NÜ Tulum — Restaurant in Tulum

We were just in Tulum for the holidays and stayed at Radhoo right next door to NÜ Tulum. After hearing rave reviews we knew we decided to save it for our last night and spoiler alert...it was THE best decision we made!

First, the location is toward the South Beach Zone of Tulum, about a 10-15 minute walk from the main strip. The restaurant is large, outdoor space that's well spread out and has canopies to shield you from the rain (rare feature for Tulum fine dining). Its very romantic with beautiful decor but not at all stuffy. There were people dressed up and others in much more casual attire, much like any restaurant in Tulum.

The menu here, while minimalist, upon first glance felt overwhelming with a small selection and VERY unique menu options. After speaking with our waiter we felt an immediate trust and had a feeling we would like anything that came out of that kitchen and our instincts were spot on!

Our cocktails came first and they were incredible. My husband raved about the OLD WEST (bourbon duck fat wash, sotol, vanilla syrup, cacao bitter) and as a passion fruit lover I couldn't get enough of the PASSION TROPICAL. We both ended up with 3 by the end of the night! What we also noticed is that whether it was the heat or just watered down liquor, it wasn't easy to get a bus anywhere we had cocktails on this trip but these were strong and delicious!

For our meal we ordered SWEET POTATO AGRODOLCE (fresh, asian fusion flavors), LOCAL FISH CRUDO (so good and the most unique version of a crude or ceviche type dish that we had on this trip), LA CABAÑA QUAIL (THE BEST MOLE we've ever had and the delicate quail was wood-grilled, perfectly crisp, and tender), CARIBBEAN FRESH FISH (so fresh, tender and flaky, and perfectly complimented by the creamed yuca), BOUDIN BLANC OF LOCAL PORK (we weren't sure what to expect from this but it's a simple pork sausage dish that is delicate, cooked to perfection, with a hint of spice from the Xcatic chili). For dessert there are 2 options and we went with both! The BARBECUED PINEAPPLE and SEASONAL ICE CREAM w/ crushed sablé were the perfect finish to our evening at NÜ!

This is not a restaurant to bring your kids too but that aside, the menu is much more accessible than we expected and I think just about anyone would enjoy their meal here. Definitely worth the trek if you're staying up North or in the town Centro and by far our best meal in Tulum (and we went to all the good ones from ARCA and Hartwood to Kitchen Table and Treehouse). Can't...

Towering trees and vibrant, lush greenery envelope the restaurant, creating an ambiance that feels effortlessly serene and calming. Plants seem to cascade from every corner with the distant sounds of the jungle in the background, while flickering candlelight spans across rustic wooden tables. Even on a humid evening, the vibe is light and upbeat—everyone seems to be in a good mood. It’s hard not to. You'll even notice tables of strangers exchanging knowing glances, united in the realization that they've stumbled upon something memorable. The service matches the setting, elegant without pretension.

The chargrilled carrot with a smoky char, lounging adjacent to a pool of lemongrass aioli that cuts through the char’s richness while the garlic vinaigrette provides a punchy kick. The sweet potato agrodolce followed—a combination of sweet potato, local squash, wild ginger, peanuts, with every element working in tandem.

The caribbean cabbage, fermented with cuban mojo and served with macadamia nut cream and farofa, could convert any cabbage skeptic. It was a standout in flavor but also a feast for the eyes, offering a creamy textural contrast. The la cabaña quail, bathed in mole negro, was a delicate, gamey bird packed with bold, earthy flavors.

For seafood lovers, the caribbean fresh fish is a must-try. It arrived proudly wearing its crown of crispy yuca chips while the creamed yuca underneath was so smooth and comforting. The vascal sauce brought it all together with dry chili heat that lingered for a few seconds. Don’t miss the octopus—it’s tender, flavorful, with just the right amount of chew. A perfect appetizer or shared dish.

For dessert, the barbecued pineapple I was unsure on but I quickly relished in my decision after the first bite. Paired with almond cake, whipped cream, and caramelized white chocolate, it leaves a sweet, lasting impression. Lastly, let’s not overlook the cocktails—truly A-plus all around, exactly what you need on a sultry evening. Refreshing, inventive, and perfectly boozy. Since I was in Mexico, it only felt right to indulge in mezcal and tequila.

NÜ Tulum is the kind of place that reminds you why we travel for food—not just to eat, but to immerse ourselves in an experience connected to its surroundings—where everything kind of feels like a small celebration...

A Spectacular Venue for Unforgettable Celebrations

Nu Tulum is not just a venue; it's a canvas where dreams come to life and memories are etched in eternity. I recently had the pleasure of attending Tom and Jenna's wedding reception at this exquisite establishment, and I must say, it was a celebration for the ages.

From the moment I stepped foot into Nu Tulum, I was captivated by its grandeur. The venue exudes elegance and sophistication, with its spacious halls, high ceilings, and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. It provided the perfect backdrop for Tom and Jenna's special day, setting the stage for a truly magical evening.

But what truly sets Nu Tulum apart is its impeccable attention to detail and commitment to excellence. The food served at the reception was nothing short of extraordinary. Each dish was meticulously prepared, bursting with flavor and freshness. From the savory appetizers to the decadent desserts, every bite was a culinary masterpiece.

Equally impressive was the professionalism and warmth exhibited by the bartenders and wait staff. Despite the hustle and bustle of the event, they remained poised, attentive, and courteous throughout the evening. Their genuine smiles and infectious energy added an extra layer of joy to the celebration, making everyone feel welcomed and cherished.

What struck me most about Nu Tulum was the way in which it seamlessly combines luxury with heartfelt hospitality. While the venue exudes sophistication, there's an underlying warmth and intimacy that makes you feel right at home. It's evident that the team at Nu Tulum is passionate about creating unforgettable experiences and exceeding expectations.

In conclusion, Nu Tulum is more than just a venue—it's a sanctuary for celebrations and a testament to the beauty of love and joy. Whether you're planning a wedding, anniversary, or any other special occasion, Nu Tulum is the perfect setting to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. Thank you, Nu Tulum, for an unforgettable evening filled with love, laughter, and lasting memories.

I hope this review captures and reveals the essence of what you will experience...