La Joya (The Jewel) is located in the Fiesta American Grand Coral Beach Resort. La Joya is a first class establishment. My wife and I enjoyed our dining experience so much we dined at La Joya twice. Almost immediately upon entering La Joya you will be greeted by the friendly hostess. If time allows you can enjoy a cocktail in the "Mexican/eclectic" designed bar and cocktail lounge. If you like tequila this is the right choice.
After the hostess seats you and your party, your waiter will come by and welcome you. Then ask if you would like a cocktail or beverage while placing your napkin on your lap. After drinks are served, then you will be given your menu. This is a great time to sit and watch the live entertainment. A mariachi band plays as the Mexican dancers go to work on stage. This goes on almost the entire evening, with entertainers changing after each set.
This is not your typical Mexican restaurant. The entire menu at La Joya is authentic Mexican cuisine. Let me share with you my dining experience (remember I went twice with my wife so I tasted a wide arrange of fare).
For appetizer they have lobster quesadillas with mellow panela cheese. This was incredible. The "empanadas" appetizer came with a pair of three different flavors. The closest appetizer you will get to "fast food" is the "Mexican sampler" which comes with an arrange of classic Mexican fare.
Before we get to the entrees, they serve four to five different breads with two to three different flavored butters. This is served on a silver platter and you choose whichever is to your liking. Also, they place a plate with fried banana and yucca on the table with three different dipping sauces for your enjoyment. That is not all! The chef serves all in your party a complimentary tasting appetizer.
Let's move on to the entrees, but save room for dessert. The pork loin served with garlic mashed potatoes with a "corona chile" sauce was unbelievable. My wife had the huge grilled lobster tail, with mashed and vegetables. This was wonderful. The other entree I tried was the "Cancun Tuna" this was ok, but the tuna was overcooked. If you like wine with your dinner you can choose from over 50 wines. If you can't decide the sommelier is very helpful.
After you complete your dinner they will roll over the dessert tray. Your server will explain each of the five to six desserts to you. You can also ask for a tequila tasting, which was quite interesting. You taste three different tequilas served with accompaniments to each. A very nice way to complete your evening.
This was our favorite restaurant in Cancun. We ate in other fine establishments but this experience was a notch above the rest. I hope you enjoy La Joya as much as we did.