If you think Tulum is just cenotes, beach clubs, and Instagram-worthy ruins, you’re missing one of its best-kept secrets—Tulum has some seriously epic burgers. Living here has turned us into a bit of a burger snob (in the best way), and after many nights of taste-testing across town, we are here to spill the greasy, cheesy tea. Whether you’re a full-on carnivore or into plant-based patties, these 4 spots serve up the best burgers in Tulum—hands down.
From smashburgers to burger-burrito hybrids, here’s your inside scoop.
1. Ruda
📍 Downtown Tulum
If you’re craving that crispy-edged, American-style burger with a juicy center and simple but high-quality toppings, Ruda is your place. This low-key burger joint has a minimalist industrial vibe with a couple of bar stools and a tiny terrace, but don’t let the small size fool you—these burgers pack a punch.
What to Order:
Go for the Double Smashburger with Cheese. Thin, seared beef patties, gooey American cheese, caramelized onions, house pickles, and a special house sauce. It’s salty, juicy, and has that satisfying crunch you only get from a proper smash technique.
Price Range:
- Burgers: $140–$180 MXN (~$8–$10 USD)
- Add fries and a drink: ~$5 extra
Local Tip:
Ask for the secret spicy mayo—it’s not on the menu, but they’ll add it if you’re in the know. Best enjoyed with a chilled cerveza from local breweries.
2. Bonita Burger Bar
📍 Calle Beta Sur, Tulum Centro
Bonita feels like your cool friend’s backyard—relaxed, open-air, and always playing good music. This spot is locally owned, and you can feel the love in everything from the creative burger recipes to the excellent service. It’s also one of the few places where meat-eaters, vegetarians, and vegans can all eat happily.
What to Order:
Their Peanut Butter Burger is the star—don’t knock it till you try it. The mix of salty bacon, creamy peanut butter, and juicy beef is shockingly addictive. If you’re plant-based, go for the Vegan Classic made with a lentil and black bean patty, vegan cheese, and guac.
Price Range:
- Burgers: $180–$260 MXN (~$10–$15 USD)
- Full meal with sides and drink: ~$20 USD
Local Tip:
Go on a Tuesday for their “2×1 burger” night. It gets busy, but it’s worth the wait. Also, their homemade lemonade with chia is super refreshing on hot days.
3. Burgerito
📍 Avenida Tulum
Okay, this place is different. Burgerito is for people who want something out-of-the-box. The idea? A full-blown cheeseburger wrapped in a burrito-style flour tortilla. At first, we were skeptical. After one bite, we were a convert.
The vibe here is super chill—a backyard-style setup with string lights, recycled wooden furniture, and colorful murals. A great spot to unwind after a beach day or grab a casual dinner before heading out.
What to Order:
The Burgerito Original is the go-to, stuffed with beef, cheese, pickles, onions, and a generous slather of their creamy sauce, all rolled up tight. For vegetarians, the Vegan Burgerito with a beet-carrot patty and tahini sauce is surprisingly flavorful.
Price Range:
- Burgeritos: $160–$220 MXN (~$9–$13 USD)
- Add garlic cheese fries: $80 MXN (~$5 USD)
Local Tip:
Ask for the “off-menu” habanero hot sauce—locals love it, but it’s not for the faint of heart. Also, if you sit on the rooftop at sunset, you’ll get a killer view with your burger.
4. Billy Bob’s Tulum
📍 La Veleta, Tulum
If Tulum had a wild American cousin who loved burgers, neon signs, and Oreo shakes, it’d be Billy Bob’s. This place is fun, quirky, and unapologetically indulgent. Think dive bar energy meets comfort food heaven.
Billy Bob’s is known for big portions, bold flavors, and playful menu names. The crowd is a mix of locals, digital nomads, and travelers who wandered in and never left.
What to Order:
The “Dirty Bob” Burger is a fan favorite: double beef patties, cheddar, jalapeños, crispy bacon, onion rings, and chipotle aioli. Their veggie burger isn’t an afterthought either—tangy, crunchy, and filling.
Price Range:
- Burgers: $180–$250 MXN (~$10–$14 USD)
- Milkshakes: $100 MXN (~$6 USD)
Local Tip:
Don’t skip the Oreo milkshake—you’ll regret it. Also, check their IG for live music nights. It turns into a mini block party, and the vibe is unbeatable.
BONUS TIPS FOR BURGER LOVERS IN TULUM:
- Cash is King: Many small burger spots don’t accept cards or have unreliable card machines. Always carry some pesos.
- Go Early: The good stuff runs out fast—especially if you’re eyeing the house-made sauces or artisan buns.
- Mix & Match: Tulum’s food scene is creative, so don’t be afraid to try something funky. Peanut butter, pineapple, truffle mayo—live a little.
- Watch for Pop-Ups: Keep an eye on IG and Facebook groups—new burger concepts pop up all the time at food markets and events.
Final Thoughts
Tulum’s burger scene is proof that great things can come between two buns—even in a beach town better known for smoothie bowls and tacos. From the crispy smashburgers at Ruda to the wild creativity of Burgerito, there’s something here for everyone. And what’s better than biting into a juicy burger after a day of swimming in cenotes or biking through the jungle?
Whether you’re a local looking for your next burger fix or a traveler needing a break from ceviche, these 4 spots are must-tries. Trust me, I’ve eaten them all. More than once. For research purposes, of course.
So go on, grab that burger. You deserve it.
