Pancho's Backyard

Pancho's Backyard occupies the interior courtyard behind the Los Cinco Soles building on Avenida Rafael E. Melgar, a stone-arched patio with fountains and heavy wooden furniture that feels several degrees cooler than the street. It has been one of downtown Cozumel's most recognisable Mexican restaurants for years, and it carries the Distintivo H food-safety certification.

What To Order

Straight-down-the-line Mexican: mole, chiles rellenos, tampiquena, fresh fish, and a serious tequila and mezcal list. Because the doors open at 7:00am it is also one of the few downtown places where you can get a full Mexican breakfast before a morning boat.

Good To Know

Open seven days, 7:00am to 11:00pm. The downtown location takes reservations through CoverManager, linked from their website; the second location inside the Puerta Maya cruise terminal is walk-in only. The courtyard is shaded and largely enclosed, which makes it a good midday escape when the sun is punishing. Cards are accepted at the downtown restaurant.

Getting There

On the waterfront at Avenida Rafael E. Melgar and Calle 8 Norte, entered through the Los Cinco Soles shop. It is a straightforward walk north along the malecon from the Punta Langosta pier and close to the downtown dive operators.