Private Chef or Dining Out in Cozumel? Here’s How to Choose

Fresh local ingredients available with private chef or dining out in Cozumel

This guide is brought to you by
We’ve Gone Coastal Vacation Rentals
Oceanfront villa + condo stays in Cozumel

✍️ Curated by Dory – Cozumel travel blogger & diver

Option 1: The Luxury of a Private Chef

**Picture this:** You spend the day snorkeling at El Cielo or exploring Mayan ruins...

Why Choose a Private Chef?

A private chef is perfect for:

  • Special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries

  • Big families or groups who want to relax together

  • Foodies craving fresh, authentic island cuisine

  • Guests staying at We’ve Gone Coastal Villa (Costa del Sol)

  • Families with kids or special dietary needs

We’ve Gone Coastal Tip:
We work with trusted local chefs who customize menus to your tastes - Mexican classics, tropical fusion, you name it .

👉 Want to learn more about the perks of vacation rentals for private chef nights? Read my guide: Why Choose a Vacation Rental Over a Resort →

Private Chef: Pros & Cons

✔️ Pros ❌ Cons
Personalized, fresh meals Costs more than dining out
Relax at your villa Need to plan ahead
Great for families & groups Might miss town vibe
Enjoy the ease of a private chef preparing meals in your villa or condo

Option 2: Cozumel’s Amazing Restaurant Scene

Cozumel’s restaurant scene is vibrant, authentic, and full of local charm. From casual taco stands to upscale seafood with sunset views, there’s a flavor for every palate.

Why You’ll Love Dining Out

Dining out is perfect if you:

  • Want to soak up local culture

  • Love trying different restaurants each night

  • Prefer walkability (especially if staying at We’ve Gone Coastal Condo at El Cantil)

  • Want to mix it up with private chef nights too

Dine out for authentic mexican food or a sunset view

Dining Out: Pros & Cons

✔️ Pros ❌ Cons
Local culture, new flavors Can add up 💲
Walkability May need reservations
Lots of variety Busy during peak times

Top Restaurant Picks Near El Cantil Condo

  • Casa Mission – Beautiful hacienda, classic Mexican cuisine

  • Guido’s – Pasta + legendary garlic bread

  • Burritos Gorditos – Big flavor on a budget

  • La Perlita – Don’t miss the lionfish tacos!

  • Buccanos – Seafood with ocean views

  • Mercado Municipal – Local eats & fresh market

  • Paprika – Caribbean-Mexican fusion on the beach

  • Kondesa – Upscale Mexican in a garden setting


Dining Near Our Villa in Costa del Sol

  • Sereno Cozumel – Trendy spot with fresh, flavorful dishes

  • The Money Bar – Live music, casual eats, sunset views

  • Doña Chely – Authentic local Mexican, short walk from Costa del Sol

  • Alberto’s Beach Bar – Beachfront seafood, toes in the sand

  • SkyReef – Snorkeling, seafood, drinks all in one

  • Casa Mission – Worth the drive every time!


🌮 Hungry for More?
Discover even more foodie favorites in our full island dining guide:
Where to Eat and Drink in Cozumel

Plus, check out our must-try picks:
Best Cozumel Restaurants
From taco stands to private chefs, it's your go-to guide for the best bites on the island!

🛒 DIY: Grocery Shopping & Cooking In

Want total flexibility? Stock up on fresh ingredients and cook in your fully equipped villa or condo kitchen.

Where to Shop

  • Mega Soriana: Groceries, fresh produce, bakery

  • Chedraui: Local + international products

  • Sam’s Club: Bulk items for longer stays

  • Local Markets: Fresh fruit, veggies, seafood

  • Mercado Municipal: Authentic local meats & fish

Enjoy fresh seafood and produce options daily in Cozumel

Grocery Service = Max Beach Time

No one dreams of spending vacation in a grocery aisle! We can arrange for groceries to be delivered and stocked before you arrive. Just send your list - we’ll handle the rest.

Grocery Service Pricing:

  • $50 USD minimum

  • Groceries + 25%

  • $15 delivery fee

👉 View Villa Digital Guide & Condo Digital Guide for details


Affiliate Disclosure:
Some links on this site are affiliate links, where We’ve Gone Coastal may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
We also participate in the Travelpayouts program, which may provide a small commission when you book through their links.
We only recommend products and services we use or believe in and appreciate your support.


So… Which Option Is Right for You?

Honestly? Why not both! Start your trip with a chef-prepared meal at sunset...


More Ways to Plan the Perfect StayBest Cozumel Restaurants

Best Cozumel Restaurants

What to Pack for Cozumel

Getting Around Cozumel

Beach Bar Loop Blog

🍽️ **Ready to plan your island eats?**

Psst! Want my favorite private chef recommendations... or help booking that sunset dinner on the sand? Drop me a line anytime — I’m always here to help you taste your way through paradise. 🌴✨

📧 Email Dory | 💙 Facebook


Some links on this site are affiliate links, which means We’ve Gone Coastal may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. We participate in the Amazon Associates and Travelpayouts programs, earning from qualifying purchases and bookings. We only recommend products and experiences we use, love, or believe will add value to your adventures. Your support helps keep the sunshine flowing, thank you!

Curious why we love sharing Cozumel? Meet Dory & Learn How We’ve Gone Coastal Came to Be →

A Foodie’s Guide to the Island | Written by Shannon Coleman (aka Dory)
Published: April 2

Shannon Coleman (aka Dory)

Hi, I’m Shannon “Dory” Coleman - scuba diver, memory-maker, and barefoot adventurer! Alongside my husband Jefe, I own We’ve Gone Coastal - two oceanfront vacation rentals in beautiful Cozumel, Mexico. When I’m not diving the reefs, I’m sharing sea glass secrets, connecting through Rotary, or sipping wine while dreaming up the next adventure. Come explore island life, one sun-kissed moment at a time.

https://www.wevegonecoastal.com
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