7 Best Affordable Restaurants to Eat in Mérida Mexico

If you're looking to explore the culinary delights of Mérida, you've come to the right place. This vibrant city, known as the capital of Yucatán, is a treasure trove of flavors waiting to be discovered. Whether you're a fan of traditional Mexican dishes or eager to try something new, Mérida's restaurant scene has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ve compiled a list of 7 amazing restaurants in Mérida where you can enjoy delicious food without breaking the bank.

For a more immersive experience, consider joining a food tour in Mérida, which will take you on a journey through the city, allowing you to taste some of the most delectable local specialties.

1. Wayan’e

Wayan’e is not just a restaurant; it’s a culinary institution in Mérida. Famous for serving some of the best tacos in the city, this place is a must-visit. Among their offerings, the tacos de castacán, resembling crispy pork cracklings, are a standout choice. However, don't stop there; the menu includes a wide variety of taco types, making it ideal for sampling several flavors. Prices range from 18 to 24 pesos per taco, making it an affordable indulgence.

2. La Negrita

La Negrita is another gem in the heart of Mérida, perfect for those eager to taste traditional Yucatecan dishes. Here, you must try the enchiladas de pollo con mole, a dish that beautifully combines flavors, including chocolate from the mole sauce. Beyond the food, the vibrant atmosphere makes La Negrita an excellent spot for enjoying a beer while listening to live music. Pro tip: it tends to get busy during peak hours, so consider visiting during off-peak times.

3. La Chaya Maya

For a genuine taste of traditional Yucatecan cuisine, La Chaya Maya is a delight. While prices are slightly higher than at other eateries, they remain reasonable, with the “sabores yucatecos” platter costing around 169 pesos. This dish is a feast for the senses, featuring a delicious panucho de pavo, a taco de relleno negro, and a vaporcito de caya. One favorite among visitors is the mucbil de pollo, a dough filled with turkey and pork and wrapped in banana leaves, traditionally enjoyed during the Day of the Dead.

4. La Cubanita

La Cubanita offers a unique twist, specializing in Cuban cuisine at reasonable prices ranging from 80 to 120 pesos. The menu may not be extensive, but the flavors are rich and satisfying, with hearty, homemade dishes. A vegetarian option is always available, making it a great choice for diverse dietary preferences. Though our visit was thwarted by its unexpected closure, the reviews have convinced us to try it next time!

5. El Barrio

As a breakfast haven, El Barrio has a hipster vibe and a meticulous attention to detail in both ambiance and food presentation. The menu features various egg dishes, including huevos rancheros and huevos encamisados, alongside scrumptious pancakes for those with a sweet tooth. Prices for egg dishes hover between 125 to 140 pesos. The café’s charm makes it the perfect spot for a laid-back morning or brunch.

6. Maiz de lo Alto (currently closed)

Maiz de lo Alto was known for its beautifully plated traditional Mexican dishes, blending classic flavors with contemporary aesthetics. Ideal for indulging without overspending, it offered tacos priced between 60 and 130 pesos. Other dishes ranged from 80 to 200 pesos, making it a hotspot for food lovers. The closure of this establishment is unfortunate, but it showcased the culinary creativity that Mérida has to offer.

7. Manjar Blanco

At Manjar Blanco, the focus is on food quality and presentation. This restaurant serves two Yucatán specialties that you cannot miss: queso relleno and poc chuc. The price for these delectable dishes ranges from 120 to 155 pesos. Each plate reflects the rich culinary heritage of the region, making it a great choice for those looking to fully immerse themselves in local flavors.

To help you navigate your culinary adventure, we've included a map highlighting the locations of these recommended restaurants in Mérida.

We hope this guide to restaurants in Mérida, Mexico, where you can eat well and affordably has inspired you to explore the local gastronomy. If you have any other recommendations for places to enjoy the incredible Mexican cuisine, feel free to share your thoughts in the comments!

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For those planning a visit, here are some resources to enhance your travel experience:

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