As mesmerizing as Tulum’s landscape and serene beaches can be, this travel destination offers more than just an adventurous getaway. One of my favorite things about Tulum is its exquisite food.
If you’re looking for spectacular dining experiences and delicious food, the restaurants on the beach are your best bet.
I’ve tried my fair share of restaurants in Tulum, and I’m here to give you my honest opinions.
Restaurants in Tulum Beach
After a few trips to Tulum, I’ve compiled the following list of my best beachside dining experiences in the gem of the Yucatan Peninsula.
1. Gitano Tulum
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5
💗 Popular for: Ambiance and spectacular view
🍽️ Must Try: Fish tacos and watermelon salad
Tulum’s restaurants on the beach with a view are plentiful, but this one really hit the spot. Gitano Beach serves up Mexican and International cuisine with a full bar as well.
The jungle-themed decor elevates the experience, and you can choose between the beach club and relaxing beachside. The mixologist is a wizard, so I recommend you ask them to get creative with your drinks.
I enjoyed my meal in a shaded cabana, and the outstanding service team was unbelievably friendly. The restaurant practically turns into a beach club at night, so you can get the best of both worlds from this place.
Flamenco night at Gitano Beach is an incredible experience on its own. Ocean views, good food, and astounding drinks. It doesn’t get better than that.
2. Boccanera Pizzería y Cervecería
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5
💗 Popular for: Wood fire pizzas
🍽️ Must Try: Capricciosa pizza, Diabla pizza
Although this isn’t Mexican food, I don’t know anyone who could turn down a good Italian pizza by the beach. In my opinion, Boccanera is hands down the best pizza place in Tulum.
Their scrumptious, fluffy pizza dough is topped with fresh and high-quality ingredients. You can enjoy your pie outdoors and take in the ocean air or sit by the bar inside, where they serve up a wide variety of drinks.
Boccanera might be a small pizzeria, but its authentic wood-fired pizza oven and great vibes make it worth a visit. The staff is incredibly helpful, and the food is ready in practically no time.
The main location is on Tulum Beach, but they also opened a new branch in La Veleta. Either way, the food and ambiance are good. Keep in mind, though, that there are more foreigners here than locals. It’s great for a safe choice if you aren’t in the mood for exploring local food some nights.
3. Ziggy’s Restaurant
⭐Rating: 4.5 out of 5
💗Popular for: Romantic vibes, Mezcal tasting
🍽️Must Try: Mezcal tasting, seafood
For a romantic dinner on the beach of Tulum, I’d say the best option is Ziggy’s Restaurant. It’s part of an upscale beach club, serving three meals with different menus. One thing you’re guaranteed at Ziggy’s is an exquisite dining experience by the ocean.
I definitely recommend trying the tequila and mezcal tasting, even if you aren’t a connoisseur of any sort. The staff were incredibly helpful, and the food was undeniably delicious.
The fresh seafood is the star of their menus, but I’ve sampled other parts, and it’s all good. Follow your waiter’s recommendations, and you’re guaranteed an impressive meal.
4. ARCA Tulum
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5
💗 Popular for: Casual fine dining meets Mexican food
🍽️ Must Try: Roasted bone marrow, Seared sea bass
On the list of the top restaurants in Latin America, ARCA stands out for its atmosphere and exquisite Mexican food. Reservations are required for this high-end restaurant, so don’t assume you can just get it in. It’s only open for dinner, so plan ahead.
Executive Chef Jose Luis Hinostroza grew up in a Mexican home in Southern California, so he brings a lot of heart to his dishes.
The elegant menu elevates humble Mexican food to a fine dining experience. I personally found the atmosphere vibrant and their cocktails very tasty. The waitstaff was helpful and attentive, and the open kitchen showed me the chefs could serve quality food.
5. Hartwood Tulum
⭐ Rating: 4 out of 5
💗 Popular for: Central American seafood in an off-grid setting
🍽️ Must Try: Jicama salad, ceviche
A rustic and charming open-air restaurant with wood-fire grilled seafood and great cocktails. Hartwood is one of the best restaurants in Tulum Beach that you must try. With a focus on local, seasonal, and fresh ingredients—this restaurant lives up to the hype.
The restaurant is on the jungle side of the road, so it can be difficult to find, but I believe it’s worth the trip. The location makes it more “off-grid” and sets the atmosphere. Furthermore, the wood oven adds to its charm and appeal.
I recommend trying the jicama salad. Their fresh seafood is impressively good, and if you’re adventurous—order the octopus. Trust me, this is a restaurant that is worth the wait to get in.
6. NÜ Tulum
⭐Rating: 4.5 out of 5
💗Popular for: Seafood and relaxed atmosphere.
🍽️Must Try: Prawns and sea bass
Known for its captivating ambiance, combining nature and contemporary design, NÜ Tulum was on my must-try list from the moment I landed there. The setting is picturesque and serene, so I was excited to try the food when I walked into this restaurant. The menu is a diverse fusion of contemporary Mexican dishes that really take you on a culinary adventure.
Here’s what it’s like eating at NÜ Tulum: The lush jungle surrounds you as you sample locally sourced exotic ingredients from a menu designed with a wow factor in mind. The service is impeccable, and there are plenty of options for special diets (vegan, gluten-free, vegetarian).
I highly recommend their fresh fish and prawns, but they also have other options, such as duck (with mole) and other local specialties that go way beyond the average Mexican restaurant.
They also serve up amazing Mezcal-based cocktails that are perfect to start your meal with. I’d say the servers went above and beyond to be attentive and answer our questions about the menu. Overall, I’d say my meal at NÜ Tulum was spectacular.
7. Wild Tulum
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5
💗 Popular for: Serene jungle setting
🍽️ Must Try: Prawn ceviche and Wonton tostadas
Serving up international cuisine with Mexican flair, Wild Tulum is a popular restaurant with a unique design concept. Whether in the entrees or mains, their fresh, locally sourced seafood stands out.
While the prices may lean towards the higher end, the quality of food, unique ambiance, and exceptional service make Wild a worthwhile gastronomic journey in Tulum.
I was particularly impressed with the prawn ceviche, and my friend with a more daring palate ordered the grilled octopus with squid ink adobo. The food was spectacular, to say the least. Each dish is meticulously crafted, emphasizing local ingredients and innovative culinary techniques.
The restaurant’s service is impeccable, with attentive staff providing detailed explanations of the dishes, including their cultural origins within Mexico. The menu offers a variety of options, from a la carte selections to a tantalizing 9-course tasting menu.
8. Bal Nak
⭐ Rating: 5 out of 5
💗 Popular for: Contemporary Mexican cuisine
🍽️ Must Try: Chocolate clams and Sea bass
I found myself at Bal Nak during a serene evening in Tulum Beach, drawn in by the whispers of locals and fellow travelers about this hidden gem. Nestled within the lush jungle, the restaurant exuded an inviting atmosphere that seemed to harmonize with the surrounding nature.
The ambiance is a tasteful blend of contemporary design seamlessly intertwined with the jungle’s embrace. The menu is mainly Mexican cuisine, and the food was incredibly good. From innovative cocktails to tantalizing entrees, each dish spoke volumes about the restaurant’s dedication to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
The waitstaff was friendly and the service was great. Overall I’d say that Bal Nak isn’t just a restaurant; it’s an experience—an ode to nature, culinary finesse. I was truly impressed.
9. Raw Love Beach
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5
💗 Popular for: Vegan Mexican food
🍽️ Must Try: Smoothie bowls and superfood curry
Sometimes I’m in the mood for vegan food, to keep things light. If you’re looking for the best vegan Mexican food on Tulum Beach, Raw Love Beach is the way to go.
It’s an inexpensive beachside restaurant serving up international food with a Mexican twist. While it may not be the fanciest spot to dine, the chef will take you on a culinary adventure like no other.
Fresh fruit, smoothie bowls, vegan curry, and good pasta are only some of the things on their menu worth giving a try. I recommend having breakfast at Raw Love Beach because their coffee is decent and the avocado toast is fresh.
The relaxed atmosphere at Raw Love Beach gives hippie vibes and pairs well with the delicious yet healthy food that’s served. Relaxed in a hammock as you enjoy a superfood smoothie, or sit down for a proper meal.
The entire menu is gluten-free and focuses on health. Even if you aren’t strictly vegan or vegetarian, try this place for a break from the general meat and seafood served around Tulum.
10. Ukami
⭐Rating: 4.5 out of 5
💗Popular for: Sushi with Mexican flair
🍽️Must Try: Butterfish sashimi and Rock shrimp tacos
I never thought I’d enjoy a fusion of Japanese and Mexican food until I sampled this restaurant’s menu. Ukami served up sushi with the spice of Mexican food in a relaxed setting. Their seafood is fresh, and you can taste that.
My best decision in this restaurant was to opt for the tasting menu because the food is incredibly delicious. The chef took us on an exciting culinary adventure as we enjoyed scrumptious menu items such as tuna tostadas, seared tuna, butterfish sashimi, and much more. The tasting menu also includes two rounds of cocktails, which I found more than satisfyingly good and paired well with the food.
The atmosphere at Ukami is just as impressive as the food. It’s a fusion of Japanese and Mayan decor that reflects on the menu, with good vibes. Service was excellent, and the prices were acceptable.
11. RosaNegra
⭐Rating: 5 out of 5
💗Popular for: Sophisticated Latin American cuisine
🍽️Must Try: Empanadas, chocolate sphere.
This was a phenomenal restaurant that I’d say is worth visiting twice while you’re in Tulum. Serving up Latin American cuisine in a sophisticated yet rustic setting, RosaNegra blew my mind.
The music sets the tone; you’ve got a resident DJ, lively bongo shows, and sparkler-fueled happenings that add zest to the whole experience.
Although prices are steep, I found that the food and service justified the cost. The vibes and setting are a lot of fun. It’s expansive, lively, and exciting—live music, dancers, and a DJ turning it into a party. This isn’t the place to go for a quiet dinner if you know what I mean.
I did find the security checks at the entrance a little too excessive, but I guess that’s necessary to keep diners safe. If you’re in the mood for a high-end culinary experience and a lot of fun, this is the place to be.
12. Kitchen table
⭐Rating: 5 out of 5
💗Popular for: Innovative contemporary Latin American menu
🍽️Must Try: Octopus appetizer, sea bass
An enchanting restaurant tucked away in the jungle near Tulum Beach, this was an impressive dinner. Kitchen Table serves creative dishes that showcase how the chef envisions contemporary Mexican food. The food was so good that I regretted not opting for the tasting menu. The cocktails were also very creative and delicious.
The open-air dining experience coupled with the open kitchen gives this place one of the best atmospheres. Surrounded by the jungle, I enjoyed every bite of their innovative twist on Latin American food.
The service was excellent, with the wait staff friendly and very attentive. They helped me navigate the menu, and they were very knowledgeable about the food. They even have vegetarian options on the menu that the chef was happy to make vegan for one of my friends.
The unreal presentation and phenomenal creativity in the menu are the main draws of this place. Overall, this was a great experience and I’d come again.
13. Kogure Tulum Japanese Cuisine
⭐Rating: 4.8 out of 5
💗Popular for: Authentic Japanese food
🍽️Must Try: Sashimi and spicy tuna roll
If you’re looking for a change from the typical Mexican or Latin American restaurants in Tulum Beach, you should try Kogure Tulum. Serving up Japanese cuisine worthy of worldwide acclaim, this restaurant stands out among others on this list.
I was wholly impressed with Chef Yusuke Kogure’s take on Japanese cuisine. All the food on his menu exceeds the expectations.
The food was beyond simply fresh, as it was well prepared. The portion sizes were decent. Whether you want to have poke bowls, fried rice, sashimi, or miso soup—everything is prepared with the meticulous care of a sushi master.
You’ll need a reservation to get into this restaurant, so book beforehand. My advice is to sit outside if possible because the outdoor seating is much nicer than the inside.
That’s not to say that the interior decor is lacking. On the contrary, the setting and vibe of the entire restaurant are welcoming and great. The service was exceptional, making the dining experience even better.
14. Mivida
⭐Rating: 4.8 out of 5
💗Popular for: Mediterranean food on lounge chairs
🍽️Must Try: Tuna tartare, grilled prawns with couscous.
I stumbled upon Mivida Tapas Bar & Restaurant during my visit to Tulum, and I was pleasantly surprised. For such a relaxed setting, the menu was incredibly sophisticated.
I found the Italian food a welcome change from the typical Latin American food, but that’s not all. The stunning view of the ocean pairs unbelievably well with the food.
We visited in the late afternoon and stayed until sunset to enjoy the spectacular view. I enjoyed my brunch entirely on lounge chairs, which tells you how relaxed this meal was set up to be from the get-go.
Still, I was surprised at how good the food was. The friendly and attentive staff served us with tuna tartar and authentic Italian pasta dishes. The grilled prawn was to die for.
If you plan on visiting Mivida, avoid peak hours, as it can get quite hectic and crowded. Also, make sure to bring cash because the options are slightly limited. Overall, Mivida is a gem along the Tulum coastline, offering a meal and an experience to cherish.
15. Los Bowls de Guadalupe
⭐Rating: 5 out of 5
💗Popular for: Healthy Mexican food
🍽️Must Try: Acai bowl, banana bread
Inexpensive, healthy, yet mouthwatering and delicious. That’s how I’d describe the menu at Los Bowls de Guadalupe. While this isn’t the typical Mexican food you’d get at most Tulum restaurants, having a vegan breakfast at the beach doesn’t get better than their moist banana bread and strong coffee. They also offer filling vegan Buddha bowls, and an Amazon avocado toast.
Even though I’m not a vegan (or vegetarian), I appreciated the healthy food for a change. I also noticed that all their produce is local to the Yucatan peninsula, which explains why it tastes so good!
Although this is just a small shack on the beachside, it’s worth visiting. There is no setting or decor—it’s the ocean and the beach chairs they provide for seating. It’s not fancy, but this is probably the best vegan food you’ll find in Tulum. Paired with the view of the stunning Caribbean Sea, there’s nothing better.
16. Fresco’s Tulum
⭐Rating: 5 out of 5
💗Popular for: Organic food
🍽️Must Try: Ceviche, coconut pancakes
This restaurant in the popular Adults-Only hotel “The Beach Tulum” is more than just a spot to grab organic food. Fresco’s serves up vibrant dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Every meal I’ve had there was exquisite, tasty, and a wonderful masterpiece to look at. It’s safe to say that my eyes and taste buds were both pleased.
The restaurant is a part of Ziggy’s but faces the street instead of the beach. Nonetheless, its location is excellent, and the atmosphere at Fresco is vibrant and refreshing.
Speaking of refreshments, I couldn’t get enough of their delicious cocktails and juices at the juice bar. Even if you don’t intend to have a full meal, this restaurant is worth visiting for the refreshments alone.
I found the bartender and waitstaff very friendly and helpful, making my meals and refreshments more memorable. Everything, from the salmon toast to the coffee, was well-presented and flavorful. Whether you go here for breakfast, lunch, or dinner—you’re guaranteed a good time and an astounding meal.
17. Oishi Omakase Sushi Sake Bar
⭐Rating: 5 out of 5
💗Popular for: Fresh Sushi and Sashimi
🍽️Must Try: Sashimi and multi-course dinners
Before visiting Tulum, I wouldn’t have imagined there would be such high-quality sushi bars. It’s safe to say that Oishi Omakase blew my mind and took me on a journey from Yucatan to Japan. With an open kitchen that adds to the flair and atmosphere, this restaurant has a wow factor. I highly recommend the 9-course dinner if you’re up for it.
The chefs are extremely competent, and it shows in the fresh food. This is the best place to have sushi. Period. There’s no incessantly loud music, which sets Oishi Omakase apart from other restaurants around Tulum Beach. Reservations are required because this is such an upscale establishment, so booking needs to be done.
This restaurant goes beyond high-quality fish and well-prepared sushi. Their take on Japanese classics elevates your meal to ultra-fine, and the performance-style presentation makes it a stunning experience. They also serve a variety of shakes and other Japanese liquors you don’t typically find in Mexico.
18. Chambao
⭐Rating: 5 out of 5
💗Popular for: High-quality meats and seafood
🍽️Must Try: Steak, seafood
Even though I enjoy eating vegan food, I’m a meat lover at heart. Luckily, I found this amazing steakhouse nestled in the jungle by Tulum Beach. Chambao is part of the RosaNegra group which doesn’t just meet their standards, it passes with flying colors. Getting reservations here was a little tougher, so I recommend planning well ahead of time.
Nonetheless, the food and ambiance did not disappoint. This restaurant takes you on a trip to Spain and shows the Spanish influence on Mexican cuisine.
All the seafood was boat-fresh, and the beef was high-grade. I enjoyed a Kobe steak that was cooked so perfectly I didn’t mind splurging. They also craft incredibly tasty and unique cocktails, which I suggest giving a try.
Ask your waiter for suggestions, because they all know enough about the menu and are more than happy to help.
19. Itzam-na
⭐Rating: 4.5 out of 5
💗Popular for: Freshly prepared tacos
🍽️Must Try: Pollo tacos, Passion fruit margarita
It wouldn’t make sense to visit Mexico and not grab a couple of tacos, or more. While I do have a preference for small roadside stalls; when it comes to tacos, this taqueria exceeded my expectations.
Itzanm-na serves up authentic tacos at an affordable price with a great vibe to go with it. The music is good, and not too loud. I found the staff at this restaurant super-friendly, and their food was to die for.
Ask your waiter for suggestions, because they will tell you the truth instead of trying to sell you the most expensive item on the menu. There’s no need for reservations but come early because it can be busy at peak times. They’re also open late at night.
In short, Itzam-na is a place to get good tacos and have a fun time on a budget.
20. Cinco Tulum
⭐Rating: 5 out of 5
💗Popular for: Glamping
🍽️Must Try: Flank steak tacos, Chichilo chicken
Go camping in style at this glamping hotel and enjoy some of the best food in the Yucatan peninsula. Although this is more of a hotel than a restaurant, it’s worth spending the night here just for the experience and the food.
With amazing vibes and fresh Mexican food, there’s no menu choice you can make and be wrong. The fresh fruits and breakfast are just a start. Enjoy your food in the shade of palm trees and feel the serenity of having a meal amidst the lush jungle.
Overall, this is probably the best service in the area. You can visit the restaurant even if you don’t go glamping. The Cinco Tulum glamping restaurant boasts a diverse menu full of vibrant options and fresh, local produce. It’s relatively affordable, so adding it to your travel plans is a must.
21. Mia Restaurant and Beach Club Tulum
⭐Rating: 4.5 out of 5
💗Popular for: Contemporary Mexican-Caribbean fusion
🍽️Must Try: Ribs, Tacos
For an amazing atmosphere and extremely good food, I highly recommend Mia. Their Caribbean twist on Mexican classics takes the food to a whole other level, and the service is impeccable. The atmosphere and vibes at this restaurant are perfect for beachfront service, and there are no words to describe the views.
Because it’s part of a beach club, I expected to pay a lot more but found that the prices are very affordable in fact. The staff are helpful and fun; the cocktails are delicious and not watered down.
22. La Zebra Restaurant Tulum
⭐Rating: 4.8 out of 5
💗Popular for: Vibrant atmosphere, Caribbean food
🍽️Must Try: Shrimp, Carne asada tacos
This is a highly popular beachfront restaurant with amazing vibes and stunning views. It’s well worth the hype because the food is probably better than the atmosphere. If you’re a foodie at heart, I suggest reserving a seat at the chef’s table for a full culinary experience.
Regardless of where you’re seated in their elegant dining area, you’re guaranteed to enjoy your meal. The restaurant is open morning to late night, and their menu evolves as the sun sets.
Everything from the shrimp and octopus tacos to the blue corn is delicious, and their cocktails are unique. The service is impeccable and the prices are reasonable.
23. Mezzanine Thai Restaurant in Tulum
⭐ Rating: 4.5 out of 5
💗 Popular for: Thai food
🍽️ Must Try: Pad Thai and Shrimp
You wouldn’t think that there would be a good Thai food restaurant in Mexico, but this one is good enough to serve food in Bangkok. Mezzanine is a small terrace with tropical views and spectacular food. I recommend the outdoor seating and ask your waiter for the best options on the menu.
I’m partial to their pad thai with shrimp, but I also loved other options such as drunken noodles and yellow curry.
Of course, it won’t be a full meal at a Thai restaurant if you don’t order their amazing spring rolls. Overall, they have a stunning view and exceptional service to go with amazing Thai food.
Things to Look for While Eating at Tulum’s Restaurants
Now that you have a good idea about the best dining options near Tulum Beach, you’re almost ready to venture out on your culinary journey. However, there are a few things you need to keep in mind before picking a restaurant to eat at.
Payment Options
Although many restaurants in Tulum Beach accept payment through credit cards, there are still some restaurants that will only accept cash payments. This is something to look into before you make reservations or have a seat at your table.
Even if the restaurant looks like it’s an upscale establishment, there is no guarantee that it accepts credit cards.
While I’m always cautious enough to bring cash regardless of the payment option available, I’ve heard many stories of tourists who were forced to cash out at a nearby ATM.
Of course, cashing out money from a foreign ATM probably incurs higher fees and you’d also need to deal with conversion rates. So, it’s better to have cash on hand or at least explore your payment options at the beginning of the meal.
Best Time to Choose a Restaurant in Tulum Beach
Another important factor is timing. Depending on the atmosphere you’re looking for, you need to check out when the restaurant is most busy. Many restaurants get busy around sunset, which dramatically changes the atmosphere.
I always make it a point to ask the hotel staff for recommendations, but generally, I find it best to visit restaurants at Tulum Beach before the sun sets. This way I get to enjoy the ocean views more.
Restaurants That Turn Into Parties
Some restaurants are well known for participating in the party scene. A cozy or vibrant restaurant can slowly turn into a party as more people join. So if you’re looking for a private beach dinner in Tulum, consider visiting some of the more secluded restaurants known for a fine dining atmosphere rather than one with more drinking and dancing.
Hype Doesn’t Mean Good
Quite often when you ask tourists about restaurants they might be hyped up about a certain beach club location. This is especially true if the atmosphere or vibes at the restaurant are appealing to them.
However, keep in mind that many restaurants are purposefully hyped up because the food is not necessarily up to par. Always make it a point to ask about the food and service quality.
Don’t rely on hype but try to judge based on reviews of those who have actually eaten at the restaurant.
Conclusion
There are plenty of restaurants on Tulum Beach that serve delicious food with good vibes. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed lunch, a vibrant meal, or a more romantic dinner, Tulum’s beach restaurants are available to serve you.
The restaurants above have some of the best food in Yucatan, overlooking the spectacular ocean.
FAQ
What are the must-try foods at the restaurants on Tulum’s beach?
Seafood, tacos, cocktails, and fresh fruit are the foods you should be eating when on Tulum Beach. Regardless of the type of restaurants you go to, seafood dishes are the ones that are going to stand out. Restaurants in that area are also known for their mixology, so cocktails are a no-brainer.
Do I need to make a reservation before going to a Beach Restaurant in Tulum?
Generally, I found that restaurants in Tulum don’t require reservations from their guests. However, I recommend you still reserve if you’re going during peak hours or the high season. This is especially important for smaller establishments that might fill up quickly.
What time do beach restaurants in Tulum open?
Although opening times vary, I found that most restaurants in Tulum open by 11 am. Of course, some restaurants only serve dinner, while others are open only some days of the week. It’s best to check if you’re planning on dining in a specific restaurant.