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Pop-up Dinner, Salsa on the Beach, and Stargazing in Cancún
Pop-up Dinner, Salsa on the Beach, and Stargazing in Cancún
From Asian flavors to salsa rhythms, your weekend just got better.
Puerto Morelos Insider
Sep 19, 2025
Your Weekly Window Into Paradise Friday September 19, 2025 |
Trivia Question❓What are "Aluxes" in Maya legend, and what is their traditional role in protecting the jungle around Puerto Morelos? Answer at the bottom of the newsletter |
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We’ve got a full weekend of flavors, music, and magic lined up for you.
From Chef Umberto’s much-anticipated pop-up dinner that promises bold Asian tastes, to salsa by the sea with Son de Canay, and a free night of stargazing at Cancún’s Astro Picnic.
Add in fresh market finds, local seafood favorites, and a few insider tips, and you’ll be set to make the most of September nights in Puerto Morelos. |
Photo Of The Week |
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Featured Photo by
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Best Bets For Your Weekend |
1. Pop-Up Dinner: “Asian Flavors” with Chef Umberto
Get ready for an unforgettable culinary evening as Chef Umberto presents a one-night-only pop-up dinner showcasing bold Asian flavors with his creative touch.
When: Thursday, September 25th Reservations:
2. Free Nocturnal Astro Picnic in Cancún
This Sunday, Cancún hosts its very first Astro Picnic, a free stargazing event at Parque Cancún. Bring your blanket, snacks, and a curious mind for an unforgettable night under the stars.
The event combines science, community, and nature with guided astronomical viewing and is designed for families, couples, and anyone who loves the night sky.
The day also features the Somos Naturalistas Festival, encouraging participants to explore the biodiversity of the Nichupté mangroves using the iNaturalist app. Attendees are asked to follow the park’s Zero Waste policy: carry reusable bottles, mats, repellant, and a bag for waste.
When: Sunday, September 21
3. Salsa on the Beach with Son De Canay
Get your Saturday started with the infectious rhythms of Son de Canay, one of Puerto Morelos’ favorite local bands! Enjoy a lively afternoon of sunshine and salsa music at the laid-back Diving Bar on the beach.
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🌦️ Weekend Weather |
Friday, September 19:
Saturday, September 20:
Sunday, September 21:
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Known best for their towering shrimp cocktails and fresh ceviche, this spot is legendary if you want plenty of seafood without the tourist markup.
The vibe is no-frills and friendly, with cold cervezas ready to pair with your plate.
It’s the perfect stop after a cenote swim, when you’re hungry and ready for something refreshing. Their big seafood platters are also great for sharing with family or friends.
If you’re looking for that classic Puerto Morelos taste in a local neighborhood setting, El Picudo should be on your list.
What People Are Saying:
"Great Restaurant, traditional seafood dishes. Very delicious and great size of the dishes. Very friendly staff." Alex S. (Google review)
"This restaurant is owned by fishermen, so the seafood is guaranteed to be fresh. The dishes are all typically Mexican. The sauces and bases are cooked to perfection and taste delicious. My favorite part of coming here is getting away from the touristy side of PM and skipping on tourist pricing." Angelique D. (Yelp)
"The shrimps are outstanding. Very tasty and combined with salsa and xnipek. THE place to go for fish, and you eat with locals and avoid the tourists. We would like to thank the staff. They were very nice and friendly!" Dirk M. (Tripadvisor)
"Excellent. Very generous portions and everything was fresh and tasted good. The mixed ceviche was very tasty. Rice with shrimp was close to 50% shrimp. Fish filet veracrusano was perfectly cooked. Good value. The place was packed on a Saturday afternoon for good reason."
Location: Av J. Zetina Gasca, Puerto Morelos (La Colonia) Insider Tip: Go earlier in the day (before 2pm) if you want the freshest fish and quickest service. That’s when the kitchen has just prepped everything, and before the big local family crowds roll in for lunch. |
Portside Perspective |
"The heart of Puerto Morelos beats to the rhythm of fishing boats and local laughter, a refreshing contrast to its bustling neighbors." |
Insider Tip: Location Lingo |
Locals never say "east" or "west" - they say "portside" or "beach side" (between the mangroves and beach) and "la colonia" (from the main highway to jungle). |
Local Matters |
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Just beyond Puerto Morelos lies the famous Ruta de los Cenotes, a jungle road leading to some of the Riviera Maya’s most breathtaking natural swimming holes.
Cenotes are limestone sinkholes filled with crystal-clear water, once considered sacred by the ancient Maya, and today they’re a mix of adventure, beauty, and relaxation.
For thrill-seekers, Cenote Verde Lucero offers cliff jumps, zip-lines, and rope swings into emerald waters. Perfect for anyone craving adrenaline.
Nature lovers head to Cenote Siete Bocas, a semi-underground system with seven unique openings full of stalactites, glowing light, and mysterious caves that feel like exploring an ancient secret.
Photographers can’t miss Cenote La Noria, a stunning cave cenote where sunbeams cut dramatically through turquoise water. It’s often paired with Cenote Kin Ha, giving visitors two unforgettable experiences in one trip.
Finally, Cenote Zapote is a peaceful spot known for its rare “Hell’s Bells” formations, attracting snorkelers and divers who want to float and soak up the tranquil jungle setting.
Whether you want high-energy adventure or meditative swims, the cenotes near Puerto Morelos provide a magical, otherworldly experience.
Each one is different, so cenote hopping is the best way to explore these natural wonders. Read More... |
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Every Wednesday morning, Puerto Morelos’ portside transforms into a lively community hub with the Fresh Produce Market beside the Catholic church.
From 8am to 1pm, locals and visitors alike gather to shop for fruits and vegetables that are fresher and tastier than anything found in supermarkets.
Most of the produce is sourced directly from local and regional farms, meaning seasonal specialties, ripe tropical fruits like mangoes, papayas, and pineapples, as well as crisp vegetables picked just days—or even hours—before reaching the stalls.
The market isn’t just about food, though. It’s as much a weekly ritual and social gathering as it is a shopping trip. Vendors know their regular customers, freely offer samples, and share tips for preparing unfamiliar produce.
Early birds know to arrive between 8:00 and 9:30am for the best selection, especially of the ripest fruits and freshest greens.
Shoppers are encouraged to bring cash, small bills, and reusable bags while brushing up on a little Spanish for a smoother experience.
Supporting this market means more than just buying groceries—it’s a way to connect with authentic Mexican culture, support local farmers, and enjoy the warm community spirit of Puerto Morelos, one perfectly ripe mango at a time. Read More... |
Adoptable Furry Friend |
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Woof! Hi there, I'm Luna, a playful 4-month-old girl ready to find my forever home!
I was rescued from the street just a little while ago, and now I'm looking for a family to love me forever.
If you think we could be a great match, hurry up and send a message to my foster hooman on Whatsapp. I can't wait to meet you.
WhatsApp: +52 984-145-3186
Let's make some tail-wagging memories together! 🐾 |
This Weekend | ||
What's On Tap |
Friday,
Saturday, Sunday,
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💡 Answer to Trivia Question: Aluxes are mythical Maya spirits or goblins that serve as guardians of nature, especially jungles, crops, and cenotes. They're considered protectors but can be mischievous if not respected. |