Ría Maya Restaurant

Ria Maya Restaurant: Preparing for a Fresh Season

“We are currently closed for restoration as we prepare to bring you an even better dining experience. We are working hard to refresh our space while preserving the authentic coastal flavors that have made us a favorite in Rio Lagartos for decades.

Expected Reopening: April 2026

We cannot wait to welcome you back to enjoy the best sunset views and the freshest seafood on the coast. In the meantime, our Nature and Birding Tours are operating fully!“

Nestled on the water’s edge in the heart of the Ría Lagartos Biosphere Reserve, Ría Maya Restaurant is a family-owned gem where fresh-caught seafood meets panoramic vistas. Operated by the Núñez family — Diego, Matilde and their children — the restaurant serves lobster, octopus, conch and locally-caught fish, paired with produce grown in their on-site garden.

Matilde Marfil: A Culinary Heritage

“Daughter of a family of local fishermen, Matilde began her journey in gastronomy as a young girl at the side of her father, Mr. Roman Marfil. A fisherman by trade who cooked his entire life for the maritime workers of the Yucatan coast, Mr. Roman passed down the secret of perfectly seasoned seafood.

In 1988, Matilde began her professional career at the famous ‘Isla Contoy’ Restaurant. There, she worked side-by-side with her mother-in-law (Don Diego’s mother), who was widely recognized as the number one cook in Rio Lagartos. Under her mentorship for over 18 years, Matilde mastered the traditional techniques and deep flavors of the region.

Today, as the heart of the Ria Maya Restaurant, Matilde ensures that this dual family legacy—the wisdom of the fisherman and the secrets of the town’s finest cook—is preserved in every dish we serve.”

“While our kitchen is currently undergoing restoration to serve you better, we look forward to sharing these traditional flavors with you again in early 2026!”

The dining room unfolds under a traditional palapa roof, and the second‐floor terrace delivers an unobstructed 180° view of the estuary at sunset. It’s a perfect setting to sip wine, observe pelicans and frigatebirds returning to roost, and catch fishermen bringing in the day’s catch.

Breakfast, lunch and dinner are on the menu — from ceviches and grilled seafood to Yucatecan favourites, all prepared with the freshest ingredients. The atmosphere is relaxed and family-friendly, with both indoor and open-air seating to soak in the lagoon breeze.

Whether you’re arriving straight from a nature tour of the reserve or winding down the day with a sunset meal, Ría Maya offers more than food — it’s an experience highlight in Río Lagartos.

Ria Maya Restaurant is a family owned business operated by Diego and Matilde.

The restaurant serves locally caught fresh seafood, according with the open seasons , Lobster ,Octopus and Fish are all locally caught. The freshly prepared ceviches are made with local ingredients.

We have the best unobstructed view of the sunset And the view is spectacular from the second story palapa roofed restaurant !