So you’ve just arrived to your hotel and now you’re looking for the best restaurants in Tulum. In a place where it can sometimes feel like there are more restaurants than people, the search for where to eat in Tulum can be daunting. I’m here to help.
As a photographer living in Tulum for the past six years, I’ve had the chance to explore more than just the beaches and cenotes. I’ve also spent a lot of time getting to know the food—slow dinners after photo shoots, casual lunches between client meetings, and naturally, lots of tacos. Tulum’s food scene isn’t just for tourists—it’s something locals enjoy deeply, too.
This list is a collection of personal favorites. Some are perfect for a night out, others are the kind of spots you stumble into once and never forget. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or planning your tenth trip back to Tulum, these are some of the best places to eat in Tulum—tried, tested, and loved.
🌿 La Negra Tomasa
Location: Tulum town
Vibe: Lively, casual, and full of soul
Why go: A local favorite that captures the heart of Tulum Pueblo. La Negra Tomasa blends Caribbean flavors with Mexican classics in a vibrant, music-filled atmosphere. It’s not flashy, but it’s full of life and the aguachiles are top tier.
🍴 Nü
Location: Tulum beach
Vibe: Contemporary, elevated, yet unpretentious
Why go: The focus is on regional ingredients and clean presentations—like fresh ceviches, mole-spiced proteins, and unique vegetarian options. With minimalist decor and attentive service, it’s the perfect place for a relaxed upscale dinner that screams elegance.
🌮 Taquería Honorio
Location: Tulum town
Vibe: Unpretentious, casual, locals’ favorite
Why go: For the best tacos in Tulum—no frills, all flavor. It’s cash-only, always busy, and one of those places that sticks in your memory long after you’ve left.
🍝 Cetli
Location: Tulum town
Vibe: Artistic, romantic, hidden gem
Why go: So incredibly charming and a deviation from the rest of Tulum’s restaurant scene, Cetli offers elevated versions of traditional Mexican dishes and is a renowned restaurant in the Riviera Maya and beyond (with a Bib Gourmand Michelin rating to boot). You’ll feel like you’ve been teleported to Oaxaca for a minute. A great spot for slow dinners and special occasions.
🐟 Raw Love
Location: Tulum beach and town
Vibe: Wellness-minded, beachy, barefoot
Why go: If you’re craving smoothie bowls, raw vegan desserts, or a superfood-packed lunch after yoga, Raw Love is your vibe. The beachfront location is especially lovely in the morning, with views of the sea. It’s casual, nourishing, and very Tulum.
🥡 Asian Bodega
Location: Tulum town
Vibe: Laid-back, tropical Asian fusion
Why go: A refreshing departure from traditional Mexican fare, Asian Bodega serves Thai and Southeast Asian cuisine in La Veleta. They also serve creative cocktails and even sake. It’s casual, flavorful, and a favorite among expats and foodies alike.
🍕 Manglar Pizzeria
Location: Tulum town
Vibe: Hidden, rustic, low-key cool
Why go: If you’re craving something other than tacos, Manglar’s wood-fired pizza hits the spot. Tucked away in La Veleta, it has a relaxed garden feel with string lights and an excellent mezcal selection. Locals love it, and travelers who find it often go back twice.
🥗 Gitano
Location: Tulum beach
Vibe: Glamorous jungle club
Why go: Gitano is part dinner, part scene. With glowing lanterns, a mezcal bar, and a stylish crowd, it’s perfect for a vibrant night out. The food is modern Mexican and the cocktails are top-tier. Come for the vibe, stay for the dance floor under the stars (and the back room’s disco ball)
Extra tips when thinking about where to eat in Tulum:
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Make reservations in advance for popular spots like Nü and Gitano.
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Bring cash—many local gems are cash-only. (especially the taco places)
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Consider dining in town (Tulum pueblo) for better prices and more authentic Mexican flavors.
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Expect jungle ambiance—it’s part of the charm, but wear bug spray or ask the restaurant staff for some. (they almost always have it on hand)
Whether you’re indulging in gourmet jungle cuisine or grabbing tacos on a dusty side street, Tulum’s food scene truly reflects the energy of the town itself: vibrant, soulful, and full of unexpected magic. Provecho!