Located:
Retorno del Rey Km 14
(In Le M?ridien Canc?n Resort & Spa)

For the quality and originality of the cuisine, coupled with excellent service, this is my top pick for the best fine-dining value in Canc?n. The Provencal -- but definitely not provincial -- Aioli offers exquisite French and Mediterranean gourmet specialties in a warm and cozy country French setting. Though it serves perhaps the best breakfast buffet in Canc?n (for $16), most diners from outside the hotel come here in the evening, when low lighting and superb service make it a top choice for a romantic dinner. Starters include traditional pat?s and a delightful escargot served in the shell with white wine and herbed butter sauce. A specialty is duck breast in honey and lavender sauce. Equally scrumptious is rack of lamb, prepared in Moroccan style and served with couscous. Pan-seared grouper is topped with a paste of black olives, crushed potato, and tomato, and bouillabaisse contains an exceptional array of seafood. Desserts are decadent; the signature "Fifth Element" is a sinfully delicious temptation rich with chocolate.

Main courses $22-$36.Open: Daily 6:30am-11pm.Reservations required.Credit Cards: AE, DC, MC, V.