You know a hotel is cool when it opens a new restaurant and causes a local stir. Such was the case during my recent stay at Thompson Playa del Carmen, which coincided with the opening of UMI Rooftop + Tokyo Kitchen, the property’s stylish new Japanese rooftop restaurant.
Quite likely one of the hippest accommodation options in the heart of Playa del Carmen, the hotel offers a winning combination of location, style and attractive features. It’s an ideal option for vacationers who want to be steps from the city’s vibrant dining, shopping and nightlife scene (not to mention the beach), while enjoying the services and vibes of a self-contained oasis of chic.
Thompson Playa del Carmen is especially well-positioned to satisfy the needs of diverse travelers since it’s actually a two-in-one concept set in different locations: There’s the 92-room Main House just off the popular Fifth Avenue pedestrian thoroughfare, and the 27-room oceanfront Beach House. Both are in town and offer easy access to the area’s many diversions.
On-site Dining Options
I was a guest at the Main House during UMI's grand opening, which set a perfect example of the hotel’s sophisticated approach to hospitality. Headed by chef Roman Osamu, the new venue focuses on local seafood and modern interpretations of Asian specialties including sashimi, grilled octopus and salmon teriyaki, to name a few. But the visuals are just as impressive as the cuisine; the rooftop location offers superb views and eye-catching decor, complemented by gentle Caribbean breezes.
UMI Rooftop + Tokyo Kitchen, featuring Japanese fare, recently opened at Thompson Playa del Carmen.
Credit: 2023 Thompson Playa del CarmenThe rooftop at Thompson Playa del Carmen’s Main House, in fact, is a central hub for socializing, dining and entertainment at the hotel, and I enjoyed many memorable moments there. Cinco, a casual rooftop restaurant that the hotel aptly describes as “casual-luxe,” became my favorite place for lunch thanks to its spectacular 360-degree views and mouthwatering menu. I especially loved the giant shrimp skewers and blackened salmon with coconut rice.
During the day, I enjoyed my hours at Alessia Rooftop Dayclub, an adults-only pool area with an infinity pool, daybeds and cabana seating — often accompanied by the talents of a live DJ. Whether I was stretched out on a daybed next to the pool or taking a swim in the warm water, my eyes were always drawn to the views of the town, the Caribbean Sea and even the coast of Cozumel in the distance.
Main House Accommodations
I found the Main House accommodations to be equally inviting. I stayed in a Thompson Suite, an 847-square-foot paradise with floor-to-ceiling windows, a comfy living area, a spacious bathroom and a balcony furnished with a hot tub, a small dining table and a daybed. I actually spent more time relaxing on this balcony than I usually do at a hotel, since its city view made for great people-watching — perhaps a better alternative to my usual practice of watching television (although the giant-screen TV certainly provided entertainment, as well).
Thompson Playa del Carmen’s 92-room Main House building
Credit: 2023 Thompson Playa del CarmenAs easy as it was to kick back and relax, I did find plenty of opportunities to stay active. In addition to swimming in the rooftop pool, I made good use of the gym and particularly enjoyed the free loaner bicycle program, which made it a pleasure to explore the city. The hotel’s central location makes it easy to wander by foot, too, and my health tracker app was dinging with delight over the miles I racked up just by strolling.
Beach House Accommodations
Travelers looking to immerse themselves in Thompson chic even closer to the beach can opt for a room at the Beach House, which has a similarly eye-catching design as well as a beachfront pool. It’s also home to C-Grill, an upscale, open-air restaurant that serves lunch with an inspiring Caribbean view.
The oceanfront Beach House, located down the street from the Main House, can host 27 guests.
Credit: 2023 Thompson Playa del CarmenBut for a truly exclusive vacation experience — or a destination wedding or memorable business incentive group meeting — clients may want to consider the Beach House Buyout Package. Reserving the entire property allows for a more personalized experience and, considering that it was fully rented by a single group when I was staying at the nearby Main House, it’s a concept that’s attracting attention.
