Tabu: A Tulum-Inspired Mexican Bar and Restaurant Takes Over the Former Ten Hope Space

Tabu has recently opened its doors at 10 Hope Street, taking over the former Ten Hope location and bringing a dynamic shift from the previous quiet bistro. This new Mexican bar and restaurant offers a vibrant escape inspired by Tulum, promising an immersive experience rather than just a dining spot.

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The venue is designed to evoke the spirit of Tulum with a lush, green outdoor patio featuring a waterfall and a DJ booth. Live entertainment, including fire dancers, enhances the atmosphere, making Tabu a lively destination for both food and entertainment.

Backed by the Artesano Group, known for their Peruvian restaurant of the same name, Tabu aims to deliver a unique blend of Mexican culture through bold flavors and engaging performances. The space includes dancers, violinists, and various live acts on select nights to transport guests to Tulum without leaving New York.

Tabu's menu, crafted by Executive Chef Kevin Boluarte, formerly of the Michelin-starred Oxomoco in Greenpoint, reflects influences from Baja California, Oaxaca, and Yucatán. The offerings include tacos, tostadas, and aguachiles, with standout dishes such as octopus tostada with smoked chipotle mayo and picadita, herbal guacamole with queso fresco and seasonal herbs, and corn cake with guava curd, cotija, and crema.

In addition to its thoughtful food menu, Tabu boasts an extensive selection of premium tequila, mezcal, and other agave spirits. The cocktail list features inventive drinks like the Embrujo, which blends mezcal, fig, tea, and lime, and the Ritual Sagrado, combining sotol, guanabana, watermelon, and hoja santa.

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