Where to Celebrate Pride in Mérida: LGBTQ+ Places to Visit

1. Bernardette Show Bar

Bernardette Show Bar burst onto the nightlife scene in Mérida just a few months ago, but something tells us it’s here to stay. If you're looking for a place in Mérida to enjoy a great musical show, you've come to the right place. With performances by the talented Natalia Sosa, as well as shows by drag queens El Hada, Kimmy Bomba, and La Pepa, this bar offers a show you won’t want to miss. The cast includes over 20 dancers and singers, creating a vibrant and energetic experience.

Thursday nights are dedicated to drag shows, while Fridays and Saturdays feature live musical performances, their biggest and most popular shows. That's why it's important to make a reservation to secure your spot: seating is limited.

The musical show spans songs from the 70s to the 2000s, and it's quite immersive, with singers and dancers coming down from the stage to interact with the audience. It’s impossible not to feel a certain kind of electrifying energy in every corner of Bernardette.

In addition to enjoying incredible performances, you can delight in various snacks such as french fries, boneless wings, buffalo quesadillas, and mini burgers. The cocktail menu is equally attractive, with options like Clericot, Palomas, mojitos, gin in different flavors, Mezcamaica, and Mezcarindo. Cocktail prices range between $170 and $210 pesos, while food items range between $250 and $330 pesos.

Don’t miss the chance to experience a unique night at Bernardette Show Bar. With its combination of top-notch entertainment, delicious food, and exceptional drinks, this place will quickly become your favorite in Mérida. And who knows? You might even run into an unexpected artist in the audience.

Bernardette Show Bar
Paseo de Montejo #312, Centro
Tel. 999 279 6634
IG: bernardette.showbar
Thu. - Sat., 9 pm - 2:30 am (show starts at 10 pm).

2. Crush

If you're looking for a beautiful place to take lots of pictures with your friends, visit with your pets, and enjoy delicious vegan dishes, Crush is the place for you.

As their logo says, Crush offers "guilt-free fast food" as their entire menu, including burgers, wraps, wings, and even desserts, is vegan. If you ask me, their “Tacos de Virria” (with a V for vegan) are an interesting option to try, but they also offer various choices for a tasty breakfast, such as oatmeal waffles and oatmeal bowls.

In addition to its tasty dishes, Crush also hosts various events, including LGBTQ+ bazaars with drag queen shows, yoga classes, and live music. Take the opportunity to browse through their store, where you can purchase local products like cute bracelets and bags, or take a picture with their colorful murals and signs as your backdrop.  

To stay updated on upcoming events and tempting promotions on their exquisite dishes, make sure to follow their social media accounts closely. At Crush, each visit promises a fresh experience that will leave you wanting to come back for more.  

Crush Restaurante
Calle 60 #447 x 49 y 51, Centro
Tel. 999 103 2349
IG: crush.merida
FB: Crush Restaurante Mid
Tue. – Sun. 2– 10 pm

3. La Abadía Café

With its unique concept and a new branch, La Abadía Café has become a meeting point for coffee lovers and genuine connections. Its intimate and cozy atmosphere, marked by candlelight and religious figures that allude to the café’s name (La Abadía being Spanish for “The Abbey”), invites you to relax and enjoy.

Located just minutes from the Cathedral of San Ildefonso, the main branch of La Abadía has been a beloved community spot since it opened its doors in 2022. This year, in April, a brand-new branch was inaugurated on the corner of La Plancha Park, where diversity and inclusion are celebrated with "community Thursdays".

This weekly event, which lasts all day, offers a variety of activities, from board games to themed drinks. It's the perfect setting to meet new people and enjoy a safe and welcoming environment.

Their menu features hearty dishes with names that allude to the sanctity of the plates, such as "Santos (Holy) Chilaquiles" or "Sor (Sister) Molletes". They also offer a variety of crepes, frappes, and lattes, accompanied by their own Chiapas coffee, with the characteristic name of the house. With the recent opening of the La Plancha branch, they've introduced new additions like the " Soberanos (Sovereign) Waffles", enriching their culinary offerings.

Additionally, the café offers a pet-friendly experience at its La Plancha branch, where pets are welcome to accompany their owners in this cozy space.

To celebrate pride, La Abadía Café offers special drinks during June, showing their dedication to inclusion and embracing all identities. Plus, with ongoing promotions and a vibrant atmosphere, La Abadía is a space where friends become family and every moment is a cherished memory.

Main branch
Calle 62 x 63 y 65, Centro
Every day, 8 am - 9 pm

La Plancha branch
Calle 50 x 49 y 51, Centro
Tel. 999 255 0501
IG: abadiacafemid
FB: La Abadía Café
Tue. - Sun. 8 am - 9 pm

4. Temptations

If you love drag queens, comedy shows, good music, and you're in the southern part of Mérida, Temptations is the place for you. This restaurant and bar, located in Cinco Colonias, is known for its great atmosphere and entertaining performances.  

Enjoy a night accompanied by cocktails and snacks. The hosts' interventions will make you cry with laughter, and the lip syncs by the Queens of Temptation Drag will leave you speechless.  

Keep an eye on their social media because that's where they announce their promotions, themes, and special guests.  

Temptations
Calle 66 x 101, Colonia Melitón Salazar
Cel. 999 994 5112
Cel. 999 126 6126
IG: temptationsclubshow
FB: Temptations Mid

5. La Inventada Cantina

Just a few minutes away from Parque de la Mejorada, you'll find this LGBTQ+ cantina/bar that stands out for its colorful, festive, and playful ambiance. With disco balls, neon lights, a great mix of music, and colors everywhere, it creates a vibrant atmosphere.

The menu is defined by an extensive selection of cocktails, beers, and house specialties such as "Licuachelas", "Kittychelas" and "Bears" (electric lemonades). It's worth mentioning that if you order any of these drinks, you'll be treated to delicious Botanas (snacks), although you can also choose from other snacks available on the menu.

When it comes to live performances, this place offers something for everyone. You can enjoy comedy shows, pop diva tributes by the resident drag queens, showcases featuring local and national drag queens, and even live broadcasts of Drag Race México.

La Inventada Cantina
Calle 46 #500 x 61 y 59, Centro
Tel. 999 217 9098
IG: lainventadacantina
FB: La Inventada Merida
Wed. – Sun.  2 - 10 pm    

6. Cassandra Comfort Food

Located just two blocks from Parque de la Alemán, Cassandra Comfort Food is a place where every bite is filled with nostalgia in a comforting atmosphere. Specializing in breakfast and brunch, it instantly feels like home here, with a delicious selection of homemade dishes. From classic pancakes or Chicken & Waffles to the flavorful Cassandra Chilaquiles, each option on the menu promises to warm your heart.

But Cassandra Comfort Food is more than just about the food. They strive to create a vibrant community space, packed with activities that not only entertain but also aim to educate and enhance the experience for all visitors. During Pride Month, Cassandra hosts a lineup of events and workshops focused on the LGBTQ+ community: from discussions on sexual diversity to the fabulous Drag Brunches, diversity and respect are promoted at all times.

This year, they will present a workshop on asexuality, led by an expert psychologist on the subject. Additionally, you can explore and support local creativity and entrepreneurial spirit at their LBGT+ entrepreneurs' bazaar, where you'll find a wide array of unique products crafted with care.

But the fun doesn't stop there. At Cassandra, there's always something exciting going on. Do you enjoy mental challenges? Join their trivia nights to test your knowledge on pop culture classics (such as Mean Girls, The Simpsons, Star Wars, etc.)  while enjoying great company. Need to let go of fears or burdens from the past? Don't miss their full moon rituals to renew your energy and find your inner balance.

Stay updated on these and more events on their billboard by following their social media. At Cassandra Comfort Food, every day is a new adventure waiting to be discovered. Come and join the fun!

Cassandra Comfort Food
Calle 21, 281E x 24 y 26, Col. Miguel Alemán.
Tel. 999 103 2349
Tel. 999 955 4038
IG: cassandra.comfortfood
FB: Cassandra Comfort Food
Every day, 7 am - 1 pm and 5 pm - 9 pm

7. XOXO Club

XOXO Club opened its doors in March of this year and is already poised to become a must-visit spot on the nightlife scene. Looking for a sophisticated venue with an electrifying atmosphere? You've found it! The elegant and eye-catching decor will capture you from the moment you walk in. Whether you're seeking a lively night out or prefer to unwind in a quiet corner with friends, XOXO Club has got you covered.

The best part about this place is that there's always something new happening. From themed parties to drag queen shows, the fun never stops on the weekends.

XOXO Club's cocktail menu is pretty unique. Try the XOXO Mojito, the Drag Lady, or the classic Sex on the Beach. Feeling fancy? Treat yourself to their unique creations like the Gin Pink or the spicy Jamaica Habanera Margarita. If food is what you're after, XOXO offers dishes ranging from drunk (beer-cooked) pork tacos to Iberian ham croquettes with a side of Labneh for your enjoyment.

At XOXO Club, everyone can enjoy a good party!

XOXO Club
Calle 56 #474 x 55, Centro
Tel. 999 660 0800
www.xoxoclub.com.mx
IG: xoxoclubmid
FB: XOXO Club Mérida
Thu. – Sun.  7 pm - 2:30 am

8. Casa Chica

If you prefer a quieter, more laid-back outing, this is the ideal place for you. Located in a beautiful colonial house in the iconic Paseo de Montejo, Casa Chica offers a divine experience.   

From the moment you enter, you'll fall in love with its spaces and decor, filled with pastel tones and tropical touches that create a relaxed and casual vibe.   

Refreshing cocktails like Wine Spritzers, Mojitos, or Mezcalitos are among their specialties. It's also a good option to try some of their delicious dishes such as pizzas, hamburgers, desserts, and even breakfast on weekends.   

In this restaurant bar, everyone is welcome, including your pets, as it is also pet-friendly!  

Casa Chica
Paseo de Montejo #498-B x 45 y 47
Tel. 999 233 8751
IG: casachicabar 
FB: Casa Chica
Wed. – Fri. 5  pm - 3 am
Sat. - Sun.  9  - 3 am

9. Dix Bar

If you're a fan of the drag world, enjoying some great drinks with your friends, or simply dancing until your body can't take it anymore, Dix Bar is the place you need to visit right now!

Located just steps away from Santa Lucía Park, it's a favorite spot for the LGBTQ+ community in Mérida. As soon as you walk in, you'll find yourself in a world of fantasy, filled with neon lights, a disco ball hanging from the ceiling, colorful signs, and various screens on the sides. And let's not forget about the DJ who sets the mood with a perfect mix of pop music and reggaeton.

The real party starts around 11 pm - 12 am when the drag queens kick off their shows, starting with the house queens and ending with special guests who are often participants from international franchises like La Más Draga or RuPaul's Drag Race. Every night has a different theme, such as tributes to pop divas, karaoke sessions, or even makeovers for the customers.

The cover charge varies depending on the day you choose to go; for example, on Fridays, it costs $80 pesos, and on Saturdays (the busiest day), it's $100 pesos (this could change if a special guest queen is visiting). However, if you visit on Wednesdays, Thursdays, or Sundays, there's no cover charge.

If you want to experience the essence, unity, and queer pride at its best, visit Dix Bar and enjoy a fantastic night that you'll always remember.

Dix Bar
Calle 53 #495 x 56 y 58, Centro
IG: dixbar.merida
FB: DIX BAR Mérida
Every day  8 pm - 2:30 am

By Sara Alba, Carlos Argüelles, Carlos Guzmán and Lizzy B.

¡But, there's even more!

10. Tapanco Centro Cultural

Tapanco has been one of the most interesting independent spaces in the city for 11 years. Located in the heart of Mérida, this cultural center has a packed agenda of events, plays, and exhibitions that you shouldn't miss. With the aim of building critical and proactive societies, many of their activities revolve around reflection and dialogue sparked by art.  

If you're interested in avant-garde theater proposals brought to life by experienced actors and actresses, you need to check out their lineup. Don't forget to follow them on social media so you can stay tuned on their offerings, such as baby vogue workshops or singing courses.  

Tapanco Centro Cultural
Calle 47 x 68, Centro, Mérida
Tel. 999 429 5413
Cel. 999 969 0389
tapancoteatro@gmail.com
www.tapancoteatro.com
FB: Tapanco Centro Cultural A.C.
IG: tapancocentrocultural
Mon. - Fri. 9 am - 2 pm & 5 pm - 11 pm 
Sat. 9 am - 2 pm & 5 pm - 8 pm 
Sun. 5 pm - 11 pm  

11. Papis

This disco bar is the perfect choice if you want to enjoy a night filled with partying, dancing, and Go-Go Dancer shows with your friends until the early morning hours.   

Each day has a different theme that adds a special touch and is sure to surprise you. You'll be able to dance and sing along to the beats of reggaeton, pop, and if you stay until the end, even banda or regional Mexican music.   

The atmosphere is always energetic and full of excitement. Throughout the evening, you'll be entertained by excellent (and handsome) dancers, and, on certain occasions, you may even be treated to performances by national and international drag queens.  

Papis
Calle 72 #400-B x 33-A y 33-B, Av. Reforma, Centro
Tel. 999 268 8316
IG: papismerida
FB: Papis
Wed. – Sun. 9 pm - 2:30 am   

12. Sempere

I'd like to tell you precisely how it feels to enter Sempere: you enter the building and immediately find the stairs that lead you to its entrance - the first one on the right as you climb up. Its lobby prepares you with books and art; then, the light that enters through the windows (windows that provide a direct view of one of the busiest streets in the city), welcomes you to one of the most beautiful literary cafes in the whole city.   Once inside, you can feel how easy it is to relax and enjoy a calm atmosphere, ideal for creating stories from the conversations that accompany your cup of coffee, or for enjoying a good book in chosen solitude.  

Sempere
Calle 62 #479 x 55 y 57, Centro, Mérida
IG: sempere.mx
FB: Sempere
Wed. – Mon. 8 am – 8 pm

13. Inkfraderma Tattoo

Marking our body holds special meaning for many of us. And beyond the bond formed with that mark, the person who creates it also carries significant weight, as a certain type of connection is formed with them.   Inkfraderma Tattoo is a private studio for tattoos and piercings, composed of a group of talented artists who will not only create high-quality, unique, and truly beautiful pieces on your skin but will also understand, because they have experienced it themselves, the origin of the need to create the image through which you want to present yourself to the world.  

Something as personal as a tattoo or piercing takes on a much deeper value when all the individuals involved in its creation share the same understanding of its meaning.

Inkfraderma Tattoo
Calle 9 #376, Villas del Sol, Mérida, Yucatán
IG: inkfraderma_tattoo
FB: Inkfraderma Tattoo
Availability by appointment only

Written by colaboration of Sara Alba, Carlos Argüelles,  Lizzy B. and Carlos Guzmán for Yucatán Today.

Photography by Julio Chalchi, Jorge Méndez, Sara Alba and Carlos Guzmán for its use in Yucatán Today.