Tulum brings the tropical charm of Mexico to Bellevue, Kentucky — one recipe at a time.
While our name is inspired by the beauty and vibrant energy of Tulum, the true heart of our food comes from our mother, Lucila, who is from Jalisco, Mexico. Her love of cooking, the flavors she grew up with, and her creativity in the kitchen have inspired the dishes we serve today.
Tulum was created to blend the lively spirit of coastal Mexico with the warmth, culture, and traditions that shaped our family, while bringing a fresh, modern approach to Mexican cuisine.
In our culture, bienvenidos is more than a word. It is a feeling of belonging, connection, and being invited to be part of our story.
To us, family is everything, and food is how we celebrate, connect, and create lasting memories. That's why we strive to treat every guest like family — with warmth, appreciation, and genuine hospitality.
"Ritchie and Lucy [Arana's sister] have brought something special to Bellevue with their authentic Mexican menu, made from their mom's recipes. This is exactly what was missing from our restaurant scene. Stop by, grab a bite, and don't forget, it never hurts to drink a margarita with lunch."
Charlie Cleves, Bellevue MayorMost of what's on the menu is passed down through the family — generational recipes cooked the same way they always have been at home.
The bulk of the food is made from scratch, in-house — a fusion of chain-restaurant polish and mom-and-pop soul.
Ritchie's Los Angeles roots show up on the plate — a little different from the Mexican food Cincinnati is used to, and that's the point.
When Tulum was gearing up to open, Arana saw comments online about "another Mexican restaurant" coming to town. His response has been simple.
"I want people to give us a chance with an open mind, and if it's not something they like or their concept, that's ok too." Ritchie Arana, Owner
The city has welcomed Tulum as part of its growing lineup along the Bellevue Entertainment District. "From the moment you step into Tulum, you're transported to a vacation paradise," said Melissa Morandi, the city's Marketing and Communications Director.
"Bellevue is an awesome, awesome city to live in — not even just to live in but to add to as well." — Ritchie Arana