The Boldest Craft Beers of Yucatán

The Riviera Maya is the main hub for craft production. Get to know the brands that lead the local scene.

Leading Breweries in the Riviera Maya

• Cervecería Akumal: A consistent brand from the Riviera Maya. Their focus is on producing varied styles adapted to the warm climate, ranging from Light Ales to Stouts. It’s one of the easiest brands to find in local bars and gourmet shops.
• CheladePlaya: A pioneer in the Mexican Caribbean, this brewery offers a solid range and is known for having its own tasting room (taproom) in Playa del Carmen and a location in Cancún (near Avenida Huayacán), ideal for trying fresh beer straight from the tap.
• Cervecería Punta Sur (Cozumel): If you travel to the island, look for this brand. They often offer profiles adapted to the Caribbean environment.
• Cervecería Tulum: A brand that, true to its name, focuses on the free spirit of the archaeological zone, often offering refreshing and characterful options.

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2. The Truly Regional Flavors and Their Styles

The real magic happens when brewers draw inspiration from the Yucatán pantry, transforming traditional ingredients into cutting-edge beers.

The Floral Sweetness of Melipona Honey

Melipona Honey comes from the stingless Maya bee, cultivated in the jungle and pesticide-free. This ingredient is used in Blond Ale or Wheat Beer styles to provide a subtle, non-cloying floral sweetness—perfect for the tropical weather.

• Where to look: Pay attention to Yucatán brands like Cerveza Ceiba (in their special editions), or breweries dedicated to pure honey beer like Nikte-Kaab. The Ceiba brand, in particular, is highly recognized for its quality and availability across the peninsula.

The Smoked Aftertaste of Habanero Chili

This is a bold and spicy style. Habanero Chili is often used tatemado (lightly smoked) in Lager or Stout beers to infuse aroma and a slight spiciness in the aftertaste.

• Examples and where to find them: These are often limited editions. Look for the Lager Habanero Tatemado from brands like Monstruo de Agua (if they are visiting the region) or craft beers that use Xcatic chili. Ask specialized bars for any brew featuring Yucatán’s most famous pepper.

3. The Tasting Guide: How and Where to Try

For the best pairing and experience, you need to look beyond the tourist menus and seek out specialized venues.

A. Tasting Rooms and Bars

1. In Playa del Carmen: Look for taprooms or bars with rotating selections near Calle 38 or in the downtown area. Establishments like Club de Cerveza or Colectivo Mexicano Cervecero are known for having a wide selection of Mexican craft beers on tap and in bottles.
2. In Cancún: Explore Avenida Huayacán and some central downtown areas. Restaurants like La Vicenta and other independent bars often have a good selection of craft beers, including El Tabernario (an Amber Ale with a firm, toasted, and caramel flavor).

B. Other Key Peninsular Brands (Yucatán)

Although produced in the neighboring state, the following brands are key in Quintana Roo and are almost always available:

• Cerveza Ceiba: One of the most recognized and distributed brands, famous for its well-crafted classic styles.
• Cerveza Patito: Offers modern styles and is very popular in restaurants across the Riviera Maya.

C. Purchasing and Pairing

• Gourmet Stores: Large supermarkets (like Chedraui Selecto) or specialty liquor stores often have dedicated coolers for craft beer.

Next time you’re in the Riviera Maya, set aside the international beer and dive into the flavor of the jungle. You’ll be supporting local producers who are telling a unique flavor story with every brew.