Where to Get The Best Food in Tulum, Mexico
Tulum is home to one of the best food scenes I’ve had while traveling! Cheap eats at the local spots are mostly located in town. Enjoy upscale dining on the jungle side. While there are so many places to choose from, here are my faves that keep me coming back:
Tulum Jungle/Beach
The jungle side in Tulum is truly magical. Almost everything is outdoors and vibe is boho chic. Think neutral hues, bamboos, lots of palm leaves and wooden built shacks. This area of Tulum is situated on a narrow road that runs alongside the beach for a couple of miles. This part of town has a plethora of really cool restaurants, shops, beach clubs, hotels, bars - you name it.
Rosa Negra
Great quality food and cocktails with great service and fun atmosphere. Great for lunch or dinner. I recommend making reservations for dinner. Try the humita and truffle empanadas, black cod, baked short rib tacos and ask for the free popovers.
Gitano
Prepare to spend money at Gitano! It’s one of the more popular restaurants in Tulum and the food is incredible. It’s a large, lively space that gets crowded quickly so be sure to make reservations. It’s so popular, that they opened a pop-up version in New York City for a summer. Try the shrimp tacos and a spicy mezcal margarita
Parole
If you’re craving Italian food during your Mexican vacation (I always do!), look no further. It’s a great atmosphere and they have a nice selection of wine. Try the meatballs, eggplant au gratin, and the black fettuccine.
NÜ Tulum
NÜ is one of those places that serve 3 peas, a sliced carrot and mint garnish and call it dinner, but they have GREAT cocktails.
Bak
Upscale steakhouse that is a total vibe. Grab your boo or crew and make this dinner a thing for the night. Try the “giant” octopus, rock shrimp and a steak, of course!
Loco Tulum
Great local vibes, upbeat service and even better food. Try the shrimp pesto pasta.
Wild
One of the best cocktail places on the strip. I didn’t get to try their food but the drinks were out of this world. The mixologists here know their stuff.
Tulum Town
The town offers more of a local experience and has plenty of great restaurants and bars. Though, it’s not directly situated on the beach or within the jungle, if you choose to stay in town - you can bike it to the beach in about 20 minutes.
Mateo’s
A lively and fun place with great food and drinks that’s also a family-friendly vibe. Check out their sunset lounge aka rooftop space for amazing jungle sunset views. Try their self-proclaimed “best fish tacos in the world.”
Sensaciones
This bar and beach club is part of the Hotel El Paraiso and serves great tacos and fajitas. Try a drink served in a fresh coconut and ask about their beachside massages.
Batey Mojito & Guarapo Bar
Batey’s is the place to be on a night out in the town. They always have live music performances and you can’t miss out on trying one of their hand-made mojitos.
La Malquerida
Lowkey and authentic Mexican food serving huge portions. Try their massive shrimp ceviche.
Teetotum Hotel Restaurant Lounge
Great little cafe with a super cute hostel located in the back. They serve a range of breakfast dishes, salads, sandwiches and awesome coffee.
El Capitan
Another authentic local spot with insane food portions. Try their enormous shrimp ceviche that can easily feed a family.
Related:
Travel Itinerary: Tulum, Mexico
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