We recently returned from our second trip to Royalton CHIC Cancun, an adults-only all-inclusive resort by Marriott. Our first visit was back in 2021, so this was a great opportunity to compare how the dining has changed — and in some cases, where it has quietly been downgraded.
The resort has nine restaurants and four bars. Between our two visits we managed to eat at seven of them. If you are a foodie deciding whether to book here, here is our honest ranking of what to prioritize and what to skip.
The Top Tier: What You Must Try
1. Level 18 (Diamond Club Exclusive)
This rooftop restaurant is our top pick for dinner — and if you have Diamond Club access, it is included in your stay at no extra cost.
The Highlights: We ordered the salmon and the cheesy risotto, and both were fantastic. Rich, buttery, and a clear step above standard resort fare.
The 2024 Downgrade: It felt slightly less special than our 2021 visit. Back then they offered a welcome drink and intricate dessert presentations — neither of which still happens. We also had a frustrating seating experience — listed as first come, first served, but we were denied a window seat only to watch another couple get seated there shortly after. Still our number one recommendation, but manage your expectations on service.
2. Agave (Mexican Cuisine)
You are in Mexico — you have to try the local cuisine. We did not make it to Agave on our 2024 trip, but our 2021 experience was excellent. They also offer a tableside tequila tasting experience (note: extra out-of-pocket charge, but a fun touch for a special occasion).
3. Hunter Steakhouse
A reliable option when you want a proper steak dinner.
The Food: The ribeye cooked medium-rare was perfectly seasoned, incredibly soft, and one of the better steaks we've had at an all-inclusive. Side dishes are mediocre, but the steak earns its spot.
Pro Tip: Window seats require you to purchase a bottle of wine. On a weekday, getting a table without a long wait is usually easy.
The Buffet & Casual Bites
Gourmet Marché (The Buffet)
One of the best resort buffets we have experienced — honestly better than the buffet at Secrets The Vine. Massive, very spacious, clean, and a huge variety of Mexican and American breakfast options. The views are beautiful too.
Hours: Breakfast daily 6:30–11:00 AM. Dinner Thursday–Sunday 6:00–10:00 PM only (closed Monday–Wednesday for dinner — confirm current schedule on arrival).
Munchies Grill
Located at the pool bar. They recently started serving grilled food here — our butler recommended it and we agreed. Great for a tasty midday snack without leaving the pool area.
The Cafe
A reliable stop for great coffee, soft-serve ice cream, and quick sandwiches throughout the day. You can serve yourself soft-serve in different flavors — a simple but consistently enjoyable option.
The Skip List
Grazie Italian Trattoria: The to-go pizza dough was plain, and when we sat down for pasta it was genuinely bad — especially compared to Italian food at other luxury resorts. Not worth your time when better options are available.
Jade (Asian Cuisine): Slightly better than the Asian restaurants at some other all-inclusives, but not worth prioritizing when Level 18, Agave, and the steakhouse are all options.
Cloud 9: Charges an additional out-of-pocket fee even for Diamond Club members. If we are paying extra at an all-inclusive, we would rather go to a standalone restaurant off-property.
Room Service: A Noticeable Downgrade
Room service is decent but the 2024 menu is a step down from 2021. Protein options like steak and salmon have been removed. If you visited a few years ago and are returning, do not expect the same menu.
Our Priority Order
- Level 18 — Diamond Club dinner, no extra charge, best food on property
- Agave — Must-try Mexican cuisine
- Hunter Steakhouse — Reliable, great steak
- Gourmet Marché — Best breakfast buffet on property
- Munchies Grill / The Cafe — Easy daytime options
- Jade — Only if you have already hit everything above
- Cloud 9 — Skip at an all-inclusive price point
- Grazie — Skip entirely
For our full take on the resort — rooms, party scene, and whether the Diamond Club upgrade is worth the extra $114/night — read our Royalton CHIC Cancun hotel review.
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- Conrad Tulum Review: Ceiba Club Suite
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- Secrets The Vine Review: Is the Preferred Club Worth It?
- Secrets The Vine Food Review: Best & Worst All-Inclusive Dining
- Royalton CHIC Cancun Review: Is Diamond Club Worth It?
- Cambalache: Birthday Dinner at an Argentinian Steakhouse
- VIP Lounge by Mera — Cancun Airport Terminal 4
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