Restaurants in Tulum: A Comprehensive Guide (2022)

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I have visited Tulum four times over the past four years, and am already dreaming of my next trip. People always ask me what compels me to return again and again. I think if I’m being honest the answer is 100% the restaurants in Tulum. Like any normal person, I have a slight obsession with great Mexican food. Tulum is a serious foodie destination, and the great restaurants in Tulum is one of the main reasons that I’ve fallen so in love with this city. You’ve got something to please any traveler type: budget-friendly street tacos, healthy smoothie bowls and vegan treats, and Michelin star-worthy upscale restaurants. You’ll find plenty of these on my Ultimate Tulum Travel Guide. All of these restaurants can be visited using this guide, or you could book a restaurant walking tour if you’re looking to join a group!

I have used a 3-scale dollar sign rating to indicate prices. 

$ Full meals under $5 USD

$$ Entrees range from $5-15 USD

$$$ – Entrees average $20USD+

Best Restaurants in Tulum Town

Los Aguachiles $$

I’m sad that I’ve been to Tulum four times, and yet this was my first time visiting Los Aguachiles. Seriously, it is one of the best restaurants in Tulum. But don’t worry, I made up for it by eating there multiple times. Aguachiles is a typical Mexican dish, typically made with either fish or shrimp, that translates to “chili water”.  A type of ceviche, the seafood is submerged in a liquid of lime, salt, cilantro, and jalapeno or chili peppers. It’s a very citrusy, yet spicy, fresh dish! 

Of course I had to try the traditional green sauce Aguachiles when I visited. You can get a half portion for 135 MXN ($6.50), which is more than enough for one person in my opinion. If you’re looking for something a bit smaller, they have tostadas for 80-100 MXN ($4-5). And of course you should wash it all down with a (large) passion fruit mezcal. 

Address: Chetumal-Cancun MZA 40 LTE 1, Centro, 77760

Hours: Daily 1PM-10PM 

Burrito Amor $$

Burrito Amor is a classic Tulum restaurant burrito spot in Tulum town. While it’s appears to be a bit more upscale, the prices are still totally reasonable. It recently moved just across the street. You can snag an egg breakfast burrito for $2-3 USD and a meat-based burrito for around $4.

Address: Av. Tulum Mz 05-Lote 03, Tulum Centro, Centro, 77780

Hours: Daily 8AM-10PM 

Antojitos la Chiapaneca $ (one of the best and cheapest restaurants in Tulum)

This is one of those places that I just keep coming back to again and again. It’s cheap, local and so so delicious! The best part? Tacos start at $0.50. Even a hearty torta is only $2.50 USD.

My personal favorites are the al pastor tacos and the cheese quesadillas. I know a plain cheese quesadilla sounds boring, but I’m a sucker for some Oaxacan cheese. They’ve got a number of sauces to put on top – I love the mix the mild green sauce with the spicier red sauce.

This spot gets super busy for dinner, for both dining in and takeout so expect a wait. Lunch tends to be a bit less crowded.

Address: Calle Acuario Nte. 3, Tulum Centro, Tobiano, 77760

Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10AM-11PM, closed Monday

La Pizzine $$

I stumbled upon this spot while looking for a decent cup of tea in La Valeta. I ordered the Avocado Toast with Tomato ($4.50 USD) expecting a classic spread of avocado with some sliced tomato on top. What came instead was pure magic. Seriously though – this toast was topped with avocado, bruschetta, zucchini, red onion, a seed mix, and fried egg, and the most delicious green sauce. If only every day could start with a meal like this!

The restaurant is also part art gallery, and it a popular spot for dinner. Come by for a glass of wine ($5-6 USD) and one of their delicious wood fire oven pizzas (starting at $4.50 USD). I can for a drink after dinner but the pizzas looked so good that I had to order one to take home.. for dessert of course!

Address: Calle 7 Sur y 14/Lote 16, La Valeta, 77760

Hours: Monday 9AM-10:30PM, Tuesday Closed, Wednesday & Thursday 8:30AM-10PM, Friday & Saturday 9AM-11PM, Sunday 8AM-11PM

“Best Tacos in Tulum” Stand $

Now I didn’t give this place it’s name, but when I saw it come up on Google Maps, I knew that I had to try. I was staying just two blocks down the road at Petit Turquoise hotel, so it was an easy dinner choice. I got the impression that it is just about always busy. Even on a Monday night there was a constant flow of customers.

The owner of the stand was super friendly and served up two large tacos, some grilled veggies on the plate, and a fresh watermelon juice for 60 MXN ($3 USD). The tacos themselves are flavorful, but they’ve also got an array of sauces from mild to spicy to add on top. There are a few tables, but many people take it to go. I don’t usually eat a ton of chicken in Tulum, as it is a less popular meat. However, with the popularity of this spot it felt like a safe choice.

Address: Calle 7 Sur, La Veleta

Hours: Monday-Thursday 7-11PM, Friday 7PM-12AM, Saturday 7-11PM, Sunday Closed

La Negra Tomasa $$

I visited this place for the first time on my recent trip in 2021 and it quickly became a favorite of the restaurants in Tulum. They are known for their ceviche tower, and it lived up to all of my expectations. I was surprised by how large the portion was for the price. For about $10 USD, the ceviche was big enough to split with a friend. They were great about replenishing our tostadas on the side, which were the perfect vessel for all of the yummy seafood.

They are known for having great cocktails as well, but I spent my meal hydrating so I’ll have to try one next time!

Address: Andromeda Ote 14, Tulum Centro, 77760

Hours: Daily 12-11PM 

Xiximak $$

Since I was staying in the Valeta neighborhood, I walked by this place plenty of times before finally stopping in to eat. I had read some reviews online claiming the best burrito in town, so my expectations were high. I would say it was quite good, although not the best I’ve had. The burrito was nice and cheesy, with a good flavor. Plus, it was absolutely massive so it was perfect for sharing or for some leftovers.

They do a 2 for 1 margarita deal which is always fun, and a must on the side of any burrito dinner.

Address: Palenque, La Veleta, 77760

Hours: 11AM-11PM

El Asadero $$

Although El Asadero is a sit down restaurant that looks like quite fancy, it is actually super affordable! They are known for their different cuts of meat, but I personally love their tacos and quesadillas.

Address: Av. Satelite Nte. Mz 23 Lt.5 entre Sagitario y, Calle 2 Ote, Centro, 77760

Hours: Monday-Saturday 2-10PM

Taqueria Honorio $

Okay confession, I’ve never eaten at Taqueria Honorio. I know, I’m just as sad about it as you are since I won’t be able to share a proper review. But I trust my foodie friends who say that this is one of the best cheap taco spots in town. It’s only open in the mornings, but yet every time I tried to go it was randomly closed.

Address: Satélite Sur Sm10 lote 3, Centro, 77760

Hours: 6:30AM-3PM Daily

El Grifo

If you’re looking to grab a cocktail, El Grifo is a great spot in town. Their Mango Mezcal cocktails are affordable and (very) strong. Plus, it is right on the main road so there is always a great ambiance. If cocktails aren’t your thing, El Grifo is actually a beer shop as well. They’ve got a huge selection of craft beers for sale or to drink there.

Address: Avenida Tulum esquina, Calle Orión Sur norte, Centro

Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 2-11PM, Closed Monday

La Taqueria $$

I tried both their fish tacos ($2 USD each) and their shrimp tacos ($2.50 USD each) at the La Valeta location. Both were delicious, albeit a bit small, but the shrimp were definitely better in my opinion. There is also a location on the beach.

Hours: 8AM-12AM Daily

Palma Central $$

Palma Central is an awesome dinner spot if you’re with a group. It is an outdoor garden with a collection of food trucks and stands. From tacos to burgers, there is something for everyone! Plus, there is table service for your drinks. We visited on a Saturday night and it was bustling without being too busy. There was also some fun live music until 10PM.

Address: Av Kukulkan 6, 77760

Hours: Thursday-Tuesday 5-11PM, Closed Wednesday

Holistika $$

Holistika is what Azulik was 3 years ago. Think lots of green, sound baths and yoga classes, and a trendy healthy cafe. I had a mixed experience. The property is gorgeous, no doubt about it. My food and matcha were delicious and reasonably priced. However, the service was awful and painfully slow, despite sitting at the bar. It definitely has your trendy expat vibe.

Address: Av 10 sur lote 4, manzana 902, Zona 11

Hours: 9AM-9PM Daily

Co. ConAmor $$

I have mixed feelings on Co. ConAmor but the food is cheap and delicious, so it’s worth sharing. Co. ConAmor is a vegetarian restaurant in Tulum Pueblo. There is a large beautiful garden area for outdoor seating. There is often live music at night but be aware of the mosquitos.

The reason I’m not completely raving about this spot is because of the truly non existent service. No greeting when we walked in, grabbed our on menus, and we walked up to order. They didn’t even clear our empty glasses when bringing over new drinks – a bit odd. That said, the food is delicious! For under $5 USD I had a massive bowl of stir fried veggies, brown rice, and a delicious peanut sauce. They also have a fun of delicious salad options, when you’re looking for something a bit lighter. While it’s not one of the best restaurants in Tulum, it’s definitely worth a visit!

Address: Calle Polar Pte., Tulum Centro

Hours: Tuesday-Sunday 10:00AM-9:30PM, Closed Monday

Otti Cacao and Smoothies

Otti’s a small stand in La Valetta known for their cacao. They have a number of flavors, including orange and mint. Each cacao can be served hot, cold, or as a frappe. I got mine cold and it was delicious. It was served in a bowl with ice, and I alternated between using a spoon and sipping straight from the bowl. They have great WiFi so this is a great little spot to come to to get some work done.

Address: Calle 12 Sur 22, La Veleta

Hours: Monday-Friday 8:30AM-4PM, Saturday-Sunday 9AM-2PM

Best Restaurants in Tulum Beach

Raw Love $$

Raw Love is a little slice of paradise in the middle of the jungle – that also happens to be located right on the beach. If you’re looking for a healthy, vegetarian (or vegan) breakfast or lunch, I highly recommend it as one of the best restaurants in Tulum. I love their Raw Pad Thai and all of their smoothie bowls. They have plenty of great gluten free options as well. Make sure to bring cash along because cards are not accepted.

Their main location is on the beach, part of Ahau hotel, but they now have a second location within Tulum Pueblo as well.

Address: Tulum Beach, 77500 

Hours: Daily 9AM-6PM

Kanan $$$

I visited Kanan for my very last meal on my very last day in Tulum. Everything about this beach hotel and restaurant is the definition of ~aesthetic~. Seriously though, enjoying breakfast in one of these nests was a serious highlight for me. There are typically minimums, but if you come at breakfast when it is empty, they’ll sometimes waive these charges.

I haven’t dined here for anything other than breakfast, but my avocado toast and cup of tea were both reasonably priced for these beachfront views.

Macondo Nomade $$$

Macondo serves up some of the best Moroccan vibes right on the beach in Tulum. Although it’s a bit pricey, it’s definitely one of the best restaurants in Tulum. I love the decor, and the fresh vegetarian food is delicious,

Address: Carr. Tulum – Cancún KM 10, Tulum Beach, Zona Hotelera, 77880

Hours: 12-11:30PM Daily

Taqueria La Eufemia $$

I’ve mentioned this a few times now, but food in the beach area is a whole lot more expensive than in the town. Taqueria La Eufemia is one of the exceptions to that. This beachfront taco spot is a serious gem for your long beach days in the sun.

Address: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila 7.5, Tulum Beach, Zona Hotelera

Hours: 8AM-10PM Daily

Mulberry Project $$$

If you’re doing some evening drinking on the beach on a Tuesday, Mulberry Project is the spot for you. Although their cocktails are on the pricier end at around $15 USD, they have 2 for 1 all day on Tuesdays. You get to choose a liquor, fruit, and flavor profile, and the bartenders will whip something delicious up for you. We went from a “Refreshing Mezcal Peach and Mint” to a “Spicy Mezcal Raspberry” and the bartenders absolutely crushed both!

The bar outdoor bar at La Zebra is technically a pop-up from NYC, but it’s been around for about 6 years at this point so it’s a staple!

Address: Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila Km 8.2, Tulum Beach, Zona Costera

I Scream Bar $$

Although you’re probably expecting a review on their ice cream, I’m here to tell you about their delicious tacos instead. I Scream bar is actually run by the same owners as La Eufemia, so you can expect the same great prices. There are not many places on the beach road where you can find great, cheap tacos, so this a must-visit. I got the Al Pastor with Pineapple ($2 USD each) as well as one of their Fish Tacos ($3 USD each). They are open late, so it’s a great late night spot for food and drinks. Plus, it’s super Instagrammable!

Hours: 8AM-3AM

Posada Margherita $$$

Admittedly, I didn’t get a chance to eat at Posada Margherita on either of my last two trips (sad, I know), but I loved it so much the first time that I went that I had to include it here. Who would have thought that I would enjoy some of the most delicious Italian dishes on a beach in Mexico?! But seriously, the food here is worth every penny.

Entrees are on the pricier end, starting around $25 USD. But you can expect all of the freshest ingredients dining here! Plus, there is the best boho beach vibes that I totally want to copy for my (future) beach home. Make sure to bring along your pesos as Posada Margherita is cash only.

Location: Km. 4.5, Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila, 77780

Hours: Breakfast 7:30-11:30AM, Lunch/Dinner 12-10PM Daily

Conestesia Tulum $$$

Picture a large rabbit head with the mouth as an entryway. That is the how you get to Conestesia Tulum. This rabbit-themed bar will have you feeling like Alice in Wonderland as you make your way through the jungle to the bar. Be on the lookout for all of the fun rabbit decor!

The cocktails are on the pricy end ($15 USD each), but they do a great 2 for 1 deal before 5PM on some nights.

Location: 5, Tulum Zona Hotelera Km 6

Hours: 9AM-7PM Daily

Azulik $$$

I didn’t make it to Azulik on this most recent trip, but it’s such a classic that I had to include it. Overall I think reviews on it are mixed. While I had an amazing experience, rules are becoming stricter over the years. They no longer allow any camera photography and there are minimums for dining. That said, the ambiance at Azulik is incredible and I definitely recommend at least one meal at this magical place.

Once you’ve finished your meal, be sure to check out the on-site art installation. This costs $10 USD at the beach location and $20 USD at Francisco Uh May. This was previously free, but they have increased the price in recent months.

Address: Carretera Tulum – Punta Allen KM 5, Zona Hotelera, 77780

Best Cafes in Tulum

Liquido y Solido $$

If you’re a digital nomad in Tulum, I’m sure this spot will be a gem for you. Liquido y Solido is one of the best restaurants in Tulum for getting work done. This is a big shaded outdoor area with plenty of seating. The menu consists of lots of fresh juices, smoothies, and healthy food options.

Address: Av. Tulum Mza32 L8, Col. Centro, 77760 

Hours: Daily 8AM-10PM (Sunday 10AM-4PM)

Matcha Mama $$

Matcha Mama is the ultimate classic spot for me on any Tulum trip. I actually posted this fun post on @tavernatravels the other day that showed photos of me at Matcha Mama over the years. Originally you could only snag a class Matcha Mama smoothie bowl at the beach (Hotel Zone), which is the address that I have listed below. However, they now have two more spots in Aldea Zama and Tulum Pueblo.

Address: Quintana Roo 15 470 Zona Hotelera • 77780, Zona Hotelera, 77780

Hours: Daily 8AM-6PM

Ki’Bok Coffee $$

I’ve heard it time and again that Ki’Bok has the best coffee in Tulum. As a non-coffee drinker myself, I unfortunately cannot confirm. But the atmosphere is great and the fresh juices are amazing. They’ve got a breakfast and lunch menu that are both fantastic and affordable. Plenty of seating indoors, and a few seats outside as well.

Address: Calle Centauro Sur Mz 05 Lt 11, Tulum Centro, Centro, 77710 

Hours: Daily 7AM-9PM (Sunday 7AM-5PM)

Italdo $$

If you’re looking for a delicious pastry and a killer cup of matcha, Italdo is your spot. The chocolate croissant was seriously to die for, and absolutely massive. It’s also so hard to find a great cup of matcha that I actually enjoy since I’m so used to making my own at home, so my morning here was a major win. They’ve got some really cute seating outdoors as well!

I paid $6.50 for a matcha and a croissant. Obviously not the cheapest when you can eat a full taco lunch for $2, but still totally worth it in my opinion.

Address: AV. 5 Sur Manzana 892 Lote 6, Local 7, La Veleta

Hours: 8AM-8PM Daily

I tried my best to hit as many restaurants as possible on my recent trip, especially ones that I hadn’t been to before. However, there are still a few that I still just haven’t made it to (yet). These honorary mention restaurants in Tulum tend be on the pricier end and require a reservation (making them more difficult to visit during my quick solo trip).

• Humo
• ARCA
• Hartwood
• Gitano
• Casa Jaguar
• Clandestino 

Heading to Tulum? Here are some other posts to check out:

• Tulum on a Budget
• Top Tulum Instagram Spots
• How to get to Tulum from Cancun Airport
• Ultimate Tulum Itinerary
• Tulum Solo Travel Guide

Like what you read on my comprehensive guide to restaurants in Tulum? Make sure to pin it for later!