A Fresh Take on Island Dining: Cozumel Opens in Stoked Village

Bald Head Island’s dining scene continues to evolve with the recent opening of Cozumel, an upscale Mexican restaurant located in the Stoked Village complex along Merchants Row. The restaurant brings together traditional Latin flavors, fresh coastal ingredients, and thoughtful design for a dining experience that feels both vibrant and relaxed.

Cozumel is the latest venture from restaurateur Ozkar Zaragoza, who has roots in several popular eateries in the Wilmington, NC, area, including Si Señor and San Felipe. With his brother Eddie leading the kitchen, Cozumel is a family-run operation shaped by a shared heritage and passion for food.

Design elements throughout the restaurant speak to that vision—handmade Mexican pottery, custom Parota wood furnishings, and a tortilla machine imported directly from Mexico all play a role in the dining experience.

The menu offers a wide range of options, from chef’s choice tacos filled with fresh seafood or grilled meats, to house-made guacamole available in three styles. Highlights for seafood lovers include ceviche, oysters and crab legs, with an emphasis on sourcing local ingredients.

Cozumel also features a full bar known for its craft margaritas, which are available late on Friday and Saturday nights. For those on the go, a walk-up window offers a quick and easy way to sample the menu.

Whether you’re seeking a sit-down meal or delicious takeout option, Cozumel offers a flavorful addition to Bald Head Island’s culinary landscape.