All about Catrín in Mérida, Mexico

Catrín (a few meters from 130 Grados Steakhouse) reinvents Mexican cuisine - at least that's what the website says. And indeed, there are pork tacos with pickled Xcatik chile and mint sprouts - or marinated in a marinade of dried chiles and Pale Ale beer.

There's watermelon salad with pickled strawberries, chili and raspberry dressing. Or milk chicken with rice, coconut, mashed banana and sesame seeds.

You realize we're leaving the beaten path and there's a lot to discover. By the way, the chef Yiannis Rojas recommends his Tacos de Vegetales al Ajillo.

Catrín has a lively atmosphere and is nicely decorated. There are paintings (which you can also buy) and a large light installation by contemporary artist Jacobo Roa. The light installation is located in the courtyard (you can sit inside or outside).

And last but not least, for educational purposes: According to legend, the origin of Catrina (Catrin) is the Aztec figure Mictecacihuatl, the goddess of death.

In addition to its own website, you can also find Catrín on Facebook and Instagram.

The Restaurant Row

Catrín is located on the so-called Restaurant Row (Corredor Gastronómico) that extends about four blocks east on Calle 47 from the south traffic circle of Paseo de Montejo. The whole street was renovated in 2023 and there are some of the best restaurants and trendiest cafes in the city.

You will find the fine restaurants Olivia Enoteca, 130 Grados Steakhouse, Catrín or Micaela Mar & Leña, the cafés Cafetería Impala, Baretto Espresso Bar, Marmalade 47 or Latte Quatro Sette and the cantina El Lucero del Alba.