Owner of Hotel Esencia, Kevin Wendle, shares with U his favourite hangouts and hotspots in Tulum.

I love Tulum because it’s always alive and ever-changing. It’s almost hard to keep up with all of the interesting new places (and the ones disappearing!) but here’s what I like best at the moment:

Charly´s Vegan Taco's 

A vegan restaurant (next to Luv Tulum) that specializes in authentic Mexican cuisine with a healthy vegan twist - inspired by owner Charly’s grandmother´s recipes and fresh local ingredients. Expect a laid back jungle beach setting. "The best tacos I’ve ever had outside of Hotel Esencia served by Charly himself out of a food truck. You will think you’re eating the most sinful meats and cheeses but it’s all from vegetables, nuts, and fruits."

Tabano

A simple cash-only eatery serves proper Mexican food and is "a favourite of the fashion set without any pretension." The chalkboard menu is ever changing but the lentil banana croquettes and lavender, salt shrimp are a must! 

Gitano

Immersed in the lush jungle, this “velvet rope” restaurant and club is fun for an evening, best known for great cocktails and people-watching into the night usually with live performances by some of the best local musicians - swan between dinner on an open fire grill and the hip jungle room with sleek bar and late night dancing.

La Popular at Nomade

"En el mar la vida es mas sabrosa - In the sea life is more flavorful." This no fuss beach bar is attached to the chich Nomade Hotel and has rooms and a spa. The food is fresh as you like with fish "grilled right on the beach" lots of salads, healthy grains, and grilled vegetables all beautifully presented in a rustic artisnal setting.

The Real Coconut at Sanara

Open from early moring through 'til dinner this is "one of my all-time favourites, lots of vegan options from co-owner and master chef Daniella including shiitake coconut quesadillas, chocolate chia breakfast pudding, and the best smoothies I’ve had anywhere". Part of the uber intimate and relaxing Sanara luxury boutique hotel. Pictured.