If you’ve ever found yourself cruising down Highway 307 between Playa del Carmen and Tulum, hungry after a long flight or a grocery run, you’ve probably wondered: where can I stop for something authentic, affordable, and delicious? The answer is simple—El Arbolito, right at the Puerto Aventuras overpass.
Why El Arbolito is Worth the Stop
El Arbolito is one of those places locals rave about but many travelers miss. Tucked just past the stop sign at the highway exit (don’t take the bridge by the Chedraui grocery store if you’re heading south!), this humble spot serves up hearty Mexican comfort food in the form of guisados—slow-cooked stews with flavors that will transport you straight into a Mexican home kitchen.
With more than 20 different guisados to choose from, you can build your own tacos, tortas, or plates for breakfast or lunch. Every dish is homemade, packed with flavor, and served with a smile by some of the kindest people you’ll meet on your travels.
The Food: Tacos, Tortas & Fresh Juices
The star of the show? The tacos. Soft tortillas filled with savory stews like pollo en mole, carne guisada, or rajas con crema—each one better than the last. And it doesn’t stop there. Pair your tacos with a freshly made juice—we’re talking full liters of aguas frescas like jamaica (hibiscus), horchata, or tropical blends.
On a recent visit, we ordered nine tacos and two one-liter juices for only $385 pesos (about $23 USD). Not only was the price unbeatable, but we left absolutely stuffed.
Easy to Find, Easy to Love
Getting there is part of the charm. If you’re heading south from Playa del Carmen toward Puerto Aventuras, Tulum, or Akumal, skip the overpass by Chedraui and take the exit instead. After the stop sign, you’ll see El Arbolito waiting for you. It’s a convenient detour whether you’re just arriving from the airport or making your way home after shopping.
Final Thoughts
For travelers heading south along the Riviera Maya, El Arbolito is more than a roadside stop—it’s a taste of Mexico you don’t want to miss. Affordable, authentic, and full of heart, it’s the kind of place you’ll find yourself talking about long after your trip.
Planning your vacation in Akumal, Tulum, or Puerto Aventuras? We’d love to help. Contact us for more details about how to find El Arbolito—or to plan your upcoming getaway to the Riviera Maya.