We're Getting Married!
RECOMMENDATIONS
La Fundacion Mezcaleria
Kyle and Giselle love mezcal and this bar does not disappoint! When they went, it felt a little like Brooklyn in Mexico. You'll find a young, hip crowd dancing to a live band here and throwing back cocktails mostly made with mezcal.
La Negrita Cantina
This is lively historic cantina spot with simple, bohemian flair - very popular with locals and expats. There is a small bar upfront and a large back patio with a band playing Latin music at night. Come here to try out your dance skills and get a taste of how Meridian's party!
Mercado 60
Think of this as Mérida's Smorgasburg. With live music frequently scheduled, there are about 20 food, drink and artisan pop-up stalls to choose from in an open courtyard. This is a great evening hang (and very close to Casa Lucia).
Néctar Food & Wine
At this sleek restaurant north of el Centro, Chef Roberto Solís (Per Se, The Fat Duck, Noma) presents haute cuisine to Mérida with modern interpretations of original flavors and regional roots. Definitely worth a trip for an amazing meal, but you'll want to hop in a quick uber / cab there and save the steps for another day. Must have a reservation.
K'u'uk
Make a reservation here for a unique gastronomic experience that modernizes traditional Yucatecan dishes in a colonial mansion setting. We had an unforgettable first meal with our family and wedding planner here.
Apoala
Located in the bustling Parque Santa Lucia, this was one of our favorite meals in Mérida and the restaurant vibes reminded us of Williamsburg. Chef Sara has a passion for mixing Oaxacan and Yucatecan flavors for a new Mexican experience. They also have a "speakeasy" style bar, Malahat (try a reservation) that you can find via the unmarked door in their parking lot. If you don't make it, don't fret.... they are catering the wedding :)
La Chaya Maya - Casona
Come here to experience classic Yucatecan fare. It was named after the chaya, a green spinach-like plant originally used by the Mayans for food and medicine. Our families had lunch after a long day of hacienda-hopping in the peninsula and everything was delicious. You can't go wrong. Make sure to go to the Chaya Maya Casona location near Casa Lucia, down the street from the stunning Coqui Coqui Residence and Perfumeria (a great place to pick up something to take back home).
Wayan´e
Start the day with a visit to one of Wayan’e’s two locations – when you google it, you'll find one is closer to the Hyatt and the other is closer to Casa Lucia. These are authentic and delicious tacos in a no frills joint. Once they’ve sold out, that’s it for the day – so best to make it your breakfast taco run (they close at 2pm).
Latte Quatro Sette
Tucked away on a quiet street is this bright and charming cafe with strong coffee and delicious treats. Don't forget the house rules: no talking on your cellphone and if you want decaf, drink water.
Casa Chica
A cute, new place from the owners of La Negrita and Fundación Mezcal on Paseo Montejo that is perfect for a "copa" and a catch up with fellow guests.
Organico Café
This café is environmentally conscious and passionate about cultivating a sustainable world. They serve healthy vegetarian and vegan fare all prepared with local or organic products.
Casa T'hō
A new concept house with art exhibits and shops that sell beautiful, locally produced goods (clothes, jewelry, home goods) right on the main drag, Paseo de Montejo. Great place to stop for a gift for a friend... or yourself!
Maiz, Canela y Cilantro
This is a true home kitchen experience - you're basically eating in their living room steps away from the three cooks. It is very popular and well known for breakfast, especially the "Huevos Motulenos." A popular spot for veggie friendly options.
Dulcería and Sorbetería Colón
Cool off at this old school ice cream parlor that serves both classic and more unique flavors. There are a couple of locations in town - one on Paseo Montejo or the one next to Plaza de la Independencia. The latter shop has been open for over 100 years and is a great place to grab an outdoor table to people watch.
Pola Gelato Shop
A modern gelato shop with creative and unique flavors including a special that they serve on Mondays, "Frijol y Puerco" (that's right, pork and beans), which is a take on a traditional dish served in family homes across the peninsula... on Mondays.