Tulum, Mexico
For this year’s birthday, it was both a celebration of life and food in Tulum, Mexico. After cooking in New York City for close to 16 years, I’ve had the pleasure of working alongside phenomenal Mexican cooks. Much like my Italian roots, Mexican cuisine is built on local, indigenous, deeply flavorful traditions—staff meals with Marta’s Puebla-style mole still rank among my favorite memories.
This trip to Tulum was thrilling not just for its natural beauty, but also for the chance to dive into regional Yucatán dishes and explore a new wave of fine-dining in open-air, jungle settings.
To get there, take a direct flight to Cancún, followed by a 90-minute drive. Renting a car gives you freedom, but affordable shuttles run to town too. You’ll find everything from luxe beachfront hotels to a generous array of Airbnbs, spanning private condos to laidback apartments. I chose a quiet condo a 15-minute drive from the main strip — peaceful, modern, with the caveat that downtown parking is nearly impossible, so biking is your best bet.
I arrived just before René Redzepi’s Noma Mexico pop-up launched, so the biggest buzz was around Hartwood — which, thanks to last-minute planning, I didn’t manage to book. Instead, I walked a few doors over to Arca, and wow — outdoor jungle dining, open kitchen, bold seasonal dishes — totally worth it.
For a taste of real local flavor, Taquería Honorio is a must. Open at 5 a.m. and often sold out by midday, it’s essential to get there early and try everything—especially the cochinita and lechón tacos.
Morning routines included coffee and bites at Ki’Bok Café — organic beans, pastries, and relaxed vibes. For a surprise standout, Burrito Amor served up the best burrito I’ve ever had (don’t skip the coconut water).
Other great meals came from Casa Banana — rustic, wood-fire Argentinian flare under palm fronds. And Wild Tulum, for magical jungle dining under the stars and a creative tasting menu.
Bring pesos—many places here don’t accept cards.
For downtime, I spent days at Ahau Tulum, lounging in beach cabanas with cocktails and that laidback Tulum energy.
I explored Cenote Dos Ojos, and a guided tour was essential to navigate its subterranean caverns safely. Eerie, cold, beautiful — unforgettable.
The Tulum Ruins were touristy, sure, but walking those stone paths in the blazing sun, then cooling off at the most perfect beach, was beyond worth it.
Tulum is peaceful, safe, modern yet authentic — every vibe, bite, and moment felt alive. I’ll definitely be back.
