How can I describe this trip? Incredibly relaxing, beautiful- the perfect escape from city life! Not to mention that it ended up being a fantastic gluten-free experience!
I have to admit that I was nervous going into it; the last time I went to Mexico I got glutened pretty severely. I thought I was safe, as the story always begins, having armed myself with research. On that first visit I had even brought my travel restaurant card with me to best explain celiac disease, despite speaking Spanish fairly well.
All of the research and clear explanations unfortunately did not help me on my first trip to Mexico (which was still incredible despite being glutened- at least I was in paradise!). However, my most recent trip proved quite the opposite!
First of all, we rented an Airbnb this time. Staying gluten-free is easy when you have your own kitchen to prepare food in! While gluten-free labels are pretty hard to find in Mexico, the abundance of rice, meats, seafood, and fresh veggies and fruits made cooking a breeze. I figured my vacation would be filled with stay at home meals, which I was so grateful for if it meant staying gluten-free and healthy. But I couldn't help but stare longingly at all the amazing food we passed on the street! Tacos, tortillas, yummy snacks galore! All of which were probably safe, but not worth the risk. As you know if you have celiac, it just isn't worth that one bite- no matter how delicious and safe it might seem!!
About two days into the trip my boyfriend and I were walking on the gorgeous white sand beach in the hotel zone of Tulum, Mexico when I saw the sign that would completely change my experience: A beautifully written chalkboard sign with the magical words, "our menu is gluten-free." GLUTEN-FREE? REALLY?? It seemed too good to be true; so we investigated. I am so happy to report that it was truly gluten-free! Everything! All of the food was homemade too- even their coconut milk!!
The restaurant is a must go for any celiac traveler in or near Tulum! Heck, I would fly back now from New York just for one quick meal- no exaggeration! That's how insanely good it was. The restaurant is called "The Real Coconut," and is a part of the lavish and stunning Sanará hotel.
Completely lactose and gluten-free, The Real Coconut also has countless vegan and vegetarian dishes. I cannot stress how easy, safe, relaxing, and enjoyable they made my trip to Tulum. If you have allergies or a disease like celiac, you know how stressful travelling can be. The worry over food alone negates the trip sometimes, but not here. The Real Coconut took away all my worries and anxiety. Not to mention that the staff is absolutely incredible! Kind, friendly, caring, every single person at The Real Coconut was genuinely concerned about the health of the diners, and shared in our excitement that we could finally eat somewhere safe! Even the chef came out to say hello and talk about the meals!
I cannot stress how wonderful it is. If you are lactose-free, gluten-free, vegan, or vegetarian- book the soonest flight to Tulum and make The Real Coconut your first stop!
Delicious and divine chocolate chia pudding. Gluten-, nut-, and lactose- free!
Poached eggs in a coconut béchamel sauce with greens layered under sweet potatoes (under the eggs). Gluten-free, lactose-, and nut-free!
My favorite! The shrimp quesadillas made with coconut flour tortilla and a coconut cheese! Gluten-, nut-, and lactose-free!