Worker Alleges Labor Exploitation at Playa del Carmen Restaurant

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — A worker has publicly accused a restaurant in this beachside city of labor exploitation, alleging 18-hour shifts, wage theft, and unsanitary conditions in a social media post that has sparked debate.

The employee, who recently moved to Playa del Carmen with her husband seeking work, said she took the job due to financial need. According to her account, she worked up to 18 hours a day for a weekly salary of 1,800 pesos (about $90). She claimed management monitored staff constantly via security cameras and that the manager would call to reprimand her even for sitting down briefly.

When she requested payment for the days worked, the owner reportedly refused, saying it was a training period — a condition the worker said was never disclosed at hiring. She also alleged that during the dispute, the owner spat on her.

In addition to the labor complaints, the worker described poor hygiene at the establishment, including cockroaches and improper food handling, which she said other employees were aware of.

The worker said she went public to warn others seeking jobs in Playa del Carmen and urged them to research working conditions before accepting offers.

The restaurant has not issued a public response. No official investigation has been announced by authorities.