KI'IS

The story

KI'IS Playa del Carmen – Michelin-Recommended Contemporary Mexican Cuisine

Inspired by Mexico's Pacific Coast

At KI'IS in Playa del Carmen, the pursuit of beauty through simplicity defines every plate. The kitchen, led by Guadalajara-born chef Francisco "Paco" Ruano, draws deeply on the best ingredients from the surrounding seas and Mexico's vegetable pantry. The cuisine honors the flavors of Guadalajara while taking clear inspiration from the Pacific coast, all finished with a distinctive Mayan accent.

Chef Ruano is no stranger to acclaim. He trained at prestigious schools and gained experience in world-renowned kitchens like Mugaritz, Celler de Can Roca, and Noma. His flagship restaurant Alcalde has earned spots on Latin America's 50 Best and The World's 50 Best lists. At KI'IS, his refined technique and respect for local ingredients create a sensitive, precise, and honest vision of contemporary Mexican cuisine.

A Bar Program with a Sense of Place

The mixology at KI'IS mirrors the kitchen's ethos: modern yet deeply rooted in the Yucatán peninsula's wealth of flavors, with nods to Mayan heritage. The wine list balances classic varietals with natural wines and a healthy selection of Mexican vintages, complementing the food without overshadowing it.

Michelin Recognition

KI'IS has earned a place in the Michelin Guide, recognized for its culinary experience that blends Mexican cuisine with the flavors of the Yucatán Peninsula, Mayan heritage, and the Pacific coast. This nod from the guide underscores the restaurant's commitment to local ingredients and refined technique—a quiet confidence that speaks through every course.