El Palomar Cozumel

Delicious! We were very happy that we chose El Palomar! We started with the Octopus Stir-fry and the Fish Ceviche. Both were delicious but I was most impressed with the Octopus even though I am not usually a fan. For our entrees we had Rosita (shrimp tacos) and Panuchos (chicken tostadas). The menu didn’t have much for descriptions but our server was very helpful. He also was able to help us navigate the menu successfully with our food allergies!

We visited El Palomar last night because we wanted a somewhat romantic dinner while watching the lightning storm. They have great mixed drinks (such as La Llorona for mezcal lovers) and a nice covered porch on which to enjoy them. Last night the porch was full so we sat just inside under the high ceiling surrounded by photos of marine life. It was comfortable with good cross-ventilation and music of pleasant volume. We had avocado soup and a range of tacos to start, then snapper fillet al mojo de ajo and pork belly carnitas (which were a highlight). The tortillas are handmade and mains are served with white rice and black beans colados. Service was good. El Palomar is a dependable restaurant with a beautiful setting, great drinks, and delicious food.

My husband and I came in to have a slow afternoon meal and drinks. Our server, Christian, was absolutely perfect! He was friendly and informative and took care of us for many hours while we enjoyed. I had the fish of the day and my husband had the octopus. We each had three drinks as well. Everything was fresh and tasty. The atmosphere was exactly what we wanted. This was an amazing experience and we will be back! Gracias, Christian!

This restaurant is nicely located on the main strip, but slightly away from the square so it’s a bit quieter. They have an elevated Mexican menu that they execute very well. My husband and I were particularly impressed with the tuna tostada appetizer. It was seared perfectly, and had a delicious smokey chipotle mayo and nice, fresh, crunchy coleslaw. The view of the ocean is lovely and there are outdoor tables but also areas inside where it’s nice and shady. This isn’t your typical Carlos Charlie’s or Senor Frog’s-type place. It’s much more authentic, but elevated, and the staff are gracious and the service was quick. I think the appetizers are nice enough that you can eat them tapas style. Order one, have a drink, order another, and repeat.

Me atrajo el concepto de la casa de los años 50 con un toque actualizado vintage. El menu se veia muy atractivo, sin embargo no fue nada espectacular, simplemente como comida de casa, pedimos tacos de langosta normales, puntas de filete muy normales y una sopa de aguacate mala. El servicio terrible, en muy pocos momentos el mesero se aparecia, hasta que me di cuenta que estaba sentado en otra mesa con sus cuates o compañeros de trabajo! Se sentia un ambiente en todo el personal de poco esmero en el servicio.