Often overlooked by its glitzy neighbors in The Mayan Riveria (Tulum, Cancun, Playa del Carmen), Mérida is charming its way into the spotlight. Queer travelers are flocking to the Yucatan’s most cosmopolitan city where a special blend of rich cultural heritage, vibrant street life, and friendly locals welcomes them with open arms.
Despite its nickname, the “White City,” Mérida’s city center is filled with colorful Colonial buildings and charming plazas with a vibrant cafe culture that spills onto the cobblestone streets. It’s also a foodie haven where lush courtyard restaurants join traditional Mexican and Mayan cuisines in perfect harmony. As the Yucatan’s most queer-friendly city, Mérida is an ideal destination for travelers looking to experience the best of Mexico’s history, cuisine, and LGBTQ+ community.
Many shops, restaurants, bars, and hotels in Mérida’s city center warmly welcome queer travelers by providing a safe and inclusive atmosphere. Here are a some of our favorite establishments…
Shopping in Mérida
Stroll down Paseo de Motejo to soak up the quant artisanal shops and local luxury boutiques in colorful repurposed historic Colonial buildings.
Casa T´HŌ Concept House
Unique and elevated shopping experience 498 P.º de Montejo · Mérida, Yuc. 97000(999) 923-2350
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Step inside this architectural dream to browse eleven stores showcasing high-end Mexican designers and local artists. After shopping at Casa T´HŌ Concept House, brunch amongst a jazz quartet in its charmingly lush courtyard.
Tropical-inspired garments are showcased in this hip unisex boutique. Choose from a wide variety of lightweight print shirts, unique footwear, and gender-neutral clothing at Folks.
Fine dining and good eats
In Mexico, it’s hard to find a bad meal, but what makes Mérida unique is its creative fusion restaurants, quality coffee roasters using Mexican beans, brunch restaurants full of ambiance, and the regional Yucatan Mexican cuisine which often combines Mayan delicacies and traditional Mexican staples.
Salon Gallos
Lebanese Mexican Fusion with gallery & cinema 459-B C. 63 · Mérida, Yuc. 97000(999) 189-6564
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This reimagined oat mill includes a rustic Lebanese/Yucatán fusion restaurant featuring a Mexican wine bar, an indie art movie theatre, and a modern art gallery. Salon Gallos has left many of the industrial charms from this former factory to create an edgy and original vibe. Make sure to check out its social media as the space often hosts live music, DJs, and special events.
Te extraño, extraño.
Sophisticated secret garden Calle 56 #426 x 47 y 49 · Mérida, Yuc. 97000(999) 921-1304
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Relax in this elevated contemporary breakfast and lunch cafe which has a sophisticated lush courtyard garden and a gentle pastel color motif. Expect fresh salads, vegan/vegetarian options, and re-imagined Mexican favorites at Te extraño, extraño.
Homey seafood bistro focuses on fresh regional delicacies such as grilled octopus, raw oysters, ceviche, and other Yucatán favorites. If you’re visiting around Dia de Los Muertos, make sure to attend Micaela Mar & Leña’s special dinner experience.
Restaurante Picheta
Fine dining with stunning views 501 C. 61 · Ejido del Centro, Yuc. 97000(999) 506-0339
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Located on the rooftop of a building overlooking the Central Plaza of Mérida, this restaurant offers incredible sunsets in a relaxed atmosphere. Restaurante Picheta offers modern takes on classic Yucatán dishes, an expansive Mezcal menu, and locally sourced ingredients.
Manifesto: Casa Tostadora Calabrese
Independent coffee roaster and breakfast cafe Calle 59 #538 por 66 y 68 · Mérida, Yuc. 97125Website
This Italian-inspired coffee roaster and cafe brews up local Mexican beans through a variety of extraction methods to ensure quality and taste. Try one of its tempting breakfast crepes, open-face sandwiches, or pastries. Manifesto also has ample inside and shaded courtyard seating perfect for a breakfast with friends.
