There’s a rare kind of joy that comes from revisiting a destination that once lived in your memories, and realizing it is somehow even better than you remembered.

That was the feeling during our recent escape to AVA Resort Cancun, where every sunrise felt like a postcard and every moment invited you to slow down and savor. But what surprised us most? The way the resort takes their dining experiences seriously, making it a place where anyone can find a dish or snack to enjoy. This resort doesn’t just serve meals, it curates experiences, offering 17 diverse dining and drinking venues that each tell their own story through flavor, ambiance, and intention. From upscale steakhouses to beachfront bakeries, AVA turns every craving into a chance to fall in love with resort and hotel food all over again, selections that are as fresh as they are carefully curated for every visitor.

Black Iron Steakhouse: Fire, Flavor, and Atmosphere

Stepping into Black Iron Steakhouse feels like entering a private, sultry world where flame meets finesse. Rich woods, flickering candles, and the irresistible scent of open-fire cooking create a moody yet modern atmosphere perfect for a refined night out. The menu highlights high-quality cuts, including dry-aged steaks, flame-grilled seafood, and seasonal sides that celebrate depth and boldness. Every plate is elevated but grounded, bringing classic techniques to the forefront with a dramatic flair that makes dinner feel like an event. It’s the kind of place where you lose track of time over great conversation and an expertly crafted cocktail.

Veranda: Where Italy Meets the Caribbean Breeze

At Veranda, Italian comfort and coastal luxury come together in the most delicious way. Set against a backdrop of beachy elegance, this full-service trattoria blends rustic charm with Riviera style. Expect handmade pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and rich risottos layered with truffle and Parmesan, all paired with a thoughtful selection of Italian wines and apéritifs. From the stone oven to the olive oil-drizzled finishing touches, every dish carries the warmth of home-cooked tradition, but with a resort-level polish. It’s cozy, classy, and perfect for long, lingering dinners.

Copal: A Celebration of Modern Mexican Cuisine

Bold, beautiful, and bursting with soul, Copal is AVA’s tribute to the heart of Mexico. Inspired by regional ingredients and traditional techniques. This colorful and vibrant space serves up everything from sizzling tacos and flavor-packed ceviches to slow-braised meats and modern spins on classic mole. Each plate is thoughtfully presented and rooted in heritage, enhanced by handmade tortillas and house-crafted salsas. The energy here is festive yet refined, with hacienda-style décor and local art that wraps you in warmth before you even sit down. It’s a true celebration of culture, community, and taste.

Chez Moi: A Parisian Escape for the Senses

Refined, romantic, and softly lit, Chez Moi feels like a little slice of Paris tucked into the Yucatán. This adults-only experience offers French novelle cuisine at its most elegant. Think light, buttery sauces, perfectly crisped pastries, and artfully plated mains that balance richness and restraint. With intimate seating, vintage-inspired décor, and an air of quiet sophistication, this is the spot for guests seeking a special night out. The attention to detail, from the delicate floral garnishes to the graceful wine pairings, makes Chez Moi a standout for anyone craving timeless European flair with a Caribbean twist.

Bao: A Symphony of Asian Flavors

Stylish and serene, Bao offers a culinary passport across Asia, from the spice of Thailand to the sushi artistry of Japan. This ocean side gem is tastefully minimalist, with natural textures, calming neutrals, and subtle tropical touches that set the tone for a sophisticated dining experience. The menu is broad yet cohesive, featuring signature rolls, noodle bowls, dim sum, and curries bursting with umami. Guests can sip on inventive cocktails infused with ginger, lemongrass, and sake while watching chefs craft dishes with precision and care.

Casual Bites & Cafés: Where Comfort Meets Creativity

Even in its most laid-back corners, AVA doesn’t skimp on style or flavor. Here are some options for those guests looking for something different, quick and delicious during their visit at the resort.

· Aroma Café & Bakery is a dreamy little escape filled with freshly brewed coffee, flaky pastries, and cozy nooks perfect for journaling or catching up on vacation reads.

· Plaza Mx brings street food magic to life with Mexican snacks and tacos served hot and fast, ideal for a midday bite between swims.

· At the Food District, global flavors take center stage in a market-style setup that encourages exploration, one minute you're sampling Asian stir-fry, the next you're enjoying plant-based bowls or sweet crêpes.

· And don’t miss Konos, where the house-made ice cream and frozen treats are every bit as whimsical as they are delicious.

Each space is curated for comfort but designed with the same high standards you'd expect from AVA’s signature venues.

Bars & Nightlife: Sip, Lounge, Repeat

When the sun sets, AVA comes alive with a cocktail culture that’s vibrant and expertly crafted, as well as venues where visitors can take a moment to unwind after a long day enjoying the resort’s amenities.

· Digit Bar feels like walking into a digital art gallery that happens to serve exceptional drinks. With rotating visual installations and a forward-thinking menu, it's effortlessly cool and endlessly creative.

· CJ’s Kantina by Casa Jugadores leans traditional, with a cozy cantina vibe, plenty of mezcal, and the kind of casual energy that turns strangers into friends.

· At The Cocktail Bar, it’s all about craftsmanship and mood. Each drink is a showstopper, made with fresh herbs, custom infusions, and serious mixologist energy.

· For those looking to dance the night away, DEZ Nightclub is the heartbeat of the property. It’s known for hosting DJs, themed events, and a dance floor that doesn’t quit.

· And of course, swim-up bars across the property keep the good vibes flowing all day long, one frozen drink at a time.

Whether you’re toasting to a special moment or simply enjoying the rhythm of vacation life, AVA makes every sip feel like part of the experience.

For more information on the resort and all the dining, entertainment and amenities that it offers guests, visit avaresortcancun.com.