The story
At Cilento, inside the luxury all-inclusive resort ATELIER Playa Mujeres just north of Cancún, authentic dishes from the Cilento region of southern Italy are prepared to order — a corner of the Mediterranean transplanted to the shores of Quintana Roo. The restaurant's dress code is "Relaxed Chic," and the setting matches: an open terrace with sweeping views of the sea frames every meal.
The kitchen draws on the traditions of bella Italia — pastas, pizzas, salads and Mediterranean recipes prepared with care. Lunch runs through the early afternoon, while dinner unfolds from early evening into the night, when the terrace fills with the aromas of classic Italian cooking under the stars. Service is strictly à la carte, attentive, and personalised — a deliberate contrast to the all-inclusive formula that surrounds it.
The Italian cuisine here earned Cilento a Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence in 2022, a recognition that speaks directly to the depth and curation of the wine list. For guests who appreciate a well-matched bottle alongside their pasta or a slow dinner overlooking the water, that distinction matters.
Cilento is open daily for both lunch and dinner, and reservations are required — a sign that demand is real. Whether you're staying at ATELIER Playa Mujeres or seeking out one of the Cancún area's more credible Italian dining experiences, the combination of honest Mediterranean cooking, outdoor seating with ocean views, and a wine program serious enough to earn international recognition makes this a table worth booking.
Recognition
Location