Tulum Restaurant Guide
Laura Schulthies
Laura Schulthies
Daniel Mode
Daniel ModeTulum is a spectacular beach getaway on the Caribbean coast located in the state of Quintana Roo, Mexico. This historic port city has vibrant blue waters and a thriving restaurant scene. Even if you’re staying at a Tulum all inclusive resort, we highly recommend venturing out to sample the local cuisine. Whether you’re looking to just grab a bite or go on a culinary adventure, Tulum has an amazing restaurant just waiting to be discovered. Here is our guide to many of the best Tulum restaurants!
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Where to Eat
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TULUM PUEBLO / CENTRO
Tulum Pueblo has restaurant options for all budgets and holds dozens of authentic restaurants, exciting nightclubs and bars, and often street festivals. On the edges of Centro are a few jungle areas that have some funkier, and more eclectic dining options. You’ll find ambiance, delicious food, and creativity at the eateries in Tulum Pueblo.
HOTEL ZONE / ZONA HOTELERA
The Hotel Zone has mostly upscale restaurants, many with private beachfront and beautiful swimming pools. This area is roughly divided into three different sections. The North, located up near the ruins, is a quiet and romantic area. The chic Middle has beach clubs, restaurants, and nightlife. While the South area is very family-friendly and boasts wide sandy beaches.
Budget Restaurants
Negro Huitlacoxe
You will love the local flair with dark stained wooden furnishings under conical pendant lights at Negro Huilacoxe. Chefs Alonso Lara and Carolina Noya combine unique flavors with lively colors in their delicious dishes in the Hotel Zone. The vibrant red, blue, and yellow corn tortillas, made from 100 percent nixtamalized corn, are filled with succulent pork ribs and served on artisanal ceramic plates alongside clay bowls of fiery green and red salsa. Try the tamales drowned in rich chile poblano. Don’t miss out on traditional quesabirria (birria-style cooked beef) with adobo-dipped corn tortillas.
Aroma Cafe Tulum
Aroma Café Tulum is an oasis in the heart of Tulum Centro. If you believe that every day should start with a cup of the highest quality coffee and a delicious meal, then you need to visit this cafe! The menu includes fluffy pancakes and the local favorite French toast. Try the namesake Avo Toast or the homemade Grilled Cheese Focaccia. Whether you’re looking for a place to enjoy a quiet breakfast, lunch with friends, or a coffee to go, the Aroma Café Tulum is the perfect spot for it!
Antojitos la Chiapaneca
For more of a local feel and some truly delicious eats, head to Antojitos la Chiapaneca in Tulum Pueblo. While they do have tacos, they also have mouthwatering Yucatecan snacks, including salbutes and panuchos. Try the tacos al pastor, horchata, and tostadas. Antojoitos is standing room and cash only.
Campanella Cremerie
Suppose you’re looking for great coffee, creamy gelato, scrumptious sundays, tasty waffles, and savory sandwiches in Tulum Pueblo. In that case, Campanella Cremerie is the perfect spot for you. No matter what your palate is, you’ll find something here. If you’re in the mood for ice cream try the banana crunch or the pistachio.
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Midrange Restaurants
Posada Margherita
Inside the Posada Margherita Hotel in the Hotel Zone, this restaurant with the same name is Tulum’s most iconic Italian eatery. Features traditional Italian recipes from the owner’s mother and grandmother in Genoa you will love the relaxed and comforting atmosphere. Don’t miss the delicious focaccias and house-made pasta, and gelato with immaculate ocean views. Keep in mind it’s cash only.
Safari Comedor Zama
This Tulum staple is at the edge of the jungle just outside of Tulum Pueblo in Aldea Zama. Safari Comedor Zuma combines culture and flavor that you don’t want to miss. You can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner at this eatery. Try their Yucca Truffle Fries or fresh tacos on homemade tortillas.
Loco Tulum
Visitors love stopping by this eatery when in Tulum’s Hotel Zone, as the food is excellent, and the setting is relaxing. This Mediterranean-style restaurant has seasonal tasting menus created by Chef Idan Lifshitz. The service and staff are famously wonderful as well.
El Tábano
You can seat yourself at any wooden table on this quaint eatery’s patio in the Hotel Zone. The dishes at El Tabono feature a twist on contemporary Mexican food, and the seasonal and local specials change frequently. The eclectic atmosphere will draw you in but the food will keep you coming back for more. Try the moles or the enchiladas.
Restaurante Estrada
Restaurant Estrada in Tulum Pueblo is known for its fresh seafood, delicious drinks, and fantastic ambiance. Thanks to the excellent service and phenomenal food, this locally owned and family-run restaurant is a favorite of travelers and locals alike. Known for having the freshest fish in town, the fried whole fish is a menu favorite. Start with the out-of-this-world Guacamole or fresh Shrimp Ceviche before dining on favorites such as Octopus or Tostados Mixtas. Trust us, you will want to eat at Restaurant Estrada multiple times during your visit to Tulum!
High-End Restaurants
Arca
This ultra-progressive restaurant, led by former Noma chef Jose Luis Hinostroza, has delicious wood-fired cooking in the Hotel Zone. At Arca, you’ll love the bold and exciting flavors of seasonal flora and fauna. Guests can try tamarind and pastilla marrow and marquesita cheesecake desserts at this elevated jungle eatery.
Gitano
If you want some inventive cocktails in a magical outdoor lounge, head to Gitanos in the Hotel Zone. The restaurant has a full menu of modern Mexican cuisine and a wide range of fruity mezcal-laced drinks. You’ll find the perfect combination of ambiance, bold flavors, and friendly staff here. Don’t miss the tuna tostada and the chorizo con queso.
Hartwood
Just south of the Hotel Zone, you will find Hartwood, where the laid-back, dreamy ambiance is perfectly complemented by the market-fresh dishes that change daily. Most dishes are cooked in a wood-burning oven in a solar-powered kitchen. Although the menu changes daily, you often find local fishermen’s catch of the day and the freshest produce. The bright colors of the natural ingredients at Harwood are alluring for locals and visitors alike. Be prepared for a wait, and make sure to make a reservation well in advance.
Kokoro Tulum
You can find Kokoro Tulum at Copal Tulum Hotel, one of the most exclusive properties in Tulum Pueblo. This rooftop Japanese restaurant is considered one of the best sushi bars in Mexico. The uniquely romantic atmosphere offers is perfect for a date night in Tulum. Kokoro receives fresh fish that arrives daily and is prepared for a truly unforgettable dining experience. Menu highlights include flame-seared salmon nigiri, bluefin tuna, and soft shell maki.
Maratea
Located in the Conrad Tulum Riviera Maya, about 25 minutes north of Tulum, Maratea pays tribute to the traditions of Mediterranean cuisine with small plates and an innovative cocktail selection. Start with the meze, including baba ganoush and date-stuffed grape leaves. Next, order the perfectly seared striped bass or try the grilled octopus served with a vibrant citrus vinaigrette. Don’t miss out on dessert, and try the tiramisu!
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