When you're in Tulum, everything—from the food to the surroundings—plays into the experience. It’s a place where ambiance becomes as important as what's on the plate. And if you're looking for a hidden gem to blend those elements seamlessly, look no further than Raum Gallery in the La Veleta neighborhood. You won't find the overly commercial vibe of the hotel zone here; instead, you’re greeted by a setting bathed in calm red hues, with outdoor seating that invites you to linger and soak in the eclectic decor. As soon as I pulled up, either walking or on one of Tulum's ubiquitous scooters or bicycles, I knew I was somewhere special. From the wooden porch entrance to the quirky, repurposed decor and art scattered about, the place oozes personality. And let's not forget the bathroom—it’s not every day you get anime porn wallpaper making a cameo. Raum Gallery doesn't just serve food; it serves a vibe, a mood, an energy. But let's talk food. I asked the manager what they're known for, and without hesitation, he suggested their Thai Green Curry with Pork—a dish that's taken on a bit of a legendary status around here, thanks to their "secret" curry. Now, here's the kicker: I lost my sense of taste and smell back in April 2021, thanks to COVID. So when I’m reviewing food, it’s all about texture, the interplay of savory and sweet, and the feel of it all. This ramen was texturally a joy. The noodles were tender, with just the right amount of bite—enough to let you twirl them up with your chopsticks but soft enough to easily melt into the savory pork oils floating in the broth. And man, the broth was something else. Even without tasting it, I could tell it had body and depth. Its clarity contrasted with the richness of the pork oil that coated the surface, giving it a slightly glossy sheen that begged to be slurped. Then there was the seaweed, which I mistakenly called spinach at first—it had that same tender, earthy texture that added a subtle complexity to the dish. The seaweed wasn’t chewy or rubbery; instead, it blended with the noodles, giving each bite an extra layer of flavor. The pork, stringy but tender, had that perfectly broiled texture, with just enough crispiness around the edges to keep things interesting. The green curry itself was a bit of a revelation, considering it wasn't thick as I'd expected. It was more like a light sauce that infused the broth rather than overpowering it. The manager had told me they keep it on the milder side so more people can enjoy it, and he was spot on. It added warmth without overwhelming, and balanced the savory notes of the pork with a subtle but satisfying heat. There was also bamboo, tender but with just enough snap to bring yet another texture to the bowl. And let's not forget the hard-boiled egg—a classic ramen touch. Firm whites with a creamy yolk, perfectly sliced in half, it sat there like the final puzzle piece of this delicious collage. I’m giving this dish an 8.7. Sure, it's more than just the food; it's the whole package. The ambiance at Raum Gallery, the moody lighting, the art, and that inviting energy, all play a huge part in the experience. It’s the kind of place where you don’t just eat—you dine, you linger, you catch up with friends, or make new ones. It’s romantic, it’s quirky, and it’s entirely its own. So, if you're ever wandering through Tulum, make sure to carve out some time to stop by Raum Gallery in La Veleta. Order the Thai Green Curry with Pork, even if you're not a curry person. It’s the kind of place where food meets art, and every meal becomes a story.