Tourists are spoilt for choice in Tulum. It has so much diversification for a relatively small town. Tulum Centro provides a range of authentic Mexican food with international flares. You’ll find more reasonable pricing in Centro than other parts of Tulum, but with great quality. Street performers and singers will often play at the entrance to keep guests entertained which adds to the beauty of the entire experience.
While you’re here, don’t skip my guide to the Best Restaurants in Tulum or the Best Party Restaurants in Tulum
La Taqueria
If you want authentic Mexican tacos, La Taqueria is the spot. It’s casual, lively, and always buzzing with locals – a good sign you’re in the right place. The menu is simple but done exceptionally well, with tortillas pressed fresh and meats cooked to perfection.
Go straight for the al pastor tacos – juicy, marinated pork shaved straight off the trompo with pineapple on top. The carne asada is another favourite, and the shrimp tacos with their smoky char are a must. Pair everything with a cold cerveza or a delicious margarita.
Short, delicious, affordable – La Taqueria is one of the easiest wins for an authentic meal in downtown Tulum.
Burritos Amor
If you’re after something quick, delicious, and authentically Tulum, Burritos Amor is the perfect stop. The burritos are the star here – fresh, generous, and full of flavour. Go for the grilled chicken or al pastor burrito if you want something classic, or try their veggie or vegan options, which are surprisingly delicious. Their coconut‑flour tortilla is a signature twist and a must‑try if you want something lighter. Don’t skip the homemade salsas either – they’re the perfect finishing touch and let you customise the heat to your taste.
It’s ideal for a casual lunch or a pre‑night‑out bite, with friendly prices and fast service that make it a favourite among travellers and locals alike. Whether you’re craving something simple after a long travel day or just want an easy, comforting meal, Burritos Amor is a reliable go‑to in the heart of town.
Kay Nah
Do not skip out on Kay Nah. They have live street music every evening, creating a rustic, charming atmosphere – and their margaritas are fantastic. The food is tasty, the prices are incredibly reasonable, and the whole place has a really cute, welcoming vibe. They’ll even bring out complimentary chapulines with the bill if you’re up for the authentic experience. Kay Nah sits on one of Centro’s prettiest streets, surrounded by beautifully decorated bars and restaurants with a lot of charm.
This restaurant is incredibly reasonably priced and portions are generous. Tip – do not skip their phenomenal desserts!
Il Bacaro
If you’re looking for a relaxed, great‑value dinner spot in Tulum Centro, Il Bacaro is a brilliant choice. The menu focuses on authentic Mexican flavours, offering fresh, traditional dishes that showcase the best of local cuisine. Like many restaurants downtown, the food and drinks are delicious and very reasonably priced, making it ideal for a laid‑back evening. What really elevates the experience, though, are the street performers outside – dancers in traditional tribal costumes putting on fire shows that add a fun, atmospheric touch to your meal. It’s casual, charming, and perfect for a low‑key night without compromising on flavour or vibe.
The Best Breakfast Spot: Matcha Mama
If you’re looking for the perfect healthy breakfast in Tulum, head straight to Matcha Mama. Famous for its refreshing smoothies and açai bowls, it’s the kind of place that feels like pure holiday energy in a cup. It’s the ideal way to start your day with something light, colourful and delicious.
Curry by Po Thai
Restaurante Estrada
This cosy, family run restaurant serves flavourful Mexican dishes at great prices, making it ideal for anyone looking to enjoy real local food without the tourist markup. Go for the cochinita pibil, slow‑cooked and full of Yucatán flavour, or the enchiladas verdes, which are a crowd favourite for good reason. Their fresh guacamole and homemade salsas are the perfect start to your meal, and the margaritas are strong and generously sized.
Restaurante Estrada is all about warm service, authentic dishes, and excellent value. If you’re looking for a more local flavour, don’t skip out on Restaurant Estrada!
Check out my TikTok and Instagram @GoneAndAwayTravel for full behind the scenes videos of these iconic experiences!
This post is part of my Tulum series — explore the full itinerary in my Ultimate Tulum Travel Guide.
