Welcome Home to
Authentic Jamaican Flavours!
Jerk off the flame, oxtail that falls off the bone, and a Friday-night reggae party that spills into the street — right in the heart of Playa del Carmen.
daily!
Jamaican cuisine made with love
Roots is the labour of love of Chef Marvin — Toronto-raised, Jamaican to the bone — who greets every guest with a "welcome home" and means it. What started as a hidden gem on 1st Avenue has become one of Playa del Carmen's best-loved kitchens.
Everything is cooked the way it's done back home: jerk marinated a full day, oxtail braised until it lets go of the bone, snapper fried whole and crowned with escovitch. Dine. Enjoy. Share. Remember.
Straight from our kitchen
Every one of these photos was taken by a real guest and shared in their Google review. No filters needed.
📸 Photos by our guests, from their Google reviews.
The heart of Playa's Caribbean corner
String lights, painted planks, Jamaican flags and a full patio every night — come eat with us.
Friday nights, the street becomes a dance floor
Live reggae band, rum punch in hand, dominoes on the table and the whole block singing along. Come early — the tables go fast.
Events at Roots
Live reggae every Friday night — plus special celebrations all year.
Reggae Night
Jam to the rhythm of the Caribbean with live music, good vibes, cocktails and home-cook style food. 8 PM Phil the Singer, 9 PM Live Roots Reggae Band — until close.
RSVP on WhatsAppComing up
Live Reggae Night
Our legendary Friday night — live reggae band, rum punch and dancing in the street.
Live Reggae Night
Our legendary Friday night — live reggae band, rum punch and dancing in the street.
Live Reggae Night
Our legendary Friday night — live reggae band, rum punch and dancing in the street.
Live Reggae Night
Our legendary Friday night — live reggae band, rum punch and dancing in the street.
Live Reggae Night
Our legendary Friday night — live reggae band, rum punch and dancing in the street.
Guests say it best
Real reviews and real photos from our Google guests — 4.8★ on Google, 4.9★ on Tripadvisor.
“I never would have thought Playa del Carmen would have better Jamaican food than anywhere in Toronto — but it does. The service is professional and friendly. The food is authentic, well presented.”
“The Rasta pasta with oxtail is one of the best things I've ever eaten — and I love to eat. Perfectly flavoured and balanced. I've been in Playa four days and eaten here twice.”
“A little gem just off 5th Ave. On Friday night the live reggae band was amazing and the crowd was dancing in the street. Marvin makes everyone feel at home.”
“The best fish tacos — honestly the best meal we had the entire trip. The coconut shrimp with their house sauce is a must try!”
“Great Jamaican spot with a unique atmosphere and delicious food. The coconut shrimp was a standout, and the chef's specials are a must if you want something extra flavorful.”
“Completely blown away by the phenomenal food and warm service. Best Jamaican food I've ever tried. A MUST when in Playa del Carmen — truly a gem!”
Come say hi
Address
1 Avenida Nte. entre Calle 26 y 28, Centro, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R.
Opening Hours
| Sunday | 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM |
| Monday | 3:30 PM – 11:00 PM |
| Tuesday | 3:30 PM – 11:00 PM |
| Wednesday | 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM |
| Thursday | 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM |
| Friday | 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM |
| Saturday | 2:00 PM – 11:00 PM |
Hours may vary on public holidays.