15 BEST Restaurants in Tulum, Mexico that you HAVE to Try

The town of Tulum is an exquisite destination situated on the Caribbean coastline of Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula. The majestic white beaches and sparkling ocean waters are met with lush jungles, cenotes with crystal clear waters, beautiful lagoons, and ancient Mayan ruins.  

Today, Tulum’s once-sleepy fishing town embraces frequent visitors. The vibe is chilled and relaxed compared to other popular locations such as Cancun. Equally, the nightlife is fantastic, and the restaurants in Tulum offer scrumptious local and international cuisine.  

Feeling overwhelmed by the choices and where to eat in Tulum? Luckily, we have narrowed it down, so you can take your palate on a mouth-watering adventure. So, on your mark, get set, and let’s explore the best restaurants in Tulum! 

The BEST Restaurants in Tulum  

1. Kokoro Tulum – Best Sushi

• Location: A little out of the downtown area. Location on Google Maps here. 
• Price Point: 1,000-2,000 – MXN per person, depending on what you order/if you choose a dinner experience.
• Come here for: Authentic Japanese Cuisine/Sushi 

Kokoro Tulum is a beautiful restaurant in Tulum, slightly removed from the hustle and bustle of the restaurant center in the downtown area. The setting is gorgeous, and the ambiance carries a romantic touch. We arrived on a warm Tulum evening and were greeted by friendly staff.  

The menu is impressive! Their cocktails are magnificent. They use fresh, natural fruit, and the combinations are superb. We each ordered a cocktail, so we could take our time in deciding what to order.  

We both opted for a cold starter in line with the warm weather. I went for the Spicy Maguro Bluefin Tuna. Dan decided the Bluefin Tuna Tartar was the way to go. Both were super fresh and the ideal way to start our meal. 

For my main, I could not resist the Bluefin Trilogy Toro Sashimi. A melt-in-your-mouth experience! Dan fancied a little spoil and relished every bite of his Salmon Ora King. Both our starter and main dishes were expertly prepared and delicious.  

Dessert was a must, and the Matcha Ice cream refreshed my palate. Dans Banana Flambe in Japanese Whiskey offered the right amount of sweetness to complete his evening spoil. My favorite part is the cocktails. Undoubtedly, one of the best I have ever had!  

One thing to note is that this is one of the pricier restaurants in Tulum. However, if you want a truly unique and high-end dinner experience, this is the place to go! Their chef selection “dinner experiences” are well thought out and feature a range of tasty meals – definitely a top choice for foodies.

2. Taqueria Honorio – Best Cheap Tacos

• Location: Downtown Tulum. Google Maps location here.
• Price Point: Between 25-50 pesos for a taco
• Come here for: Authentic Mexican street food 

It is time for some authentic and spicy street food! Dan and I can never get too much authentic Mexican cuisine. Taqueria Honorio is a fabulous streetside restaurant in Tulum preparing excellent tacos and tortas. The portions are generous, and the prices are reasonable.  

I tucked into the Poc Chuc tacos, while Dan opted for the Lechon Al Horno tacos. We both agreed the pork was perfectly prepared and rich in flavor and spice. The salad ingredients were fresh, completing an epic taco-eating experience. 

We washed our meal down with a refreshing melon juice. While doing so, we enjoyed some live Mexican guitar music. You know you are in for excellent Mexican food when a restaurant in Tulum is packed with locals. The service is terrific, and the ambiance has a genuine Mexican vibe.  

My favorite part was being immersed in the local culture. Certainly, one of the best restaurants in Tulum and well worth the visit. 

Related Read: While in Tulum, be sure to check out the best cenotes in and around Tulum!

3. Tulum Cervecería Artesanal – Best Dinner Experience (and craft beer!)

• Location: North of Tulum Beach/Ruins, location on Google Maps here.  
• Price Point: Around 500 MXN for a main dish
• Come here for: Artisanal Latin Cuisine and craft beer

Calling all conscious eaters and vegans! This incredible restaurant in Tulum not only offers superb Latin food, but the ingredients are also responsibly sourced and professionally prepared alongside Mexican cultural roots. I was fascinated to learn that they cook their food in seawater and a wood fire. By doing so, their tasty dishes have natural salty seasoning. Who knew this was possible? 

Dan and I decided to try their vegan options. I had the Grilled Beets for our starters, and Dan agreed the Grilled Mushrooms sounded fabulous. Indeed, both were so fresh and yummy! All the ingredients come from their very own organic vegetable patch. 

Keeping our love for Mexican food in place, we both went for the Grilled Tacos. The Jamaican Roll we had for dessert is delectable! A burst of vegan deliciousness with every bite of each dish. Our tentative waiter made sure our craft beer beverages kept coming.

In addition, we were treated to a live three-act show! This restaurant is about more than just the food and offers entertainment to go with it. Oh, and did I mention they also brew their own craft beer?! As a beer lover, this was a huge plus, and admittedly we sank a few pints during our last visit.  

Tulum Cervecería Artesanal is more than conscious cuisine; it is a memorable life experience. So, wondering where to eat in Tulum? This is the spot! 

Hot Tip: Consider making a reservation before you go to avoid a long wait!

4. Boccanera Pizzería y Cervecería – Best Pizza!

• Location: Just north of Tulum Beach. Google Maps location here.
• Price Point: Around 300 MXN for a pizza
• Come here for: Woodfired pizza! 

Mamma Mia, you are in for excellent pizza! Dan needed his pizza fix, and Boccanera Pizzeria y Cerveceria came highly recommended by the locals. This streetside restaurant in Tulum near the beach may be small in size. Yet, their pizzas are big in taste. 

Prepared the traditional way in a woodfire oven and dressed with toppings using only the finest and freshest ingredients, these pizzas are a hit! I adore all types of cheese, so the 4 Cheese Pizza was my choice. Dan ordered the Pizza Salame. The puffy crust was perfectly baked, and the toppings were very generous. Furthermore, the prices are great too.  

The ambiance carries an awesome Italian feel, and the service is first-rate. After our meal, we ordered Margarita’s and watched the people pass us by as the evening vibe set in.

There you have it! Where to eat in Tulum when needing an exceptional pizza? Look no further than Boccanera Pizzeria y Cerveceria! 

5. Chambao Tulum – Best Steakhouse

• Location: South of Tulum Beach. Google Maps location here.
• Price Point: Average of 1,000 MXN for a main
• Come here for: Steak and Seafood 

Chambao Tulum is the perfect restaurant in Tulum to relax and unwind in a gorgeous bohemian setting. I loved the raised wooden walkways with clear water pools nearby. This beautiful setting is home to some of the best seafood and steak you will ever eat. 

Our canine tastebuds were calling, but we decided to share a salad as a starter. The Pear Salad was an excellent choice. Oddly, I am not a huge goat cheese fan. However, it worked very well with the complimentary ingredients of red pear, blueberries, caramelized walnut, and a delicious dressing made with beet and peppermint. Yum! 

For our mains, I savored every mouthful of my braised Short Rib. Dan’s braised Brisket was scrumptious. Each cut of meat was braised for 16 hours, making this an unforgettable melt-in-your-mouth experience. We ordered a few sides to share, and the flavors were fabulous! 

Dan was too full for dessert. Even so, he had to have one bit of my Brownie Cheesecake. Too delectable! We enjoyed a local beer alongside our meal and some fabulous live entertainment. The service was impeccable. Definitely, one of the best restaurants in Tulum, especially if you are craving some steak or red meat.

Related Read: Ever get tired of the hustle and bustle in Tulum? Check out the best day trips from Tulum to escape for a little while!

6. Nao – Best Japanese Fusion Cuisine

• Location: Downtown (central) Tulum. Google Maps location here.
• Price Point: Around 300 MXN for a main dish
• Come here for: Affordable Japanese food with a twist

After a relaxing morning on the beach, Dan and I decided to ask where to get some sushi for later afternoon lunch. Nao came highly recommended, so we made our way to this restaurant in Tulum. The décor is simple with the traditional black elements of Japanese restaurants. I loved the striking Koi fish mural on one wall. 

Chef Naoya did not disappoint with his sushi culinary skills. The service was efficient and friendly. We ordered a variety of sushi to share. Each piece melted in our mouths, and the ingredients were fresh and flavorsome.  

The presentation was indeed a work of art. Beautifully laid out, scattered with fresh flowers and unique glass pyramids over the whole plate. Just stunning! 

We made room for a few scrumptious dumplings too. The ambiance and music added to our wonderful late lunch experience. On top of all of that, the prices are very affordable too. We also heard from some friends that their Salmon Teriyaki is amazing! Certainly, an excellent Japanese Fusion restaurant in Tulum to try out! 

7. Tora Tulum – Creative Asian Cuisine and Seafood

• Location: Tulum Beach. Google Maps location here. 
• Price Point: Average dish 800 MXN
• Come here for: Contemporary Japanese Cuisine 

We always enjoy visiting Tora on our Mexican travels. The service is top-notch, and the ambiance is divine. I adore the natural décor and stunning light fixtures. While Tora may have a contemporary approach. There are some traditional Japanese dishes to explore, and I am never disappointed by their creative seafood dishes. 

Dan and I decided to do precisely this. We ordered the Chef’s signature dish, a Hot Rice Pot or Takikomi Gohan. I tried the Japanese Mushrooms, and Dan opted for the seafood. So tasty and bursting with fresh traditional Asian mushrooms and seafood. So delicious! 

I urged Dan to order his own dessert, so he decided the Deconstructed Cheesecake was an excellent choice. The peach and strawberry sauce was a win! I chose to indulge in something decadent. The Nutella to Die for was the ideal choice.  

We sipped on some Japanese Whiskey as another outstanding Tora eating experience ended. Get to one of the best restaurants in Tulum for an exceptional meal! 

Note: Tora also has a second location in Cancun that is often rated one of the best restaurants in Cancun!

8. Mezzanine Thai Restaurant & Bar – Best Thai Food

• Location: Right on the beach, just south of Playa Paraiso! Google Maps location here.  
• Price Point: Average lunch or dinner main 250-350 MXN
• Come here for: Healthy Thai Cuisine and ocean views

Do you fancy a bit of Thai cuisine in Tulum? Mezzanine Thai Restaurant and Bar is in a magnificent location with a breathtaking view. It’s a paradise with a backdrop of the lush jungle and right on the beach. I decided it was time to spoil us with a scrumptious Thai meal and a spa treatment. 

After our Thai massage, a nutritious lunch was in order. We could not resist a spicey Thai Curry. Therefore, I decided on the Green Curry and Dan the Yellow Curry. My favorite part was their spiciness-level descriptions; Mild is “Tourist”, Medium is “Expatriate”, and Hot is “Truly Thai”. We had a good laugh as it is so true!  

Needless to say, both our meals were outstanding and bursting with authentic Thai cuisine flavor and spice. Perhaps, we should have stayed “healthy” however, the Margaritas from the bar were too tempting in the Tulum heat.  

We relaxed on swinging white hammocks, relishing in the view and trying not to spill our cocktails. By far one of the best restaurants in Tulum if you’re looking for a relaxed beachside dining experience.

9. La Zebra Beach Restaurant and Bar – Best Mexican Food (on the beach!)

• Location: South of Tulum Beach, right on the sand! It is attached to La Zebra Hotel Tulum.
• Price Point: Average dinner main is about 500 MXN  
• Come here for: Authentic Mexican Cuisine on the beach

La Zebra Beach Restaurant and Bar is a vibrant and colorful beachside restaurant in Tulum. These attributes are met with the tasty and authentic Mexican cuisine on their menu. My favorite part was sitting on the beach while we enjoyed our delicious meal with a sweeping ocean view. 

Of course, with your feet sinking comfortably into the warm Caribbean sand, it only makes sense to order from the Beach Menu. Dan and I shared some Chorizo Nachos. The nachos gave that perfect crunch. The cheese sauce with chorizo, black beans, pica de gallo, and guacamole was freshly prepared with the spicy flavor you have come to expect from Mexican food. 

For our mains, we tackled the tacos. I tucked into the Fish Al Pastor, and Dan munched away at the Octopus and Shrimp option. Definitely, a super tasty taco! The seafood was fresh and the condiments morish.r

I loved the unique Spicy Cocktail variety. I tried the Anthony Quinn and Dan had the Mezcal Mule – Refreshing and delicious! Furthermore, the service is friendly and impeccable.  

We completely lost track of time, and soon the sun was setting. Certainly, one of my preferred beach spots and up on my list of the best restaurants in Tulum. You will love it! 

Related Read: Check out the best Mexican restaurants in Cancun!

10. Funky Geisha Tulum – Best Asian Cuisine

• Location: South of Tulum Beach. Google Maps location here.
• Price Point: Around 400 MXN for a main dish.
• Come here for: Authentic Asian Street Food and bohemian vibes

Asian cuisine is spreading rapidly throughout the world and Mexico in no exception. The Funky Geisha restaurant in Tulum has embraced traditional street food from Japan, Thailand, and China onto one delicious menu. 

The natural surroundings flow into the décor, which has a bohemian feel. The rustic simplicity is complimented by raw materials such as reclaimed wood, wicker, bamboo, and stone. You truly feel you are in a magical paradise. 

I started with a yummy Miso soup and Dan the flavorsome Tom Kha Gai Soup. Both are excellent choices! 

We decided to skip sushi this time. However, from what we saw in the Chefs kitchen, it is worth the try. The Chef’s Speciality options grabbed our attention. The Lobster Curry Rice with Kaffir was delicious. Dan fancied the King Crab Marinated in Yuzu. The spicy authentic Japanese flavors were spot on. Truly scrumptious! 

This restaurant in Tulum takes you on a food journey around Asia. The cocktails are amazing, and the service is efficient and friendly. Our decadent desserts of Lemongrass Crème Brulé and the Almond and Walnut Tower offered the ideal ending to our meal.  

Your palate will thank you for visiting!

11. Ilios Greek Estiatorio – Best Mediterranean Cuisine

• Location: South of Tulum Beach. Location on Google Maps here.  
• Price Point: 1,000 MXN – fine-dining restaurant
• Come here for: Authentic Mediterranean Cuisine 

If you are looking for an evening of fun and exceptional Mediterranean cuisine, then Ilios Greek Estiatorio is the best restaurant in Tulum to visit. The atmosphere is fantastic and jamming with upbeat vibes. Only met with stunning décor giving this restaurant in Tulum an authentic Greek appeal. 

I love an assortment of Mezze to get my Mediterranean palate going. I ordered all our favorites, including Hummus and Dolmathes. Too yummy! The Lamb Burger caught my tastebuds’ attention, and Dan opted for the Rib Eye. Melt in our mouth deliciousness!  

Baklava is always my go-to for dessert, alongside a rich and aromatic espresso. I was smiling all the way to Greece! The entertainment is incredible. Our server was prompt, extremely knowledgeable, and hands-on throughout the evening. It’s a complete diner experience, and one foodies will absolutely enjoy.  

After our meal, we sat back with an excellent bottle of wine and took this experience in. Undoubtedly, a must-visit spot on your Tulum restaurant journey! 

Note: Ilios also has other locations in the Yucatan. There Playa del Carmen location is often rated as one of the best restaurants in Playa del Carmen, too.

12. Babel Cafe – Best Breakfast

• Location: Downtown Tulum. Google Maps location here.
• Price Point: Average breakfast meal is around 120 MXN
• Come here for: Best breakfast and coffee 

When Dan and I were walking around downtown Tulum one morning, we came across this delightful coffee shop and decided to pop in for breakfast. As you enter this small yet comfortable restaurant in Tulum, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee meets your senses.  

We both ordered a Cappuccino while waiting for our meals. Once they arrived at our table, we could not wait to tuck in. I ordered the waffle and Dan got the famous Huevos Rancheros.

Dan loved his Huevos Rancheros and said it was one of the best he ever had! My waffle came with bananas and caramel – so sweet and fluffy!

Now, I cannot leave a coffee shop without sampling a pasty. Our Cappuccinos were excellent so we decided to have Americano alongside lemon meringue pie The perfect pastry meets smooth lemon decadence! The meringue melted in our mouths.  

With our energy levels boosted, we took a long walk around the town of Tulum and indulged in some shopping. Get your day going the Italian way and pull into Babel Cafe.

13. Fresco’s – Best Healthy Food

• Location: South of Tulum Beach. Location on Google Maps.  
• Price Point: Average main 180 MXN
• Come here for: Fresh, bright, and healthy food

Fresco’s beachside café is bursting with color, taste, and creativity. Our wonderings found us in need of wholesome lunch. And, did we get just that! This rustic restaurant in Tulum is an ideal spot to visit for a healthy scrumptious breakfast or lunch. 

Famished from the sunny weather, we decided to order a Mixed Juice. Jorge promptly met us and delivered our drinks to our table timeously. I enjoyed the Digestive option packed with fresh papaya, pineapple, grapefruit, carrot, and chai. Dan’s Energizing choice of red apple, beetroot, ginger, and carrot hit the hot spot. 

We nibbled on some Guacamole and chips while awaiting our mains. I ordered the Cauliflower Tostada and Dan was keen to try the Pineapple and Habanero Ceviche. Both our meals were beautifully presented, bursting with vibrant color and Mexican flavor.  

Our fruity desserts of Lemon Pie and Passion Fruit Crème Brulé were decadent with a sharp tart freshness.

The setting is beautiful, too. We relaxed next to the shimmering Caribbean Ocean. What a fantastic way to spend your day! Certainly, one of the best restaurants in Tulum.  

14. El Camello Jr. – Best Shrimp and Ceviche

• Location: Downtown Tulum. Google Maps location here. 
• Price Point: Average Main 250 MXN
• Come here for: Authentic Mexican Cuisine – Shrimp and Ceviche! 

There is only one shrimp restaurant in Tulum to visit, and this is it! El Camello Jr. has the traditional décor you have come to expect from most streetside restaurants. The vibe was abuzz with locals and travelers alike. 

The tantalizing smell of the highly recommended shrimp had our mouths salivating in anticipation. Our friendly server delivered our order alongside various complimentary side dishes and crispy nachos.  

The shrimp was fresh and cooked perfectly with a fantastic Mexican spice kick. I squeezed a generous amount of lemon over mine – just the way I enjoy my shrimp. Delish and mouth-watering! The portions are plentiful, and the price is excellent. My favorite part was sitting in a humble setting while enjoying a 5-star meal flavor-wise. 

I overheard a group of travelers discussing the superb ceviche options available. As full as I was, it was tempting to order one. Dan suggested we return another day to try one. So, I guess we will be back tomorrow then! Where to eat in Tulum just became so easy for all shrimp fans. 

15. Parole Tulum – Best Italian Food

• Location: South of Tulum Beach. Google Maps location here.
• Price Point: Average Main 500 – 1500 MXN
• Come here for: Authentic Italian Cuisine 

Shortly before leaving Tulum, I decided one more spoil was needed to complete our palate journey. Parole Tulum is a gorgeous restaurant in Tulum offering the finest in Italian cuisine. The natural décor carries a rustic Italian charm. In addition, the meals are beautifully plated and bursting with vibrant colors.  

The dishes are classic Italian, and the Chef brings a subtle contemporary touch. We shared the classic Insalata Caprese as a starter. After much deliberation, pasta was the way to go. The mozzarella cheese was out of this world. An excellent starter choice.  

I opted for the Fettuccine Alla Carbonara Al Tartufo. The saffron fettuccine was al dente complimented with a velvety carbonara sauce, pancetta pecorino cheese, and black truffle. In a word, wow!  

Dan tried the Gnocchi Di Patate Alla Crema di Gorgonzola. A superb combination of potato gnocchi, creamy gorgonzola sauce, black truffle, and Parmigiano cheese. Dan had no words. So, I will go for outstanding! 

For our dessert, we decided to share the Degustazione Di Dolci Parole. This way, we could sample a little of everything. A delightful and decadent selection of ricotta-fig cheesecake, white chocolate and blueberry mousse, lemon ricotta cake, chocolate cake, macaroons, and dulce de leche ice 

cream.  

My favorite was the macaroons, and Dan loved the white chocolate and blueberry mouse. Even so, every sweet treat was divine! 

Certainly, the perfect way to end our best restaurants in Tulum journey! 

Thanks for reading!

I hope your mouth is watering after reading about all of these amazing restaurants in Tulum – I certainly know that mine is! I’m sure that if you make time to eat at even a couple of the restaurants I mentioned above, you’ll be impressed.

Be sure to check out our other blogs about Mexico including a few related reads below:

BEST things to do in Tulum

Beautiful beaches in Cancun

Things to do in Merida