Eating in Tulum is an experience in itself, there’s a magical atmosphere in the evening air from the intoxicating aroma of copal and outdoor ovens to the soft glimmer of candlelight and the gentle hum of music and laughter. It feels as though the chefs cook with a particular mindset, they talk about their local ingredients with passion and enthusiasm, the outdoor kitchens their stage. Here are a few of our favourites.

POSADA MARGHERITA

Renowned for its fresh ingredients and romantic atmosphere, it’s impossible not to surrender yourself to Posada’s rustic charm. On arrival, we took the time to appreciate the beautiful winding pathway through the lush gardens that surround the hotel guesthouses and the warm flickering light from the enchanting candle shop, a little gem.

After indulging in the freshly baked rosemary focaccia and pickled vegetables, your waiter will take the time to sit with you and talk through the daily menu. Something that really resonates when dining here, it seems like a simple concept, but it makes all the difference. The menu consists of fresh, homemade Italian pasta, an enviable selection of wines and even fresher seafood.

Make sure you stop by for breakfast too. Come morning, the atmosphere at Posada transcends into a quiet, tranquil space overlooking the ocean. Perfect for a moment of calm. The breakfast is practical and delicious; choose from fresh fruit, pancakes, egg-in-a-hole (our favourite!) and fresh, energizing juices. One morning, we were also lucky enough to meet humble owner Alessandro Carozzino and watch him prepare the fresh focaccia bread for the evening's sitting.

We recommend: The homemade tagliatelle with grilled lobster and shrimp, a bottle of Italian Sangiovese and the mouthwatering tiramisu to finish.

POSADA |  Boca Paila Road, KM 4.5 Tulum Beach Road

http://www.posadamargherita.com

HARTWOOD

“Our cooking isn’t complicated. Sky, stars, and the glow of the oven at the edge of the jungle — these are the foundation of the Hartwood experience.” - Eric Werner

Guided by his passion for the Yucatan and the rich flavours of its vibrant local produce, Chef Eric Werner and is wife Mya moved to Tulum from Brooklyn, NY in 2006 and so, Hartwood was born.

Today, it's one of the most hyped and sought after dining experiences in Tulum, but for good reason. Dine under the stars at this romantic tropical gem. The produce is sourced from local farms and the Valladolid farmers market, then cooked by the man himself before your very eyes. 

One of our favourite places to eat in Tulum, and the world in fact — the romantic, candle-lit ambience combined with colourful Mayan cocktails, infused spirits and incredible food cooked to perfection, makes for a truly unique and unforgettable experience. The queue is crazy, but it's well worth the wait. Get there around 5pm to put your name on the list. Once seated, you will be shown the day’s menu handwritten on a wooden board and trust us when we say, your mouth will be watering. 

We recommend: Don’t miss the zesty ceviche, empanadas de papaya, slow braised pork ribs (costillas al agave) with crunchy crackling and roasted beets.

HARTWOOD |  Boca Paila Road, KM 7, Jungle Side

http://www.hartwoodtulum.com

EL TABANO

Mexican home cooking at its finest, El Tabano chooses to steer clear of the modern culinary flair that surrounds most Tulum eateries, instead sticking to authentic cuisine that you’d undoubtedly find on the dining table of a traditional Mayan casa. After a gracious welcome, armed with a habanero infused margarita, we turned our attentions to the mouthwatering menu selection on a huge blackboard. El Tabano is one of the only places in Tulum that serves up a delicious plate of Cochinita Pibil, to our delight. A dish famous in the Yucatan Peninsula; local pork is marinated in zesty citrus juices, Caribbean spices and vibrant achiote before being baked in fragrant banana leaves to produce a celebratory dish unrivaled in flavour.

We recommend: The vibrant Cochinita Pibil, stuffed Poblano peppers and sizzling coconut shrimp. Team with a habanero infused margarita or the crisp cucumber, mint martini.

ZAMAS

A low-key spot for casual, castaway-esque-dining — sand underfoot, shabby rainbow furniture and eating out under a starry night sky. The buzzing evening atmosphere, live music and cool ocean breeze teamed with fresh wood-fire baked pizza, fish tacos and colourful cocktails make Zamas the perfect setting for a laid-back evening.  

We recommend: The gambas pil pil, wood-fired pizza, mojitos and a thirst quenching cervezas.

CASA BANANA

A rustic Argentinian restaurant on the jungle side of the beach road, Casa Banana serves up steak, fish and grilled meats cooked an outdoor wood-fire. The ambience is romantic, an elegant alfresco affair surrounded by glowing lanterns, palms and the warm, smoky scent of burning wood chips. Think candlelight, a buzzing evening atmosphere and the best steak in the area.

We recommend: The grilled rib eye steak with chimichurri, whole red snapper and calamari salad.