Roots Jamaican kitchen
About This Spot
Roots Jamaican Kitchen feels like stepping into a hidden corner of the Caribbean nestled right in the heart of Playa del Carmen. From the moment you arrive on 1 Avenida Nte., there’s an easy-going rhythm in the air—laid-back without losing its edge—that invites you to slow down and savor each moment. The space hums softly with reggae beats that lift the spirit while the warm, welcoming energy of the staff makes you feel less like a visitor and more like a longtime friend stopping by for a genuine meal and good company.
This spot effortlessly blends the worlds of restaurant and barber shop, creating a uniquely local atmosphere where personal connection comes just as naturally as the flavors on the plate. Here, the pace is uncomplicated and friendly, a reminder that eating together is about more than just food—it’s about sharing stories and comfort across cultures.
The experience at Roots is deeply rooted in authenticity. The dishes speak quietly but powerfully of island home cooking: richly spiced, warmly familiar, and thoughtfully prepared. Whether you’re drawn in by the succulent aroma of perfectly seasoned chicken or the gentle sweetness of passion fruit juice, each bite feels like a small celebration of tradition and care. The sides and accompaniments—crispy plantains, creamy mac and cheese, hearty rice—support the flavors without ever overshadowing them, inviting you to savor the harmony of a meal made with both skill and soul.
More than just a place to eat, Roots Jamaican Kitchen offers a slice of genuine Caribbean hospitality in the vibrant streets of Playa del Carmen. It’s a refuge for anyone wanting to step away from the usual and settle into an experience that is refreshingly natural, richly textured, and quietly joyful.
What’s Available Here
-
Outdoor seating - Takeaway
- Dine-in
- Great cocktails
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
- Alcohol
- Beer
- Cocktails
- Quick bite
- Small plates
- Wine
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Dessert
- Seating
- Table service
- Bar on site
- Toilet
- Casual
- Cosy
- Trendy
- Groups
- Tourists
- Accepts reservations
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Free of charge street parking
- Paid street parking
- Parking
Location & Hours
| Monday | 02:30 PM - 11:00 PM | |
| Tuesday | 02:30 PM - 11:00 PM | |
| Wednesday | 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM | |
| Thursday | 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM | |
| Friday | 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM | |
|---|---|---|
| Saturday | 12:30 PM - 11:00 PM | |
| Sunday | 11:00 AM - 11:00 PM |
Guest Reviews
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SK Kellman 09 Jan 2026
Like a Heavy Weight Champion in the trade, this restaurant far surpasses ALL the "Caribbean" spots in PDC. Authentic cusine, natural & laid back vibes, outstanding & attentive customer service, & the food leaves you feeling satisfyingly satiated!
Minh Phung 10 Dec 2025
Marvin’s place was amazing. Chicken was perfectly seasoned. Portion size perfect for 2 hungry people. Plantains were also brilliant. Of course, the reggae music lights up the street. Would 100% recommend if you want to take a break from Mexican food for a night
Chad OConnor 05 Dec 2025
The oxtail is tender in a very rich base with just a little heat. The rice and plantains are a perfect side. Then you must save room for the bread pudding for dessert!
Gaby 03 Dec 2025
Yesterday my best friend and I tried this restaurant, and everything was a delight from start to finish. The waitress was lovely, very attentive, and the meal was absolutely excellent. A big thank you to the whole kitchen team for this feast. I’ll definitely be coming back! #frenchgirls.
DeeAnn Hotte 10 Nov 2025
We stopped into Roots Jamaican Kitchen and ordered the whole fried chicken, fries, and mac & cheese for three adults… and let me tell you, the portions were no joke. We easily had enough to take home for another full meal and trust me, we weren’t holding back. The whole fried chicken was phenomenal. Crispy, flavourful, and somehow not heavy or greasy at all. The fries hit the spot, and the mac & cheese? Rich, creamy, and absolutely worth every bite. My dad went rogue and tried the shrimp tacos. He said they were good, but didn’t quite top a couple of spots we’ve tried nearby which is fair, because the real star here is that chicken. Service was excellent, the staff were warm and welcoming, and overall it was just a genuinely great experience. We’ll definitely be back. This place is officially on the rotation.
Maddy H 27 Oct 2025
Great ambiance, great service, and even greater food. The owner was very present, making sure we felt welcomed and cared for. The atmosphere felt cozy with thoughtful details that made the dining experience memorable. The staff were attentive without being intrusive, and their genuine friendliness added to the overall charm. Each dish was beautifully presented and bursting with flavor — clearly crafted with passion and high-quality ingredients. From start to finish, the experience felt personal, as if the restaurant truly values each guest who walks through the door. This is the kind of place you don’t just visit once; it’s the kind you look forward to returning to, whether for a special occasion or simply to enjoy a wonderful meal in a welcoming environment.
Cody Bowes 30 Sep 2025
I was on the hunt for fresh jumbo coconut shrimp in Playa, and damn did I find it at Roots Jamaican Kitchen. The shrimp were huge, perfectly cooked, and that sauce on top was the cherry on the cake. I also ordered the half Jamaican chicken and fried plantain — honestly some of the best chicken I’ve ever had, packed with flavor, and the plantain was sweet and absolutely perfect. Amazing food, great vibes, and super fresh. Highly recommend.
Augustina Pryce 28 Sep 2025
Roots is a whole vibe authentic, flavorful, and full of soul. From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with genuine warmth by the owner himself, who welcomed us like family. That first impression set the tone for everything that followed good energy, great service, and unforgettable food. We ordered the oxtails rice n peas sweet plantains annd mac n cheese and every bite was packed with flavor. The oxtails were tender and rich, and the plantains were golden and sweet. You could taste the love in every bite. The rum punch? Amazing. Smooth, perfectly balanced, and just the right amount of strong to remind you you’re on vacation. A live band performed while we ate and they had my full attention. The music added a beautiful, soulful energy that elevated the entire experience. The prices were also super reasonable for the quality of the food, service, and atmosphere. This place delivers value without cutting corners. I would absolutely recommend Roots to anyone visiting the area and I’d go back in a heartbeat. From the flavors to the vibes, it’s the kind of spot that stays with you.Thank you! ????????