A Day of Top Eats on Calle 47 — Mérida, México
Mérida is a mid-sized Mexican city that is growing in popularity as a tourist destination due to its history, beautiful architecture, location on the Yucatan peninsula — just 30 minutes away from the beaches of the Gulf of Mexico and surrounded by archeological & natural wonders — and for its gastronomy. This last point is what keeps me coming back to the city, along with the laid-back vibe and friendly locals.
If you find yourself in Mérida, you could spend weeks making your way through all the amazing restaurants that the city offers, and I can guarantee you that in most you will not be disappointed.
Here, I am highlighting three top spots all along the centrally-located Calle 47 and none of which will leave your pockets empty.
Breakfast: ‘Cate de Mi Corazón
@catedemicorazonmid
Admittedly, I am a fan of the avocado. I am a frequent avocado-toast eater and lover of homemade guacamole. However, this restaurant takes avocado to the next level, even with its tasteful avocado-themed decor. I would highly recommend the huevos motuleños (eggs atop avocados rather than the traditional fried tortilla, with a delicious tomato sauce, smoked ham and peas), and the pan de aguacate (sweet avocado bread). The pancakes will be a hit with the kids as well, even if they are green! If you enjoy smoothies, the mango-avocado smoothie will delight and refresh you. The coffee is also delicious — which, for me, is a non-negotiable for breakfast. Even if you are not an avocado-lover, there is something for everyone to enjoy at ‘Cate de Mi Corazón.
Lunch: Manjar Blanco
@elmanjarblanco_
Featured on the Netflix series ‘Las Crónicas del Taco’ for their tacos de cochinita pibil, this stop is my daughter’s favourite. The cochinita pibil, which is a traditional regional dish (slow-cooked pork), is generously served and comes with thick hand-made tortillas and refried beans. Other lunch recommendations are the pok chuk and the sopa de lima, but all of the dishes are filling and tasty. Breakfast is also served at the restaurant and they offer a breakfast ‘package’ that includes fruit or juice, and coffee. Manjar Blanco is an authentic representation of food in the region and offers typical dishes with quality ingredients at a very good price.
Dinner: Micaela, Mar & Leña
@micaelamarylena
Micaela has easily become my favourite restaurant in Mérida. As far as atmosphere, price, and food quality, Micaela is hard to beat. The food is a fusion of southern Mexican traditions with influences from Yucatán, Oaxaca and other states, featuring seafood as well as other options, many cooked over wood. I highly recommend making a reservation to avoid being disappointed — you can eat lunch here, but I personally like the vibe in the evening.
If you enjoy tuna, you can’t miss the tacos de atún and be sure to add some drops of habanero salsa on top. Other favourites are the gorditas, lengua encacahuatada, the octopus, and the esquites. As for dessert, if you are looking for something unique and also very Mexican, try the Maíz option which combines corn flavours and textures — it is delightful. This option is slightly on the pricier side, but in my opinion, it is worth every peso.
The Calle 47 is still undergoing some upgrading to the street and sidewalk, and each time I visit there are more coffee shops and restaurants to explore on this street. I would be thrilled to hear your recommendations and menu suggestions as I am sure I will be back again soon.
Happy dining!
