Tourists are spoilt for choice in Tulum. It has so much diversification for a relatively small town. In the Hotel Zone you will find high-end luxurious restaurants, often paired with live music and performances, with the price tags to match. Contrastingly, in Tulum Centro, you’ll find authentic Mexican food, albeit with a smaller price tag the quality lives up to expectations, and often you’ll have street performers to rival the competition in the Hotel Zone.
The main difference however? The Hotel Zone is very dressy, high-end, and you are there to party!
Here is my full review of the best restaurants you should consider for your trip to Tulum:
Want to be more specific?
My guide to the Best Restaurants in Tulum Centro
The Most Luxurious Dinner in Tulum with Incredible Views - Kin Toh, Azulik
Azulik has several dining concepts, but the most famous is Kin Toh, perched high above the jungle in giant woven nests. Kin Toh is one of those rare Tulum experiences that feels completely otherworldly. Perched high above the jungle in Azulik’s famous treetop nests, it offers a dining atmosphere unlike anywhere else – part fine‑dining, part architectural wonder, and entirely unforgettable. With panoramic views, candlelit wooden walkways, and a menu that blends global flavours with artistic presentation, Kin Toh isn’t just dinner; it’s a full sensory experience. If you want the quintessential luxury‑boho Tulum moment – the one you’ve seen all over Instagram – this is where to find it.
Premium dishes like wagyu, tomahawk, and seafood risotto highlight the luxury positioning. Expect high-end dining prices. Nest rental ranges from 8,000 MXN to 12,000 MXN depending on the nest type plus a minimum consumption of 3,000 MXN per person.
See my full Azulik Guide for more information on this iconic spot.
IT Tulum
An upmarket Italian restaurant in the Hotel Zone, IT hosts a lively Monday‑night event with a DJ playing electronic music to a stylish, high‑energy crowd. Monday’s tend to be pretty quiet in Tulum, so this is definitely the spot to go if you are looking for something more upmarket. However, if you want a more relaxed meal with a beautiful setting and great quality food, try a Sunday, Tuesday, Wednesday or Thursday. What makes it truly special is the real Mexican cenote housed inside the restaurant – with tables thoughtfully arranged around it for an unforgettable dining setting. The food is exceptional: order the cacio e pepe, the steak, and whatever you do, do not skip the prawn tacos (they were the best we had all trip!). This is one you don’t want to miss.
Side note – this is under refurbishment due to reopen in the summer of 2026.
The Best Breakfast Spot in Tulum: 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. They have two locations – one on the beachfront and one in Tulum Centro. We visited the Centro spot and loved grabbing breakfast before wandering around the local town. It’s the ideal way to start your day with something light, colourful and delicious.
Kay Nah, Tulum Centro
For a relaxed dinner head out to Tulum Centro and try Kay Nah. They have daily live music performing from the street with a rustic atmosphere, and fantastic margaritas. The food is good, prices are cheap, and the atmosphere is really cute. They will even give you complimentary Chapulines with the bill if you’re up for the authentic experience. Kay Nah sits on a pretty street downtown neighbouring plenty of well-decorated bars and restaurants, so if this doesn’t tickle your fancy, you have plenty to choose from!
Curry by Po Thai
If you’re craving comforting, flavour‑packed Thai food in Tulum, Curry by Po Thai is a must‑visit. ff the beaten track from Tulum Centro, this casual spot serves generous portions, bold spices, and authentic flavours that hit the spot when you need a break from tacos and beach‑club menus.
The Panang curry and green curry are the standout dishes. Their pad thai is another reliable favourite, and the spring rolls make a great starter if you want something light before diving into the curries.
It’s affordable, fast, and delicious. If you want something flavourful that won’t break the bank, Curry by Po Thai is one of the best Asian‑inspired options in downtown Tulum.
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.
