Did you know that in México, Valentine’s Day celebrates not just love but also friendship? Celebrate the family you chose at one of these places, where the menu offers more than just food. Games, crafts, and workshops are just some of the alternatives these venues provide to ensure the fun never ends.
Arista Barista
Located on the “El Chévere” corner (which could be translated as “the cool one”), Arista Barista opened its doors in 2022. One street away from the culinary corridor, this is an LGBTQ+ friendly cafe and coffee shop dedicated to preserving the corner’s “chévere” reputation. They offer delicious barista coffee options including seasonal specials and sweet treats such as the horchata latte or peanut butter latte. To eat, there is a primarily vegetarian menu (some meat options are available), and desserts such as vegan carrot cake, banana bread and other pastries.
The cafe regularly hosts events from outside businesses, such as pottery painting workshops and speed dating nights. There are a limited number of tables, but the high ceilings make it feel more airy and spacious. There is also a small outside terrace, and an adjoining flower shop where you can buy custom-made bouquets for a loved one. At the end of 2024 Arista Barista also opened a branch in Colonia México which currently offers coffees and a slightly smaller food menu. —K.B.
Centro branch
FB: Arista Barista
Calle 54 x 49, Centro
Tel. 563 913 2911
Tue. - Sun. 8 am - 8 pm
Norte branch (Colonia México)
Plaza Mira: Av. Jose Díaz Bolio x calle 26, Col. México
Mon.- Sat. 7:30 am - 2 pm
Chembech Listening Club
Are you passionate about music in all its forms and formats? Now imagine experiencing it in a sound-focused space while casually chatting with friends and enjoying a delicious cocktail.
That’s what nights at Chembech Listening Club are like. As the name suggests, it’s a spot where the main focus is experiencing music and the emotions it sparks. Here, you’ll hear everything from jazz, indie, pop, Latin rhythms, electronic, and more.
The space is cozy, with just a few tables. Two of them are large and shared, as the goal is to build a sense of community. There are also small tables for two, perfect for a special outing. Additionally, there’s a spacious and comfortable sofa right in front of the turntable. If you’re coming with a larger group, don’t worry! They also have a charming terrace. This intimate and somewhat secretive vibe creates a chill atmosphere full of good energy and peace.
They offer a wide variety of drinks, including coffee, tea, beers, and, of course, signature cocktails that stand out for their bold combinations. Some highlights are the Margarita Negra (tequila, orange liqueur, and black aguachile sauce) and El Apapacho (a mix of French vodka, coffee liqueur, Frangelico, and cold brew), which was my personal favorite. They also have an eclectic selection of shareable appetizers. A fun detail is their dynamic menus, where you can watch videos of how your chosen item is prepared. Standard prices range from $200 to $300 pesos.
My favorite part, though, was the turntable and the disco ball. The turntable doubles as a bar where cocktails are prepared, while the disco ball, when lit, brings a unique magic to the space.
There’s no shortage of reasons to recommend Chembech Listening Club as a fantastic experience, especially if, like me, music is at the center of your life. Visit and immerse yourself in a sonic adventure! —C.G.
Chembech Listening Club
Calle 57 #430 x 42 y 44, Centro
Wed. - Sat. 6 pm - 1 am
Coco Litros
If you’re a fan of places that tick all three boxes—good, pretty, and affordable—let me introduce you to Coco Litros. This restaurant combines tropical vibes with great music and a festive atmosphere you won’t want to miss.
Located on Prolongación Paseo de Montejo, next to Plaza Península, Coco Litros stands out for its unique décor. Picture walls that resemble wood, animal imagery, a disco ball, and vibrant colors that transport you to a Caribbean dream. Plus, quirky phrases adorn the space, adding an extra playful touch.
Their menu offers a wide selection of seafood, including shrimp, fish, octopus, and even salmon, served in presentations to suit every taste. They also feature classics like French fries, wings, and boneless chicken. If you’re in the mood for a refreshing drink, you’ll find everything from mocktails and coffee to wine, the famous peceras, cantaritos, and trusty beers.
The prices are very budget-friendly: drinks range from $50 to $200 pesos, and shots start at just $29 pesos, accompanied by a little show. Dishes vary more, with prices ranging from $75 to $400 pesos, depending on the category.
The restaurant offers indoor seating and a terrace, perfect for hanging out with friends on warm days. The music selection spans genres like pop, salsa, regional Mexican, and reggaetón, ensuring a dynamic and lively atmosphere.
As you can see, Coco Litros is the perfect spot to reconnect with your squad, enjoy excellent food, and toast to more unforgettable moments. —C.G.
Coco Litros Mérida
Prolongación de Montejo #332 X 45 y 47, Benito Juárez Norte
IG: cocolitrosmerida
Reservations: 984 511 2479
Tue. - Wed. 12 - 8 pm
Thu. - Sat. 12 pm - 3 am
Sun. 12 pm - 1 am
Diamond Dogs
If you’re looking for a unique spot to have an amazing time with friends, Diamond Dogs is one of the coolest new places to check out. This venue combines fun, great food, and a laid-back vibe, with batting cages as its main attraction.
You can choose between 30 balls for $90 pesos or unlimited balls for an hour at $450 pesos (perfect for challenging your friends—up to 10 people can take turns batting on this plan). Don’t worry if you’ve never swung a bat before; the Diamond Dogs team will teach you the basics before you start. Plus, they provide hairnets, helmets, and bats so you’ll feel like a Major League star—even if your strikes say otherwise. If batting isn’t your thing, no problem! There are free games like foosball, air hockey, and arcade machines if you order from the menu. Do you prefer something more classic? They’ve got pool tables and Pinball for an additional fee.
And the menu? An all-American dream: burgers, hot dogs, mozzarella sticks, potato wedges, nachos, and more, all at super affordable prices. The finishing touch is the decor: walls covered in graffiti of dogs playing baseball that perfectly match the chill, "bros’ hangout" vibe of the place.
Diamond Dogs is open Thursday to Sunday from 3:30 pm, and you can reserve the batting cages via WhatsApp at 999 221 7220. They have five adult batting lanes and one specially designed for kids, so no one is left out of the action.
Unleash your inner baseball star (and foodie) at Diamond Dogs! —S.A.
Diamond Dogs
Calle 3-B #242, Zona Industrial
WhatsApp: 999 221 7220
FB: Diamond Dogs - Jaulas de Bateo
Thu. - Sun. 3:30 pm - 12 am
Grax Vida
Grax Vida Café is a fantastic spot to spend a pleasant time, whether you’re hanging out with friends or working, if staying home isn’t your thing. In addition to offering frappés in various flavors, protein frappés, and Nuup bread, Grax Vida features a space called the “Creative Bar,” stocked with materials to unleash your imagination through crafts, from crayons to acrylic paints. They also have a “Candle Bar” where you can personalize aromatic candles to your liking.
Each week, they host different workshops you can attend solo or with friends, such as creating ceramic decorations from scratch, Sushi & Paint sessions, or even workshops like “make your own wrapping.” Check out their social media to view the schedule and sign up for one. —C.Z.
Calle 30 x 39 y 41, Emiliano Zapata Norte
Tue. - Fri. 8:30 am - 10 pm
Sat. 8:30 am - 7:30 pm, Sun. 10 am - 7:30 pm
La Ludoteka
“La Ludoteka” was born from the passion of two great friends. It’s Mérida’s first board game café, a unique space specializing in board games. With more than 400 options to choose from, you can play for as long as you like while enjoying delicious snacks for a minimum spend of just $65 pesos per person.
The venue is air-conditioned and offers a comfortable setting with tables for small groups of two or three people, as well as larger spaces for groups of up to 20.
Reservations are recommended to secure your spot. If you fall in love with a game, many of them are also available for purchase on-site.
Prices range from $35 to $250 pesos (with an average of $150 pesos per person). The menu includes a variety of snacks like popcorn, chips, and chicharrones (pork rinds), as well as dishes like hot dogs, pizzas, and boneless wings. For drinks, their frappés, coffees, and sodas stand out.
Without a doubt, “La Ludoteka” is the ideal spot to enjoy with family or friends—a space full of laughter, challenges, and excitement, perfect for any occasion, any time of year.—G.R.
Plaza Colibrí:
Calle 55 x Av. 50 y calle 52, Francisco de Montejo
IG: ludotekamid
WA: 999 991 0740
Tue. - Sun. 5 - 11 pm
Patio Petanca
Since 2020, at the corner of Calle 57 and 48 in the La Mejorada barrio, you’ll find Patio Petanca, a social club in Mérida where laughter, board games, and excellent mixology come together for an unforgettable afternoon.
Located in an old house in Mérida’s Centro, the space features a spacious patio surrounded by plants and trees, with tables for both small and large groups. Patio Petanca offers classic games like dominoes, cards, and pick-up sticks, as well as table foosball, giant Jenga, darts, and, of course, the star of the place—two pétanque courts.
But the food (priced between $90 and $250 pesos) is not to be missed. You can’t leave without trying their irresistible arrachera tacos or chicharrón with chorizo tacos, made even better with a cheesy crust. They also serve appetizers like guacamole, charcoal-baked potatoes, and melted cheese.
When it comes to drinks, the menu boasts a variety of options, including mezcal, tequila, rum, vodka, whiskey, and classic cocktails like mojitos, negronis, and cantaritos.
Patio Petanca offers a one-of-a-kind experience in Mérida, perfect for enjoying a unique afternoon with friends and great drinks. —G.R.
Calle 57 x 48 #429, Mejorada, Centro
IG: patiopetanca
Tue. - Thu. 5 pm - 12 am
Fri. and Sat. 5 pm - 1:30 am
Sun. 4 - 10 pm
Rosagante
In my humble opinion, it’s practically impossible to find a café that feels like the ultimate paradise for girls in their 20s (and anyone who loves a “cool girl” aesthetic). This little spot is the undisputed favorite for groups of friends in Mérida, thanks to its charming, elegant, and flower-filled ambiance—perfect for those deep conversations about life, love, and drama.
But what truly cements its popularity among the masses are its activities and workshops. From coloring Bobbie Goods illustrations to painting themed mugs or making necklaces and bracelets with all kinds of charms, there’s something to bring out your creative side (or laugh at your lack of crafting skills, as I do). It’s the best way to let the gossip flow with your friends, whether it’s fresh tea or long-buried stories that only resurface when you’re all together.
As for the menu, their curated coffee is an experience in itself, with options like French press, Aeropress, and V60. Not a coffee fan? They also offer smoothies, juices, teas, and healthy options. When it comes to food, get ready to indulge in pancakes, toasts, eggs in various styles, sandwiches, and more. Oh, and don’t miss their seasonal menus, they’re always a delightful surprise!
Now, about the masses (not the bread kind) I mentioned earlier: Rosagante is so popular that getting a table can be a challenge. My advice? Book in advance from Monday to Thursday via WhatsApp at 999 747 8341 to ensure a stress-free experience.
So, if you’re looking for a lovely place full of good vibes and creative activities, Rosagante is waiting for you with open arms. —S.A.
Rosagante
Calle 41 #251-C, Fraccionamiento La Castellana
WhatsApp: 999 747 8341
IG: muyrosagante
Mon. - Fri. 7:30 am - 2:30 pm / 4 - 8 pm
Saturdays, 8 am - 2 pm
Photos by Sara Alba, Carlos Guzman, Casandra Zárate for their use in Yucatán Today.
First published in Yucatán Today print and digital magazine no. 446, in February 2025.
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