Arte Sano is one of the best restaurants in Holbox that has vegan and vegetarian food

17 Best Holbox restaurants (2023)

Holbox is a popular island off the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula that boasts a great food scene. Whether you want to try classic Mexican food or are more in the mood for some delicious firewood pizza and cocktails, there are many restaurants in Holbox where you can grab a bite.

In this article, I will go over some of the best places to eat in Holbox for any taste and budget, so you can be sure you will find the right place for your breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

Staying a few days on the island? Check my guide to the best hotels in Holbox

Best Vegan Restaurants in Holbox 

Arte Sano is one of the best vegan restaurants in Holbox that offers burgers, tacos and delicious pancakes

1. Arte Sano 

Arte Sano is one of the best vegan restaurants and my top pick overall. Let me tell you: even if you are not a plant-based eater, you will fall in love with this place!

If you are looking for the best brunch in Holbox, stop at Arte Sano, they have the best vegan menu on the island

This place has a super friendly owner and staff and offers a peaceful home-like atmosphere away from the hustle and bustle of Holbox. Order one of their plant-based burgers with golden French fries, and you will totally think it’s the real one, it’s THAT good! 

The owner, Francisco and the entire staff are super friendly and offer the best service in Holbox!

Arte Sano is a great vegan Holbox restaurant that boasts a home-like atmosphere and wonderful healthy dishes.
Artesano is one of the best holbox restaurants that has delicious vegan items on the menu

All options at Arte Sano are vegan or vegetarian, and all ingredients are made in-house.

I’ve visited Arte Sano multiple times while staying in Holbox and always had a great experience at this restaurant. They have chocolate-covered waffles and pancakes topped with fruits and smoothie bowls for breakfast.

Arte Sano is the best vegan restaurant in Holbox

Their lunch menu offers an assortment of tacos, quesadillas, crispy flautas, and other traditional Mexican foods made vegan.

Similar to the rest of Mexico, you are supposed to tip between 10-20 percent of your bill in Holbox restaurants

Arte Sano is one of the most popular breakfast places in Holbox that has the best vegan food on the island

And let me tell you: their juices and cocktails will blow you away!

Hours: 9 a.m.-10 p.m. every day

Address: C. Gerónimo de Aguilar & C. Palomino.

Painapol offers the best Holbox breakfast with many vegan and vegetarian options on the menu

2. Painapol Holbox 

Painapol is one of the best spots for brunch in Holbox. Their menu offers vegetarian and vegan options with smoothies, sandwiches, vegan platters and pancakes. They have great coffee, freshly squeezed juices, and yummy matcha. 

Read my guide to the best Tulum restaurants

Their toasts come with a combination of various toppings like eggs and vegetables. Travelers love Painapol’s freshly baked focaccias that come with artichokes, and cheeses. 

Painapol is one of the most popular breakfast places in Holbox that has smoothies, açaí bowls and pancakes.

PRO TIP: Painapol is one of the most popular breakfast places to eat in Holbox, and it gets BUSY! If you want to avoid standing in line, show up early. 

If you are looking for a hearty meal to start your day, look no further than Painapol Holbox. Just make sure to arrive early morning, because if you come after 10 a.m., there might be a line.

Painapol is one of the most popular Holbox restaurants for breakfast and brunch

Vegan and vegetarian options are available.

Hours: 8 a.m.-3:25 p.m. every day except for Tuesday when it’s closed.

Address: Calle Tiburón Ballena s/n, 77310 Holbox, Q.R., Mexico

La Pinsa is one of the most popular casual Holbox restaurants that has the best pizza on the island

3. La Pinsa 

Trying hot oven-baked pizza at Pizzeria La Pinsa was one of my favorite experiences in Holbox for me, and I’m sure it will be for you too! 

La Pinsa is the top place in Holbox to grab a fluffy, yet amazingly crispy pizza. I’ve tried their vegan Margarita with yummy cheese and herbs and absolutely loved it!

La Pinsa is the best place to grab a mouthwatering firewood pizza in Holbox

La Pinsa also has many starters like guacamole, salads, and traditional Italian cheeses and meats. In addition to pizzas, they have focaccias, and sandwiches made from home-made dough.

Arrive early because they often have a waitlist.

Vegan and vegetarian options are available.

Hours: 8 a.m.-12 p.m. every day

AddressAv. Pedro Joaquín Coldwell, 77310 Holbox, Q.R., Mexico

Best breakfast in Holbox

Mr. Happy offers some of the best breakfast in Holbox.

4. Mr. Happy

One of the top-rated places for breakfast in Holbox, Mr. Happy won’t disappoint you if you are looking for a classic American breakfast. This place offers waffles, omlettees, pancakes, and coffee in addition to smoothies and freshly brewed coffee.

Their dirty horchata is a must-try! 

Hours: 8:30 a.m.-3 p.m. every day

AddressAl lado de la Guarderia Elvirita, Avenida Damero Camino al Mercadito, 77310 Holbox

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    5. Clandestino. Coffee Shop 

    Clandestino Coffee Shop is said to be one of the best breakfast spots in Holbox. They have homemade avocado toasts, bagels, freshly squeezed juices, smoothies, and pastries.

    Travelers leave glowing reviews, and when you come here, it’s not hard to see why – Not only Clandestino has a great menu, the food is top-notch, and the customer service is friendly and welcoming. 

     Their cappuccino and matcha consistently get 5-star reviews, so you should give them a try!

    Hours: 8 a.m.-3:30 p.m. every day

    Address: C. P.º Kuka 12, 77310 Holbox, Q.R., Mexico

    Best Mexican restaurants in Holbox 

    Chapulum is a great option for fine dining in Holbox that has a nice menu and wonderful atmosphere.

    6. El Chapulim

    El Chapulim is a unique restaurant that offers a menu of the day at a set price. There’s no regular menu, and you can choose only from what’s available on a given day. 

    Their four main courses change daily and consist of fresh ingredients like fruits and veggies, meats, and seafood. 

    Their drink menu works similarly. Just like your food, your drinks are prepared in front of you. The restaurant boasts a great ambiance and is a perfect spot for lunch or dinner in Holbox. 

    The chef will personally take your order which makes for a fantastic experience. 

    Hours: 8 a.m.-11 a.m. every day

    Address: Tiburon Ballena entre Damero y Coldwell, 77310 Holbox, Q.R., Mexico

    Taco Queto offers some of the best Holbox tacos with many fillings and types of sauces. Visitors love Taco Quito's great prices and lively atmosphere.

    7. Taco Queto

    Taco Queto is where you can try the best Holbox tacos! 

    But that’s not all: This place also has mouthwatering quesadillas and burritos in a nice setting right next to the beach. 

    Other options on the menu include guacamole, nachos, and a couple of pizzas. 

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    It’s one of the most budget-friendly places to eat in Holbox, where you can enjoy flavorful meals relatively inexpensively.

    Hours: 5 p.m.-11 p.m. every day

    AddressCalle Pedro Joaquín Coldwell casi esquina Calle Tiburón Ballena Isla, 77310 Holbox

    8. Viva Zapata 

    One of the best Mexican restaurants in Holbox, Viva Zapata has a variety of fresh seafood. Other items on the menu are tacos quesadillas, nachos, and ceviche.

    There are also plenty of drinks like beers and wines.

    Spoiler alert: It offers some of the best margaritas in Holbox! 

    This is a great mid-range option as prices are not too expensive, but not overly cheap. 

    The restaurant has a cozy seating area outside, which is perfect if you are going for dinner in the evening and want to enjoy the nice ambiance. 

    Hours: 10 a.m.-11:30 p.m.

    AddressAv. Damero 67, 77310 Holbox, Q.R., Mexico

    Best seafood in Holbox

    Los Peleones is one of the most popular establishments in downtown Holbox that's perfect if you want to have a fun night out.

    9. Los Peleones Holbox 

    You simply can’t miss Los Peleones while walking around downtown Holbox – it’s one of the most iconic establishments on the island! 

    There’s a good reason why this restaurant is so popular: The service at Los Pelones is top-notch, the food is always delicious, and the portions are generous!

    Los Peleones is a popular restaurant in downtown Holbox that has a great ambiance and friendly staff.

    Los Peleones has plenty of Italian food like bruschetta and pasta with seafood and pesto, although there are also some Mexican staples on the menu like fish tacos, shrimp ceviche, and delicious fajitas with a multitude of fillings. 

    The rooftop setting and view of the island make for a fantastic dining experience in Holbox! 

    Hours: 8 a.m.-11:30 p.m.

    AddressCalle tiburon Ballena Sin Numero, Frente Al Parque, 77310 Holbox, Q.R., Mexico

    Rosa Mexicano is one of the best Mexican restaurants in Holbox where you can try tacos, quesadillas, and other traditional Mexican dishes.

    10. Rosa Mexicano 

    Don’t forget to try Rosa Mexicano while in Holbox!

    Here you can watch your chef prepare your dishes right in front of you and savor the seafood dishes like lobster risotto, crab soup, and ceviches made from fresh ingredients.

    Their spicy watermelon margaritas are a must-try! 

    Hours: 8:30 a.m.-10:30 p.m.

    AddressCalle Tiburón Ballena, 77310 Holbox, Q.R., Mexico

    Raises is one of the best restaurants for fine dining in Holbox

    11. Raíces 

    Raises offers excellent value for its meals and drinks. Slightly off the beaten path, this venue doesn’t see as many people as more popular Holbox restaurants, and yet, make sure not to miss it!

    Try their coconut shrimp, fish tacos, and ceviches, and grab a dessert to top it off.

    This small beachside restaurant is the perfect spot to see the sun go down with a drink in your hand. 

    Hours: 1 p.m.-11 p.m. every day

    AddressEsquina con Sierra, Calle Gerónimo de Aguilar, 77310 Holbox, Q.R., Mexico

    Ceviche a la Chingada is a popular seafood in Holbox that has some of the best fish tacos on the island.

    12. Ceviches La Chingada 

    Offering some of the best seafood in Holbox, Ceviche a La Chingada always has a fresh catch. Start with guacamole before ordering fish tacos, ceviche, or shrimp quesadilla packed with flavor. 

    Travelers say that it’s also one of the best budget-friendly restaurants in Holbox, where you can eat deliciously without spending a ton of money. 

    Holbox is one of the most popular places to visit in the Yucatan Peninsula that's home to many great restaurants.
    La Chingada offers some of the best seafood in Holbox with ceviche and fish tacos particularly popular among visitors

    To finish your meal, choose from a variety of cocktails made from local, fresh ingredients like passion fruit, melon, mango, or kiwi. 

    Hours: 12 p.m.-9 p.m. except for Tuesday when it’s closed

    AddressC. Carito, 77310 Holbox, Q.R., Mexico

    Best fine dining Holbox restaurants

    Piedra Santa is one of the most popular fine dining Holbox restaurants where you can enjoy drinks and amazing atmosphere.

    13. Piedrasanta Holbox 

    Piedra Santa is a popular fine dining spot that offers a mix of Latin, Mexican, and Caribbean options. 

    Located downtown Holbox, this restaurant boasts a charming garden setting, and the staff does a wonderful job preparing elaborate seafood dishes, flavorful drinks, and desserts so they look like a piece of artwork. 

    Travelers praise Piedra Santa’s friendly staff and great ambiance. 

    Hours: 5 p.m.-12 a.m. every day

    AddressC. P.º Kuka 27, 77310 Holbox, Q.R., Mexico

    Luuma is a great eatery in Holbox if you want to grab a hearty brunch or dinner.

    14. Luuma

    Luuma is a lively open-air eatery that offers contemporary Mexican food with vegetarian options.  

    It also has a good variety of cocktails, and delicious Mexican dishes like empanadas, tapas, ceviches, and some options with falafels. Many visitors come here for the atmosphere, as the place has live music and a great ambiance. 

    Although it’s definitely more of a fancy option, you can find some simple options like toast and pastries. 

    Guests sit either at the bar or in a courtyard under the trees.

    Hours: 8 a.m.- 4 p.m. and 5 p.m.-11:30 p.m. every day

    AddressAv. Damero, Centro, 77310 Holbox, Q.R., Mexico.

    15. Ser Esencia Restaurant 

    Located inside the CasaSandra Boutique Hotel in downtown Holbox, Sea Esencia is one of the most expensive restaurants on the island.

    Although prices here are far from low, a visit to this beachside spot is well worth it. Here you can try many yummy dishes inspired by traditional Yucatec cuisine with a modern blend. 

    Some popular items on the menu include mushroom risotto and fish tartar.

    AddressCalle Igualdad costado de Sec Tec, 77310 Holbox, Q.R., Mexico

    Best rated Holbox restaurants

    Alta Gula is one of the best Holbox restaurants that offers milanesas, arepas and quesadillas.

    16. Alta Gula 

    Alta Gala is a hidden gem of Holbox that sits a few blocks away from downtown. This Argentinian/Venezuelan restaurant serves mainly empanadas, arepas, pies and milanesas. 

    Portions are pretty generous at Alta Gala and their food is incredibly delicious

    It boasts a nice ambiance and is one of the top choices among travelers on Holbox since it’s often packed with happy customers!

    Alta Gula is a popular restaurant in Isla Holbox that has arepas, milanesas and empanadas.

    Hours: 1:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Saturday through Thursday and 2:30 p.m.-11 p.m. Friday

    Address: Calle Carito Y Porfirio Diaz, Holbox, Holbox Island 77310 Mexico

    17. Casa Nostra Roof Restaurant 

    Casa Nostra is a popular Italian restaurant that serves up a blend of Mediterranean and Sicilian dishes in a rooftop setting. 

    Their gnocchi and tuna tartare are out of this world, and flavorful pasta melts away in your mouth when you try it! It’s also one of the most reasonably priced restaurants where you can enjoy good portions without spending too much money. 

    Try their tiramisu for dessert. It’s simply fantastic! 

    Reservations are recommended since it’s one of the most popular restaurants on the island.

    Hours: 5 p.m.-10 p.m.every day

    Address: Av. Pedro Joaquin Coldwell Av.Pedro Joaquin Coldwell, Holbox Island

    Don’t miss out on delicious street food in Holbox 

    Holbox also boasts delicious street food. I recommend trying marquesitas, a typical Yucatec snack that’s made from a crispy pancake and filled with a variety of fruits and chocolate. 

    Where to stay in Holbox: Best hotels in Holbox for any budget

    Where to stay in Holbox

    ✅ Budget: Alcobas Del Mar – This chic boutique hotel is known for its excellent service and great location. Albocas Del Mar is a fun choice for those on a budget. You will be a five-minute walk from downtown Holbox and the beach, so you don’t need to rent a bicycle. 

    ✅ Mid-range: Spirit Holbox – a great spot for a getaway. This eco-conscious fifteen-room hotel was built on a nature reserve along the Caribbean. Enjoy the rooftop pool and sunbathe with a view of the island.

    ✅ Luxury: El Corazon Boutique Hotel – This beachfront adults-only hotel in Holbox is a sustainable property in the quiet part of the island but only a few blocks away from the center of action. Built in a traditional holboxeño style, the hotel offers breakfast and a relaxing atmosphere.

    ✅ Hostel: El Barco Verde – A popular hostel that offers shared and private rooms. Guests can also arrange a vegetarian breakfast. Downtown Holbox is a quick walk away.

    Holbox restaurants: FAQ

    Holbox is a small island off the coast of the Yucatan Peninsula that's famous for its white sand beaches and pink flamingoes.

    How much do you tip in Holbox?

    Similar to the rest of Mexico, you are supposed to tip between 10-20 percent of your bill when eating out in Holbox. Tipping in Mexico is not mandatory, but highly encouraged and you should use your dissection when leaving a tip based on the quality of the service that you received. 

    Can you pay with dollars in Holbox?

    U.S. dollars are accepted in some places, but most restaurants on the island accept Mexican pesos. If you don’t have cash, you can also pay with a credit card in many restaurants around the island. 

    Do I need cash in Holbox?

    Yes, you need cash in Holbox. Although most places accept credit cards, cash is still king on the island. Some small eateries and street vendors operate solely on cash, and you should always have a few hundred Mexican Pesos in your wallet.

    How much is a drink on Holbox?

    The price of a drink on Holbox depends on the establishment. While some low-key bars charge between 30-40 Mexican Pesos for a drink, fine-dining restaurants charge anywhere between 150-200 Pesos for a glass of wine. 

    How much does a meal cost in Holbox?

    The price of a meal in Holbox varies drastically depending on where you are on the island. For example, you can easily spend a few hundred dollars on a per person in some of the high-end Holbox restaurants, whereas simple taco joints will cost you under 100 Pesos ($ 5 USD) per meal.

    What’s the best pizza place in Holbox?

    The best Pizza place in Holbox is La Pinsa, a popular pizzeria located in downtown Holbox.

    Where can I find the best breakfast in Holbox?

    You can find the best breakfast in Holbox in Painapol, Arte Sano, and Clandestine Coffee Shop. 

    Painapol is a brunch restaurant that has some of the best smoothies and acai bowls in Holbox

    Best places to eat in Holbox: final word 

    Holbox might be a small island, but its food scene is second to none as it offers a lot of variety and flavors from all over the world. Don’t forget to visit some of the best restaurants on the island while spending time in Holbox to enjoy the many delicious options.