About Meze
Meze Tulum is a Greek-Aegean style taverna in the Tulum jungle, part of the famous Gitano hospitality group. It opened as a sister restaurant to Gitano Jungle in a **whitewashed hacienda** on Tulum’s beachfront road . Meze’s design is inspired by the serene Aegean islands (Hydra, Mykonos, etc.), with bougainvillea-clad archways, an **oversized stone bar**, lush gardens and open-air courtyard seating under the stars . Executive Chef Alexandros Gkoutsi (trained in Greece and top Michelin kitchens) runs an open kitchen at the front. The menu centers on Greek tradition (“Yaya’s home cooking”) – shareable meze plates like hummus, tzatziki and baba ghanoush with warm pita, plus salt-crusted local fish and Mediterranean wood-fired grills . Signature cocktails riff on Mexican-Mezcal and Greek flavors (e.g. a cactus-mezcal margarita or a tequila-sour with elderflower) . Meze opens daily from about 6:00 PM and the overall vibe is glamorous yet relaxed – think boho-chic dresses and linen shirts in a jungle-Greek garden. The atmosphere is one of elegant revelry, marrying island-inspired décor with the energy of Tulum nightlife.
Events and Programming
Meze is more than a restaurant – it hosts lively dinners and dance nights. On most Thursdays it throws a weekly “Meze Mágica” happy hour (roughly 6–8pm) with **two-for-one cocktails**, music and dancing . (Note: typically a cover of about **$40 USD** per person applies on event nights .) After dinner on Fridays, many guests move on to the sister club Gitano Jungle for its famous Gypsy Disco, making Friday nights a two-venue party . Meze also puts on special events from time to time – for example celebrity chef tasting dinners and holiday parties. Notably, the restaurant hosts an annual New Year’s Eve celebration: an all-white, open-air feast with a set Mediterranean menu by Chef Gkoutsi, nonstop champagne and cocktails, live music all night, dancing until 3AM, and even fireworks at midnight . In early 2024 Meze booked international DJs under a disco ball – for instance, German house-music star Claptone headlined a party there, and Belgian producer Maxi Meraki performed under the Phonique label . In short, Meze’s programming spans laid-back happy hours and up-tempo DJ gigs. Reservations often fill up for big nights, so locals advise booking well in advance for popular events.
Tickets and Booking
Meze is fundamentally a restaurant, so “tickets” for general entry are not usually needed – you typically just make a dinner reservation or walk in (though peak summer season can be busy). Reservations can be made online (via the official site or OpenTable) or by phone, and it’s wise to book several days ahead on weekends or holidays. For its special events and DJ nights, Meze may sell tickets or cover-charges separately. For example, the weekly Thursday happy-hour is officially ticketed at about **40 USD** per person , and NYE parties are ticketed in advance. Most dinners range from moderately expensive to high-end for Tulum: reviewers note menu items often run in the $$-$$$ range (think $20–50 USD per main entrée). Typical dinner pricing (share plates, seafood, cocktails) often means an average bill of ~$50–100 USD per person, depending on drinks and appetizers. Meze accepts credit cards, but many guests still carry pesos for tips and small purchases. If your group is large, Meze can accommodate big parties at long communal tables; some concierge services can help arrange large-group bookings and VIP seating. In short: make a reservation for dinner, especially on event nights, and be prepared for a cover or ticket on major party nights .
Seating and Layout
There is no fixed stage or formal concert space: Meze is laid out as an open courtyard restaurant. You enter through a flower-covered arch into a courtyard dominated by an **oversized stone bar** . Dining tables (often candlelit) are scattered around thick greenery and under lightly thatched palapas. The interior style is rustic-elegant: white-washed stucco walls, blue-painted accents and lots of wood and stone, very reminiscent of a Greek taverna. According to Meze’s own description, it offers “terrace dining, full bar seating, [and] candlelit dining” . In practice, expect all seating to be assigned by the host (especially when busy). There are a few lounge areas and bar stools around the counters. When DJs spin, music comes from speakers near the bar area and dance-floor lights swing over head – this is a dinner-and-dance setup, so the volume can rise. In fact, one reviewer noted that after about 9PM the music can jump to ~90 decibels, making quiet conversation difficult . If you prefer an easier chat, aim to arrive earlier. The “best” seats depend on your taste – tables closer to the stage/DJ and bar feel more party-centric, while tables tucked toward the edges of the courtyard offer a bit more quiet ambiance. Keep in mind the layout is flat and open-air, so you may feel the jungle breeze (sometimes a welcome relief) and seasonal humidity. Overall the layout blends resort dining with a touch of nightclub, so pick your spot based on whether you want dining comfort or a front-row view of the live music.
Getting There and Parking
Meze is located on the main Hotel Zone road of Tulum, officially at **Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila Km 6.5** (the Tulum–Punta Allen highway) . It’s in the southern part of the hotel area, not far from the town boundary. The easiest way to get there is by car or taxi: many hotel-zone taxis and local shuttles (colectivos) ply this road. There is limited on-site parking around the restaurant grounds and along the roadside curb (drive slowly and look for signs or available spots). Given Tulum’s ongoing curb regulations, street parking can be scarce; some guests prefer to be dropped off at the entrance. Rideshare apps like Uber are not officially available in Tulum (use a licensed taxi or hotel transfer). If coming from downtown Tulum or the town center, you can catch a colectivo van heading south on the main highway toward Boca Paila and ask to be let out at Km 6.5, though schedules vary. Bicycles and scooters are common in Tulum, and a bike rack area is usually available if you rent two-wheelers. In summary: most visitors drive or taxi along the coast road, look for the white Meze building and neon sign, and either self-park if space allows or use a taxi drop-off at the main gate. Nightrider tip: after dark it’s safest to get a licensed taxi back as the highway can be quiet at night.
Inside the Venue
Upon entering Meze, expect a warm, tropical atmosphere and courteous but laid-back service. The entrance often features whimsical decor (think hanging lanterns or a neon Gitano sign). Hosts will usually seat you at a table based on your reservation. The **bar area** is prominent – bartenders prepare craft cocktails and pour premium mezcal & tequila drinks. During events, a DJ booth may be set up, often near the bar or in a corner of the outdoor space. The restaurant’s lighting is mostly soft – candles on tables and subtle uplighting on plants – giving an upscale, romantic vibe despite the jungle setting. Menus are thoughtfully printed, and many diners share several plates. Service is generally friendly; the staff calls the managers by first name (e.g. the Mexican-Spanish manager Ivan appears in guest reviews) and sometimes even welcomes repeat patrons by name. Facilities include tidy restrooms on-site. Note that because Meze is part of a club-style operation, guests should dress stylishly (avoid beach shorts or flip-flops after 9pm). Coat check isn’t typically offered, but there’s plenty of room at the table for personal items. Photography is permitted for personal use (in fact, the setting is quite past Instagram-worthy), but professional photo shoots would require permission. Corkage: Meze has its own bar and does not allow outside alcohol – any private wine or liquor plans would be handled through a special request or pre-arrangement if offered. In short, expect a full-service dining experience with cocktails, attentive waitstaff, and the hum of music – it’s a comfortable, if somewhat lively, environment suited to an evening out.
Nearby Amenities
The restaurant sits in Tulum’s hotel district, which is dotted with other dining and entertainment options. Within a few blocks are hotels like the Mango Tulum and Teetotum (pictured often near Meze on maps), meaning guests may choose to stay steps away and walk to dinner. For additional pre-dinner eats or later snacks, you’ll find other beach road eateries within a 5–10 minute drive: for example, Kin Toh at Azulik Resort (fine dining in a treehouse setting), Casa Jaguar (seafood & mezcal bar), or Cenote Kitchen (seafood tacos). Many people begin their evening drinks at Meze itself. Hotspots for after-parties include the adjacent Gitano Jungle Tulum (just a short walk north) and the Papaya Playa Project area. If you’re exploring some post-dinner culture, the Alux Art Gallery cave is just 0.1 km away. Grocery/shops are scarce in the hotel zone, so stock up in town if needed. When planning your night: aim to arrive about 15–30 minutes before your reservation time (especially if dining before an event). Late-night transport: taxis run 24/7 from downtown; if you’re staying nearby you’ll likely walk or catch a short cab ride back to your hotel.
What Makes This Venue Special
Meze stands out in Tulum’s dining scene for its **unique concept and setting**. It is the first authentic Greek taverna in the area, created with a high-fashion bohemian flair by Gitano’s founders . Unlike many local restaurants, Meze transports you to the Mediterranean: white lime-washed walls, bougainvillea-arched courtyards, even Aegean island accents amid the jungle . The emphasis on open-fire cooking (including a grill and brick oven in full view) and family-style dishes sets it apart from any typical Mexican or Caribbean restaurant. It has hosted innovative culinary events (like the “Journey of Flavors” tasting dinner with five courses by Chef Gkoutsi ) that combine fine dining with the energy of a performance. Culturally, Meze has become a Tulum landmark: local media notes that the property and food are “the most beautiful and most delicious in Tulum by far” , and guests cite it as a bucket-list dining spot. It also reflects Gitano’s ethos of nightlife glamour – open-air parties under disco lights, all-white attire evenings, and a pastime of music and dancing under the palms . In summary, Meze is special because it offers an immersive Aegean experience in the Mexican jungle – blending beach-party energy with upscale Mediterranean hospitality in a way no other Tulum venue does.
Visitor Tips and Information
Reservations: Always book ahead online or by phone during peak season (Dec–April) and for weekend nights. If attending a special event or large group, confirm details (time, cover) a day in advance. Arrival: Arrive at least 10–15 minutes before your reservation. The entrance is gated, so early birds will be greeted with welcome cocktails and seated promptly. Dress Code: Chic beach-casual or upscale bohemian attire. Sun dresses, linen pants and nice sandals are perfect; no swimsuits or flip-flops in the evening. Doors & Hours: Meze opens nightly around 6:00 PM . There’s no fixed closing time listed (it typically winds down after midnight or 1 AM, though on special nights it can go later).Cover/Entry: Standard dinner is free to enter with a reservation. Special nights (Thursday Magica, NYE, DJ parties) require tickets or a door cover (eg. ~$40 USD for Thursday happy hour ). Parking: Limited street parking is available. For safety, consider taxi or rideshare from your hotel, especially if you plan to drink. Identification: Bring an ID – venues may check legal drinking age, especially after 9pm. What to Bring: A printed or digital reservation confirmation, and preferably cash for tips. (Credit cards are accepted, but many in Tulum tip in pesos.) Also consider bug spray if you’re sensitive – it’s a jungle setting. Accessibility: The layout is on one level and mostly flat (outdoors with stone/tile flooring). However, doorways may be narrow, and there are small steps around the courtyard. Wheelchair access may be limited; call ahead if you need any accommodations. Conduct & Etiquette: Meze is lively but fam ily-friendly for dinner hours. Keep voices reasonable, respect the music flow (glass clinking and dancing will happen as the night grows). No outside food or drink is allowed, and typically no service animals. Photographs are welcomed but professional equipment may need permission. Remember to thank your hosts – Gitano venues pride themselves on hospitality. Local Customs: It is customary to tip waitstaff ~15%. Smoking areas are available in the patio if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of food does Meze serve?
Meze serves Mediterranean cuisine in an Aegean or Greek taverna style. On the menu you’ll find classic Greek meze dishes – like hummus, tzatziki, baba ghanoush, grilled seafood, and wood-fired meats and bread – along with creative cocktails. The atmosphere is designed to evoke the Greek islands, even though you’re in a jungle setting.
Where is Meze located, and how can I get there?
Meze is on Tulum’s main Hotel Zone road at km 6.5 of the Tulum–Boca Paila Highway (Carretera Tulum-Boca Paila Km 6.5, in postal code 77780). It’s in the southern part of the beach area, a short drive from downtown Tulum or the beach. The easiest way is by taxi or rental car. Colectivo vans also run on the highway – you can take one heading south from town and ask the driver to drop you at Meze. Once there, look for the white building with bougainvillea and a neon sign. Street parking is limited, so many guests are dropped off at the entrance.
How do I make a reservation or buy tickets for events?
You can reserve a table at Meze by booking online (via their site or OpenTable) or calling the restaurant directly. For special events (like DJ nights or holiday parties), tickets might be sold through event partners or in advance at the venue. Tickets are generally required for ticketed parties or dinners (for example, the New Year’s Eve gala), so plan ahead and book early.
Is there a cover charge or ticket price to enter Meze?
For normal dinner hours Meze doesn’t charge an entry fee beyond meal cost. However, many of Meze’s special nights (Happy Hour events, DJ sets, holidays) require a cover or ticket. For instance, the Thursday “Meze Mágica” happy-hour event typically has a cover of around $40 USD per person . Always check the specific event details. General dinner seating is free with a reservation, but some themed parties require buying a ticket in advance.
What is the dress code at Meze?
Dress casually yet stylishly. Men often wear linen pants or nice shorts with a collared shirt; women wear sundresses, skirts or pants and blouses. Beachwear like swimsuits or flip-flops is not appropriate after early evening. On lively party nights (especially holidays), guests sometimes wear all-white attire to match the Aegean theme. In any case, upscale resort-chic is a safe bet.
Are children allowed at Meze?
Yes, families are welcome, especially during dinner hours. The restaurant atmosphere is generally family-friendly until the music amps up in the late evening. If you plan to come with kids, consider going earlier in the night when the volume is moderate (note that after around 9:00 PM the music becomes club-level loud ). There is no strict age limit posted, but as the night goes on the crowd skews adult and energetic.
Is there parking available at Meze?
Parking at Meze is very limited. There are a few spaces on-site and some street parking on the highway frontage, but these fill up quickly on busy evenings. Many visitors choose to take a taxi or hotel shuttle instead. If you drive, arrive early to snag a spot or have a taxi drop you off at the entrance.
Is Meze wheelchair accessible?
Meze is mostly on one level with an open-air courtyard. However, there are a few small steps and uneven surfaces in the outdoor areas. Wheelchair access may be challenging due to the stone floor and narrow entryway. If you have specific accessibility needs, it’s best to call ahead and the staff can advise or try to accommodate you with the most accessible seating.
Does Meze offer bottle service or VIP seating?
Yes. Meze can provide VIP table service for large groups. Some event listings advertise “Bottle service & VIP tables” with private cabanas or lounge areas for groups of 6–8 . If you want a VIP experience (a roped-off area with a dedicated server and premium bottles), contact the restaurant in advance to arrange it. Otherwise, all dining is standard table service.
What events and happy hours happen at Meze?
Meze has recurring events as well as one-offs. Weekly, it runs a Thursday happy hour called “Meze Mágica” (2-for-1 cocktails, typically 6–8pm) . Fridays see a party atmosphere, often spilling into the sister club Gitano Jungle. There are also holiday and special events: for example, Meze hosts an evening of fireworks and dancing on New Year’s Eve . Live DJs and theme nights pop up regularly (past headliners include Claptone and PHONIQUE DJs ). Check local event listings for the current schedule, and plan ahead for popular nights.
What should I know about the music and volume?
Meze often features ambient lounge or deep-house music, especially early in the evening. As the night progresses or on party nights, the volume increases to a club-like level. A past guest noted that if you arrive by 7:30PM you’d hear background music, but by 9:00PM it was turned very loud (around 90 dB) . In short: it’s lively, and if you prefer quieter conversation do the bulk of dining earlier in the night.
When does Meze open and close?
Meze opens around 6:00PM every evening . There is no fixed closing time posted, but typically the kitchen and bar stay open late on event nights (often until midnight or later). In practice, you can enjoy late dining or dancing on special nights, but during regular weeknights it won’t run much past midnight. If you want to party past midnight, check if there are special DJs or holidays in the schedule.
