Innovative, upscale Mexican fare such as quesadillas with squash blossom flowers is a highlight of La Destileria (011.52.998.885.1087; www.ladestileria.com.mx) but even more compelling are the 150-plus brands of tequila on tap. Completely devoted to Mexico’s legendary spirit, La Destileria utilizes tequila in many of its recipes, its margaritas are considered some of the best in town, and it is also a museum showcasing the history and production of tequila through lithographs and murals. La Destileria offers private tequila tastings for groups of up to 50 people, and for sit-down meals, the restaurant accommodates up to 250 people. Several areas are available, including a terrace overlooking the lagoon and seating up to 100 guests.
Since 1977, La Habichuela (011.52.998 .884.3158; www.lahabichuela.com) has been a favorite among visitors and locals for its warm ambience and creative Caribbean fare. Its signature dish is Cocobichuela, a mix of fresh lobster and shrimp cooked in curry sauce and served in a coconut shell with rice and tropical fruit. La Habichuela’s lush Mayan sculpture garden hosts up to 100 people, and groups of up to 70 people can dine inside.
A rich taste of the Yucatan awaits patrons next door at La Habichuela’s sister restaurant, Labna (011.52.998.884.3158; www.labna.com), specializing in upscale Yucatecan cuisine. The menu features dishes such as cochinita pibil (pig wrapped in a banana leaf and slow-roasted in local seasonings). Labna accommodates groups of up to 90 people.
One of the hippest places to dine in Cancun is Laguna Grill(011.52.998 .885.0267; www.lagunagrill.com.mx) where the chef’s fusion cuisine, incorporating Mexican, Asian and Italian influences, is just as cutting-edge as the contemporary and exotic decor and architecture, including a waterfront deck. Fresh seafood and steaks are specialties of the house. Laguna Grill accommodates groups of up to 200 people, and its adjacent Tragara Bar is available for receptions.
A local institution and favorite among groups large and small, Lorenzillo’s(011.52 .998.883.1254; www.lorenzillos.com.mx) is all about lobster. Every one of the crustaceans served at Lorenzillo’s comes from the restaurant’s own lobster farm, while plenty of other fresh, classically prepared seafood is also available. Groups can enjoy various settings at the establishment, including waterfront palapas with panoramic views.
