Where To Eat in Tulum, Mexico: 10 Underrated Places
Searching for lesser-known foodie spots? This is where to eat in Tulum, Mexico.
Tulum’s reputation as a bohemian chic paradise precedes it, but most people don’t know it as a culinary destination. In the last few years, Tulum has blossomed into a paradise for food lovers. In jungle-shrouded restaurants and beachfront eateries, you’ll find a vibrant blend of traditional Mayan flavors, locally-sourced ingredients, and fusion dishes influenced by cuisines the world over. From authentic street tacos, artisanal mezcal cocktails, and health-forward eateries, another side of Tulum is waiting to be discovered at the dining table.
My running list of underrated places to eat and drink in Tulum are predominantly Mexican restaurants–because, when in Mexico—but it does offer other types of cuisine and different price points. If you first-timers need a rundown of the tourist darlings, jump to the Popular Restaurants in Tulum section. If you’re really trying to diversify your palate and understand what makes Tulum so gastronomically unique, this list of the most underrated restaurants while in Tulum is for you. A special shout-out to the team of Go Tulum Travel whose deep knowledge of Tulum kept me full and surprised during my stay in Tulum.
For a highlight of the best things to do in Tulum, check out the Top Five Things To Do in Tulum, Mexico.
Popular Restaurants in Tulum
Tulum has a lot of great places to eat that have been documented on repeat. If you’re a first-time visitor or are planning an itinerary around a special event (like a bachelorette party), here are dining hotspots where you can celebrate in style. Just be aware that you these restaurants err on the side of expensive and require reservations in advance.
✚ Il Bacaro (Italian)
✚ Gitano (Latin/Mexican)
✚ Hartwood (Italian)
✚ Arca (Farm-toTable Mexican)
✚ NÜ Tulum (Modern Mexican)
✚ Matcha Mama (Vegetarian/Vegan)
✚ Raw Love (Vegetarian/Vegan)
✚ Batey Mojito and Guarapo Bar (Cocktails)
✚ Campanella Creamerie (Ice Cream)
✚ Co.ConAmor (Vegan/Vegetarian)
✚ Burrito Amor (Mexican)
Where To Eat in Tulum
Wang Tulum (Chinese)
Years ago, if you told me I’d find the best Chinese food I’ve ever had in my life in Tulum of all places, I would have laughed in your face. But I still cannot get over the lunch I ate at Wang Tulum. Blink and you’ll miss this takeout window in Tulum Centro, with a modest courtyard setup of tiny stools and Chinese characters painted on the wall. Wang’s was founder by an expat Chinese woman who wanted fellow Tulumites to experience proper Chinese comfort food. Everything is made-to-order so the menu is super small, but there are no wrong choices. I couldn’t get enough of the Biang Biang, hand-pulled noodles drenched in the homemade chili oil that’s as luscious as it is spicy. They also have a few specialty beverages that change based on the season. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself coming back for seconds—it’s just that good!
Notes: No reservations, cash-only, $ | See Instagram
Address: Calle sol oriente 1621, Tulum, Quintana Roo 77760
If you can handle the spice, order a bowl of Biang Biang
The modest courtyard at Wang Tulum
Wang Tulum has the best Chinese food. Perfectly spicy and handpulled noodles.
TÚ Tulum (Mexican)
Hauntingly sensual TÚ Tulum is the perfect choice for intimate dinners. With nods to Mexican supernatural elements throughout the decor and menu, the place feels like something out of a gothic romance. Dishes lean toward the rustic side like garbanzo dip and huitlacoche risotto, made with an earthy corn fungus found all throughout Mexico. But the mixology is what really sets them apart. Their specialty cocktails bewitch both in name and in taste. The El Catrin, named after Mexico’s version of the grim reaper, is a mezcal-based cocktail with passionfruit, amaretto, and coffee grounds that is set ablaze at the table.
Notes: Reservation required, cash + card accepted, $$$ | See Instagram
Address: Andromeda Ote manzana 04-lote 08, Tulum Centro, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
The El Catrin cocktail that tastes as delicious as it looks
Grilled Octopus highlights Tulum’s oceanside location.
Taco Honorario (Mexican)
Taco Honorario is a mandatory stop on your Tulum itinerary if you’re a serious taco enthusiast. What once a hidden gem, Taco Honorario skyrocketed in popularity overnight thanks to Netflix’s Taco Chronicles. The must order item is the Conchinita Pibil, a Yucatán specialty made with slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote and citrus, then wrapped in banana leaves for a tender, melt-in-your-mouth texture. People speak really highly of the lechon too but I didn’t get to try that one. The tacos are topped with pickled red onions and a splash of their fiery house-made salsas. It’s tangy, smoky, and downright addictive. Wash the tacos down with some horchata. The place is always packed but the food is well worth the wait.
Notes: No reservations, cash-only, $ | See Instagram
Address: Satélite Sur 19, Tulum Centro, Villas Huracanes, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Antojitos la Chiapaneca (Mexican)
A local favorite, Antojitos la Chiapaneca is a street stall renowned for their tacos al pastor, a marinated pork that is cooked on a vertical split and dressed in pineapple juice and chili. An extremely small menu – you can only order al pastor (pork), asada (beef), and pollo (chicken — is very telling that an establishment knows how to do their food extremely well. They also dish out Yucatan specialties like panuchos (stuffed tortillas) and salbutes (puffed deep fried tortillas). We ordered the tacos en route to Chichen Itza and I kid you not, there was a moment of silence for how good the tacos were. And for $10 MXN (~$0.50 USD) a taco, you can only be blessed by that kind of deal.
Cost: No reservations, cash-only, $ | See Instagram
Address: Calle Acuario Nte. 3, Tulum Centro, Tobiano, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Pepe Best Tacos (Mexican)
Bold words calling yourself the “Best Tacos” but Pepe really has something great going on. From dusk until midnight, Pepe slings homemade tacos and tortas from his little cart, assisted by family members. You can go the safe route with the al pastor and carne asada, but Pepe speaks glowingly about his signature camaron con coco (coconut shrimp). Don’t be shy helping yourself to their plethora of salsas. And definitely count on this popular La Valeta taco stand to have a line right at open. This is a bona fide street food experience so bring cash and prepare for minimal outdoor seating.
Notes: No reservations, cash-only, $ | See Instagram
Address: Calle7sur con, C. 6 Sur, Mexico
The coconut shrimp taco is heaving with a generous amount of shrimp
Tierra Restaurant (Vegetarian/Vegan)
Hidden within the popular wellness sanctuary, Holistika Tulum, Tierra Restaurant is a health-focused dining experience that feels like a true escape into nature. The plant-forward menu is bursting with flavor and creativity, with wholesome ingredients that are meant to heal you from within. With full-day service, you can visit for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. But I personally like breakfast time since their location is fully outdoors but roofed, so you get to enjoy al fresco dining sheltered from the elements.
Some breakfast standouts are their silky vegan chocolate pancakes, vibrant açai bowls piled high with tropical fruits, and the earthy Golden Milk that feels like a warm hug in a cup. For something savory, don’t miss the Adobo Mushroom sitting on a slice of cornmeal and topped with beans, vegan cream and cheese, and a rich salsa tatemada. At Tierra, every bite is a reminder that nourishing your body can be as joyful and indulgent as it is delicious.
Notes: No reservation, cash + card accepted | See Instagram
Address: Av. 10 sur lote 4, zona 11, manzana 902, Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico CP 77760
The Adobo Mushroom dish at Tierra Restaurant is hearty and satisfying
Cafe Don Tomas (Mexican)
Farther into town, Café Don Tomas is an inviting breakfast spot known for its welcoming staff and casual vibes. Their extensive breakfast menu is a celebration of fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, offering everything from hearty chilaquiles topped with bright salsas, buttery croissants, and nutritious smoothies. Nothing in town beats their Green Juice, thickened with refreshing nopales (cactus pads) – the ultimate detox drink!
Notes: No reservation, cash + card accepted, $$ | See Instagram
Address: Av. Satélite, Tulum Centro, Col. Centro, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Traditional Mexican Molletes, a small open-faced sandwich with refried beans and melted cheese served with salsa.
The Green Juice made with nopales, Mexican cactus, is a must detox drink for Tulum binge sessions.
La Vereda (Cafe + Bakery)
A three-in-one stop on your Tulum visit – La Vereda is a sandwich shop, bakery, and espresso bar all rolled into one. The olive green facade with its off-white awning and quaint jungle patio home to the friendliest staff, who are so incredibly enthusiastic about their bakes. Velvety cappuccinos and strong espressos pair well with their croissants. I ordered their dulce de leche croissant and it was 10/10! The yerba mate is also a popular drink and the team is well-versed in this cult beverage. Nicknamed “the deli of the barrio,” don’t skip out on a sandwich order. Although not very spacious, the interiors are darling with large French windows, a Van Gogh-style mural adorning the wall, and antique tableware, lending to its European-like charm.
Notes: No reservation, cash + card accepted, $$ | See Instagram
Address: C. 6 Sur 11, La Veleta, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
The front room of La Vereda is bathed in light from the beautiful French Windows
The Van Gogh-style murals painted on the walls makes the space feel like you’re inside a painting
La Vereda is a cafe, sandwich shop, and bakery in the La Valeta neighborhood.
La Boccanera (Italian)
The pizza game is strong in Tulum and La Boccanera’s wood-fired pizzas are giving heavy-hitter, Il Bacaro, a run for their money. Boccanera’s authentic pies are fired up in a wood oven pizza, with a perfectly crispy crust and a soft dough with the right amount of bite. The simple Burrata is a fail-safe order but if you’re a meat eater, you can’t go wrong with anyone of their meat-laden pies. I’d skip the dessert and focus on the pizza and beers.
Notes: Reservation recommended, cash + card accepted, $$ | See Instagram
Address: Multiple Locations
The Maracuya Mezcal, made with passionfruit, is tangy and not too sweet.
The Capricciosa with serrano jam, olives, and mushrooms is savory and satisfying and $260 MXN (~$13 USD).
Velvet Ice Cream (Dessert)
Healthy ice cream might seem like an oxymoron, but that’s what Velvet Ice Cream is whipping up. With its self-service model similar to that of frozen yogurt shops, you fill your cup with any one of their ice creams that’s then weighed. And then you can select premium toppings like organic mangoes, chopped nuts, and even cacao nibs. Unique to their locations are sugar-free, protein,vegan, and even CBD-infused ice cream flavors. I’m usually not a sucker for gimmicky health concepts but this sweet treat feels delightfully good across the board.
Notes: Cash + card accepted, $$ | See Instagram
Address: Punta Piedras, Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila Km 3.5, Tulum Beach, Zona Hotelera, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
The CBD Pistachio was incredibly light and made me feel super zen afterwards.
Ki’bok Coffee Tulum (Cafe + Mexican)
Behind the thatched-roof storefront is a world of expertly crafted drinks that makes Ki’bok Coffee the best stop for coffee lovers craving more than just a caffeine fix. I can only speak to their beverages but some notables include a refreshing Espresso Tonic, perfect during Tulum’s more humid days, a not-too-creamy Oat Milk Flat White, and a Mexican Mocha, infused with hints of cinnamon and spice. When I think of a laid-back beach holiday, Ki’bok fits the bill. Their bathroom walls are canvassed with the most encouraging positive affirmations!
Notes: No reservations, cash-only, $$ | See Instagram
Address: Avenida Zamna, Calle 12 Sur, La Veleta, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
The coffee here is top notch and brewed European-style
You might meet a cat (or three) on the grounds of Ki’bok
El Arbolito (Mexican)
This is a bonus share since this location is 45-minutes outside of Tulum so technically, it’s the greater Riviera Maya. But if you’re making your way to Playa del Carmen, Cozumel, or Puerto Aventuras for a boat day, El Arbolito is a must eat. As the name alludes, the family-owned taqueria was nothing but a little pop-up underneath a tree, el arbol. Today, the Mendoza Family continues to cook up a dizzying number of guisados (stews) housed in clay cazuelas, followed by beans and rice, and other homely condiments. The thing that sets this place apart are the fresh-pressed tortillas you can see being roasted on the traditional comal. Make sure to visit early as they regularly sell out by noon.
Notes: No reservations, cash-only, $
Address: Carr. Tulum – Cancún 115, 77733 Chacalal, Q.R., Mexico
Stoneware pots housing all the condiments as the guisados sit in their cazuela cauldrons
Translation: tortillas made by hand using nixtamilized corn kernels
El Arbolito has the best tacos in the Yucatan, I said what I said.
Map of all the Most Underrated Spots to Eat and Drink in Tulum
Do you have a hidden food recommendation in Tulum? Let me know if there’s a restaurant I should check out to add to my best places to eat in Tulum guide!
Give me a shout-out on Pinterest pretty please?
Amabel Buck
I’m going to Tulum next year for a friend’s wedding and I can’t wait to try all of these places! The Chinese place looks insane…as much as I love Mexican food I do find I need a break from the same flavours after a few days. Thanks so much for sharing.
Sonia
Great to see so many options for food in Tulum, including what looks like a wonderful Chinese place.
Lucia
Thanks for the guide in Tulum, I hope to visit this year and experience not just the beach life but also the Mexican food scene.
Cristina
Food is super important to me, and it’s one of the reasons why I love travelling. Thank you for sharing this list. They all look amazing, and I can’t wait to visit Tulum and try some of them.