Casa Rolani Restaurant

Address: In front of Royal Sands, Blvd. Kukulcán, Km 13.5, Zona Hotelera, Cancún)

The secret to this restaurant’s success is its creative handling of Swiss and Italian cuisine. Be sure to try the carpaccio de pulpo (thin slices of fresh octopus), the cheese fondue, or the mesquite-grilled rib eye. Appetizers are also tempting: there’s puff bread from a wood-burning oven and a salad and antipasto bar. For something with a bit more local flavor, try the black ravioli stuffed with lobster or the restaurant’s specialty Gamberoni dei Re Maya: jumbo shrimp baked in banana leaves and topped with a special Mayan sauce. Entrees are served under silver domes, including the chef’s specials that change monthly. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and a wine bar. The beautiful dining room and attentive service might make you want to stay for hours, and there are pleasant lagoon views from the spacious patio.