Tulum restaurants have quickly become some of my favorite places to eat around the world. This tiny beach town has an impressive dining scene that has grown extensively over the years and will continue. Whether you like smoothie bowls, simple tacos, Italian or fancy whole lobster, you can count on the freshest ingredients prepared in a way that is straightforward and sophisticated at the same time. On top of the exquisite cuisine, the atmosphere at these restaurants is what I eat out for. It’s laid back but lively, incredibly chic, lush with greenery, and overflowing with the trendiest decor.
Tulum is a foodie’s paradise, with a wide range of restaurants and bars offering everything from traditional Mexican cuisine to international fusion dishes. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner spot or a lively bar to enjoy cocktails with friends, our guide to the best Tulum restaurants has got you covered.
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All About Tulum’s Dining Scene
Tulum is a small town located on the Caribbean coast of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. Despite its size, it has become a popular destination for foodies from around the world, thanks to its diverse and vibrant food scene. From street food vendors to high-end restaurants, Tulum has something to offer for every taste and budget. In this guide, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the best places to eat and drink in Tulum.
Tulum Mexico Restaurants: Where We Ate in Tulum
We visited Tulum in October as a long weekend getaway. We loved enjoying the beach, seeing the ruins, and swimming in the cenotes, but the real showstopper was the dining scene. Here is everywhere to eat in Tulum, Mexico!
Hartwood Tulum
Hartwood was started by two New Yorkers who decided to move to the Caribbean and is often credited with putting the Tulum dining scene on the map. It is located on the jungle side of Tulum and sits back off the road in a tropical, open air setting where you can dine under the stars. The food is sustainably caught fresh daily and the facility is completely self sustainable using solar panels and a wood fired oven. The menu rotates daily at Hartwood and is presented on a chalkboard for both food and cocktails.
What to order at Hartwood: habanero or grapefruit margaritas, whole lobster, ceviche, and tostadas. Pro tips: We walked in without reservations and it is important to note that they only accept cash.
Many people consider this THE best restaurant in Tulum. It is definitely a must try restaurant in Tulum!
Gitano
Gitano feels like you’ve stepped into the chicest jungle party! We were seated and the waiter immediately brought us celebratory tequila shots kicking off a great dinner. After that, we ordered mezcal margaritas, the tuna tostada (twice), shrimp tacos, and churros for dessert!
Gitano has three locations, however, I recommend the original jungle location. This was a favorite spot for dinner during my husband’s bachelor party, therefore I recommend it for groups as well. You can make reservations online in advance here. PS the bathrooms are very dark so take your phone with you to see.
Hotel Panamera
Hotel Panamera fueled us many times throughout our stay with them. We had great breakfasts from smoothies and granola bowls to shrimp tacos on beet tortillas at lunch and veggie burgers at dinner when we needed something American. I was impressed with the food quality and options at this tiny lifestyle hotel.
Be Tulum
Be Tulum Hotel was also a hit for lunch and dinner while we sipped on coronas and devoured tacos in our swimsuits!
Matcha Mama
Matcha Mama is the cutest little beach shack serving, you guessed it, matcha lattes, as well as, smoothie bowls, juices, ice cream, and coffee. Make sure to get your picture in the cute swings out front. A great option for vegans or vegetarians.
There are so many outstanding restaurants located in Tulum, Mexico. As a result of the inventive chefs and crafty mixologists, the dining scene is truly top notch. There were several Tulum restaurants on my list that we did not get the chance to try in a long weekend trip. Means we have to go back, right?
More Tulum Restaurants On My Radar
There’s always a list of places on my radar for my next trip to Tulum….
Posada Margherita
Everyone raved about Posada Margherita in all of the blogs I read prior to my travels. It will be my first stop next time I travel to Tulum. The menu is completely made to order featuring recipes from the chef’s grandmother in Italy. Expect Italian food completed with local ingredients like fresh caught seafood and organic vegetables found throughout the Yucatan Peninsula. I’m drooling already!
Casa Jaguar
Casa Jaguar honestly says it best themselves on their website “Inspired by the regional cuisine of the Yucatan Peninsula and the Maya, the restaurant fuses traditional and ancient techniques, with International influences and contemporary innovation”. I definitely want allll the ceviche, tostadas, and fresh catch!
Raw Love
Raw Love has all the raw vegan options you could dream of. If you’re looking for a healthy spot or need to detox a little, this is it!
Arca Tulum
Arca looks like a tropical, jungle paradise from the open air facility to the wood tables that are sprinkled throughout the majestic palm trees. The ambiance looks outstanding and the food I have seen in photos looks even better.
Macondo
Macondo at Nomade is a great choice to break up the routine of all the Mexican cuisine that you will eat at other Tulum restaurants. They are located at the Nomade Hotel serving Moroccan and Mediterranean fare. In addition, it is a great option for vegans with offerings including hummus, falafel, tabbouleh, and more.
Rosa Negra
Rosa Negra is a tribute to Latin American cuisine accompanied by handmade cocktails prepared with fresh ingredients made in house. The decor is more bohemian with those large artisanal hanging lamps that are so popular right now. Reservations are available on open table!
Kitchen Table
Kitchen Table features an open kitchen centered around a massive brick oven. The restaurant is known for its innovative cocktails and veggie-focused fare. It is mostly small plates making it perfect to share and sample – my favorite type of dining experience!
Wild Tulum
Wild is nestled in the jungle showcasing internationally inspired dishes yet paying homage to Mexican cuisine. Think crispy avocado, al pastor dumplings, grilled octopus, new york strip for the meat eaters, and a sophisticated dessert menu. Wild’s cocktail list may be longer than the food menu. Of course, I definitely want to try them all, but mostly the Old Cuban and the Sultry Goddess!
Best Spots for Cocktails and Nightlife
Tulum is not only known for its delicious food, but also for its vibrant nightlife. For a unique experience, head to Gitano for their mezcal cocktails and jungle vibes. If you’re looking for a beachfront spot, check out Casa Jaguar for their live music and beach bonfires. And for a more upscale experience, visit the rooftop bar at Nest for their panoramic views and craft cocktails. No matter what your preference, Tulum has a spot for you to enjoy a night out.
Best Spots for Vegan and Vegetarian Options
Tulum is a great destination for vegetarians and vegans, with many restaurants offering plant-based options. One of the most popular spots is La Vegan Taquería, which serves up delicious vegan tacos and other Mexican-inspired dishes. Another great option is Raw Love, which offers raw, vegan, and gluten-free options in a beautiful beachfront setting. And for a more upscale dining experience, head to Arca, which offers a vegetarian tasting menu featuring local and seasonal ingredients.
Tulum Mexico Restaurants Travel Tips
- Many restaurants in Tulum only accept cash. In addition, none of the ATMs worked on the main strip when we were there so we had to leave town to get cash. I highly suggest making a plan before you get to town.
- There is one main road through the beach area of Tulum meaning traffic can get really backed up. It will be way quicker to walk to dinners than taking a taxi, because there are lots of cars, potholes and potential mud if it’s rainy. We walked the main strip one night and chose the beach after that. Make sure you pay attention walking down the beach to find a good pathway close to your restaurant.
- Tulum, Mexico restaurants burn copal to keep the bugs at bay! The smokiness creates a hazy vibe that I think enhances the overall atmosphere.
To truly get the most out of your dining experience in Tulum, it’s important to embrace the local culture and cuisine. Don’t be afraid to try new things and experiment with different flavors and ingredients. Many restaurants in Tulum also offer unique dining experiences, such as dining in a jungle setting or on the beach under the stars. And don’t forget to pair your meal with a delicious cocktail or local beer to truly immerse yourself in the Tulum vibe.
Whatever Tulum Restaurants you visit, you are guaranteed to have a wonderful culinary experience for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You will quickly discover that Tulum is not only a beach vacation, but a true foodie destination sourcing the freshest local ingredients. I can’t wait to see the next new spot! Will you try any of these?
places with palms says
The food in Tulum is INSANE! Then add the restaurant atmosphere and variety and it has to be one of the best places for foodies in the world. LOVE it. Great round-up.
Lindsey says
Thank you! It is such a special place 🙂