All about Dulceria y Sorbeteria Colon in Mérida, Mexico

Dulceria y Sorbeteria Colon ("El Colon" is the nearest location from Casa Loltún on Paseo de Montejo) is a family business with a very long tradition.

The ice cream parlor ("Colón Candy and Sorbet Shop") was founded in 1907 and today it is a real institution in Mérida. It is the city's oldest and most famous ice cream shop.

In addition to homemade sorbets made with natural ingredients, you'll also find a selection of pastries like cookies and meringues.

The sorbet is served in a bowl, shaped like an inverted cone, which makes eating it a little fun. The best way to enjoy it is by scooping from the rim of the cup in a circular motion. And if you're indulging on a particularly hot day, be prepared - it’s a race against the melting ice!

Occasionally a tourist bus stops in front of the ice cream parlor, then several employees with large tablets of ice cream rush to the bus and the tourists slurp it while still on the bus.

Selection of sorbets

The selection of sorbets isn't huge, with around ten flavors available. Some are made from fruits native to Yucatán, such as mango, anona, guanábana, guaya, mamey, pitahaya, and maracuya. You might also find classic Mexican flavors like tamarind or elote from time to time.

If you're not familiar with tamarind and elote, tamarind is a popular Mexican flavor known for its sweet and tangy taste, making it a refreshing and slightly tart option for sorbet or ice cream. Elote, or Mexican street corn, is an unexpected but delicious ice cream flavor, combining the natural sweetness of corn with a creamy texture and a hint of cinnamon or caramel.

But you'll also find more classic flavors like strawberry, pineapple, banana, orange, lemon, coconut, and chocolate. By the way, don’t be surprised if you don’t see any ice cream at the front counter, as it is kept in the back rooms.

Champola

A must-try is Champola, a refreshing drink made by blending fruit sorbet with milk.

Originally from the Caribbean, it has become a classic in Mérida, offering the perfect mix of creaminess and fruitiness. Dulcería y Sorbetería is one of the best places to try it, where it has been a staple for generations.

You can choose from a variety of flavors, ranging from tropical options like mamey, guanábana, and maracuya to more familiar ones like strawberry and coconut. The texture is smooth, and the milk enhances the natural sweetness of the sorbet without overpowering it.

Illustrious guests

With a history spanning over 100 years, El Colón has welcomed some notable visitors over time. Among its distinguished guests were, for example

• former presidents of México,

• Queen Sofia of Spain,

• Jackie Kennedy,

• and Charles Lindbergh.

Of course, the Colon has also been awarded the Travellers' Choice by TripAdvisor.

Additional locations

There are five locations in Mérida (some are simply called El Colon): In the city center in the prime locations of Paseo de Montejo (No. 474A) and Plaza Grande (Calle 61, No. 500 x Calle 62).

North-west of the city center at Plaza Dorada (Calle 50, No. 143 x Calle 15 and 19 Col. Pensiones) and two locations in the north of Mérida: Gran Plaza Mérida (Calle 50 Diagonal 460 Fracc. Gonzalo Guerrero) and Francisco de Montejo (Calle 51, No. 329 x Calle 24 Col. Xcumpich).

In the surrounding area

Directly across Paseo de Montejo, you'll find the popular Márago Coffee. The café offers a wide selection of specialty coffees, a diverse breakfast menu, as well as salads, burgers, and desserts, making it also a great choice for any time of day.