Complete Guide to Hotel Xcaret Arte Restaurants

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which earn me a small commission from bookings at no extra cost to you. Thank you for reading and supporting my blog!

When it comes to all-inclusive dining, few resorts in the world can compete with Hotel Xcaret Arte. This adults-only, art-inspired paradise along the Riviera Maya redefines resort cuisine — with Michelin-level dining and regional storytelling through food.

My family and I have traditionally avoided all-inclusives, as we are not big eaters and only want high quality food. We were intrigues that Xcaret Arte seemed to offer food at such a high level as part of their all-inclusive concept. While we were seriously impressed at some restaurants, we were disappointed in others.

Whether you’re craving authentic Yucatan dishes, bold fusions, or plant-based fine dining, this guide covers every restaurant at Hotel Xcaret Arte — plus tips on what’s actually worth your time.

How Dining Works at Hotel Xcaret Arte

At Hotel Xcaret Arte, your stay includes “All-Fun Inclusive®” access — meaning almost every restaurant, bar, and gourmet meal is included. There are no surprise bills; you’re free to explore the resort’s culinary lineup at your leisure. Only Xaak has an additional surcharge, and Kibi-Kibi is exclusive to guests of Casa de los Artistas.

The fine-dining venues require reservations, which you can make easily through the Xcaret App or your concierge. It is highly recommended that you email the resort well before your stay to secure your reservations. Most others are first-come, first-served, with dress codes ranging from resort casual to elegant evening resortwear.

Some of the menus on Xcaret’s website don’t accurately reflect what is available, so I’ve linked what the actual menus were, as they are all digital even at the resort.

The Restaurants at Hotel Xcaret Arte

Xaak — A Michelin-Quality Experience in the Jungle

Xaak is the most exceptional dining experience that Xcaret Arte has to offer. This signature fine-dining venue is a collaboration between five of Mexico’s most celebrated chefs, including Paco Méndez, Jonatan Gómez Luna, and Alejandro Ruiz.

The multi-course tasting menu takes you on a culinary journey through Mexico’s regions, blending traditional ingredients with modern techniques. Think short rib with mole negro, suckling pig, and ice cream paired with brandy.

The service is impeccable, the wine and mezcal pairings are artfully chosen, and the setting — sleek yet rooted in nature . Dining at Xaak costs an additional $120 per person and the wine pairing is an added cost as well. We did’t eat here as it added up for four people and there were plenty of other restaurants to try for our three night stay.

See the Xaak menu.

Skip the hassle of looking for flights! Use my Award Booking Concierge Service. I’ll find the flights on points and let you know exactly how to book. As an experienced traveler, I also build out custom itineraries (with or without points) that let you enjoy the trip without the planning.

Chino Poblano — Where Mexico Meets China

At Chino Poblano, the flavors of Mexico collide beautifully with the traditions of Chinese cuisine. You’ll find a birria meets ramen combo, Peking duck tacos, and innovative snacks that keep you guessing in the best way possible.

First course at chino poblano in xcaret arte — First course (snacks) at Chino Poblano. Margarita in a cold bite and a trompe d’oeil peanut

Lychee dessert with red berries and a glass of a deliciously sweet liquor, at Chino Poblano, Xcaret Arte — First course (snacks) at Chino Poblano. Margarita in a cold bite and a trompe d’oeil peanut

It’s creative, vibrant, and the perfect representation of what Xcaret Arte does best — blending cultures and innovation into something uniquely Mexican. This was one of our favorite meals, everything was delicious and different, the service was great as he explained each dish, and multiple drinks were offered to pair with each course. See my video for more shots of the food. In short, don’t miss dining at Chino Poblano!

See the Chino Poblano Menu.

seating and dining at chino poblano at xcaret arte — We were seated in this more private area in Chino Poblano. Located just off the main large dining room that has soaring ceilings and little gold good fortune cats lining the walls.

Encanta — Refined Yucatecan Cuisine

Chef Paco Méndez, a Michelin-starred chef, brings his expertise to Encanta, one of Arte’s most sophisticated restaurants. The menu celebrates Yucatán’s rich culinary heritage with a fine-dining twist.

The space is moody and hidden away, but lacks the dramatic entrance of most of the other restaurants. You can also choose to sit outside on the patio to watch the nightly cultural show. It is located on the bottom floor of the Casa de la Musica.

guava margarita with warm foam at encanta at xcaret arte — Guava margarita with warm foam at Encanta, a palate cleanser taste, definitely not close to a margarita

caesar pizza at encanta restaurant at xcaret arte — Guava margarita with warm foam at Encanta, a palate cleanser taste, definitely not close to a margarita

soursop ceviche at encanta at xcaret arte — Soursop ceviche, the only really good course at Encanta

one of the tacos at encanta at xcaret arte — Soursop ceviche, the only really good course at Encanta

We did not enjoy this meal. We found it took a long time, lacked flavor, and was different from the online menu at the time. Offering drinks was not a priority and the courses did not connect very well. We were ready to leave halfway through. After sticking through it, we still ended up leaving hungry and having to go to the buffet for real food. I’d recommend skipping Encanta.

See the Encanta Menu.

the dinner menu we had at enchant at xcaret arte — The dinner menu when we were dining at Encanta, July 2025, differed from online menus

Kibi-Kibi — A Fusion of Lebanon and Yucatán

Exclusive to guests staying in Casa de los Artistas, Kibi-Kibi is one of the most distinctive restaurants in the Riviera Maya. Here, Lebanese and Yucatecan cuisines come together in an elegant, sunlit setting.

Kibi-Kibi offers both breakfast and dinner, with a huge variety of small plates and unique desserts. We wish we could have tried this restaurant, as we love Mediterranean food and would have liked to have the option for a sit-down breakfast instead of a buffet.

See the Kibi-Kibi menu.

Tah-Xido- Japanese fusion and Teppanyaki

There are a three dining options at Tah-Xido, be sure to reserve your table according to the experience you would like. There’s teppanyaki, where an entertaining chef cooks in front of you and up to 12 other guests with your choice of proteins.

For those of you who prefer less of a hot seat, then get seated at a table to choose from their asian fusion menu. For a really indulgent evening, you could also choose the chef’s tasting omakase menu for an additional $200 per person.

Link to Tah-Xido Menu.

Skip the hassle of looking for flights! Use my Award Booking Concierge Service. I’ll find the flights on POINTS and let you know exactly how to book.

Cantina VI.AI.PY. — Mexican Cantina Meets Nightlife

As the evening settles in, Cantina VI.AI.PY. comes alive. Think of it as a high-end Mexican cantina — part restaurant, part cocktail bar, part live-music venue. Located on level five (lobby level), walk towards the concierge and pool area, or just follow the music.

cantina vi.ai.py bar and restaurant at xcaret arte, ceiling decor and vibe — Cantina VI.AI.PY

Natalie and her dad at Cantina VI.AI.PY at Xcaret Arte — Cantina VI.AI.PY

The menu features antojitos (small plates) like esquites, ceviches, and tacos. They have a varied lunch menu and offer a more limited menu late into the night. Don’t miss the opportunity to try the grasshopper topped guacamole!

A rotating lineup of musicians adds a lively touch, making it one of the best spots for a fun, social night. We visited every night to enjoy the live music, have a cocktail, and watch the crowd. You’ll see how it quickly becomes part of your routine too when you visit Xcaret Arte.

See the Cantina VI.AI.PY menu.

Cayuco — Mediterranean Meets the Caribbean

With pool views and a breezy atmosphere, Cayuco serves as a smaller buffet that is easily accessible while out doing water activities. The restaurant seems to float over the water and the decor reflects a light, bright, and nautical inspired aesthetic. It is located just to the right of the main pool, walk around toward the landscaped side for the entrance.

calico breakfast buffet room at xcaret arte — Cayuco breakfast buffet

We visited for breakfast, and the buffet offered the some of the same classics that you would find at the Mercado de San Juan, without the long lines, crowds, and wait times at peak hours. Most of the food was already prepared, with the exception of the omelette station. It was a relaxed experience with attentive service and a well stocked mimosa cart.

They transition to a casual eats buffet for the afternoon. Making it easy to grab a bite or pizza, pasta, or other Italian favorites, to eat when you are lounging by the pool.

See the Cayuco Lunch Menu

Arenal — Casual Beachside Dining

For something laid-back yet delicious, Arenal delivers. The vibe is tropical and casual, with hanging swing chairs, long couches to lounge on, and tables with a view or the river.

seating at Arenal restaurant, at xcaret arte — Seating at Arenal

additional costs menu for grilled meats at lunch at Arenal at Xcaret Arte — Seating at Arenal

Dishes like tuna tostadas, octopus tacos, and lobster quesadillas get you experiencing seafood in a whole new way. Make it surf and turf by adding on some meals from the grill (most at an additional cost).

Bryan and mom at floating seating swings at Arenal at xcaret arte — Bryan and mom at floating seating swings at Arenal

It’s perfect for a quick bite between dips in the pool or a lazy lunch overlooking the lagoon. This was our favorite lunch hands-down. Everything was delicious and fresh, with unique twists, and a good variety of cocktails to accompany our meal. We ordered practically one of everything and shared it family style, which I definitely recommend so you can try it all.

See the Arenal menu.

Apapachoa — Conscious, Plant-Based Dining

Even non-vegans will love Apapachoa, Hotel Xcaret Arte’s plant-based restaurant. The name comes from a Nahuatl word meaning “to embrace with the soul,” and the menu lives up to it — colorful, inventive, and deeply satisfying.

The smoothies are a favorite here and it is most popular for breakfast. You can also build a salad for dinner, or enjoy options like a tofu bowl, roasted cauliflower, or a bruschetta platter. Everything is prepared using locally sourced, sustainable ingredients.

The rooftop location on Casa de la Paz seems incredible, and we wish we had a chance to visit it, especially since I love smoothies. However, I also found that there were a great variety of fresh juices and smoothies available at the Mercado de San Juan for breakfast.

Perfect for: health-conscious travelers or anyone wanting a break from heavier dishes.

See the Apapachoa menu.

El Mercado de San Juan — The Heart of the Resort

Inspired by Mexico City’s famous market, El Mercado de San Juan is Arte’s vibrant, buffet-style restaurant — but don’t expect a typical buffet.

Here, you’ll find 10 themed stations, each spotlighting a different aspect of Mexican and international cuisine: tacos, seafood, pastries, soups, meats, and more. The atmosphere is lively, colorful, and full of tempting aromas. It was nice to see most of the food made to order or in a way that you could build it yourself.

El Mercado is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, with different offerings at each time. After you’re seated, you’ll have a server that will ask you for your choice of beverage. You can ask for anything from the bar or barista coffees. Juices are available at the buffet, along with a selection of smoothies at breakfast.

Highlights include the ice cream selection with unique flavors (go for the Maria cookie one) and the tacos (of course). Make this your first stop once you check in to get familiar with all the stations.

Best for: breakfast and casual group dining.

Additional Food & Beverage Options

Pop-ups Poolside

Xcaret Arte brings the flavors of the street food of Mexico right to you with various stands offering food by the pool. It was cool to try their local snacks, like the chicharrones topped with ceviche. At other times, it was the fruit stand that was open for freshly sliced fruit topped with spices.

chicharonnes preparadas stand by the pool at xcaret arte — Chicharrones preparadas stand by the pool

Swim-up Pool Bar

Swim right up and place your order with the bartender, or order from the comfort of your lounge chairs. At the pool bar they’re crafting all your favorite tropical classic drinks. I suggest a mai tai or a margarita while you take in the ocean views.

El Deseo Speakeasy

Hidden within Casa del Patron, on the 3rd (bottom) floor, behind the gym, is El Deseo Speakeasy. Open in the evenings, once you get past ‘security,’ and follow the red lights down the hall, you’ll find this sophisticated lounge that hits all the right notes.

Earlier on they have a jazz band, which is then followed by a DJ playing top hits. The bartenders are good and keep the drinks flowing all night. There’s no food served here, but as it gets late they open a street style taco stand by the entrance to satisfy those late night munchies.

This is the perfect place to go if you are traveling in a group that is ready to party!

inside el deseo speakeasy at xcaret arte, covered in hanging lanterns that change colors — El Deseo Speakeasy, located past the gym on level 3 in Casa del Patron

Lobby Cafe

Open all day, the cafe located near the lobby has got Starbucks beat by a long shot. Their barista coffees are so good! You could equally start your day here or end your night with their delicious lattes.

They also offer prepared sandwiches, salads, fruit, and desserts. Perfect for taking with you on your day in the parks or by the beach. This was such a great spot for a quick breakfast too since they had options that differed from the buffet, like salmon on rye, egg sandwiches, and different pastries.

Outside of their opening hours, there is also a self-service automatic coffee machine outside the cafe and another coffee station outside of Cantina VI.AI.PY.

Coffee station outside or Cantina VI.AI.PY at Xcaret arte — Self-service coffee station outside of Cantina VI.AI.PY

Insider Dining Tips

Book Reservations early, way before your arrival.
Room service is also included, check the tv for the menu and to place your order.
Use the Xcaret App to check hours and menus
Best Breakfast: Mercado de San Miguel for variety, Cayuco for setting, the lobby cafe for takeaway.
Best Lunch: Arenal
Best Dinner: Chino Poblano

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Food at Hotel Xcaret Arte Worth It?

Absolutely. While the nightly rates may seem steep, when you factor in access to Michelin-level dining, cocktails, and unlimited gourmet meals, Hotel Xcaret Arte delivers extraordinary value.

It’s one of the few all-inclusive resorts where foodies won’t want to dine anywhere else. Each restaurant feels intentional — beautifully designed, expertly staffed, and full of culinary artistry.

How many restaurants are at Hotel Xcaret Arte?

There are 10 restaurants, plus multiple bars and lounges.

Are reservations required?

Yes, for dinner at most restaurants. Reservations are not required for breakfast and lunch, or at the Mercado de San Juan.

Is room service included?

Yes — 24-hour in-room dining is part of the All-Fun Inclusive package.

Do they accommodate dietary restrictions?

Absolutely. Vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free options are widely available.

Is there a mini bar in the room?

Yes, there is a mini bar in the room, and it is included. There are sodas, beer, nuts, and candies.

Is wine included at Xcaret?

Only standard house red or white wine is included. There is a wine list at an additional charge and pairings available at some restaurants for an extra cost.

Is food included at the Xcaret Parks when you stay at Hotel Xcaret Arte?

Yes, there are designated dining venues in each park where you can have complimentary food and drinks. The tours include lunch. Xcaret Mexico had a buffet with a bar and ocean view where hotel guests could dine. Stands that sell other snacks and drinks are not included.

Can you have lunch at Xcaret Arte after checking out?

Yes, once you check out you’ll be handed a slip allowing you access to the amenities, restaurants, and nearby parks.

Final Thoughts: Xcaret Arte as a Culinary Destination

Hotel Xcaret Arte isn’t just a resort — it’s a cultural and gastronomic destination. With each restaurant offering a unique interpretation of Mexico’s diverse cuisine, dining here feels like traveling across the country without ever leaving the Riviera Maya.Whether you’re sipping mezcal under the stars or tasting handmade mole in a candlelit dining room, you’ll leave inspired — and probably already dreaming of your next meal.

While we wish there was a sit down breakfast option, more included wine, and Encanta was a let down, it was still an exceptional experience at Xcaret Arte. Once we tried a lower end all-inclusive, the Hilton Cancun, we realized just how great Xcaret is and how it should really be the only resort to be considered for your first time to Mexico. Read about the full experience, from the rooms to the parks, in the Xcaret Arte Guide.

Related articles to plan your trip to Cancun:

Complete Guide to Hotel Xcaret Arte Restaurants

How Dining Works at Hotel Xcaret Arte

The Restaurants at Hotel Xcaret Arte