Malka is a new-ish (opened in the last couple years, but new to us) kosher dairy restaurant in Playa del Carmen, Mexico, offering a stylish and expansive Mediterranean menu that draws from Israeli, Italian, and Latin American culinary traditions that opened earlier this year. Located near the beachfront in the Aldea Thai complex, Malka’s menu is diverse and ambitious, ranging from wood-fired pizzas and vibrant salads to fresh fish dishes, rich pastas, and artisan breakfast offerings.
Breakfast With Global Influence
Malka opens its day with a full selection of breakfast dishes, blending Middle Eastern and European inspiration. The Malka Breakfast comes with two eggs prepared to your preference, six house toppings, focaccia bread, and salad, while the Gabriel Breakfast adds heat with jalapeño, garlic, and red pepper, paired with pita bread. The Shakshuka, a Mediterranean staple, is served in a traditional sauce alongside toasted pita and salad. For something sweet, diners can opt for Pancakes with vanilla ice cream and maple syrup or a healthy bowl of Muesli with yogurt and fruit.
Appetizers That Set the Stage
Malka’s starter options are full of texture and flavor. The House Focaccia, a chef’s recommendation, is served with grated tomato, garlic confit, olive oil, and balsamic. The Trio of Bruschettas includes toppings like avocado and salmon or tomato with garlic and onion. Unique offerings like the Malka Tropical Ceviche, featuring white snook marinated in citrus and served with fried pita chips, or the Crispy Fish Roll in phyllo dough with tahini and spice, elevate the appetizer experience.
Stone Oven Specials
A highlight of Malka’s offerings is its stone oven menu. Pizzas include traditional and elevated choices such as the Margarita Pizza, Funghi Pizza with mushrooms and spinach, and Bianca Pizza with four-cheese sauce and caramelized onion. For heartier bites, the menu includes a Calzone, Malawah served with egg and tomato, and Burekas stuffed with cheese or potato and served with classic accompaniments.
Salads, Sandwiches, and Fish Mains
The Malka Salad and Quinoa Salad provide refreshing plant-forward options, while the Caprese Salad combines tomatoes, mozzarella, pine nuts, and pesto. Sandwiches include Mediterranean staples like the Tuna Baguette (Tunisien), Sabich Pita, and Jala Salmon with smoked salmon and cream cheese.
For a more substantial meal, the fish mains stand out. The Fish & Chips come with tempura-fried fish and crispy fries. The Fire-Baked Salmon, Grilled Fish Fillet, and Moroccan Fish offer different styles of preparation, with sauces and spices from Asia to North Africa.
Handmade Pasta and Decadent Desserts
Pasta lovers can choose from six rotating options like Spaghetti in Pomodoro, Pappardelle Alfredo Mushroom, or House Gnocchi in Rose Sauce. The Ricotta and Spinach Ravioli with pomodoro, basil, and parmesan is another standout.
To end the meal, desserts like the Chocolate Soufflé with Ice Cream, Coco Pecan, and Afogato round out the sweet offerings.
Location and Kosher Certification
Malka is located at Calle 28 Nte Local 13, entre avenida Cozumel y Playa Mamitas, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo, Mexico. It is situated inside the Aldea Thai by OceanFront complex. The restaurant is kosher certified and open daily until 10 PM.
Find additional kosher restaurants in Playa Del Carmen and across the Riviera Maya by downloading our app: KosherNearMe.
