The newly renovated Riu Playacar has already made some changes since its reopening the fall of 2015.  Due to the popularity of its main buffet, The Palms, a la carte reservations are no longer required for either the steakhouse or Jade.  There is a new a la carte restaurant which shares space with the steakhouse and it serves Mexican cuisine.  Reservations are not required for this restaurant either.  You just need to show up.  Another reason to like this resort–no standing in another line just to put your name on a list with a set dinner time.  Just show up–can’t get more easy than that.