Arca
Mexican
ARCA, Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila, Zona Hotelera Tulum, Tulum, Quintana Roo, Mexico
OUR SCORE
Accolades
- Featured in the 50 Best Discovery list by The World’s 50 Best Restaurants
- Recognized by Travel + Leisure as one of the best restaurants in Tulum
- Included in the exclusive list of Mexico’s 120 Best Restaurants by Guía México Gastronómico
- Honored with the Certificate of Excellence by TripAdvisor
Restaurant Summary
Arca is a culinary gem that epitomizes the essence of Yucatán's rich gastronomy. With a philosophy deeply rooted in sustainable and local sourcing, the restaurant presents an immersive dining experience that honors traditional Mayan techniques while embracing a contemporary twist.
Within its earthy and open-air setting, Arca unfolds as a sensory journey through the diverse flavors of the region. The ambience is a blend of rustic elegance and tropical charm, where warm lights set against the natural wood and stone accents create a welcoming atmosphere for epicureans from around the globe.
The menu, curated by a team of passionate chefs, is a testament to the bounty of Yucatán's land and sea. It's a celebration of seasonal ingredients that come together in dishes where each bite tells the story of its origin. Arca's signature offerings include the Coal-roasted Plantain with ricotta, habanero ash and chimichurri, which showcases the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. The Local Octopus, tender and grilled to perfection, is paired with a smoky recado negro sauce that pays homage to the ancient Mayan culinary tradition.
For the main course, the Banana Leaf Roasted Fish is a standout—a local catch marinated in achiote and citrus, then delicately wrapped and cooked to preserve its moisture and flavor. The Slow Roasted Pork Ribs, glazed with a tamarind and pasilla mix, speak to the soul of Yucatán comfort food, with each succulent piece falling effortlessly off the bone.
Desserts at Arca are no less remarkable, with creative concoctions like the Yucatán Lime Pie, which reinvents the classic with a meringue infused with local xtabentún liqueur, adding an aromatic touch to the tartness of the lime.
At Arca, each meal is an invitation to explore the rich tapestry of flavors unique to the Yucatán Peninsula—a destination for those who seek not just a meal, but an unforgettable culinary narrative. With a deep respect for the environment and a dedication to the art of cooking, Arca stands as a beacon of contemporary Yucatecan cuisine, delivering an exquisite dining experience that lingers on the palate long after the last bite.
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