Marakame is a relaxed oasis in the city of Cancun — Photo courtesy of Marakame Cafe Cancun

Hidden in an upscale neighborhood in downtown Cancun, Marakame is a restaurant/bar/lounge that will appeal to all your senses. This little gem, named for the Huichol (an indigenous group from western central Mexico) shaman or medicine man, is open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. They even deliver.

This little slice of nature in the city has two stories and indoor/outdoor seating. The atmosphere makes you feel as if you were dining in a charming tree house and is ideal for a relaxing chat. At night, the outdoor downstairs or garden section can’t be beat. Most evenings, you can groove to live music while dining under a canopy of trees decorated with twinkling lights. Marakame has an easy bohemian feel and is great for a group of friends or a couple looking for a romantic evening.

The restaurant is open for breakfast every morning, but its Sunday brunch is very popular. Enjoy a delicious buffet accompanied by a bottomless cup of freshly-brewed coffee and orange juice. Expect to see "ladies who lunch" at midday and families celebrating events like birthdays, baby showers, and baptisms. For dinner, try the coconut shrimp and a glass of wine, or one of their famous pizzas with an authentic mojito. For dessert, how about a delicious piece of chocolate cake?

The dress code is casual, but local clientele are hip and fashionably dressed, so leave your flip-flops at the hotel. Prices are reasonable and the service is good. Extras include free valet parking, wireless internet and a play area for kids on the second floor. This trendy hot spot is not to be missed and is well worth the trip from your hotel. Take the R1 bus downtown, get off at the first stop and take a 25 peso taxi to the restaurant.