The food scene in Riviera Maya has changed quite a bit over the past few years. Mexican classics are still everywhere, but you’ll also find plenty of modern and international restaurants. The region has a mix of everything: the Caribbean coast, white sandy beaches, jungle and traces of Mayan culture. And you’ll see that mix reflected in the food, too.
There are so many restaurants around Riviera Maya that choosing where to eat can be difficult. We’ve picked out some of the places that stand out and are worth knowing about. Here are the best restaurants in Riviera Maya.
Tip #1: Arca
Located in the middle of the jungle in Tulum, Arca is where chef José Luis Hinostroza combines modern Mexican cuisine with locally sourced ingredients. Many of the dishes are prepared over an open fire. The menu changes with the seasons and brings local herbs, fresh seafood from the Caribbean coast and bold flavors to the table.
The atmosphere also makes the restaurant special. Guests dine beneath the jungle canopy, surrounded by candlelight and torchlight. There are also creative craft cocktails and an open, natural setting. If you want to combine great food with a special atmosphere, Arca is the perfect choice.
Monday–Sunday: 5:30 PM–11:00 PM
Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila km 7.6, Tulum Beach, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Tip #2: HA'
At HA', the focus is on a ten-course tasting menu created under the direction of Mexican star chef Carlos Gaytán. Traditional Mexican cuisine comes together with French influences and modern cooking techniques. A wine pairing is also available to accompany the courses.
The restaurant is just as striking as the food. The design is inspired by water, with an illuminated waterfall running through the dining room. The modern interior and unusual setting make a dinner at HA' feel like more than just a meal.
Monday–Sunday: 6:00 PM–11:45 PM
77730 Quintana Roo, Mexico
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Tip #3: Hartwood
Hartwood is one of Tulum's most well-known restaurants. Instead of using a traditional stove, the kitchen uses charcoal grills and wood-fired ovens. The menu focuses on fresh fish and ingredients from local Mayan farms, known as milpas.
The restaurant is open-air and has a simple, rustic feel. What's on the menu changes from day to day, depending on what local fishermen and farmers bring in. So you won't always find the same dishes when you visit. Hartwood has only a limited number of tables, so it's worth booking ahead if you want to eat here.
Wednesday–Sunday: 6:00 PM–10:00 PM
Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila 7-6Km, Tulum Beach, 77780 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
Tip #4: NÜ
NÜ is located on Tulum’s beach road, surrounded by greenery. The kitchen combines modern Mexican cuisine with ingredients from the Yucatán region and fresh fish from the Caribbean. Seven chefs work together on the menu, giving traditional Mexican flavors a modern twist.
There’s plenty of greenery inside and outside, along with wood and stone. In the evening, candles and torches add to the atmosphere. The bar serves a selection of mezcal cocktails, including barrel-aged varieties.
Monday & Thursday–Sunday: 5:00 PM–10:00 PM
Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila KM 8.7, Tulum Beach, Zona Hotelera, 77760 Tulum, Q.R., Mexico
+52 984 134 3954
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Tip #5: WILD
Located in the jungle along Tulum's beach road, WILD serves modern dishes with international and Mexican influences. The kitchen uses seasonal ingredients from local farms, as well as fresh fish from the Caribbean. The menu changes with the ingredients available and brings together a range of different flavors.
The restaurant has an open layout with lots of wood and warm lighting. At the bar, you'll find homemade infusions, mezcal creations and cocktails made with fresh tropical fruit. It's a relaxed spot for dinner, whether you're coming with friends or as a couple.
Monday & Thursday–Sunday: 6:00 PM–10:30 PM
10km, Carr. Tulum-Boca Paila, Q.R., Mexico
Tip #6: Primo
Primo is run by chef José Luis Hinostroza, who also operates the renowned Arca in Tulum. The focus is on straightforward cooking, with many dishes prepared over an open fire or charcoal. The grill serves Mexican meat, fresh octopus and seasonal vegetables, among other things. Homemade sauces are served alongside the dishes.
Inside, the restaurant has lots of wood, warm lighting and a relaxed atmosphere. The drinks menu includes various mezcal cocktails and natural wines. It’s a casual spot for an evening in Playa del Carmen, whether you’re meeting friends or just stopping by for dinner.
Monday–Sunday: 5:00 PM–11:00 PM
Av. Constituyentes entre 5ta avenida y 10 avenida, Gonzalo Guerrero, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
Tip #7: Le Chique
Le Chique at Azul Beach Resort is one of the most extraordinary restaurants in Mexico. Under the direction of chef Jonatan Gómez Luna, traditional Mexican dishes are reimagined here. Modern and sometimes molecular techniques are used to transform familiar ingredients into completely new forms and combinations on the plate.
The restaurant itself has a modern, minimalist style. The multi-course tasting menu surprises not only with its flavors, but also with unusual presentations and different textures. You never quite know what will come next, which is part of the experience at Le Chique.
Monday & Wednesday–Saturday: 6:00 PM–8:00 PM
Tuesday: 9:00 AM–8:00 PM
Sunday: closedPuerto Juárez, Km. 282, Carretera Chetumal L21-3 C, Colonia Rancho Xcaret, 77710 Playa del Carmen, Q.R., Mexico
Tip #8: Muelle Once
Muelle Once is located in Puerto Morelos and specializes in fish and seafood. The menu includes fresh catches, seafood dishes and a few Mexican classics. Depending on the dish, you’ll find everything from grilled fish to shrimp and other seafood.
The restaurant is close to the water and has a casual atmosphere. It’s a good spot to sit down for a meal and enjoy some fresh seafood while spending time in Puerto Morelos. Muelle Once is open every day, so you can stop by for lunch or dinner.
Monday–Sunday: 8:00 AM–10:00 PM
SM 1 Mz 2, Rafael E. Melgar, Zona Hotelera Nte, 77580 Puerto Morelos, Q.R., Mexico
