This high ceiling 200-seat airy restaurant is located on the lower floor of the main lobby. Tables are well spaced - mostly for two or four, covered with white linens and either a small vase of flowers or candles and dimly lit (unusual in most restaurants in Mexico). Floor-to-ceiling windows are softened with sheer curtains. The entire back wall is alabaster with lighting from behind - very interesting effect.
Cocotal serves breakfast as a buffet or á la carte if you prefer. Brunch is offered here on Saturday and Sunday (busy check-in days), but with rather meager offerings. If you arrive and your room is not yet ready, a better choice would be to head toward the beach for lunch at La Isla under the palapa by the pool. The buffet area in Cocotal is set up in an alcove with four separate serving areas, including an omelet station. The usual American dishes, eggs, sausage, ham, bacon, potatoes, rolls, fruit, cheese, and juices, are supplemented with a full station devoted to typical Mexican specialties. The Mexican hot chocolate is the best…so rich in flavor. There is also a "make your own" Bloody Mary and Mimosa station.
Evenings transform this restaurant into a quiet, elegant, and comfortable full-service restaurant featuring a different menu each day. No reservations are required here. One night may be Mayan, another Gourmet, a Gala Menu, and Four Chefs Menu. The food is very good, well prepared, and nicely presented and is accompanied with wine. Waiters are friendly and efficient and most can properly describe dishes and their ingredients.
The price range above is an approximation of the cost of the meal, but since this is an all-inclusive resort, there is no extra charge. If you prefer a flexible dining option with casual elegance, Cocotal is a good choice.