USA & Canada:1 800 593 6259 -
Mexico:01 800 237 8329 -
International:00 52 998 2873674
Español
Strongly influenced by the Mayan Culture, both ancient and contemporary and with contributions from the many European immigrants, the originality of the Yucatecan cuisine is also due to the isolation this region has experienced throughout Mexican history. The result is an eclectic and surprising mixture of aromas, flavors and colors; explosive when it comes to one of its basic ingredients, the habanero pepper, and complex when it comes to dishes like Stuffed Cheese.
Given the variety of sources and elements, it is not so strange that Merida restaurants feature unbeatable variety, ranging from Italian food at La Tratto to Cantonese food at Hong Kong.
Merida has for centuries been the social, cultural and political center of the vast Yucatan peninsula. A stroll through one of its streets, cultural centers or plazas offers you an unforgettable and fulfilling experience that would not be complete without discovering the flavors of Yucatecan cuisine.
Should you get a little hungry when exploring the city then try out the famously delicious Papadzules (tortillas stuffed with boiled eggs in a pumpkin seed sauce) or an endless list of regional delights such as salbutes and panuchos. Dining in Merida is always a delightful experience.
For lunch or dinner don't miss the opportunity to take a seat in the classy Los Almendros restaurant or sip an excellent local beer at the popular Eladios eatery. In both cases you'll find strongly recommended menu selections such as Cochinita Pibil (suckling pig baked in banana leaves with a rich annatto sauce), Sopa de Lima and one of the latest creations of this versatile kitchen, Poc-Chuc. Bon appetit!
100% Natural
Attractive, healthy cuisine including tropical juices and shakes, fresh fruit salads, grilled chicken dishes, soy burgers and big sandwiches served on freshly baked whole wheat bread, are just a few of the delicious options at 100% Natural. The concept of this casual restaurant is simply to provide people with a more nutritious alternative, and promote a healthier lifestyle. Located in the north of the city, 100% natural offers an air-conditioned indoor area, or you can choose to dine "al-fresco" under their huge thatched-roof palapa. Whichever you decide you will love the efficient service, relaxed environment and the delicious healthy cuisine.
Chili's
Renowned for the generous portions of their dishes, such as hamburgers, juicy cuts off the grill or their famous ribs, Chili's has won the respect of discerning customers from all over the country and Merida is no exception. A casual ambiance, delicious salads and a couple of beers or Margaritas are the perfect complement to fully enjoy the very American flavor that this restaurant offers. You'll be leaving the restaurant with a full tank and a happy heart.
Eladio's
This is the place where the people of Merida come to relax and cool off with one of those excellent Yucatecan beers, always drunk ice cold. Beer is accompanied by delicious regional appetizers called "botanas". The menu also includes a wide range of traditional dishes.
El Tucho
If you want to enjoy the music of a live Mexican band and sample some traditional appetizers (botanas), then there is no better place than El Tucho. Located on "Calle 60" (60th Street), this family friendly restaurant/bar is a tradition with the locals and popular with tourists who want to relax, drink an icy cold beer and escape the hot Yucatecan sun.
Fiore Bistro
Found in the charming colonial city of Merida, Fiore Bistro offers coffee, fine pastries and salads, served in eye-catching presentations. Its specialty is homemade, fruit-flavored "gelato", a delicious Italian ice cream that is of a denser, more flavorful consistency than regular ice cream. With tasteful minimalist decor and a cozy atmosphere for small groups, Fiore Bistro is excellent for a laid-back afternoon, where you can drink coffee and enjoy a good selection of music.
Hacienda Teya
Hacienda Teya is a historical landmark located eight miles from Merida. This charming 17th century estate has lovely plantation houses and buildings surrounded by nicely landscaped gardens. It used to house an old sisal hemp producing plantation and is now a fine hotel and restaurant, offering superb Yucatecan cuisine and an incredible view of this magnificent city. Enjoy traditional dishes such as panuchos, salbutes, and codzitos or the more elaborate dishes like cochinita pibil, poc-chuc, relleno negro and turkey escabeche, painstakingly made by local chefs, served on dinnerware, typical of the region.
Il Caffe Italiano
Il Caffe Italiano is the perfect place to spend a romantic evening enjoying exquisite pastas, as well as a well chosen selection of wines. The old fashioned paintings enhance the casual atmosphere and elegant decor, echoing an ambiance of fine European restaurants. Il Caffe Italiano is an excellent choice when visiting Merida.
La Beltraneja de Manzanero
Famous Mexican singer/songwriter Armando Manzanero is owner of this concept called La Beltraneja de Manzanero, offering excellent service and an extensive variety of dishes which run the gamut of poultry, beef and seafood, consisting of ingredients which include Cornish game hen, mussels, steak, salmon and shrimp. Weekends are spirited and offer live music in this restaurant that is decorated with art, pastel colors and photos of its owner.
La Habichuela
Mouthwatering steaks and seafood dishes make up this restaurant's menu of delectable international cuisine. The restaurant's soft lighting and charming decor with Mayan motifs, fine stained glass windows and furnishings enhance the experience. La Habichuela also features a lovely, open-air terrace, ideal for a nice lunch during the day or a romantic dinner at night. Highly recommended is the "Cocobichuela", an original lobster and shrimp recipe in curry that is the specialty of this restaurant.
La Nao
Part of the Cancun-based Hong Kong chain, La Nao with its authentic Cantonese decor is ideal to sample an endless assortment of authentic southern Chinese dishes. The buffet option is definitely the best choice.
La Parranda
With distinct Mexican decor, this quaint restaurant serves a delicious selection of tacos, juicy steaks and fresh seafood. All this accompanied by a nice cold beer make this restaurant a cool haven for diners seeking shelter from the afternoon heat in Merida. It is locally acclaimed for its live music entertainment and excellent promotions in meals and beverages.
La Pigua
Just blocks away from the main hotels in Merida is La Pigua, a renowned establishment in Campeche that now has a branch in the heart of the capital of Yucatan. It serves excellent seafood dishes made with fresh ingredients, free of preservatives and served in mouthwatering presentations. Because of its casual elegance and pleasant atmosphere, it is a favorite of celebrities, movie stars and politicians who dine here when they come to the beautiful "White City".
La Reina de Montejo
If you visit Merida and don't eat at La Reina de Montejo you can't say you have truly experienced everything this wonderful city has to offer. This famous restaurant, located in the beautiful area of Paseo de Montejo, is considered an icon in the city, in part due to its long illustrious past, and also because of the incredible quality, flavor and variety of the cuisine. You have to try the famous "Trolebus" (a type of shake), the most popular of all their fantastic desserts.
La Tratto
One visit to this specialty Italian restaurant and you'll know why it is one of the most popular places in the white city. Try the most classic Mediterranean recipes and enjoy the warm friendly atmosphere.
Las Jirafas
Famous in Yucatan, Las Jirafas serves a tantalizing variety of delicious tacos and grilled meats from their many little restaurants located throughout the city of Merida. Founded in 1992, Las Jirafas has built a strong reputation for having some of the best tacos in town, they open early evening and don't close until late into the night.
Los Almendros
Los Almendros is a culinary institution and a long standing tradition in Yucatan. Dining here is a must while on your trip to Merida. The menu includes pictures to help breach the language barrier and assist in your selection.
Los Henequenes
Covered by a thatched roof (palapa) and featuring air-conditioning and a children's play area, Los Henequenes is where the locals go for their ice cold midday beer and free "botanas" (appetizers). A Yucatecan tradition, this busy restaurant has delicious dishes and a lively atmosphere, all enhanced by live music. Los Henequenes has two locations, one in the neighborhood of Nueva Samula and the other in downtown Merida.
Panchos
Panchos is a restaurant with a traditional feel and decor representative of the Mexican Revolution. The house specialties are succulent steaks and ribs, however you simply have to try the Mayan Coffee, definitely a unique experience for the pallet! Panchos is located on 59th Street, in the heart of downtown Merida.
Smoking Club No. 1
This is quite possibly the best place in the entire city if you want to try delicious tacos, tortas and the famous Yucatecan dish "Cochinita Pibil". The friendly atmosphere is also about as authentically "Mexican" as you can get. But remember to get there early in the morning as this is when the cohinita pibil tastes best! Located next to the Fiesta Americana hotel, close to the ADO bus station.