Written by Andreas Keller, Marika Maslanka, Miguel Lopez
01/08/2025
Carlos Canche Uc, Pexels
Mérida's bar and drinking scene offers a lively mix of traditional cantinas, vibrant bars with live music, and hidden speakeasies, providing a social and cultural experience rather than a focus on late-night clubs.
Entertainment and Music:
Mérida offers a rich and varied music and entertainment scene, blending traditional Yucatecan sounds with contemporary performances and lively social spaces.
Live music is a staple in Mérida, particularly at venues like La Negrita Cantina, where a vibrant atmosphere is often accompanied by local bands, and Dzalbay Cantina, which specializes in live jazz and blues performances. The city's squares, especially Parque de Santa Lucía, regularly host free public performances of traditional Yucatecan music and dance, offering an authentic cultural experience.
1. La Negrita Cantina
Type: Traditional Cantina with Live Music
Stepping through the saloon doors of La Negrita Cantina, you are immediately immersed in a lively atmosphere. This historic cantina, established in 1917, offers live salsa and Cuban music, drawing a mixed crowd of locals and tourists. Drinks are served in mason jars, and complimentary regional snacks, known as 'botanas,' are often provided. The front bar extends into a large, shaded open-air patio, which becomes a vibrant hub for dancing and socializing, especially on weekends. It can get crowded, so arriving earlier is recommended to secure a spot.
Getting There: La Negrita Cantina is centrally located on Calle 62 and 49 in the Santa Ana neighborhood, within Mérida's historic center, making it easily accessible by walking from many central areas.
2. Pipiripau
Type: Bar with Mexican-Caribbean Influence and Live Music
Pipiripau is a vibrant bar set within a beautifully restored colonial mansion. The decor is striking, and seating is available in various rooms and a charming courtyard. It offers a laid-back and rustic ambiance, popular with locals and known for its sociable crowd. The bar features live bands playing salsa and other Latin music, or a DJ. You can enjoy classic cocktails, beers, micheladas, and non-alcoholic options, along with light bar snacks like quesadillas and empanadas. The atmosphere becomes particularly lively later in the evening, typically around 11:00 PM.
Getting There: Pipiripau is centrally located near Parque de Santa Lucía, making it within walking distance from many key areas in the city center.
3. Mezcalería La Fundación
Type: Bohemian Mezcal Bar with Live Music
Mezcalería La Fundación provides a vibrant and bohemian atmosphere. As Mérida's first mezcalería, it prides itself on an extensive selection of 100% organic agave mezcals, offering around 50 types, including creative mezcal cocktails and even mezcal popsicles. The interiors are filled with old furniture and trinkets, contributing to a retro ambiance. Live musicians frequently perform, leading to a lively environment where people often dance and sing. It is known to get crowded, especially after La Negrita Cantina closes.
Getting There: Located in the Centro Historico, near Paseo de Montejo, Mezcalería La Fundación is about six blocks from the main plaza. The streets leading to it are generally well-lit and safe for walking.
4. Hermana República
Type: Craft Brewery and Restaurant
Hermana República is the kitchen for Cervecería Patito, a local craft brewery. It offers a unique experience focused on genuine craft beer, with eight varieties brewed on-site, including Pilsner, Belgian Blonde, and American IPA. The venue blends Yucatecan cuisine with its craft beers in a perfect fusion. The restored colonial house features indoor salons that are popular during the heat of the day and a highly sought-after patio with ancient trees for cooler evenings. It embodies a free and independent spirit, reflecting the brewery's philosophy.
Getting There: The main location is at Calle 64 between 55 and 57 in Mérida's city center. Another location, Hermana República - Xcanatun, is located at Predio Turistico No. 14714 Lote 9 Manzana 1 Xcanatún. While the central location is walkable, the Xcanatun location might require a taxi or ride-sharing service, though specific costs are not detailed.
5. Mayan Pub
Type: Youthful Bar with Live Music
Mayan Pub offers a youthful and energetic atmosphere, frequently hosting live music such as reggae, rock, and jazz. The drinks and food are affordable, and while the food is simple (hamburgers, tacos, fries), it is well-prepared. Despite often being full, the venue feels spacious with ample room to move around. It features a pool table and sometimes has additional entertainment like belly dancers or fire spinners. There are happy hour specials with 2-for-1 cocktails and cheaper beer options.
Getting There: Mayan Pub is located on Calle 57 Centro 473. It is accessible by public transport, with a bus stop (Auto Progreso) 827 meters away, or by parking in nearby spaces 114 meters away. Given its central location, it is likely walkable from many downtown areas.
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