Oh Mexico, the land of meat, pork fat and Chicharrón (deep fried pork fat). Add in an abundance of seafood and local fish from the Caribbean Sea and vegetarians are a little fork shy in the Riviera Maya.
But don’t fret. Many a vegetarian or vegan traveler will be able to experience local food ‘sin carne’. (without meat) Vegetarians just need to know where to go and what to eat so they can have a local foodie experience as good as, if not better than, the carnivores.
Hidden Meat in Mexican Food
We think most vegetarians and vegans know that beans are typically cooked with pork meat, tamales contain pork fat, tortillas could be heated on a animal fat skillet, and 99% of the soup broths will either be a chicken, pork or beef stock. If you want to stay vegetarian, stay away from these hidden carnivore foods.
But your vacation does not need to just consist of margaritas, tequila, and beer. Local chefs have learned to understand the International definition of a vegetarian, and the life style of a vegan. Chefs are taking full advantage of the locally grown produce to create exquisite meals flavored by chiles, herbs and more!
Vegetarian Options in Mexico and the Riviera Maya
If you are vegetarian but eat cheese, you have some great taco options. Chile relleno tacos are found at many local taco stands. These poblano chiles stuffed with fresh cheese are for cheese eating veggies. They are delicious, filling and you are in charge of your taco salsas. Salsas do not have any meat ingredients so eat away!
Some local restaurants have created cauliflower, broccoli or carrot tacos that are battered like a seafood tacos but are vegan and vegetarian friendly! Chido!
If you are an egg eating vegetarian, breakfast just may be your favorite meal of the day. Eggs are a stable in Mexico and large breakfasts can be found with eggs done many ways. Ask them to skip the jamon (ham) and tocino (bacon) and you are sure to have a perfect meal at any local hole in the wall.
If you are hanging with friends at a local taco restaurant and struggle to find any options (though we find this is not the case) guacamole, a salad, and a quesadilla (for cheese eaters) are the best options.
Tulum is the King of Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Small restaurants in Tulum on the beach road seem to cater to vegetarian and vegan eaters, with a staunch focus on local flavors so everyone has an authentic food experience in Mexico. Restaurare, CO.COnamor, Puro Corazon, and Casa Violeta have great vegetarian and in most cases vegan options. In Tulum pueblo La Hoja Verde, and Del Cielo go to great lengths to have vegan options and vegan desserts!
Benefits of being Vegan and Vegetarian in the Riviera Maya
Being vegetarian or vegan in the Riviera Maya means you get amazing fruits, sun ripened vegetables, and wonderfully created meals that many carnivores seem to be jealous of. There is a distinct sweetness to the local produce that you will never find in the north. There are amazing juices and smoothies that made from unique ingredients you will never find anywhere else. Rice milk is part of the Mexican food tradition, horchata being a favored local drink made from homemade rice milk that is so delicious you will crave it.
Just know before you go! Know what you can eat, and what you should stay away from. Though a list of local restaurants that are vegetarian friendly is helpful, know that you just might be surprised in many off the beaten path places that naturally omit meat in their dishes or will omit for you!
Enjoy and take advantage of the Caribbean sun ripened fruits and veggies that will have you running back for more!