Mexico is famous for its delicious food, from tacos to tlayudas, and Tulum is no exception for excellent cuisine. If you’re looking for the best restaurants in Tulum then we have you covered. As one of the best places to visit in Mexico, it’s no wonder Tulum is also an excellent destination for foodies. From world-class restaurants on the beach to the most hidden and delicious taco stands on the street, we have it all for you in this guide.
A few tips regarding restaurants in Tulum before we proceed:
Tips: Remember to tip in Tulum, 10% is standard but if you feel happy with the service you may tip higher. If you see “propina” written on the bill, then don’t tip as it’s already included
Cash: Most restaurants and most places in Tulum only accept cash, while the odd one may accept card. A lot will accept US cash with most only accepting Mexican pesos. If you use a credit card expect a 3% surcharge.
Costs: Tulum is quite expensive, especially closer to the beach and the hotel zone. If you want to eat cheaply, eat in town or cook on your own at your hostel or hotel.
We’ll divide the restaurants into 4 cost categories (per person with a drink):
$ = Below 100 pesos ($5 USD)
$$ = 100 – 300 pesos ($5 – 15 USD)
$$$ = 300 – 700 pesos ($15 – 35 USD)
$$$$ = More than 700 pesos
The Best Restaurants in Tulum
In our opinion, the best restaurants in Tulum are located in town, not only are they cheaper but they are more authentic and less pretentious than the fancy hotel zone restaurants near the beach.
Best Restaurant for Breakfast: Potheads
Best Restaurant for Sunsets: Kin Toh
Cheapest Restaurant: Tropi Tacos
Best Cafe: BOTANICA Garden Cafe
Best Ice Cream: Campanella Cremerie
Taqueria Honorio – Town Center – $
Taqueria Honorio is one of the best taco spots in the town of Tulum, especially if you’re craving breakfast – they make amazing breakfast tacos. They also serve cohinita pibil, a popular Mexican pulled-pork dish, and for dessert finish up with their flan. Be prepared for a long lineup, and they close by 1:30 pm so make sure you get there early.
Loco Tulum – Zona Hotelera – $$$
Located in the southern part of the beach area, Loco Tulum are culinary specialists featuring Mediterranean-style cuisine which they perfectly pair with wine. It’s known as one of the best restaurants in Tulum, with the chef Idan Lifshitz creating an amazing gastronomy experience, quickly becoming popular among tourists.
Taqueria La Chiapaneca – Town Center – $
If you love cheap and tasty tacos, then you’ll love Taqueria La Chiapaneca, serving up some of the best tacos de pastor in town. The place may have Chiapaneca in the name but it is not Chiapas-style food.
Being a popular spot amongst locals is a hint that it’s delicious, and they also serve vegetarian options. They have lots of amazing salsas, and also Yucateca dishes that you’ll be sure to love.
Wild Tulum – Southern Beach – $$$$
If you want an interesting, authentic experience in the Mayan jungle then Wild Tulum south of zona hotelera is a must-visit. They serve a variety of international food with a Mexican fusion. They source their ingredients from local farmers and fishermen, cooking over a wood-fired oven and grill. They also have one of the best cocktail bars in Tulum.
Arca – Zona Hotelera – $$$
The brainchild of Mexican-American chef Jose Luis Hinostroza, ARCA is another authentic Tulum restaurant with amazing dishes cooked over an open fire.
ARCA specializes in Mexican food, specifically Yucateca cuisine, and don’t miss out on their soft shell crab tacos! The presentation is next-level, and the jungle vibe and is quintessential Tulum. Did we mention, the cocktails are amazing as well?
Tropi Tacos – Town Center – $
One of our favourite spots and one of the best restaurants in Tulum if you want to eat on a budget. The al pastor tacos are wonderful, and the meat just melts in your mouth and they have freshly squeezed juice that is also popular here.
Cetli – Town Center – $$$
Cetli is an authentic Mexican restaurant just north of the town serving up delicious Oaxacan mole cuisine. The vibe is very homely, set inside a pre-Hispanic style casa. The place is open for lunch and dinner.
Posada Margherita – Beach Zone – $$$
Located in the middle beach zone area, Posada Margherita is an Italian restaurant located right on the beach, serving up some of the best Italian food in Tulum. They make amazing pizza and pair it with a wide selection of tasty wines. It’s cash only and reservations aren’t accepted.
Campanella Cremerie – Town Center – $
If you’re looking for sweet treats or dessert, then Campanella Cremerie is a must-visit. They serve amazing Italian-style gelato, delicious waffles, and some of the best coffee in town. This is one of the best restaurants in Tulum for desserts and sweet treats.
Safari Comedor Zama – Town – $$$
Safari Comedor Zama is a Yucateca-style restaurant set in an old retro-style trailer, with food being cooked over an open flame – campfire style. Come here for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The price is quite expensive but the atmosphere is great, with outdoor seating and live music.
The Real Coconut – Zona Hotelera – $$$
Situated right on the beach with spectacular views, The Real Coconut is known as a healthy choice to eat at. Completely vegan, gluten-free, and dairy-free you’ll find a health-conscious and organic-loving crowd here. The coffee is great, along with their coconut dishes such as coconut-cassava chips. It’s one of the best restaurants in Tulum for healthy eating.
Gitano – Zona Hotelera – $$$$
When Gitano is not acting as a Nightclub it’s a fancy restaurant and beach club, split into three separate restaurants. There is Gitano Jungle opposite the beach in the Mayan jungle, Gitano Beach which is, of course, on the beach. Meze Tulum is their Aegean-style tavern next to the jungle restaurant. Whatever you’re looking for here they have it, from Mexico, Mediterranean and American style cuisine, as well as fancy cocktails.
Rosa Negra Tulum – Zona Hotelera – $$$$
One of the best restaurants in Tulum for a fine dining experience, Rosa Negra is a Latin American-styled restaurant with the best food and cultural experience from Colombia, Argentina, Brazil, Peru, and Mexico.
They have one of the best selections of wine in Tulum with over 300 bottles from around the world. Rosa Negra also has a sister club that comes alive at night after 10 if you’re looking to party.
El Asadero – Town Center – $$
El Asadero is the best steakhouse in Tulum in our opinion, with amazing arrachera, chorizos, flame-grilled cactus (nopales), and excellent drinks. This place is open for dinner only.
Potheads – $$
Potheads is the place for not only potheads, but anyone facing a terrible hangover, or just late risers. They have all day brunch from 7 am to 7 pm with delicious dishes from eggs benedict to the popular Mexican dish chilaquiles.
Kin Toh – Zona Hotelera – $$$$
Perched atop a tree and incorporated into the Azulik Resort, Kin Toh is a spot you shouldn’t miss if you’re looking for an unforgettable dining experience in Tulum. This avant-garde restaurant and lounge offers a unique mix of Mexican cuisine with a Mayan twist, served in a picturesque setting overlooking the lush Mayan Jungle. The sunset view from Kin Toh is breathtaking, making it the best restaurant for watching the sunset in Tulum.
Hartwood – Zona Hotelera – $$$$
Founded by New York Chef Eric Werner and Mya Henry, Hartwood is a restaurant that operates entirely off-grid. They source their ingredients locally, and all of their dishes are cooked on a wood-burning stove and oven. The menu changes daily depending on what is fresh. Hartwood does not take reservations, so it’s recommended to line up early.
BOTANICA Garden Cafe – Town Center – $$
If you’re looking for a great café in Tulum, look no further than BOTANICA Garden Cafe. This vibrant spot is perfect for a healthy and delicious breakfast or lunch, serving up an array of smoothie bowls, vegan options, salads, and fresh juices. It’s set in a lush garden making it a peaceful spot to enjoy a meal or a coffee.
Best Restaurants in Tulum Conclusion
Tulum’s vibrant culinary scene mirrors the cultural diversity of this captivating seaside town. From traditional Mexican food to international gastronomic trends, Tulum offers a wide spectrum of dining experiences that cater to various palates and preferences.
Whether you’re yearning for the heartiness of authentic tacos at Taqueria Honorio or the Mediterranean flavors at Loco Tulum, or seeking a healthier diet at The Real Coconut and BOTANICA Garden Cafe, Tulum’s food scene has something for everyone.
But it’s not just about the food – dining in Tulum is an experience. It captures the essence of this enchanting place, from dining amidst the jungle in ARCA and Wild Tulum to beachfront indulgences like Posada Margherita. Whether you’re on a budget or looking for luxury, the richness of Tulum’s culinary landscape complements its natural beauty and historical charm.
As you plan your visit, remember that the journey through Tulum’s gastronomy is as significant as exploring its white-sand beaches and Mayan ruins. After all, the essence of travel is not just to see, but to taste as well. ¡Buen provecho!
