La Bodeguita del Medio
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The environment and vibe was cool, the service was fantastic and had air conditioning!!! It was unseasonably hot and humid and they offered quite the respite that was much needed. We ordered the overpriced underwhelming paella which had only a paltry amount of shrimp and protein, I am from the Caribbean and been to most of Latin America and this was quite pathetic, you can see in my pictures how much is was lacking. I ordered 5 rum and cokes during my visit (75 minutes) we thought it didn't taste right because it wasn't right!! They water down their liquor BIG TIME, usually takes me only 3 to affect my gait and speech and walked out still quite sober. The Cuba Libres were definitely not 80 proof or even 60 proof as they should be. The server was very friendly and attentive to our needs however the food and overall experience was sub-optimal. Please avoid this tourist trap as there are many better and affordable options on 5th Avenue, never going back again..
This is a Cuban themed restaurant with live music in Playa Del Carmen. They have things like Cuban cigars for sale too, although they can't be transported into the USA. I would rate the food at 7, the ambiance and music a 10. The service was also prompt and professional. The only thing I would recommend for them is that they should have a dance floor for couples who wanted to dance. A few of the couples were in the walkway and it was awkward because it was blocking the server's paths.
This is a late post, I was in Playa from 10/30-11/14 and frequented this place twice. Of course I had to come here, and it was nice to be able to eat something different than Mexican food. I don't eat meat and although Cuban is one of my favs, I couldn't eat chicken ...so I had shrimp instead with black beans, rice and plaintains. I was in heaven. My friend at the chicken...and said it was amazing. I was tempted!!!! The second time I came just the black beans, rice and plaintains...AND the caramel flan...which is amazing! The staff here was great and they have live salsa....it was a bit loud but it was fine...love this place!
The ambiance is nice. Great Lightning, wonderful music, excellent service and a TOTAL DISASTER for food‼ The food was cold, really cold, the congri rice was mediocre, the vaca frita unappealing and bland, the masitas de cerdo had ZERO seasoning and the beers were almost room temperature. Good luck (after leaving aside your $4 beer because its warm), asking for a glass of ice water ( ONLY FOR SALE). This joint is a TOURIST TRAP . Music good, service very dedicated but the kitchen is literally a hot mess, prices SKY HIGH and the whole experience is based on an OWNER BASED experience ($$$) vs. CUSTOMER based experience. Truth be told; out of 5!
Went here late night on a Friday for the live music which was awesome. I thought I would see a lot of dancing but that didn't happen. The restaurant is nice inside and outside you can see all the bats and people watch. The staff is friendly and the food was okay. We had the shrimp dish which was good and it had a sweetness to it. I had the fajitas which was good and I enjoyed the rice. We rarely did restaurants on 5th but we wanted to go for the music. The mojitos were okay. I'm not a big time drinker and they weren't strong for me. Still worth going to.
This was my first Cuban experience and the food did not disappoint. We did ask our waitress what she recommended but she let us know that she wasn't well versed in Cuban food. She did show us what the majority of people got, and that is what we ordered. We were not really too impressed with the starter sampler (I would skip it), however, Ropa Vieja and Moros y Cristianos were excellent! The dinner was also paired up with wonderful live music and a not too busy 5th Avenue.
1 year ago
A Refreshing Change of Pace with Friendly Vibes and Live Music If you're looking to take a break from your usual go-to taco and Mexican spots, this place offers a nice variety with its Cuban-inspired menu. I'm a big fan of tacos, but every now and then, it's great to mix things up--and this spot gave me that change of pace I was looking for. I especially appreciated the inclusion of rice and beans, which I've been missing lately. The atmosphere was cozy and relaxed. It wasn't a busy night, so we ended up getting to enjoy the live music almost like a private show. That part really stood out--the band brought a warm energy to the room, and it made the whole evening feel more intimate and memorable. The service was genuinely great. Our server was friendly, attentive, and took time to explain that the menu was Cuban-inspired, which was a good heads-up. That explained some of the differences in flavor and presentation, and helped manage expectations about what ingredients or sides might be missing compared to more traditional Latin or Caribbean places. One thing I wasn't a huge fan of, though, was having to order everything à la carte. For example, when I ordered the pork, the rice and beans weren't included--they were separate add-ons. It felt a little disjointed, and I would have preferred if those staples came as part of the dish. It's not a dealbreaker, but it's something to keep in mind if you're expecting a full plate. As for the food itself--it was solid. I had the Delicias de Queso, which were flavorful and satisfying, with a nice texture and taste. The pork was also seasoned well and tender. Everything came out hot and well-prepared, and you can tell there's care in the kitchen. That said, nothing completely blew me away, but it all hit the spot. The mojito was probably the low point of the evening for me. It wasn't terrible, but it didn't have that fresh, crisp pop that you expect in a great mojito. Maybe it just needed more mint or lime--something to give it that brightness. Overall, it was a pleasant experience. The food was enjoyable, the live music added something special, and the service was top-notch. While I didn't love the à la carte pricing and the drink could have been better, I'd still recommend giving this place a try if you're in the mood for something different and easygoing. It's a solid spot for a laid-back night out with some good vibes. read more
We had a great, fun time at Bodeguita. Perfect Music, live salsa band, delicious cocktails, I had Mojito and cuba libre, and we got to dance and enjoy the ambiance. Service was okay. We didn't get to eat but i'll definitely be back to try the food. read more
8 months ago
This is one of my favorite hang outs in Playa. Music, food, drinks and staff is outstanding.. true Cuban vibe with live bands and dancing.. please give it a try Ricardo and Xavier good bar tenders!! read more
The environment and vibe was cool, the service was fantastic and had air conditioning!!! It was unseasonably hot and humid and they offered quite the respite that was much needed. We ordered the overpriced underwhelming paella which had only a paltry amount of shrimp and protein, I am from the Caribbean and been to most of Latin America and this was quite pathetic, you can see in my pictures how much is was lacking. I ordered 5 rum and cokes during my visit (75 minutes) we thought it didn't taste right because it wasn't right!! They water down their liquor BIG TIME, usually takes me only 3 to affect my gait and speech and walked out still quite sober. The Cuba Libres were definitely not 80 proof or even 60 proof as they should be. The server was very friendly and attentive to our needs however the food and overall experience was sub-optimal. Please avoid this tourist trap as there are many better and affordable options on 5th Avenue, never going back again.. read more
1 year ago
1 year ago
Firstly, how can you be a Cuban restaurant without yucca?!!!! Secondly the maduros were sliced and all stuck together and looked like a pile of dog Sh**. This restaurant is not Cuban. I ordered Pollo Cubano and it was boiled chicken with store bought gravy+ tamarindo sauce. read more
1 year ago
This is a Cuban themed restaurant with live music in Playa Del Carmen. They have things like Cuban cigars for sale too, although they can't be transported into the USA. I would rate the food at 7, the ambiance and music a 10. The service was also prompt and professional. The only thing I would recommend for them is that they should have a dance floor for couples who wanted to dance. A few of the couples were in the walkway and it was awkward because it was blocking the server's paths. read more
1 year ago
This is a late post, I was in Playa from 10/30-11/14 and frequented this place twice. Of course I had to come here, and it was nice to be able to eat something different than Mexican food. I don't eat meat and although Cuban is one of my favs, I couldn't eat chicken ...so I had shrimp instead with black beans, rice and plaintains. I was in heaven. My friend at the chicken...and said it was amazing. I was tempted!!!! The second time I came just the black beans, rice and plaintains...AND the caramel flan...which is amazing! The staff here was great and they have live salsa....it was a bit loud but it was fine...love this place! read more
1 year ago
The ambiance is nice. Great Lightning, wonderful music, excellent service and a TOTAL DISASTER for food‼ The food was cold, really cold, the congri rice was mediocre, the vaca frita unappealing and bland, the masitas de cerdo had ZERO seasoning and the beers were almost room temperature. Good luck (after leaving aside your $4 beer because its warm), asking for a glass of ice water ( ONLY FOR SALE). This joint is a TOURIST TRAP . Music good, service very dedicated but the kitchen is literally a hot mess, prices SKY HIGH and the whole experience is based on an OWNER BASED experience ($$$) vs. CUSTOMER based experience. Truth be told; out of 5! read more
3 years ago
Went here late night on a Friday for the live music which was awesome. I thought I would see a lot of dancing but that didn't happen. The restaurant is nice inside and outside you can see all the bats and people watch. The staff is friendly and the food was okay. We had the shrimp dish which was good and it had a sweetness to it. I had the fajitas which was good and I enjoyed the rice. We rarely did restaurants on 5th but we wanted to go for the music. The mojitos were okay. I'm not a big time drinker and they weren't strong for me. Still worth going to. read more
This was my first Cuban experience and the food did not disappoint. We did ask our waitress what she recommended but she let us know that she wasn't well versed in Cuban food. She did show us what the majority of people got, and that is what we ordered. We were not really too impressed with the starter sampler (I would skip it), however, Ropa Vieja and Moros y Cristianos were excellent! The dinner was also paired up with wonderful live music and a not too busy 5th Avenue. read more
3 years ago
Oh come on!!! We get some papas para llevar- 70 pesos gets you this teeny tiny handful in a giant styrofoam box. We asked the absentee server to add 10% tip and she added 20. Portions way too tiny and not that tasty to warrant the high price tag. AVOID!!!! read more
I am so embarrassed that I have not posted a review of La B del M in prior visits. We have been coming here, even at it's old location at the south end of the town. I am told that this is "my happy place" and while I will not argue it's a "happy place" I might push back that it is "the" happy place. The food, the staff, the decor, and especially the music takes this place to the quintessential "next level" .....cannot stand the cliche I just used....oh well. This IS a NOT to be missed place while here in Playa Del Carmen.....came here opening week of post COVID 19 vs 2020 and very glad to see it survived. read more
1 year ago
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5 years ago
Great atmosphere, great food, great drinks! live music , dancing.. it has everything. i've been in mexico city and in havana. it was good at all three locations.. i would absolutely go back. there was all you can eat on the chicken entree.. i thought that was funny but we went for that. enjoyed everything. i recommend this place for its great service, low prices, and its location right in downtown playa del carmen. read more
5 years ago
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7 years ago
La Bodeguita Del Medio changed dramatically since our last visit there. I made a dinner reservation, but upon arrival at 6:30 PM, noticed that it was not needed, as the restaurant was nearly empty. This was not a good sign. I decided to go the safe route and order some appetizers to test the quality and food presentation. I also order their signature "Mojito" cocktail. I ordered some "tostones with camarones". A type of plantain filled with shrimp. The dish was cold and the tostones were not fresh. We decided to take a risk and order main dishes. My wife ordered, a signature Cuban dish, "Ropa Vieja" a type of shredded beef in red souce. I ordered some pork chops in tamarind sauce. Both dishes had poor presentation and tasted terrible. The ropa vieja was atleast edible. I left my pork chops on the table. The only good thing about dinner was the flexibility of our server. The restaurant had a live band that started playing after the lead singer decided to show up late. This was not the place we had previously experience. The restaurant does not stand up to the high standards of original Cuban food and music. I would not recommend this place, in fact I would discourage the experience. read more
10 years ago
Great spot with solid food and great Cuban music. Even during non peak season in playa, this place is buzzing with energy. If it's a hot day, grab a seat outside with a side view to the stage. The Cuban band is great, like what one hears on Buena Vista Social Club. But bring mosquito repellant if you are prone to getting bitten by these little creatures in Playa. In terms of food, the salad is fresh, the ceviche main course (200g) is excellent. Portions are huge so don't hesitate to share. Unless you are an expert crab eater, I would recommend against the crab with white wine and onion even though it looks very tempting. The crab meat is quite difficult to get out (maybe frozen crabs) and it's quite saucy and a bit messy than usual to eat. Wines in playa in general is disappointing. Tried a taste of a white wine by the glass and passed on it. read more
5 years ago
Absolutely amazing local food!!! My Fiancé and I stumbled across this place as our original dinner restaurant was closed. The live Cuban music as well as people dancing was amazing. The food was fresh and truly authentic. Totally recommend this place read more
6 years ago
Amazing authentic cuban food!! I ordered the Del Mar y Tierra and every part of it was absurdly good. I cannot emphasize this enough- you MUST order the fried plantains (maduros)- they are mouth watering. Currently looking up the recipe to make them at home!! The waiter was a bit slow with our table but I'm never in a rush when I'm in Mexico and neither should you! Sit back and enjoy the salsa music! read more
4 years ago
I hate to do this because of my Cuban heritage, but this place was awful. I understand it's more of a bar and nightclub than a restaurant, but it was the worst Cuban food I've ever had. I did go early because I was hungry after my flight and bus ride. And, I was only one of two patrons at the time. The bartender, who was also my waitress, was nice if not a little bit slow. She seemed like she was busy setting up mojitos for the evening service. The rest of the staff mostly just ignored you, and acted like you were bothering them if you asked for anything. Either way I wouldn't recommend this place for dinner. There are much better options close by! read more
Delicious Cuban food. Everything we ordered had great flavor! The Ropa Vieja with the black beans and rice was amazing. As good as what we had in Cuba. The service was excellent. Friendly staff and the food came out quickly. The atmosphere was full of energy. Live music and dancing was very entertaining. The restaurant setting is open and bright. This was my favorite dinner in Playa! read more
5 years ago
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7 years ago
Great little place feels like the real deal. Great music Come for the music and drinks. Off to the next place. read more
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More info about La Bodeguita del Medio
Calle 34 Norte S/N
Col. Centro
77710 Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo
Mexico
Gonzalo Guerrero
Directions
984 803 3951
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.labodeguitadelmedio.com.mx
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La Bodeguita del Medio - cuban - Updated July 2026
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