Tulum is bringing the vibrant and punchy flavours of Mexican cuisine to Toronto's bustling King West neighbourhood. 

Diners can expect classic shareables like Guacamole and Aguachile, as well as drippy Tacos Al Pastor on house-made tortillas, and a curated list of tequila- and mezcal-based cocktails.

"Tulum was created with the idea of bringing a piece of Mexico," shares restaurant owner Israel Nunez with blogTO.  "We chose the most enigmatic flavours, with a commitment to preserving the tastes of the land where they were born, honouring each original recipe while giving it a more avant-garde presentation."

The restaurant occupies the ground level of the three-floor venue. Upstairs is Playa — a late-night dance club open Fridays and Saturdays. Tucked beyond the club lies the Cenote, a hidden speakeasy-style lounge reserved for private events. 

Designed with sand-coloured floors, wicker chairs, and leafy palms, the restaurant feels like it belongs in a beach resort town.

And to help fully lean into the coastal escape, there's a lineup of tropical cocktails to try.

La Pachamama ($22) is a bright and bubbly mix of Prosecco, Pisco, raspberry cordial, and rooibos. 

The Soul Collector ($24) blends floral and herbal notes with its combination of St‑Germain, Becherovka, gin, lime, pandan, cardamon, and basil. 

The fruity La Vida Eterna ($25) layers strawberry, pineapple, Martini Bianco Vermouth, vanilla, rosehip, lemon, and, for a twist, sesame rum. It's finished with a coconut foam topped with black sesame seeds. 

Heading the kitchen is Chef Carlos Reyes, who brings over 20 years of experience, including time spent cooking in France and Mexico's sun-soaked Acapulco, Cancún, and Playa del Carmen. 

Perfect for the hot summer months, the chilled Aguachile ($22) is made with thinly sliced shrimp and scallops swimming in a zesty, moderately spiced lime, jalapeño, and habanero sauce. Similar to ceviche, it's garnished with cilantro, avocado, and red onion, and served with a side of crispy yuca and sweet potato chips.

The colourful Baja Fish Tacos ($25) come on house-made blue corn tortillas. Lightly battered and fried until golden, the fish is topped with a crunchy slaw and fresh pico de gallo. 

Honouring one of the most iconic and complex sauces in Mexican cuisine, the Chicken Mole ($38) features tender chicken stuffed with Mexican-style rice in a thick, sticky, savoury mole poblano. A dish often reserved for special occasions, the mole includes a variety of chilies, nuts, seeds, spices, and chocolate. 

The creamy, custard-like Coconut Flan Bread ($17), with toasted coconut, fruit, and ice cream, is a great sweet treat to end with. Rich and smooth, it has notes of caramel and vanilla. 

Beyond dinner, Tulum will soon offer breakfast, lunch, and brunch options. They also have a recently opened rooftop patio that extends the easy, relaxed spirit of the Caribbean coast to the city skyline.

Tulum is located at 291 King Street West.