Arca, Hartwood and NÜ: Booking Tulum's Jungle Dining
Tulum’s reputation as a food destination was built along the jungle side of the beach road, where chefs cook over open fire under the trees. Three restaurants appear on almost every list of the best places to eat in Tulum: Hartwood, Arca and NÜ. All three are recognized by the Michelin Guide, and all three are hard to get into in high season. Here is what makes each one special and how to get a table.
The Three at a Glance
- Hartwood: wood-fired Mexican and Yucatecan cooking on the beach road, around km 7.6. Reserve through its website.
- Arca: contemporary Mexican cooked over open fire, also around km 7.6. Reserve on its website or by WhatsApp.
- NÜ: contemporary Mexican on the beach road, around km 8.7. Reserve on OpenTable or by WhatsApp.
- When to book: weeks ahead for December through April, and as early as possible for holidays.
Hartwood
Hartwood is the restaurant that put Tulum dining on the map. Everything is cooked in a wood-burning oven and on open grills, and the menu changes daily with what local fishermen and farmers bring in. The setting is simple and candlelit, with tables open to the jungle. Opening days vary by season, and the restaurant closes for a break each year, so check the schedule on its website before planning your night.
Arca
Arca serves creative Mexican dishes built around fire, smoke and ingredients from the Yucatán Peninsula, in a beautiful space tucked into the trees. Its cocktail bar is also highly regarded, so it is worth arriving a little early for a drink. Reservations open on its website, and the restaurant also takes bookings by WhatsApp at +52 984 177 2231.
NÜ
NÜ is a smaller, intimate restaurant with a menu rooted in Mexican flavors and local produce. It feels relaxed and personal, a good choice for couples or a small group. You can book on OpenTable or message the restaurant by WhatsApp at +52 984 134 3954.
Tips for the Night
- Book early: in high season, the best times fill weeks in advance. Set alerts or ask about cancellations if your date is full.
- Check the days: each restaurant closes on certain days, and schedules change with the season.
- Plan the ride: the beach road is slow at dinner time and taxis can be scarce late at night. A private driver makes the evening easier.
- Bring a light layer and bug spray: you’ll be dining outdoors in the jungle.
More Tables Worth Booking
If your dates are full, Tulum has plenty of other excellent options on the beach road, including Casa Banana for wood-fired Argentinian grilling, Wild for creative Mexican dishes and Gitano Jungle for cocktails and dinner under the trees. For a special occasion, Kin Toh’s tasting menu is served in a treehouse setting above the jungle (adults only).
Related: Private Cenotes and Sian Ka'an Boat Trips From Tulum
Stay in Tulum
Hand-picked luxury villas and vacation rentals, booked directly with Tripintravel.
