Chinese Food in Motul

by Donna Dowell

A new Chinese restaurant opened up in town. Actually, it's the only Chinese restaurant in town, and we are speaking of Motul, Yucatán. Located on Calle 25 between Calles 28 and 30, it's bright orange façade is hard to miss. It is named You Fu, which in Chinese means "friendly business". It is owned and operated by a Cantonese family who originally came to Mexico 20 years ago. Mr. Chen, the head of the clan, came here alone and slowly other members of the family have emigrated. Mrs. Chen arrived 9 years ago; a daughter and son emigrated later. They moved to Motul and opened up shop in June 2008. Their hours are Tuesday through Sunday, 8 am to 10 pm and Mondays 8 am to 2 pm. Their menu is standard Cantonese fair with a Mexican twist. Ingredients may be hard to come by, so the Chens make do with items available locally. Items on the menu include different varieties of stir fry; fried rice (Arroz Frito); noodles (Chow Mein, Chow Fun and Fideo noodles); spring rolls made with homemade wrappers and a hint of cinnamon; and sweet and sour items. My family enjoys shrimp, so we often get the deep fried breaded shrimps (make sure to order them fresh, a la carte as they are better than the ones offered on the buffet). A meal with 3 dishes a la carte and 4 refrescos (soda pop) usually comes in under 200 pesos.