Your enchanting dining escape, awaits in a intimate Jungle haven

Planning an evening that combines culinary delight with a touch of natural magic? This intimate jungle dinner offered by Josephine’s SelvaSide might just be the perfect escape from the bustling tourist spots. While we haven’t personally dined here, the glowing reviews and detailed descriptions paint a picture of a truly special experience—one that promises a peaceful, authentic, and beautifully crafted meal in a lush setting.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the setting is nothing short of enchanting—candlelight flickers amidst fairy lights, and the sounds of frogs and crickets create a calming soundtrack. Second, the menu features fresh, local ingredients prepared from scratch, giving diners a taste of regional flavors unlikely to be found in typical tourist eateries.

One thing to consider: with only 5-6 tables, this dinner is very intimate, which is lovely but means advance booking is essential. It’s best suited for travelers seeking a romantic evening, a quiet celebration, or anyone craving a genuine taste of the local environment away from crowded restaurants. If you’re after a lively, bustling atmosphere, this might not be your scene. But if serenity, authenticity, and stunning natural views are your priorities, this jungle dinner could be just the ticket.

Key Points

• Intimate atmosphere with only 5-6 tables, perfect for romantic evenings
• Fresh, locally sourced four-course meal crafted from scratch
• Magical natural setting with fairy lights, frogs, crickets, and starry skies
• Includes a bottle of Prosecco per couple and infused water
• Shared venue, offering privacy at your table but a communal experience overall
• Booking in advance is recommended, often booked 24 days ahead

What to Expect from the Jungle Dinner Experience

This experience is designed to transport you away from Playa del Carmen’s busy streets into a lush, tranquil setting. The venue is nestled within a gated community, adding a layer of security and privacy, with the entrance guarded and a peaceful atmosphere waiting inside.

The Journey to Your Table

As you arrive at the meeting point on Calle Iguana, you’ll be greeted and led down a garden path that winds through tropical foliage. The walk itself sets the tone: expect to be surrounded by greenery, with the soft glow of fairy lights guiding your way. Once you reach the small, exclusive venue, you’re greeted by a handful of tables, each set with candlelight and a warm, inviting ambiance.

The Setting and Ambiance

The tables are beautifully arranged, offering a private, romantic atmosphere. The open-air setting allows you to hear frogs croaking and crickets chirping—sounds that add to the authenticity of dining in the jungle. Depending on the weather, dinner may be served on the terrace if rain threatens, but the magic of the natural surroundings remains unchanged.

Guests often mention the starry nights and the fleeting flashes of fireflies, creating a fairy-tale backdrop for your meal. Some have even been fortunate enough to hear the distant roar of a jaguar—an experience that, for many, amplifies the sense of adventure and connection to nature.

The Menu and Food Quality

The centerpiece of this experience is the four-course dinner, which emphasizes regional flavors and fresh ingredients. Because everything is prepared in-house from scratch, you can expect a high level of care and authenticity in each dish. The menu’s focus on local ingredients reflects the culinary traditions of the region, offering a taste experience that complements the natural environment perfectly.

Beverages and Extras

The package includes one bottle of Prosecco per couple, infused water, soft drinks, and American coffee with dessert. Alcohol beyond the Prosecco is not included, so if you want additional wine or spirits, plan to bring your own or purchase elsewhere. The inclusion of the Prosecco adds a touch of celebration to an already special setting, enhancing the romantic vibe.

The Duration and Group Size

The experience lasts approximately 2 hours and 15 minutes, which is enough time to enjoy each course without feeling rushed. The group size is limited to 8 travelers, ensuring a cozy, personalized atmosphere. This small number fosters intimate conversations and a feeling of exclusivity, which many guests appreciate.

The Value and Booking Considerations

At $85 per person, this dinner provides a memorable experience that combines fine food, natural beauty, and privacy—a good deal considering the setting and level of detail involved. The inclusion of a bottle of Prosecco and the focus on local ingredients add to the perceived value.

Booking is typically done about three weeks in advance, reflecting its popularity among visitors seeking authentic, romantic experiences. It’s also a flexible activity—cancelations are free up to 24 hours beforehand, making it less risky if your plans change.

What Past Guests Say

One reviewer lauded it as “an elegant, quiet, authentic, and delicious dinner,” emphasizing the gourmet quality and the overall great evening. Their comments highlight the experience’s appeal for those wanting a peaceful, refined dining option away from tourist-heavy areas.

Who Will Love This Experience?

This dinner is best suited for couples looking for romance, adventurous food lovers, or anyone wanting to appreciate the natural surroundings of Playa del Carmen in a relaxed setting. It offers a gourmet meal in a magical environment, making it ideal for special occasions or simply a memorable night out in nature.

Travelers seeking a lively ambiance or a large group experience might find this too quiet or intimate. But if your ideal night includes candlelight, star gazing, and regional cuisine in the company of a few like-minded travelers, this spot is just right.

The Sum Up

This jungle dinner experience offers a rare combination of culinary excellence and natural beauty. Its small size and focus on authenticity make it stand out from all the standard tourist restaurants, offering a genuine taste of the region’s flavors amid a peaceful, enchanting setting. The inclusion of Prosecco and the attention to detail in the presentation elevate it beyond a simple meal to a cherished memory.

While it might not be suitable for those craving a lively scene or a quick bite, it’s perfect for romantic evenings, special celebrations, or anyone eager to connect with the lush environment of Playa del Carmen in a meaningful way. Its high ratings and glowing reviews attest to the quality and uniqueness of this escape into the jungle.

If you value authenticity, intimacy, and scenic beauty, this dinner could be one of the most gratifying surprises during your trip.

FAQ

Is this experience suitable for solo travelers?
While it’s designed for couples, solo travelers who enjoy intimate settings and beautiful scenery might also find this a peaceful and charming evening.

What is included in the price?
The $85 includes a four-course dinner crafted from scratch, one bottle of Prosecco per couple, infused water, soft drinks, and American coffee with dessert.

Can I bring additional alcohol?
Alcohol beyond the included Prosecco is not provided. You might want to bring your own if you prefer other drinks, but check if this is permitted beforehand.

What should I wear?
Smart-casual is appropriate. Since it’s an outdoor setting, consider dressing comfortably but nicely, and bring bug spray if you’re sensitive to insects.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book roughly 24 days in advance, as the experience is quite popular and seating is limited.

What happens in case of bad weather?
The venue reserves the right to serve dinner on the terrace if the weather is inclement. If the weather cancels, you may be offered a different date or a full refund.

In summary, this jungle dinner experience in Playa del Carmen offers a unique blend of authentic regional cuisine, natural tranquility, and intimate ambiance. It’s an ideal choice for those wanting to add a special, peaceful highlight to their trip—especially if they’re open to a quiet, romantic, and memorable night in the heart of the jungle.