WILD TULUM BLOG

What a year, what an honor! We are beyond thrilled to announce that WILD's Executive Chef Norman Fenton received a Michelin star in December 2024 at sister restaurant Cariño, Chicago. Congratulations to the entire team at Cariño for all of their hard work over this past year that has brought the restaurant to life! Open less than one year and the only new addition to the 1 Michelin star list in Chicago, it's a true testament to the talent of Chef Norman Fenton. A Latin inspired tasting menu and a late-night taco omakase, combining traditional and modern techniques to create a love letter of flavors from Mexico to Chicago. Find a more casual approach here in WILD Tulum, featuring some of the dishes and under the stars of the Tulum jungle.

To celebrate our 8th year, Wild Tulum is thrilled to announce the launch of an exquisite drinks pairing, crafted to complement our nine-course Tasting Menu. Indulge in a culinary journey paired with wines and beverages hand-selected from small, boutique producers across the globe. Each wine has been chosen for its unique flavor profile and commitment to sustainable practices, enhancing your dining experience with rare and exceptional selection. WILD restaurant is more than just a dining destination; it's an immersive experience that celebrates the artistic mind of Executive Chef Norman Fenton. From the moment you step into our space until the last bite of dessert, you'll find yourself enveloped in an ambiance that invites you to savor, reflect, and connect with the essence of Mexican flavors.

We are delighted to be featured in the recommendations of the esteemed Michelin Guide 2024 . WILD Tulum opened in December 2016 when there were only handful of restaurants along the beach road, and still to date these authentic ones shine bright and have been recognised by MICHELIN. MICHELIN Guide’s Point Of View on WILD ; "In a world where uniformity is seemingly around every corner, Wild stands out from the pack. Nestled within the jungle of Tulum, this setting blends striking modern and rustic elements with lush nature. American Chef Norman Fenton is the brains behind the contemporary dishes, offered à la carte or as tasting menus. Begin with an appetizing vegetarian dish such as the crispy avocado with sikil pak, pico de gallo and oxalis before moving on to main dishes where quality ingredients shine. Excellent fish is seen in seafood plates like Campeche prawns or sea bass wrapped in hoja santa leaf. For dessert, a coconut granita with passionfruit, almond coco-crunch, lime and fresh mango is as refreshing as the open-air setting." If you are planning a trip to Tulum, don’t miss out on trying these wonderful places to dine at, each of them have their own culinary delights and history. Other recommendations from MICHELIN for Tulum are Arca, Hartwood, Cetli, NU, Casa Banana, Posada Margherita and Mestixa, Tulum’s gastronomy is well worth a trip to explore, especially if you are a foodie! Check out MICHELIN'S Tulum recommendations here .

Chef on the rise Norman Fenton , known for his previous work at MICHELIN-starred Schwa , acclaimed fine-dining restaurant Brass Heart, and his current menus at Wild Tulum, opened the doors on his debut venture Cariño, Chicago as chef-owner in partnership with owner of Wild Tulum Karen Young on December 28th 2023 in the Uptown neighborhood of Chicago. The duo have created the concept with their experience and passion in mind, with Fenton heading conceptual and culinary direction while Young imparts her eye for design and experiential hospitality. The intimate 1,700 sq. ft. Latin fine dining haven is a love letter from Chef Fenton to his time spent traveling, living, working, and starting a family in Latin America. Cariño features a 12-16 course Latin-focused tasting menu showcasing regional cuisines, ingredients, and flavors throughout Mexico and Central and South America in whimsical and immersive ways. Guests can also experience a lively late-night taco omakase on select nights featuring tortillas made via Cariño’s in-house masa program, as well as a Latin wine menu curated by Jean Banchet-nominated sommelier Richie Ribando (Next, Elizabeth, Smyth) and cocktails by trailblazer Denisse Soto (Osito’s Tap). Cuisine As with his 9 course tasting menu at WILD Tulum, Fenton begins his elaborate tasting menu with an aguachile course, taking the traditional dish and transforming it into a sensory experience. Cariño’s iteration presents a base of white soy cured Ora King salmon and kanpachi from Baja California, served in an aromatic cloud of jalapeño and serrano chili vapor. Moving into the ravioli course, Fenton takes the opportunity to celebrate the importance of corn in Latin America using the Mexican delicacy huitlacoche, a fungus specific to corn plants. The fungus’ earthy flavors pair with the dish’s sweet corn and truffle, while fried corn silks add a crispy bite. Although the order of dishes is akin to a traditional tasting menu, Fenton makes a heartfelt interlude just before moving from savory to sweet by incorporating an after-dinner coffee and cookies tradition he’s grown to enjoy through his wife’s family in Mexico. Paying homage to this experience, Fenton serves a freshly brewed coffee made from a house blend of Latin American coffee beans alongside a fried churro coated in sherry sugar and surrounded by Oaxacan mole negro and raisin puree, with dots of foie gras mousse on top. Late Night Taco Omakase Cariño’s late-night taco omakase will be available Wednesday - Saturday nights at 9:30pm at the seven-seat chef’s counter. In true omakase fashion, there is no set menu, but guests can expect eight to twelve courses with the same elevated technique and vibrant sensory experience Fenton fosters in the tasting menu. Inclusive in the experience is the guest’s choice of three half pours of wine or three half cocktails. With tortillas hand-shaped and cooked over a traditional comal for each course, Cariño is one of few restaurants in the city to grind their own masa on-premises, allowing the chef and his team to add unique flavors to their tortillas by grinding ingredients like shrimp shells and black truffles into the masa. Beverage To pair with Fenton’s menu, Cariño’s beverage program will present one of the Midwest’s most extensive and thoughtful collections of Latin wines in addition to craft cocktails, and beers. Spearheading the wine program is Jean Banchet-nominated sommelier Richie Ribando, known for his work at James Beard Award-winning fine dining restaurant Next, three MICHELIN-starred Smyth, and more. Denisse Soto, lauded for her cocktail menus at Osito’s Tap on the Southwest side of Chicago, draws inspiration from her upbringing in Mexico City to helm cocktail creation at Cariño. Guests can expect inventive takes on classic cocktails like a truffle Manhattan made with Mexican whiskey and huitlacoche-infused Argentinian red vermouth, served tableside from a hickory smoke-filled decanter as well as a pisco sour inspired drink made with the herbal Patagonian spirit, Trikal, and chicha morada, a fruity purple corn-based Peruvian beverage. On the non- alcoholic side, Cariño will have housemade agua frescas, Mexican sodas, and Sparrow coffee and tea. For reservations in Cariño, located at 4662 N. Broadway, Chicago, USA CLICK HERE

As featured in Wedding Chicks , Beata and Nicoell fell in love with the natural, bohemian aesthetic in Tulum but wanted something darker! The ultimate dark and moody deemed "Til Death Do Us Part!" created by Diana Romo Weddings at WILD Tulum. The lush colors of WILD Tulum 's jungle were accented by gorgeous floral design by Grisel Serrano Florals that gave off a dark and moody boho flair. The centerpieces completely tied together the wedding's "Til Death Do Us Part" theme that was brought to life through bold rentals from Archive and lighting by La Productora. Dripping candles cast red florals in a dreamy amber light, while a tarot reader read cards for guests throughout the night; everything from the bride's dazzling Berta gown to the neon lights peeking through the jungle radiated an ethereal vibe! Captured in photo by Andre Gouin Photo and in film by About Time Film. If you want to celebrate your wedding in the stunning Tulum jungle, contact us at events@wildtulum.com

In the heart of South Tulum's paradisiacal beauty lies a place of wonder and inspiration - Casa Malca Hotel. In this blog post, we invite you to discover the captivating surroundings of WILD Restaurant, nestled within the embrace of the iconic Tulum Beach. Join us on a journey through this enchanting haven that adds a touch of magic to your dining experience. Unveiling Casa Malca Tulum Casa Malca Hotel is a gem that captures the essence of art, luxury, and nature. This iconic hotel, once owned by Pablo Escobar, has been transformed into a luxury haven that seamlessly blends contemporary art with the raw beauty of Tulum's landscapes. A culinary oasis amidst artistry Nestled in close proximity to Casa Malca, WILD Tulum offers more than just a meal – it provides a harmonious fusion of exquisite cuisine and the artistic essence that defines its environment. As you indulge in our culinary delights, immerse yourself in an immersive world textures, and captivating flavors that ignite your senses, creating a truly multi-dimensional dining encounter. The essence of Tulum's culinary tapestry finds its homage in the carefully curated menu at WILD Restaurant. Every bite embarks you on a voyage through the very flavors and textures that have cemented Tulum as a haven for epicurean aficionados. Beyond dining: An immersive experience WILD restaurant is more than just a dining destination; it's an immersive experience that celebrates the artistic heartbeat of Tulum. From the moment you step into our space until the last bite of dessert, you'll find yourself enveloped in an ambiance that invites you to savor, reflect, and connect with the essence of Tulum. A journey worth exploring Are you ready to explore the enchanting surroundings of WILD Restaurant? Join us for a culinary adventure that transcends expectations and invites you to savor the magic of Tulum's artistry and nature in every aspect of your dining experience. Book your table today and immerse yourself in the artistic and natural wonders of Casa Malca Tulum. At WILD Restaurant, every dish is a canvas, and every bite is a brushstroke that adds to the masterpiece of your dining journey.

Dreaming of an enchanting wedding that mirrors the beauty of your love story? Look no further than WILD Tulum Restaurant, where weddings become unforgettable celebrations against the backdrop of Tulum's natural splendor. In this blog post, we unveil the magic of weddings in Tulum, where every detail is meticulously crafted to transform your special day into a fairytale come true. Weddings in Tulum: A dream destination Nestled along the pristine shores of Tulum, our restaurant offers a dreamy setting for weddings that embody the essence of romance. Tulum's captivating beauty, with its jungle foliage, creates a backdrop that perfectly mirrors the love and happiness of your union. Personalized celebrations: Your love, your way At WILD Tulum, we understand that every love story is unique. Our dedicated team is committed to curating a wedding experience that reflects your personal style and aspirations. From intimate ceremonies to elegant receptions under the stars, your vision is our inspiration.

Step into the heart of untamed beauty at WILD Tulum, where our restaurant thrives amidst the enchanting allure of the jungle. In this blog post, we invite you to embark on a captivating journey through Tulum's wildlife that graces our sanctuary. Discover the harmony between nature's inhabitants and our culinary haven, where every moment becomes a celebration of the wild spirit. Wildlife encounters in the jungle Nestled within the vibrant jungle of Tulum, WILD Tulum is more than just a restaurant; it's a sanctuary where wildlife finds a home alongside our delectable cuisine. As you stroll through our open-air space, you may encounter our three feline residents, who have become beloved members of the WILD Tulum family, adding a touch of feline charm to your dining experience. The magic of seasonal guests Beyond our feline friends, Tulum's wildlife surprises us with occasional visitors, making each visit to Wild Tulum an adventure. Keep your eyes peeled, and you may be graced by the curious raccoons, the playful coatis, or even a delightful family of crabs, all running about in harmony with the rhythms of the seasons.

In this blog post, we take you on an extraordinary adventure that unveils the essence of a Taste of Mexico like never before. Rediscovering the traditional Taste of Mexico At WILD Tulum, we pay homage to the rich culinary heritage of Mexico, drawing inspiration from traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations. Our Chef Norman Feston infuse each dish with authentic Mexican spices and ingredients, creating a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. Embracing creativity While our culinary journey honors tradition, it also embraces creativity. We take classic Mexican dishes and reimagine them, adding a modern twist that surprises and delights. Experience the thrill of discovering familiar favorites presented in innovative ways, elevating the dining experience to new heights. From the Sea to the jungle Mexico's diverse landscape offers a treasure trove of culinary treasures, from the bountiful bounty of the sea to the flavors of the jungle. At WILD Tulum, our menu reflects this diversity, offering a delightful array of seafood delicacies and hearty dishes sourced from local suppliers. Immerse yourself in the colors, textures, and aromas that define the true Taste of Mexico. A journey through time and region As you indulge in our unique culinary journey, you embark on a voyage through Mexico's culinary history and regions. Each dish on our menu has a story to tell, representing the cultural tapestry of the country. From the coastal flavors of Yucatan to the robust dishes of Oaxaca, every bite tells a tale of Mexico's culinary heritage. A Celebration of Mexico's Essence WILD Tulum is more than just a restaurant; it's a celebration of Mexico's soulful essence. Are you ready to experience a Taste of Mexico like never before? Book a table today and savor the flavors, colors, and traditions that make Mexican cuisine so beloved.