The crew at Palafitos at El Dorado Maroma __ aka the only overwater bungalows in Mexico __ keep a tight watch on the entryway to the stilt-propped suites.
I should know __ I got rejected. My partner and I tried to charm our way onto the overwater platform that branches out to the 30 individual bungalows, but were met with a polite, but firm, "No, only guests of Palafitos are allowed to come here."
As guests of the main resort __ the beloved but land-dwelling El Dorado Maroma __ we could admire the overwater rooms from the shoreline of Maroma Beach, but that was it.
Unless we were willing to drop a few bucks, that is. Maroma guests can pay $50 to dine at the Overwater Grill & Wine Bar, which is located at the end of the overwater runway and features views of the Caribbean Sea.
Taking the bait, my partner and I paid the premium and were delighted by the food, views, service, the decor and live music. The mushroom soup and handmade pasta topped with truffles are two items to try, but don't stop there __ the cover charge takes care of the entire bill (minus any specialty wine orders).
We also got to peek at the private dining room, which features a massive glass-bottom floor, the pinnacle of any overwater structure.
For visitors who want the Palafitos experience without the $950 per night price tag, a dinner at the Overwater Grill & Wine Bar, paired with a stay at an oceanview El Dorado Maroma room, is a fine compromise.
