Top 5 Places to Eat in Mérida

Written by Andreas Keller, Marika Maslanka, Miguel Lopez
01/08/2025
Stunning aerial view of Plaza Grande in Mérida, showcasing its beautiful architecture and vibrant urban landscape.
Carlos Canche Uc, Pexels

Mérida's culinary scene offers a vibrant blend of traditional Mayan and Spanish influences, focusing on fresh, local ingredients to create diverse and unforgettable dining experiences for all tastes and budgets.

1. Taqueria La Lupita

Cuisine: Authentic Yucatecan Street Food

Located inside Mercado de Santiago, this bustling, no-frills eatery is celebrated for its authentic cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork) tacos. Visitors can also enjoy other traditional Yucatecan fillings like lechon al horno and relleno negro, served in tacos, tortas, panuchos, and salbutes. It is a favorite among both locals and tourists for its genuine flavors in a lively market setting.

Price: Very cheap (approx. $2-5 USD per person)

Getting There: Found within Mercado de Santiago, located at the corner of Calle 57 and Calle 72, which is easily walkable from the city center.

2. Wayan'e

Cuisine: Traditional Yucatecan Tacos and Tortas

Wayan'e is a popular, no-frills spot with multiple locations, known for serving delicious and filling tacos and tortas. Signature fillings include castakan, eggs with chile xcatic, and chilibuul. It is advisable to arrive early for breakfast, as dishes tend to sell out quickly. This establishment operates on a cash-only basis.

Price: Very cheap (e.g., 144 pesos for 4 tacos + a drink).

Getting There: The original location is in Colonia Itzimna, at Calle 15 X 18A y 20. It is accessible by a short taxi or Uber ride from the city center.

3. La Chaya Maya

Cuisine: Classic Yucatecan Cuisine

A well-known Mérida institution, La Chaya Maya is situated in a charming colonial building and offers an extensive menu of traditional Yucatecan dishes. Highlights include sopa de lima (lime soup), papadzules, panuchos, poc chuc, and chaya empanadas, all prepared using time-honored recipes. The restaurant is recognized for its warm, traditional ambiance and for hand-making its corn tortillas.

Price: Reasonable (mid-range prices).

Getting There: With several locations, including one on Calle 60, most are centrally located and within walking distance.

4. Huniik

Cuisine: Elevated and Innovative Yucatecan Cuisine

Huniik provides an elegant fine dining experience under the guidance of Chef Roberto Solis. The restaurant focuses on creating an intimate connection with its dishes, using fresh, local, and seasonal ingredients. The menu features a curated tasting experience with highlights such as delicate ceviche and perfectly grilled steak complemented by smoky habanero sauce. The interior boasts a sleek, contemporary design, enhancing the refined atmosphere.

Price: Expensive

Getting There: Located at Calle 60 N° 415B, entre 45 y 47, Centro. This central location is generally walkable or a short taxi/Uber ride from many areas.

5. K'u'uk

Cuisine: High Gastronomy, Innovative Yucatecan with Molecular Techniques

K'u'uk is a culinary powerhouse renowned for its innovative approach to Yucatecan cuisine. Chef Pedro Evia's tasting menu leads guests on a journey through the region's flavors and ingredients, enhanced by molecular gastronomy techniques. Guests can expect unique dishes, such as Mayan pork belly, served with rich sauces. The establishment also offers an exceptional wine list, making it ideal for those seeking an experimental and unforgettable dining experience.

Price: Very expensive (tasting menu pricing).

Getting There: Situated at Av. Rómulo Rozo 488, entre 27 y 27A, Itzimná. A taxi or Uber is recommended for convenient travel to this location, as it is located north of the immediate city center.

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