. A good reliable spot for some food in between trips.
April W — Google review
Great food, very delicious. Excellent service and a great view.
Yael E — Google review
Went there twice and got the ceviche which was delicious! Medium plate for 250 pesos. Hotcakes was also really good - about 80 pesos. Service really depends on which server you get on the day, overall it was good experience for us. Do pay attention to bill as they may automatically add tip to total.
M L — Google review
4.3
(431)
Mentioned on 
Restaurant
Restaurante Los Negritos is a popular Mexican restaurant located in Rio Lagartos, known for its delicious and well-prepared dishes. The family-friendly restaurant offers a variety of local fish dishes, including tender fried fish, ceviche, empanadas, and coconut-fried shrimps. The portions are generous, making it ideal for sharing. Visitors can also enjoy refreshing drinks such as Micheladas, a local beer-based beverage with lemon and a hint of spice.
Super delicious food, great prices. I highly recommend the filete envuelto 😋
Kary S — Google review
Our tour guide took us here and I am so glad he did What a lovely place. Staff is so approachable and friendly. The place is so cool and colourful. The food tastes great
Dolly J — Google review
It was the lunch place included in our Las Coloradas tour. I had fried fish and my husband had grilled fish. We both liked the fried fish better. They also have cold beer, Corona at 40 pesos. The restaurant was a bit hot but it was good in general.
Sujung P — Google review
Very empty when I arrived at 1230 for lunch. the service was slow, but kind and friendly. The snail ceviche was tough and not flavorful. I also ordered the fried whole fish and it was very overcooked and dry, as well as being a bit small for an entree. While the establishment could have a nice atmosphere, for a restaurant by the ocean, the seafood was very poor.
Chris S — Google review
Went with our tour and we both selected different dishes and were not impressed. It was very dry and bland. We overheard many others complain about the same thing. Place looks very clean and nicely decorated. Food was just disappointing.
Jess H — Google review
Family restaurant for sure. The plates are big, so maybe you can share depends on how much you eat, local fishes, fried fish, ceviche, empanadas, salbutes, coconut fried shrimps. Plenty of drinks too... I'll recommend to start "empanadas de cazón" and coconut fried fish (: to drink, Micheladas, is a local drink with beer of your choice with lemon, Maggie and a bit spicy really good for hot summer.
Lluvia M — Google review
Unfortunately, have to leave 3 stars review. This place supposedly best for lobster. It was not fresh and super overcooked. They tried to charge us for food that was not served. I know food looks good but it wasn’t. Bill was 82 USD with the drinks, but I would never go back here or recommend it
S V — Google review
Great little restaurant. Had the fried fish and it was delicious with some lime and tortillas. Clean resturant and tentative waiters. Only downside was the bathroom was dirty.
Michael M — Google review
# x21 y, Calle 10 & Calle 19, C. 8 173, Río Lagartos, 97720 Río Lagartos, Yuc., Mexicohttps://www.facebook.com/losnegritosrestaurante/+52 986 862 0022Tips and more reviews for Restaurante Los Negritos
4.8
(821)
4.5
(40)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Restaurant
Maleconcito Gourmet in Rio Lagartos is a must-visit restaurant offering a generous shrimp with coconut, well-prepared steak, and an enticing mixed ceviche. The place is known for its surprising beer and excellent cocktails. It's the perfect spot to start or end your visit to Rio Lagartos, especially after touring the remarkable Ria Lagartos Bio Reserve. Maleconcito Gourmet is a family-owned business that skillfully prepares locally caught fresh seafood.
The food alone was already great. Fresh shrimps and fish, crunchy nachos, a tasty soup. But what made our stay even better was the service. Our waitress Kathi, was very attentive and professional. In the end we even got a tequila degustacion, that did not find its way on the bill. Thank you again for the nice evening. 10/10 would come again!!!
Urban H — Google review
Provides a beautiful ambience with a wide variety of menu items at a stellar price. José was our waiter tonight and is awesome, he was attending to multiple tables and was fantastic. My husband and I ordered the steak tacos, coconut shrimp, and two cocktails for $635 MXN. The coconut shrimp were the biggest I have ever seen, and they give you an entire plate full. Reasonable items for kids as well (pizza, burgers). The pictures of the menu are outdated, but do no fear. Their menu includes pastas, ceviche, beef, and of course - fish, shrimp, and lobster. Would definitely go back.
Laura V — Google review
Portions were generous for the price! They were out of vegetarian milk options so I only had an Americano. Convenient location close to tours.
Tiarra S — Google review
We enjoyed lunch in this restaurant, had a nice fish and grilled octopus. They brought us a complimentary small basket with chips and 3 home made salsas. Everything was very tasty, the waiter Alexis was serving us with a nice smile and care. If we have the chance, we will surely come back.
Jana P — Google review
This is the best place to eat in this town. Juan took great care of us! They use REAL butter with the lobster, everywhere else uses margarine, and for me that is not an option. We checked them all and this place is for sure the best. Great cocktails, food, and service. And prices are reasonable I will be back for sure!
Blond P — Google review
Suprised how good the food was in this Restaurant. If you are nearby and visiting the pink lakes and are hungry afterwards we can recommend this one.
Andreas P — Google review
From the initial welcome until we left the service was fantastic, attentive but never rushed. Feels like a happy kitchen resulting in the best food so far in Mexico, with great taste, professional presentation and generous portions. The cost is no more than the more rustic neighbouring family run cafe/bars.
Eivind H — Google review
Great place with fresh seafood, friendly staff. By far the best restaurant in town. We have tried Prawn and octopus Ceviche, grilled Octopus and all were delicious. The only area of improvement could be the drinks, mojito was not let good, very watery. Mezcal was great and nicely presented.
Nejc K — Google review
4.2
(586)
4.1
(273)
Mentioned on 
affordable
Tourist information center
Ria Maya Restaurante is a family-owned establishment in Rio Lagartos, offering a perfect start or end to your visit. It's situated near the remarkable Ria Lagartos Bio Reserve and serves locally caught and expertly prepared fresh seafood. The extensive menu features 23 meals and drinks, including generous shrimp with coconut, well-prepared steak, and enticing mixed ceviche. Whether you're enjoying their surprising beer or unbeatable cordial, this restaurant promises a delightful dining experience.
By far the best Tour Operator in Rio Lagartos! They know all the good spots and are super helpful. You must book the fishing trip
Ruedi R — Google review
Lovely food and Margeritas. We had the guacamole and shrimp tacos and loved it. Afterwards we did the 2 hour tour with Saul and and it was a wonderful experience. We ended up here via Lonely Planet, where they’re praised for their ecotourism and conservationism, and we were not disappointed. Our guide was absolutely passionate about the biosphere and showed us all it has to offer with plenty of explanation. He wasn’t rushed to end the tour and took his time. 5 star experience!
Lionel G — Google review
Very positive experience. We have been here at the closure time. They have an amazing location by the sea. Food is very good and the quality superbe. Waitresses are really kind ready to answer to your requests. Only negative point have been the cocktails. We ordered some margaritas and it seemed no alcohol was inside. Anyways all in all it is a 4 stars restaurant.
Alb R — Google review
We made a 4 hour private boat-tour through the mangrove / lagoon area, absolutely great! We saw a lot of different birds and some crocododiles 🐊 close by! Our guide Andrea gave us very good binoculairs to enjoy all the wildlife. She know’s how to spot and respect the animals! She is a very good captain too, safe and comfortable navigating!!
Coen T — Google review
This was a wonderful experience! The boat tour was awesome and the guide took us to all the right places for the best pictures of the wildlife. We saw cranes, pelicans, seagulls, crocodiles and flamingos! The food was delicious at the restaurant!
Barbara A — Google review
This is a great place for tours and food. Our tour guide was Cesar, and he was great. We definitely recommend the tour, and then staying to enjoy a great meal. We would do this again anytime!
Brian A — Google review
Unexpected surprise! The restaurant is outside of the main malecón and is amazing! Super fresh seafood and the view can't be beat!
Rozita K — Google review
Que rico y tranquilo. This place was quaint and romantic, in the evening. Good food and a sweet view.
Robert L — Google review
water front view , west side town, C. 19 134, entre Calle 14, 97720 Río Lagartos, Yuc., Mexicohttps://www.riamaya.com/+52 986 100 8390Tips and more reviews for Ría Maya ( antes “Isla Contoy” desde 1988)
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