Rockas Jamaican Kitchen — Restaurant in Playa del Carmen

What a treat! We enjoyed two nights in a row and brought another family with us the second night because sharing is caring.

First, WhatsApp for a reservation. Maybe it’s generally low key but we visited during New Years weekend and they were packed each day. Let me be honest it’s not a large venue but a reservation will save you a headache, heartache and stomach ache from smelling and/or watching others eat. We waited 1.5 hours the first night because I really wanted to try it.

Second, they do tend to run out of food. So, you may want to visit earlier in the day. Just a suggestion.

Food, over our two visits we enjoyed the beef patties, jerk chicken, jerk chicken tacos, spiced fish, Cajun shrimp pasta, garlic shrimp, Mac and cheese, coleslaw, coconut rice and peas, coconut shrimp and lastly the bread pudding. Don’t judge us. We split most of this among our family of three. Each night we paid $100 USD - this included some drinks. Considering we left full and with a takeaway box, we felt the price, portion and atmosphere was worth it. I’ve paid $100+ at some beach clubs in Playa, Puerto Morelos, Akumal and Tulum for less food. I’ve also spent similar near and on 5th Avenue for other meals so I’d say this was on par in prices. Our little family enjoyed their meal.

Service - we found the service similar to other venues. Why do we assume the laid back atmosphere of Latin America is supposed to be quick? It’s not. But it isn’t limited to this venue. The service is different. Please pace yourself. Truth be told, after two months in the area I enjoy my 1.5 hour dining experiences when eating out with my family. Some places are more fast paced but I enjoy the soul, love and spices put into my food. I will say the food was hot and freshly prepared and not warming light hot but made with love just for me. The servers were busy because the venue is busy ensuring your food is served. People are everywhere but that goes to show how good it is. They get to know you and your name and make you feel like family. The owner is extremely personable.

The menu is not extensive. The music is awesome. I would definitely return again when I visit PDC. There are other places to eat. You are more than welcome to dine wherever you like but if you are looking for something Caribbean, do give this place a try. I think you’ll enjoy. I hope you find this review helpful. If so, give me...

I never would have guessed that I’d eat one of the best meals I’ve ever had, at a Jamaican/Vietnamese fusion restaurant run by a Canadian in Mexico. What a beautiful surprise! I had also read several raving reviews about this spot so I quickly connected the dots as to why.

There are a wide variety of non alcoholic beverages, beers, wines, cocktails, and liquors to accompany your meal.

I started with the jerk chicken wings and spring rolls. The flavour of the jamaican jerk spice here is top notch. Great seasoning followed closely with a slow but increasingly spicy finish. The spring rolls were truly authentic Vietnamese cuisine that took me back in time 7 years to an amazing restaurant I dined at in Hoi An.

I opted for the Jerk Chicken & Cajun Shrimp Rasta Pasta as my entree and it was an absolute show stopper. If It came in a refillable bowl I would still be sitting there eating it and not writing this review right now.

The setting and atmosphere is perfect on the vibrant yet relaxed Calle 38. The service was timely and the staff took such good care of us. Liberato, our waiter was so polite and professional and took such good care of the four of us from the moment we sat down until the moment we left. Stephanie, the owner also popped by our table after our meal to say hi, ensure our meal and service was up to par and answer a few questions we had about how this unexpected gem ended up falling right into our lap.

I am so glad that we decided to dine here and would definitely make it a priority to return on my next trip to PDC.

I truly have no negative comments to report. All I can say to people considering eating here is that I am a glutton for spice and flavour and was extremely satisfied. I know that’s not for everyone but there are also several other more subtle dishes offered here if it suits you better. I know the staff would be more than happy to walk you through the menu to find something that speaks to you.

This is also a cash only restaurant so don’t forget to bring some but they will make sure to inform you before seating you in case you forget.

It was slightly on the higher end price wise for the meals we had been enjoying in the area on our trip but I felt it was truly worth it as it was the best culinary experience I had enjoyed in the 9 days...

“A LITTLE RAIN DID NOT STOP THE ROCKAS PARADE!” This place is it!!! The pictures online sold me at first, photos do it no justice…as we walked down the famous “Quinta Avenida” all the restaurants that tried to COAX us in gave up once we told them we were heading to Rockas. I was like “Ok then Rockas I am Omw!” We ordered the Vietnamese spring rolls and Jerk Wings as an appetizer I was expecting less and received more! I didn’t want to fill up on just the wings but it was hard to stop eating them. The jerk sauce was flavorful not too sweet not too spicy but perfect enough where the flavor of the actual chicken was not lost. The pepper sauce that is served on the side is my type of sauce I love the heat! The dipping sauce for the spring rolls is divine it will clear your sinuses. My Wife had the Rasta Pasta with shrimp and a WHOLE lobster great flavor nice portion, my Mom had the Rasta Pasta also but with shrimp and jerk chicken she was pleased, I had the jerk chicken dinner with the chicken breast I could tell it was juicy before I even touched it. Everything was plated BEAUTIFULLY. We also ordered the mac and cheese, an extra side of plantains and a chicken finger kids meal for my LO. Best fries I have tasted in a while no lie! For drinks Mom and Wife had passion fruit lemonades, I had a Cadillac Margarita recommended by one of the lovely owners Stephanie! Yes she does have her guys hustling which I loved but she doesn't stand back and delegate she steps in and handles business too. Super attentive I was extremely impressed! The short downpour of rain did not stop anything people including us continued to eat and enjoy the vibes. The staff quickly moved everyone in or moved tables over out of the rain…NO ONE DRAGS THEIR FEET IN THIS PLACE. For food this good I didn't mind a little drizzle I ATE and ENJOYED. I WILL BE BACK! I want to try EVERYTHING. The quality of the food matches the price. Keep...