Maya del Carmen

Here in the Riviera Maya, Axiote Cocina de Mexico offers a tight selection of familiar Yucatan dishes prepared with modern touches. Carefully presented, the generously portioned plates are compelling, starting with a selection of fiery salsas that do not hold back on heat. The likes of tostadas de mais azul or guacamole with chapulines (grasshoppers) make for good starts. Fork-tender birria de cordero is a stand-out entrée but do save room for dessert. From coconut cream with passion fruit to mango with honey, orange foam and cocoa, the sweets here are a surefire strength. While not necessary,