Tulum is home to various seafood restaurants that highlight the region’s access to fresh, local ingredients. From casual beachside spots to upscale dining, Tulum’s seafood scene offers something for every taste. Here’s an article on some of Tulum’s best places to enjoy seafood.
1. El Camello Jr.
El Camello Jr. is a local favorite for its generous portions and fresh seafood. Known for its ceviche, fried fish, and seafood cocktails, this casual spot is perfect for a hearty, authentic meal. The laid-back atmosphere makes it a great choice for families or groups.
- Cuisine: Mexican seafood featuring dishes like ceviche, fried fish, and seafood cocktails. Signature Dishes: Shrimp ceviche, whole-fried fish, and seafood pasta.
- Vibe: Casual and bustling, popular with both locals and tourists.
- Good to Know: Portions are generous; even the small ceviche can be substantial. The restaurant is cash-only, so plan accordingly. Arriving early is advisable to avoid long waits, as it can get busy during peak hours.
- Location: Tulum Avenida in downtown Tulum: Google Maps Link
2. RosaNegra Tulum
For an upscale dining experience, RosaNegra combines fresh seafood with bold flavors and creative presentations. The menu features a variety of dishes, from grilled octopus to lobster, paired with an extensive cocktail list. It’s ideal for a special night out.
- Cuisine: Latin American fusion featuring dishes from Peru, Argentina, Colombia, and Brazil.
Signature Dishes: Tomahawk steak, Peruvian ceviche, and grilled octopus. - Vibe: High-energy and festive, with live music and vibrant decor, creating a lively dining experience.
- Good to Know: Ideal for dinner; reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends.
- Location: The Hotel Zone: Google Maps Link
3. Hartwood
Hartwood is one of Tulum’s most iconic restaurants, celebrated for its wood-fired dishes and sustainable approach. The seafood menu changes daily, depending on the catch, ensuring the freshest ingredients. Reservations are recommended as it’s a highly sought-after dining spot.
- Cuisine: Modern Mexican, emphasizing locally sourced, seasonal ingredients with a menu that changes daily.
- Signature Dishes: While the menu varies, patrons often enjoy dishes like ceviche, grilled local fish, and wood-fired meats.
- Vibe: Rustic and open-air, offering a jungle-like setting that embodies the essence of beach dining.
- Good to Know: Hartwood is open Tuesday through Sunday from 5:30 PM to 10:00 PM. Reservations are recommended, especially during high season, as the restaurant is popular and fills up quickly.
- Location: The Hotel Zone: Google Maps Link
4. Safari
Safari offers a unique blend of Mexican flavors with fresh seafood. Popular dishes include shrimp tacos and grilled fish. The outdoor setting adds to the relaxed yet sophisticated vibe.
- Cuisine: Mexican, Latin, and Healthy, featuring dishes like tacos, ceviche, and tamales.
- Signature Dishes: Shrimp mole verde tacos, pork pastor tacos, and cacao tamal dessert.
- Vibe: Funky taqueria with a mix of style and tradition, offering both outdoor and indoor seating with a friendly atmosphere.
- Good to Know: They offer delivery takeout and free off-street parking. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible and dog-friendly.
- Location: Aldea Zama: Google Maps Link
5. La Barracuda
La Barracuda is a go-to for those looking for classic seafood dishes in a casual environment. Their seafood platters, featuring a mix of grilled and fried options, are a standout. It’s a great spot to enjoy fresh flavors at a reasonable price.
- Cuisine: Mexican seafood featuring dishes like ceviche, grilled fish, and seafood tacos.
- Signature Dishes: Seafood soup, mariscada (seafood platter), and shrimp empanadas.
- Vibe: Casual and authentic, offering a local dining experience with a focus on fresh seafood.
- Good to Know: The restaurant is known for its fresh seafood and reasonable prices. It’s a popular spot among both locals and tourists, so arriving early is advisable to avoid long waits.
- Location: On the main road in downtown Tulum: Google Maps Link
6. Kin Toh
For a high-end experience, Kin Toh offers a unique setting with breathtaking views and a seafood-forward menu. The emphasis is on creative dishes that use local, seasonal ingredients. While not exclusively seafood-focused, their seafood offerings are exceptional.
- Cuisine: Mayan-Mexican avant-garde, blending traditional Mayan ingredients with international techniques to create a multisensory dining experience.
- Signature Dishes: The menu evolves seasonally, featuring dishes that incorporate local ingredients and innovative presentations.
- Vibe: Elevated treehouse setting with panoramic jungle views, offering an intimate and immersive atmosphere that engages all five senses.
- Good to Know: Reservations are highly recommended due to the restaurant’s popularity.
- Location: Kin Toh is part of the AZULIK resort, in the Hotel Zone: Google Maps Link
Tips for Choosing the Right Seafood Restaurant in Tulum
- Check for Freshness: Look for restaurants that source local daily catches. Specials often feature the freshest options. Consider Atmosphere: Decide if you prefer a casual setting or a more refined dining experience. Tulum offers both.
- Read Reviews and Recommendations: Reviews can point you to hidden gems or must-visit spots. Also feel free to contact us for specific recommendations.
- Look for Sustainability: Some Tulum restaurants emphasize sustainable practices. Ask about and choose places that prioritize eco-friendly sourcing if that’s important to you.
- Plan for Peak Times: Popular restaurants like Hartwood or RosaNegra often require reservations, especially in high season. Plan ahead to avoid missing out.
- Explore Menus Beforehand: Many restaurants post their menus online. Check in advance to ensure the offerings match your preferences.