Disappointing Day of the Dead Restaurant Occupancy in Quintana Roo’s Tourism Hub

During the recent Day of the Dead holiday, restaurants in Quintana Roo, Mexico, failed to meet their occupancy goals. Despite a resurgence in tourism, restaurant occupancy only reached 70%, falling short of the anticipated 80% to 85%. This report comes from Julio Villarreal Zapata, the president of the National Chamber of the Restaurant and Seasoned Food Industry (Canirac) in Cancún and Quintana Roo.

This disappointing turnout adds to the economic strain that the restaurant industry has been grappling with due to recent months of reduced activity. As a result, some restaurants are contemplating reducing their operating hours or even temporary closures. The increase in tourism did not translate into higher restaurant occupancy, particularly during lunch and dinner hours, leading to uncertainty among business owners.

As the high season approaches, the restaurant industry is hopeful for a gradual recovery. However, a recent cyclone warning for the Mexican Caribbean could potentially deter future restaurant visits, causing additional concern within the industry.

In light of the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday, a significant period for American tourism in the region, restaurant owners are tempering their expectations. The recent elections in the United States could impact travel decisions, potentially affecting restaurant occupancy in the coming months. Despite these challenges, the number of restaurants in the region has grown by 10%, partially due to new establishments opening in areas such as the old town and the Zetina Gasca neighborhood, which now boasts around 120 restaurants.