La Habichuela restaurant is listed in the discount guide you find at the airport. However, it is often neglected by most tourists because of its position in the downtown (El Centro) area of Cancun, where few folks from the hotel zone venture.
We took a taxi here, but the local buses did run out this way, too. El Centro itself has a much more "Mexican" feel with a bullring, evening market stalls, and fast-food stands. Most people walking around tend to be locals or at least holidaying Mexicans, and the atmosphere is loud and festive, with children and families everywhere.
La Habichuela is like a little oasis in the middle of all the action. On entering, there’s a big fountain and fish tank. The walls are covered with Mayan artwork. I have been here twice now and prefer to sit in the outside garden, which has white ironwork tables and chairs, as well as fairy lights strung from the trees. VERY Romantic.
The staff is so friendly and will help you plan your whole vacation, as well as answer questions about the food. Prices are not as cheap as other restaurants in Cancun, but for the style of restaurant and service you get, I would say it’s worth every peso.
My favorite dish there is their signature cocobichuela. At 318 pesos ($31), it’s one of the more expensive items on the menu. It’s a fish and lobster curry served in a green coconut shell. Just thinking about it makes my mouth water. Regular fish and chicken entrées are between $12 and $16. Some of the fish dishes come complete with fins and eyeballs, so ask if you care about that.
This is a family-owned restaurant, so don’t be surprised if free drinks just show up on your table from time to time. They love tourists and do everything to give you a great experience