Tag Archives: food

Tulum’s Ever-Increasing Choices for Dining

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With Tulum’s ever-increasing popularity as being a vacation destination, the demand for more restaurants and bar & grills will be on the rise as well. Travelers like to feast on local cuisines prepared with homegrown spices, vegetables, and fresh meats. Top Chefs are coming from all over Mexico as well as the world to show off their culinary talents. Tulum’s dining scene is a perfect choice for a variety of ambiances, exotic dishes, and tropical beverages. Tulum’s cuisines tend to offer a flavor and preparation style all its own.

A delicious dining spot to begin your day: Ki’bok Café Gourmet

Let’s begin with the first thing most people want in the morning and that is their java. Ki’bok Café Gourmet is a bit rustic but fits perfectly into its surroundings. The tree trunk poles support the handcrafted – wood built covering that exposes its open-air storefront. Sitting curbside, this simple but novel cafe offers crafted espressos. Also, brewed coffees from the finest organic ingredients grown in the area’s rich soil. Ki’bok also offers freshly prepared pastries and a lighter menu selection.

Most vacationers tend to wander towards the white sand beaches and beautiful turquoise Caribbean water. Tulum’s Sur 15 – from Mexico’s Federal Highway 307 to Av. Coba that turns into Sur 15, travels along the Riviera Maya’s scenic coastline. Here is where most all the waterside eateries reside. There are plenty to choose from and they all offer great views, fabulous food and designer drinks. Just point yourself in any direction along the beach and you will surely find a great place.

Zamas – The Restaurant at Zamas

There is one particular restaurant connected to a boutique hotel that was originally a coconut plantation. The Restaurant at Zamas offers many exquisite reasons to visit. This palapa style eatery offers several earthy floorings to choose from. You can bury your toes in the sand, sit up at the bar with a solid surface beneath you or relax at a table that sits on aged wooden planks. The surroundings are simple but elegant enough to satisfy any dining occasion. You can enjoy a midday appetizer or have a complete lunch. Their dinner menu includes traditional flavors with the finest local ingredients from land to sea. It’s also a perfect place to kick back with friends, family or spend the day solo enjoying what the Riviera Maya has to offer.

A notable dining experience at Arca

When evening arrives and just a few minutes away from Zamas, one of Tulum’s more notable dining experiences happens at Arca. Nestled against the Caribbean Sea and positioned amongst the jungle, makes this restaurant a favorite for locals and visitors alike. Its unique culinary entrées are chef selected daily. Choose from 5 to 6 specialty dishes with complementing sides, add an appetizer and a dessert if there is room. Arca also offers food and beverage through the day, but dining hours take precedence.

The aforementioned restaurants are just a few of many places that serve fabulous food and thirst quenching drinks. Just north of Zamas and still on the beach is Pancho Villa and to the south is Hartwood. Both eateries boast a four-star and above rating. Downtown Tulum also possesses plenty of culinary establishments. Azafran serves traditional style cuisine during breakfast and lunch hours. Sale & Pepe is located at the main intersection and is known for their pizza and other Italian dishes.

No matter where you go in Tulum, there will always be a place that will delight even the most discerning palates. Choose an atmosphere, decide on a flavor of food and drink. Then, let Tulum’s ambiance sweep you away for an experience that you will remember for a lifetime. Just imagine living in a place where dreams can come true. Think Mexico’s Riviera Maya!

Mexican Food – A Unique and Tasty Experience

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Finding someone – anyone, who doesn’t like Mexican food is a rather difficult task. One of Mexico’s biggest contributions to the world is its culinary delights! Everyone in North America knows how delicious Mexican food is. Can you think of very many places that you have visited where you can’t get Mexican food? And we are not talking Taco Bell. Mexican food isn’t just tacos, burritos and tamales. It also includes fully prepared dishes that use fresh fish, pork and chicken as the main ingredient/course.

“Tastes great and is good for you!”

Mexico is noted on CNN’s Top 10 World-Best-Food list. CNN Travel boast that they “Celebrate the best cultural foods and lambaste the others”. Mexico’s unique cuisine is not only tasty, but quite healthy as well. By using such ingredients as peppers, avocados, limes and plenty of beans provide you with an abundance of antioxidants, proteins and other nourishing vitamins and minerals. It “Tastes great and is good for you!” What more do you need?

Anyone who hasn’t had the opportunity to try ‘real’ authentic Mexican dishes are missing out. You won’t get them from corporate chains or fast food joints. You need to search out places that are not so popular or not-so fancy looking buildings. Although, the best option is to visit Mexico itself. Mexican families who own or operate restaurants are the ones who usually prepare the most unique and authentic Mexican food.

Delicious dishes some people haven’t tried

CNN Travel site rated Tacos – soft shell, and Fajitas – mixed meats, being among India’s Masala Dosa (crepes), the UK’s Fish & Chips and Pecking Duck from China as some of the best foods in the world. However, Mexico has many prepared foods that most people have never tried let alone heard of. Such dishes as:

  • Chilaquiles – a breakfast dish that consist of fried corn tortillas, chili peppers, eggs and chicken served with a cheese and sour cream topping.
  • Pozole is a soup that is served with a broth that has chicken, hominy and plenty of herbs and spices. It is topped with radishes, onion, lime and chili.
  • Chile en Nogada is one of Mexico’s most patriotic dishes that displays the colors of Mexico’s flag. It is a Poblano pepper stuffed with a variety of ingredients that is well known to the region.
  • Enchiladas are one of the favorite dishes for visitors to Mexico. They are corn tortillas stuffed with your choice of meats, beans, rice and vegetables top with a green or red sauce and cheese.
  • Mole (pronounced Mol-eh’), is a sauce that is made up of approximately 20 ingredients that include Mole Poblano chili. It is a deep brown in color and is poured over a variety of prepared foods.

The above are only a few popular dishes that are “Must try” cuisines. The more common Mexican foods we are familiar with are tamales, tostados and guacamole. Mexico uses all the food groups to create their delicious dishes. In addition, poultry, pork and seafood seem to be the most popular choices.

Mexican Food Mexico

Some history about Mexican food

Mexico’s world renowned cookeries started out over 7,000 years ago. Several Mesoamerican communities – tribes such as the Mayans, Olmec, Huastec, Zapotec and Purepecha to mention a few – are responsible for these now favorite cuisines. The Aztec Empire brought all these multi-ethnic societies together along with their culinary creations. Even though wheat and rice where introduced to Mexico’s culture, corn and chili peppers stayed as the main ingredients.

Enjoying authentic Mexican food either abroad or in your home town, its a unique and tasty experience. Every cuisine has a complimentary cordial that accents the experience. Mexico also has several adult beverages that are very popular and that’s cerveza – beer, and tequila. Add all these elements together, along with the colorful ambience that the Mexico’s culture brings and you have a perfect dining experience. “Disfruta!” (Enjoy).

Live Music in Playa del Carmen

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Some nights you just want to go out and enjoy some good tunes and good company. In Playa del Carmen we know how important that is for our travellers and even the locals here in Mexico. Therefore there are quite a few different locations scattered around Playa del Carmen that offer live music. Why not take advantage of listening to something a little different and not so mainstream while you are here in Mexico. Let loose and have a good time, while dancing and singing the night away on the beach. Below you will find a couple of our favorite places in Playa del Carmen that offer fantastic live music.

  • Wah Wah Beach Bar
  • Kitxen
  • Lucky Luciano
  • Senior Frogs
  • Fah Live Music & Food

Each one of these restaurants and bars offer some of the best live music and fun atmospheres that you would not want to miss on your travels.

Wah Wah

Wah Wah Beach Bar is so popular amongst English speaking travellers because of the setting. You will be dancing and singing directly on the white sand. You can also enjoy dinner and drinks for a reasonable price! In Mexico we like to please everyone, and this place is definitely a crowd pleaser. Wah Wah Beach Bar plays live music every Tuesday to Saturday from 1:00pm to 4:00pm and on Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays from 7:00pm-10:00pm. So if you are tied up through out the day, make sure to head out there at night for a time you won’t forget.

Live Music

Kitxen

Kitxen is known to be a rockers paradise. This place is actually owned by a legendary singer and guitarist, who is part of the rock band: Caifanes. Kitxen is located right in the hustle and bustle of Playa del Carmen on Fifth Avenue between Constituyentes and 20th. It is open everyday from 5:00 pm to 2:00 am.

Live Music

Lucky Luciano

Lucky Luciano is another popular English speaking restaurant that plays some unique tunes through out the week. You can enjoy some delicious food + free entertainment with a tip at the end of course whether you enjoyed your experience. This restaurant is located on the famous Fifth Avenue, in the middle of the hustle and bustle. If you are looking for a place to get you up on your toes and enjoying life- this place will do that for you.

Live Music

Señor Frog’s

Señor Frog’s in another popular Mexican tourist destination amongst other travellers from all over the world. It seems to be a hot spot especially for Americans and Canadians. They place wonderful music and have live bands on weekends. You can enjoy the most delicious piña colada amongst all their other fabulous drinks- without leaving the beach. Señor Frog’s tends to be the busiest on weekends but it is enjoyed everyday of the week of course. You can find delicious food here as well.  Señor Frog’s is located at the end of Fifth Avenue on the beach and is conveniently right next to the ferry port to Cozumel. Bring your dancing pants to this place!

Live Music

Fah Live Music & Food

Fah is an excellent restaurant to have a great night! Plus, it is located in the heart of the Fifth Avenue, between streets 8 and 10. Fah plays live music every night. Also, they offer delicious food that goes beyond the traditional. Food and drinks here have a totally reasonable price. Additionally, the atmosphere at this place is amazing and so is the service. Moreover, if you want to enjoy a delicious café and breakfast, Fah opens from 8:00 am to 12:00 am.

Live Music

We hope you have a great night at these fantastic bars enjoying live music and Playa del Carmen!

Things You Need to Know Before Moving to Mexico

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The first in a series of topics: “Preparing yourself physically and mentally”

Imagine waking up one morning in a place that now you call home. How would your body handle a different environment where your diet would change and your physical abilities could be challenged on a daily basis? These are things you need to be prepared for when you decide to live in Mexico for any length of time. This isn’t a bad thing by any means, but needs to be taken into consideration nevertheless.

When at home life becomes a routine and your body grows accustom to a systematic pattern. When changes suddenly interrupt your biological and mental time clock, it can make for a rough going. So it is very important to begin the reprogramming process before your new life’s adventure starts. The following recommendations will make your transition into living in Mexico much easier. It will also help you put your best foot forward with the locals.

Let’s talk about the body’s ‘Physical’ ability and how it will react to Mexico’s tropical climate, adverse heat and terrain. Mexico’s near perfect weather is filled with lots of sun, plenty of humidity and warmer temperatures. If you have been thinking about dropping a few pounds or starting a daily exercise plan, this would be the time to do it. If you are investing in Mexico real estate and are looking to be close to everything, most likely you will be walking to all your favorite spots.

There are days where there are nice breezes, and then days there are not. Walking is a great way to easily get around Playa del Carmen. Being in shape cuts down on exhaustion and fatigue. Be careful to not get dehydrated and drink plenty of bottled water. For every adult beverage enjoyed, drink water in between. In the beginning, limit your exposure to the sun. Get acclimated to being in the elements – usually two, maybe three weeks is suggested.

Different foods can sometimes disrupt your digestive system. Mexican food is one of the most desirable cuisines in North America. The special spices that flavor this inviting cuisine consist of a variety of peppers, sauces and other authentic ingredients. A way to combat not upsetting your stomach and/or creating indigestion is to – a) not over eat, b) don’t consume a lot of alcohol and then eat, c) get use to spicy foods slowly. Work yourself into the local menus. Your body will adapt. Just give it time.

Your ‘Mental’ ability is the other half of your body that will need to adjust to a new life style. There are several similarities between living in America and Mexico. But again, there are a lot of surrounding elements that are very unfamiliar to all your senses. One of those elements is the language and the barrier it forms. Knowing some Spanish is a benefit that will relieve a great deal of stress. Walking around in an unfamiliar environment and hearing people mostly communicate in a language that isn’t fluent to you will mess with your mind. Concentrate on learning the speech.

When you visit Playa del Carmen’s stores, restaurants and other social gatherings they will have a structural likeness to back home (US), but that’s as far as it goes. Product merchandising, availability/choices, unit of measurements and cost will appear foreign to you. For example, converting pesos from the US dollar (USD) can sometimes be cumbersome. In the food marts and grocery stores, meats and solid substances are weighted in kilos (2.2 lbs.) Liquids are measured in liters (just under 4 liters is a gallon). You can install a very simple app on your mobile device that will calculate monetary exchange and weight and measurement conversions with a few simple key strokes.

Mexico’s retailers, including food, homewares or other necessities, can at times be limited in choice. If it’s a product you need immediately, you will sometimes have to get creative with what they have to offer. But don’t fret over it. When the exact item becomes available, and it will one day, buy it for the future. Do like you would do at home and shop multiple outlets and local stores. What one store doesn’t have, another might.

Have you ever heard the saying, “Don’t judge a book by its cover”? This is so evident in Mexico and especially when roaming the streets for a place to eat. Don’t let the outside façade trick your mind into judging its quality of food, because what’s behind it will surprise you. You will find some of the best dining experiences in places that seem run down and minimalistic. These family run eateries will serve up some of Mexico’s finest culinary delights with service that can’t be matched anywhere. Not to mention at a very affordable price!

When relocating to a country that has so much history and traditions like the Yucatan cities, it can sometimes slip our mind regarding specific “Do’s and Don’ts”. It is well advised to study the culture, important historical facts, and traditional holidays and celebrations beforehand. This will help you understand why native people to the region do certain things. Knowing more about their history will also earn you respect within the community. When talking with a local, don’t be afraid to ask questions regarding their traditions; they will be more than happy to explain everything you want to know and more.

All the above information will alleviate lots of confusing situations when mingling with the town’s people. Your emotions will be peaking on both ends of the spectrum. Being prepared is an important key to less stress physically and mentally when spinning your life in a 180 degree angle. Learning a different way of life will advantage you in so many ways. The effort spent will pay off two fold.

5 Restaurants in Playa That You Can’t Miss

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Life in Mexico is full of adventure, great weather… and delicious food. If you’re visiting or if you are thinking to retire in Playa del Carmen, here is a list of 5 restaurants that you must visit!

zenzi2

Zenzi Beach Bar & Restaurant – This beachside eatery is located at the end of Calle 10 Norte and is situated directly on the beautiful white sandy beach in Playa del Carmen, along with Mexico’s beautiful Riviera Maya. You also have the advantage of looking out over the gorgeous Caribbean water as you enjoy your food and spirits.

Zenzi appeals to a large expat and retiree crowd who mixes well with the many locals who also come to enjoy the restaurant and its laidback ambiance. Almost every afternoon and evening you can listen to live music being played from one of Playa del Carmen’s many talented musical groups.

zenzi

The atmosphere is very beachy and offers plenty of open air seating. After the sun goes down, accented lighting around the palm trees provides an intimate feel with music and conversation happening in the background. Take your shoes off and feel the cool sand between your toes!

The menu offers a variety of appetizers, sandwiches and dinner entrees. The food is very well prepared and is complimented with great service. They also have a full bar that will prepare your special request or a menu to select an alcohol or non-alcohol beverage.

Zenzi is a great place for family and friends to get together, where couples can meet or just drop in for a quick bite or a cool refreshing drink. Sit back and enjoy the music while you’re relaxing in paradise!

Fah

Restaurant Fah Bar – Fah Bar is a unique restaurant that sits directly on the world famous Quinta Avenida (5th Ave), between near the corner with Calle 10 Norte. Fah offers lots of exciting street action that includes everything from break dancers to traditional mariachi music, to jugglers. It is also a great location to people watch from your street side table, booth or the open air dining area.

The off street dining area provides a tropical forest like feel with an oversized tree that provides a natural canopy but still allows the outside in. They have a variety of seating choices that consist of tables and chairs to padded sofa duets, and a back wall with bench seating that faces the bar, dining and stage areas.

fah3

Entertainment is provided most every afternoon and evening. The music mixes very well with any mood. The menu is quite extensive and offers a cuisine that can be found in many fine dine restaurants. The service is very courteous and complete with complimentary servers who assist the waiters in keeping your needs met.

The drink menu offers some unusual cocktails served with or without alcohol. If you are an exotic connoisseur of martinis, you must try the cucumber martini or any of the other creative beverages. The relaxing atmosphere will provide a subtle comfort that can’t always be found in similar eateries.

PezVela4

Pez Vela – Another great 5th Ave. restaurant and bar is Pez Vela. It is probably one of the longest standing eateries on Quinta Avenida, with an astonishing 28 years of existence. They must be doing something right to be around for that long. You can find this restaurant on the corner of 5Th Ave. and Calle 2 Norte.

They are more of a casual – lets hangout restaurant and cantina. Their walk up “U” shaped bar has swing seating that offers quick service and a full drink menu. Their clientele ranges from locals to vacationing singles or couples, to expats looking for a casual conversation. The atmosphere of the open air corner bar kind of reminds you of a Mexico version of ‘Cheers’.

PezVela2

The restaurant offers curbside dining which is great for people watching and other activities that are constantly passing by. There is an inside dining area, as well as a mezzanine that is ideal for group parties or a special occasion get together. The motif is traditional Mexican with a flair for color, and yes there is a big screen TV for watching your favorite sporting event.

The food is true Mexican but has its own special flavor. They have received awards from the Federal Tourism Board regarding their quality of cleanliness and kitchen preparation – a big plus for delicate stomachs. Their menu is fairly simple but covers all the desired dishes normally wanted when visiting Playa del Carmen. The service is friendly, prompt and very attentive. The prices are budget friendly and offer great value.

Oasis

El Oasis – El Oasis on Calle 12 Norte between 5th and 10th Avenidas is an eye-catching location. The eatery is a true seafood venue with an extensive menu of top notch dishes. They aren’t a high capacity restaurant like a lot of their neighboring peers. They do have a fully stocked bar, but their main focus is Seafood cuisine!

You have a choice to either be seated street side, on a small open-air covered patio or dine inside. The décor is styled very elaborately with a strong emphasis on a nautical theme. The walls, ceiling and seating are painted with bright colors that provide quite a novel experience.

Oasis2

The menu goes from ‘A to Z’ in seafood choices and cooked any way you want it. They pride themselves on fresh lobster, ceviche and their signature shrimp tacos. The food is plentiful, served hot and fresh and is extremely delicious. They serve a small cup of seafood chowder as an appetizer that will arouse your taste buds and tease you for what is ahead. The service is excellent with a smile every time they visit your table.

They do have a small bar area that offers Happy Hour specials, but not really known for having a cocktail hour crowd. However, they serve up a mean margarita that is crafted at your table with ingredients that you would never have imagined being in a margarita. It is actually served to you in a mortar type bowl with an accompanying straw. If you enjoy good seafood in a unique setting, then a visit to El Oasis is a must.

CasaSofia3

Casa Sophia – Located on Avenida Aviacion between 10th Ave. & 50th Ave (Highway 307), Casa Sophia is a great place to have some good Italian food, great conversation and enjoy a glass of wine. Its cuisine is prepared authentically as if coming from its own origins.

The restaurant and bar is a stone’s throw away from Playacar and is very popular with the locals, as well as the area’s expats and seasonal residents. It has multiple dining sections that include a glassed in dining area with a full bar, two open air covered patio areas, and a smaller indoors area near the deli counter.

CasaSofia

Its ambiance is simple but casual and very comfortable. The menu is very detailed with some of Italy’s finest dishes. Their pizzas and pasta are handcrafted with true Italian style. They also have a variety of wines that compliment any meal. The table settings are reminiscent of the old country where dining is an art of ambiance and food combined. The service is exceptionally friendly and delivered in a professional manner.

Casa Sophia is somewhat off the beaten path and offers no significant similarities to its peers that reside beachfront or on Playa’s Quinta Avenida. There is no hustle and bustle or lapping waves or street entertainers. Just a relaxing setting for family, friends or couples wanting to enjoy a conversation. The pricing is very reasonable for the exceptional quality of food served. They accept pesos and USD only.
Enjoy Italy in the heart of the Riviera Maya!

Do you have any other recommendations for eating out in Playa del Carmen?

Let us know!

Remember… we make it happen!

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Things to Do in Playa Del Carmen on a Rainy Day

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Like every good tropical region, the Riviera Maya has one long rainy season. It starts in June and runs all the way through October. However, this does not mean that every day is a rainy day! While most days you will be able to enjoy the beautiful, paradise beaches, outdoor activities, site seeing, and much more, you should also plan (and pack) for occasional rainy days.

Most people come to the Riviera Maya because it’s a fully outdoor holiday, but there is plenty to do and enjoy while it’s raining outside. And worry not, because rain tends to fall strongly for an hour or two and then stop completely, giving you plenty of time to enjoy the beach, 5th Avenue, or anything else. Just carry a poncho (or umbrella) with you!

Here are some fun things to do in Playa Del Carmen on a rainy day:

Go to the Movies
Believe it or not, most movies screened in Mexico are in their original version and subtitled. Only children’s movies are dubbed. You have plenty of films to watch in either of the two movie theaters found in Playa del Carmen: Cinemex in Centro Maya, or Cinepolis in Plaza las Americas.

Go Shopping
Since you’re already in Centro Maya or Plaza las Americas, you might as well go shopping. Both malls are not as big as you are used to back home, but they have plenty of shopping and food available. Another option is visiting the new Quinta Alegria plaza located on 5th Avenue. This plaza is open but offers shelter from the rain to walk around.

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Have a Long Breakfast, Lunch, or Dinner
It doesn’t matter what time it starts raining at…visiting a restaurant and enjoying a long and relaxing meal is a great option while the rain falls. You could visit any one of the many restaurants on 5th Avenue, or somewhere off the beaten path, and try some delicious Mexican, Italian, French, gourmet, street, or even German food!

Go Dancing!
12th street is waiting for you, regardless of rain. If it’s raining at nighttime (or party time), don’t stay in just because of the weather. Once you reach 12th street you will find plenty of choices between bars and clubs to dance the rain (and night) away!

Go on a Tour
Visiting cenotes, going on ATVs, or visiting Río Secreto and Xplor are great options for when it’s raining. You’ll be getting wet anyway. Rio Secreto is a beautiful underground river and cenote, perfect for any weather. Xplor is Experiencias Xcaret’s adventure park – zipline, swim through rivers, and have fun…rain or not! Most ATV tours include visiting a cenote and riding through fun filled and muddy paths!

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Discover a Café 
Playa del Carmen is full of uniquely designed, delicious coffee and teashops. Find one that you like and spend a rainy afternoon reading a book and enjoying a Mexican brewed coffee or tea. You can also find cookies, breads, cakes, and other sweet things to enjoy with the drink of your choice.

Get a Massage
You know you’ve been thinking about it since you arrived in Playa del Carmen. You’re on vacation and you deserve a massage. So what better time to get one than when it’s raining outside? The sound of the rain and the relaxing music at the spa will surely allow you to let it all go, relax, and enjoy. Playa del Carmen is full of spas waiting for you…get off 5th Avenue and find one that is not as expensive and that will leave you feeling more relaxed!

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Stay In 
Seldom do you get to enjoy a day of relaxation in the hotel. Pamper yourself, order room service, turn the TV on and watch a movie. You may not be getting the full Playa del Carmen experience through it, but you will definitely feel ready for your next adventure day in paradise!

There is no reason to feel frustrated because your holidays are “ruined” by the rain! Never forget that Playa del Carmen is much more than paradise beaches, and that there are plenty things to do in Playa Del Carmen on a rainy day.

Top Mexico Real Estate is an American-owned, locally based real estate company, leader in the Riviera Maya. If you are thinking of retiring or relocating to paradise, feel free to contact one of our Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives who will happily guide you on your path to becoming a homeowner in Mexico.

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

Dinner in the Sky: Riviera Maya

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We often talk about heavenly food, drinks that make you fly, or even a restaurant that makes you feel like you are in heaven. Well, now you can actually taste, drink and live breakfast, lunch or dinner in the sky! For years, Dinner in the Sky has gone around the world taking people to a very high experience. Based in Belgium, this novelty restaurant (namely one of the top 10 restaurants in the world, according to Forbes), has stablished in cities around the world bringing people closer to the heavens.

Although it is not new in Mexico, it is the first time it establishes itself in the Riviera Maya…and you’re in for a ride! If the views of our beautiful paradise with your feet on the ground so breathtaking, you can only imagine what they’re like 50 meters up in the air. In their original website, they talk about giving guests a one of a kind experience with total safety and exclusivity. Hosted by Events in the Sky, this event can be hosted anywhere, from beaches, to golf courses, to the middle of the street.

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Offering breakfast, lunch, dinner, or cocktails, Dinner in the Sky offers space for 22 people at a time. Part of the ritual is arriving early, getting a safety instruction talk, and then accommodating everyone around the table that will then be lifted into the sky 50 meters by a crane.

April 2015 marks the date of when Dinner in the Sky will officially open in the Riviera Maya, so start saving up because, yes, their packages are costly, but all for a good reason. The safety and technology systems, the staff, the crane, and the delicious food and astonishing view are all worth every penny you will invest.

Menu and Prices

As mentioned above, you can choose between breakfast, lunch, dinner or cocktails – you can also reserve the whole table for a private event where you can choose your menu and time of your event.

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Breakfast

Price: $1,800 mxn per person

Length: 1 hour

Menu: Grilled apple with honey and cinnamon; rested mass bread filled with grilled mushrooms, and gratin, baked eggs with dill; banana pancake with three milks sauce; bread, juice, hot chocolate and coffee.

Lunch and Dinner

Price: $2,500 mxn

Length: 1 hour

Menu: Chicharrón cream with pumpkin seeds; carbonara tagliatelle over a filet medallion with Peperonata; cocoa brownies with macadamia and mint; all food accompanied by red and white wine.

Cocktail

Price: $1,800 mxn

Length: 1 hour

Menu: Cherry truffle with cream cheese and caramelized sesame; marlin chalupas with chipotle and agave honey; carpesse pintxo with basil olive oil; chocolate and mezcal truffle; squash, cheese and bacon quiche; pink ceviche; asparagus wrapped with ribeye with balsamic caramel; tomato bread with chorizo and marinara sauce.

*Prices and menus are subject to change

Whichever package you choose, you are sure to enjoy a unique experience surrounded by friends, family or strangers, all as excited as yourself about having food and drinks so high up. Make sure you get your reservations in soon, because this is an event everyone wants to experience and seats sell out quickly.

Location

Dinner in the Sky: Riviera Maya has yet to announce their location, but wherever they may be, you are sure to have a one of a kind view of the Caribbean Ocean and the Riviera Maya! Check out their website or give them a call to ask about the exact location.

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Discounts

As with every new thing that opens in the Riviera Maya, discounts are available. If you have a Mexican ID from Quintana Roo state, you can enjoy a discount when making your reservation and paying the full fee.

If you are hosting an event that will take up the 22 seats, you get a 10% discount off the total price!

Dinner in the Sky has gone around 40 countries and countless cities; in Mexico they are operated by Experiencias en el Cielo and are touring around the country. They have yet to announce how long they will be staying in the Riviera Maya, so check back for updates!

Top Mexico Real Estate specializes in helping foreigners become homeowners in the Riviera Maya! If you plan on vacationing or retiring in paradise, contact one of our Top Mexico Buyers’ Representatives who will be happy to walk you through the purchasing process and find your very own slice of paradise!

And remember, here at Top Mexico Real Estate…

We Make It Happen!

Top 5 Places to Get Your “Pizza On” in Playa Del Carmen

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When you think of Mexico the first thing that come to mind is beautiful tropical beaches, taco and beer. But there is a lot more to this exotic place then just tacos and beer. Playa del Carmen is a very cosmopolitan city, attracting people from all over the world, bringing their traditional cuisines with them. Playa del Carmen is a foodie’s paradise, a mecca of local and international restaurants. When you are sick of tacos… if that could ever happen, or you just want something different Playa del Carmen has something to suit everybody’s mood. And sometimes your mood just wants a good slice of pizza. Here are the top 5 places to get your pizza on in Playa del Carmen.

La Piola

La Piola is a franchise restaurant with locations worldwide. La Piola is located at the end of Calle 38 in Shangri-La, one of the prettiest areas in Playa del Carmen. This is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike. This upscale restaurant has a beautiful terrace beside a natural cenote, creating an unforgettable ambiance. La Piola is the perfect restaurant to spend a nice, relaxing afternoon with friends and family! At La Piola you can expect gourmet Italian pizza cooked in a stone oven and a good wine list to match their delicious food. The prices at La Piola are a bit high, but the delicious food and ambiance is well worth it.

More Information:

La Piola

On the corner of Calle 38 and Avenida 1 Norte

Playa del Carmen, Mexico

(984) 803 4229

www.piola.it

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Nino’s Pizza

Nino’s is a favorite spot among the locals in Playa. Nino’s has delicious, thin crust pizza at a cheap price. There are four locations throughout Playa del Carmen but Nino’s is mainly a delivery place. They have a few plastic tables and chairs for dine in guests but the restaurant offer no real ambiance, just good pizza. Their menu items range between 50 pesos for a small cheese pizza to 120 pesos for a large 4 topping pizza. Nino’s is great for parties or to take to the beach for a picnic.

More Information:

Nino’s Pizzeria

Av. 30 between 20 and 22

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo

(984) 803-0646

www.ninospizza.mx

Don Chendo   

There are plenty of pizza joints in Playa del Carmen, but there’s only one Don Chendo! Don Chendo is the only place in Playa del Carmen to get Chicago style deep dish pizza. This Italian eatery offers a traditional Italian atmosphere with red and white checked table cloths, candles and twinkle lights. Don Chendo is all about home cooking, they use only quality fresh ingredients. The prices at Don Chendo’s are reasonable, the staff is so nice and the deep dish pizza is amazing.

More Information:

Don Chendos

Avenida 30 between Calle 24 and 26

Playa del Carmen 77710, Mexico

(984) 803-5950

www.don-chendo.com

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Pizzeria 34

Pizzeria 34 has a great combination of quality ingredients at affordable prices. At Pizzeria 34 there is a nice mix of locals and visitors enjoying their hearth baked thin crust pizzas that were cooked in a wood fire oven. Pizzeria 34 has a few tables with a cute atmosphere, but they also offer to go and delivered. They have great reviews on trip adviser and the owner is really friendly. I invite you to discover this little gem and enjoy the unfogetable pizza.

More Information:

Pizzeria 34

Calle 34 between avenida 25 and 30th

Playa del Carmen 77710, Mexico

(984) 109-1850

Pizzeria Mama Mia

Pizzeria Mama Mia is a little store front with a couple of red and white checked tables out front, the atmosphere is nothing to write home about, but they sell delicious pizza by the slice for only around 15 pesos. This Italian pizza joint offers large, 24 sliced square pizzas starting at 165 pesos. Mama Mia offers so many different topping and flavors, there are 35 different combinations, offering something for everyone’s taste.

More Information:

Pizzeria Mama Mia

Calle 2 Norte Between Avenida 10 and 15

Playa del Carmen 77710, Mexico

(984) 803-2316

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So next time you think of Mexico think of pizza. There are plenty of delicious pizza joints to get your pizza on in Playa del Carmen. Enjoy paradise and enjoy a slice of pizza heaven!

Christmas Dinner with a Twist: Cochinita Pibil!

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Christmas Dinner with a Twist: Yucatecan cuisine is the delicious result of a culinary mix that combines Mayan, European, Caribbean and Cuban influences. The culinary delights of the region are made of an exquisite blend of Mexican and European flavors, favoring the use of pork and chicken for their traditional recipes.

A bit of history will explain the strong European influence: the Yucatan Peninsula was considered inaccessible and far from the rest of Mexico, there were only a few roads and they were very dangerous.  Most of the commerce and transportation was made using ships with cultural and commercial dealings with Europe, New Orleans and Cuba; influencing the Yucatecan clothing, architecture and cuisine.

If you want to celebrate your Christmas dinner with a twist, why not prepare the most traditional dish in the Peninsula?

We present: Cochinita Pibil, a Yucatecan delight that requires very little prep and will surprise all your guests with the delicacy of the flavors and the juiciness of the meat.

Christmas Dinner with a Twist: Cochinita Pibil

Ingredients (servers 10 – 12):

– 2 leaves of banana, you need to roast them on the stove so they become softer (you can get      them in your local supermarket, they are big folded green leaves)

– 1 ½ kilo or 3.3 pounds of pork leg

– ½ kilo or 1 pound of pork loin with rib

– 200 grams or 7 ounces of achiote seasoning (sold in every supermarket, outside of Mexico buy it online or in Latin stores)

– 1 cup sour orange juice or mix half vinegar and half fresh orange juice

– ¼ teaspoon ground cumin

– 1 teaspoon dried oregano

– 1 teaspoon white pepper powder

– ½ teaspoon ground black pepper

– ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

– You might add coarsely ground allspice to taste

– 3 cloves garlic smashed

– ½ teaspoon chili powder

– Salt to taste

– 125 grams or 4.4 ounces of lard/ butter

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Sauce:

– 8 radishes well washed and finely chopped

– 1 small red onion, finely shredded

– 4 habanero peppers finely chopped

– ½ cup finely chopped cilantro

– 1 cup sour orange juice

– Salt to taste

Preparation:

  1. Get a baking dish big enough to hold the meat and cover it with the roasted banana leaves, leaving it long enough to wrap the meat.
  2. Place the meat pieces in the baking dish and use the leaves to cover everything well.
  3. Dissolve the achiote paste in the sour orange, then add the spices and pour this mix on the meat.
  4. Marinate the pork for at least eight hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
  5. Once you are ready to cook the pork, melt the lard or butter and make sure to cover all the meat, rewrap the banana leaves and cover with foil.
  6. Bake in a preheated oven at 175 °C or 350 °F for 1½ hours, the meat has to be so soft that almost falls apart.
  7. Shred the meat with a fork and serve with the sauce and plenty of tortillas!

Sauce:

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1.    Mix all the ingredients and let them marinate for at least three hours.

Presentation:

Use a piece of banana leave to cover the bottom of a serving dish, place the Cochinita on top and garnish with some red onion or cilantro leaves.

Hints and tips:

Remember that habanero is an extremely hot chili, you need to warn your guests and let them add the sauce to taste, accompanied by corn tortillas.

One of the beauties of Cochinita Pibil is that is not only a very popular dish, but also the leftovers can be eaten in tacos, tortas, fried tacos and so on.

Also, some people prefer to cook the Cochinita in the slow cooker, which is possible by lining the cooker with the banana leaves. Then you need to pour ½ cup water around the meat, fold up the banana leaves to roughly cover everything, then turn on the slow-cooker.  Slow-cook for 6 hours until the meat is fall-off-the-bone tender (the dish can be held on a slow-cooker’s “keep warm” function for an additional 4 hours).

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Christmas Shopping in the Riviera Maya: Organic, Natural and Locally Made

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Christmas shopping in the Riviera Maya can be done traditionally – there are plenty of department stores, shopping malls and local shops, all ready to wrap your presents and full up those stockings. But what if you want to do something different this year? What if you want to give something organic, natural and locally made?

As a local company, here at Top Mexico Real Estate, we pride ourselves on supporting local business and artisans. So here are some suggestions on where to find alternative presents for all your loved ones.

Tianguis Organico y Natural – Tulum
The initiative:
Tianguis Organico y Natural Tulum was started this year by Aldea Zama, promoting the use of organic and natural products in the Tulum area. Their main objective is to support local producers by allowing them to reach the community with their products. If you visit this market, you can expect to meet more than 20 local producers and purchase directly from them, benefiting their families and the regional development.
The products:
The local producers bring natural products such as organic honey, melipona honey, seeds, embroidery and various crafts.

You can give personalized bottles of honey as a present. All you need to do is order a few bottles of organic honey and some personalized stickers; be it a family photo, a Christmas message or a funny quote. For 30 pesos you get an amazing personalized favor that everyone loves!

When: December 14th & 28th from 10:00 AM- 3:00PM
Where: Commercial area of ALDEA ZAMA
Info: www.facebook.com/pages/Tianguis-Organico-y-Natural-Tulum/283174418528353

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Tianguis Organico – Valladolid
The initiative:
This market is held the first Sunday of each month, right by the magnificent Convento San Bernardino de Siena. Here you can find local producers and organic farmers from the area and buy their products without intermediaries, supporting the community.

The products:
Amongst the articles you can find here are seeds, books, plants and natural cosmetics. The December edition will have a workshop where kids can make Christmas crafts and will raffle off baskets full of goodies!

Walk a short distance to the central plaza and you will find more artisans selling crafts for a really low price. Some favorites are: honey products and sub products, leather sandals, sisal bags and a lot of embroidered items.

Valladolid is a worthy destination for a weekend getaway; make sure to visit the plaza, the tianguis and the nearby haciendas and cenotes.

When: December 7th from 10:00 AM- 2:00PM
Where: Convent of San Bernardino de Sisal, Valladolid, Yucatan.
Info: www.facebook.com/pages/Tianguis-Org%C3%A1nico-Valladolid/418232944863588

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Possima Natural Beauty Products & Spa – Playa del Carmen
The initiative:
Possima is a local company that offers beauty products and services in the Riviera Maya. They offer a wide variety of natural, organic and biodegradable products; forget about harsh chemicals.

One of the beauties of Possima is that all of their face and body products are 100% customized for your specific needs. Karla, the owner, will ask questions about your skin, lifestyle, and habits and formulate a cleanser, tonic, serum or cream to fit you!

There is also a spa where you can get a relaxing massage, facial or get a specific treatment for problems such as varicose veins, cellulite, acne and many more.

The products:
Possima offers over 30 products: organic and natural shampoo, soaps, scrubs, massage candles, bath bombs, hair conditioner, keratin treatments and many more. They also have a line of customized face and body products.

A great idea is to purchase a gift card for a massage or a facial treatment. Can you think of a better gift for a stressed friend or loved one?

When: Monday-Saturday 11:00- 2:00 and 4:00- 9:00 (It is better to make an appointment)
Where: 21 street between 110-A and 110-B Forjadores Playa del Carmen, Mexico
Info: www.facebook.com/BKBiokare?fref=ts

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These are only a few of the many options you can find in the Riviera Maya area. There are many more local hardworking people making handcrafted gifts for you and the people you love.

Playa del Carmen has many huge, commercial chains, both foreign and national; what better way to invest your money than purchasing products directly from local producers and businesses?

Happy shopping and Happy Holidays from Top Mexico Real Estate!