UNICO 20 87 Riviera Maya Dining Guide: Restaurants, Bars & What to Expect
If you’re choosing a resort based on food, you’re asking the right question. UNICO 20 87 Riviera Maya dining is one of the main reasons so many travelers pick this adults-only Riviera Maya property. Compared to many all inclusive resorts in Mexico, the dining here feels more restaurant-driven and less buffet-focused. The menus lean into regional Mexican flavors, coastal Italian, and Japanese influences, with presentation that feels thoughtful but not overly fussy. If you’ve been weighing destinations like Cabo vs Riviera Maya and are leaning toward Riviera Maya for its culinary depth, UNICO fits beautifully into that decision.
That said, it’s still an all inclusive resort. If you’re expecting Michelin-style tasting menus every night, this may not fully match that vision. But if you want creative menus, good cocktails, and a more grown-up dining pace than typical vacation buffet culture, this resort does that well. For travelers who care about food and atmosphere, UNICO stands out among the best luxury resorts in Riviera Maya.
Quick Answer
UNICO 20 87 Riviera Maya dining is above average for all inclusive resorts and especially strong for couples who care about atmosphere and modern Mexican flavors.
Best For
Couples and friend groups who want adults-only dining with creative menus and strong cocktail programs.
Not Ideal For
Travelers who prefer large buffets, fast casual dining, or extremely late-night food options.
Worth It?
Yes, if food quality and cocktail culture matter. It’s one of the stronger dining programs in Riviera Maya.
Let’s walk through what you can realistically expect so you can decide if it fits your vacation style.
One thing I always remind clients: dining experience is about more than food alone. Layout, reservation systems, timing, and service pace matter just as much once you’re actually there. UNICO feels intimate compared to some of the larger Riviera Maya properties. That smaller footprint makes restaurant hopping easier, but reservations can still fill up quickly—especially at the most popular venues.
Quick Facts
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Resort Type | Adults-only, all inclusive |
| Dining Style | Mostly à la carte restaurants with one main breakfast/lunch venue |
| Signature Focus | Regional Mexican cuisine and elevated cocktails |
| Reservations | Required for select venues, especially at peak times |
| Dress Code | Resort casual by day, evening dining typically requires polished casual attire |
| Best Strategy | Book specialty restaurants early in your stay |
| Biggest Mistake | Waiting until midweek to secure prime dinner reservations |
Dining at UNICO is a big part of the overall experience, and it’s worth planning ahead. The resort’s smaller size means you won’t be walking long distances between venues, but it also means the best dinner times go quickly. If you care about trying the top restaurants, booking early is key.
How Is UNICO 20 87 Riviera Maya Dining?
The food quality is consistently strong for an all inclusive. Sauces, seafood, and plating feel intentional, and you can tell the culinary program is part of the resort’s identity. This isn’t “all inclusive buffet with fancy lighting”—it’s more like a collection of standalone restaurants inside a resort. That matters more than people realize, especially if you’ve been disappointed at other properties.
The variety of cuisines keeps things interesting. Menus cover coastal Italian, regional Mexican, contemporary Japanese, and globally influenced breakfast and lunch options. It never feels repetitive on a 4–5 night stay. Mexican cuisine, in particular, shines here. If you enjoy regional specialties rather than Tex-Mex, Cueva Siete is usually where guests walk away impressed.
Who will love the dining experience most? Couples celebrating anniversaries, honeymooners, and friends who enjoy cocktails before dinner tend to love it. If you’re hoping for a lively party-dinner vibe every night, UNICO is more polished than wild. The atmosphere is social but not rowdy, and the focus is on good food and conversation rather than late-night partying.
Full List of UNICO 20 87 Riviera Maya Restaurants
UNICO offers several à la carte restaurants, each with its own style. Here’s what you can expect from each:
Mi Carisa
This coastal Italian concept is often the most romantic choice. Handmade pastas and seafood are usually highlights. If you’re celebrating something special, this is often where I book my honeymoon clients first.
Cueva Siete
Regional Mexican cuisine is the standout. Expect traditional ingredients elevated through presentation and technique. This is the restaurant that makes food-focused travelers feel like they chose the right property.
Mura House
Japanese flavors and a teppanyaki option create variety. Teppanyaki reservations tend to fill quickest because of limited seating. If that interactive experience matters to you, book early.
20.87 Restaurant
The main breakfast and lunch venue. Breakfast is varied and well-executed. For many guests, this becomes a daily ritual rather than something you just rush through.
There are also poolside and beach dining options for casual afternoons. These are convenient, though the specialty venues are where the resort truly shines. If you’re looking for more casual bites, you’ll find them by the pool or beach, but the à la carte restaurants are the main draw.
Bars and Nightlife at UNICO 20 87 Riviera Maya
UNICO’s bar scene is sophisticated, not rowdy. The lobby area usually sets the tone in the evenings with specialty cocktails and a relaxed social atmosphere. Beach and pool bars offer approachable but quality beverage programs throughout the day. Tequila and mezcal selections are woven into the identity of the resort, which fits its modern Mexican theme beautifully.
If nightlife is your top priority, some larger adults-only resorts may feel more high energy. If you want conversation-friendly evenings with good drinks, this works well. For travelers who prefer a quieter, more refined evening, UNICO is a strong fit.
How UNICO 20 87 Riviera Maya All Inclusive Dining Works
Most dining and beverages are included in your nightly rate. Certain premium wine or specialty items may carry additional charges. Policies can change, so I always confirm current inclusions before booking. Reservations are required for some dinner venues, especially teppanyaki and high-demand restaurants. I usually recommend securing reservations shortly after arrival for the first few nights.
Evening dress codes tend to be polished resort casual. Think dresses, slacks, collared shirts. Swimwear and flip-flops at dinner typically won’t work at specialty restaurants. If you’re unsure, it’s always better to err on the side of slightly dressier for dinner.
Trying to Decide if UNICO Is Right for Your Trip?
I help couples compare adults-only resorts across Mexico all the time. The right choice often comes down to atmosphere, dining style, and how you like to spend your evenings. If you want help narrowing down your options or want to talk through what matters most for your trip, I’m happy to help.
Comparing UNICO Dining to Other Riviera Maya Adults-Only Resorts
Food is often where clients hesitate between properties. UNICO is frequently compared to higher-end options and other trendy adults-only resorts. If you’re deciding between UNICO and other Riviera Maya favorites, it helps to look at the dining style, atmosphere, and main tradeoffs side by side.
Dining Comparison Snapshot
| Resort | Best For | Dining Focus | Atmosphere | Main Tradeoff |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| UNICO 20 87 | Modern couples | Regional Mexican + craft cocktails | Chic, social, adults-only | Reservations needed |
| Secrets Moxche / Impression | Upscale variety seekers | Broader international range | Larger, more amenities | Bigger footprint |
| Grand Velas Riviera Maya | Luxury food-focused travelers | Fine-dining emphasis | Very refined | Higher price point |
If you are specifically comparing properties, I recommend reading through Secrets Moxche Playa del Carmen vs Impression Moxche and Grand Velas Riviera Maya vs Rosewood Mayakoba to understand how far up the dining scale you want to go. For many clients, UNICO hits a sweet spot: elevated but not ultra formal, thoughtful but not intimidating. It’s a good fit for travelers who want great food and drinks without the pressure of a formal dress code every night.
What I Tell My Clients
Book your two must-try restaurants first. Usually that’s teppanyaki and either Mi Carisa or Cueva Siete. Once those are secured, everything else feels flexible. Also—don’t skip the Mexican restaurant because you think it will be “similar to home.” This is usually where guests are surprised in the best way.
If you’re not sure which restaurants to prioritize, I’m always happy to help you map out a plan based on your trip length and what you care about most.
Common Mistakes Travelers Make Before Booking
- Assuming all dining is first-come, first-served and not planning reservations.
- Booking only a 3-night stay and feeling rushed to try every concept.
- Choosing the resort for nightlife expectations instead of dining priorities.
- Not checking for special events or pop-up dinners that may require advance booking.
Frequently Asked Questions About UNICO 20 87 Riviera Maya
Is room service included?
Yes, room service is typically included in the all inclusive plan, though hours and menu offerings can vary. It’s a nice option for breakfast in your room or a late-night snack.
Are there dress codes?
Yes. Evening dinners usually require polished resort casual attire. Swimwear is not appropriate for specialty venues, and it’s best to bring at least one outfit you’d feel comfortable wearing to a nice restaurant.
How many restaurants are there?
There are several à la carte restaurants plus casual dining options. The exact number can vary slightly by concept updates, but you’ll find at least three main dinner venues and additional options for breakfast, lunch, and snacks.
Is the resort good for foodies?
Yes, especially for travelers who value creative Mexican cuisine and strong cocktails within an all inclusive setting. If you want a more restaurant-style experience than a buffet, UNICO is a strong choice.
Can dietary restrictions be accommodated?
Often yes. It’s important to note dietary needs in advance and confirm directly with the resort. Staff are generally helpful, but advance notice always helps ensure a smoother experience.
Are premium drinks included?
Most cocktails, beer, and house wines are included. Some top-shelf spirits and specialty wines may have an extra charge. If you have a favorite brand, it’s worth asking in advance or checking the bar menus when you arrive.
Do I need to make dinner reservations before arrival?
Reservations for specialty restaurants are typically made after check-in, but it’s smart to secure your top picks as soon as you arrive. Some special events or teppanyaki tables may allow advance booking—ask your advisor for the latest policy.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
If you’re considering this experience, I’d love to help you compare options, narrow down the best fit, and create a smoother vacation from the very beginning. My clients receive personalized planning support, tailored recommendations, and guidance designed around how they actually like to travel.
