Plaza Carmesí is a space housing five concepts including books, home decor, gastronomy, and some of our region’s most iconic cultural products. Because of its perfect location (Calle 53 x 60 y 62), travelers, locals, and students alike visit the former Casona, restored by Estudio Reyes Ríos + Larraín, and discover its unique architectural elements such as the crimson pasta tiles. Above all, visitors will find items that promote fair and inclusive trade, aesthetic and functional design, as well as a strong commitment to sustainability (by reducing the use of plastic) and social welfare (part of the profits go to the Asociación Cedidown).
FB: Plaza Carmesí
IG: Plaza Carmesí
Voltacafé – Coffee, Cocktails, and Signature Cuisine
Inspired by the idea of getting together with friends, this space revolves around coffee, great food, and cocktails and is ideal for small gatherings at the tables distributed in the courtyard or inside the dining room. The aroma of Oaxacan coffee and the house specials that bring together the best in Mexican, American, and French cuisine by using local ingredients, make Voltacafé perfect to enjoy breakfast, dinner, or a drink. All dishes have been created by chef Sara Arnaud.
FB: Voltacafé
IG: Voltacafé
Reservations at: (999) 750 3319
Tue. – Sun. 9 am – 10 pm
Básica Sociedad – Art and Fair Trade
Throughout several years dedicated to contemporary architecture and the restoration of historical residences and haciendas, Josefina Larraín has encountered many artists and designers who inspired her to create a space where they could openly share their work. Committed to finding solutions to social problems, Josefina curated a selection where art and design intertwine with regional and native materials to communicate the values of our society. At Básica Sociedad you will find salt mortars and candleholders made of Jícara (Región), volcanic stone spice racks and Tzompantli-style pots (Piedra Fuego), bags and cases made with materials donated by CalleVeinte (Helen Ingles), fabric-covered notebooks (ElePapel), sketchbooks (Daniel Rodríguez), and bedspreads made with Oaxacan woven fabrics (Abuelita Borrego).
FB: Básica Sociedad
IG: Básica Sociedad
Mon. – Sat. 10 am – 7 pm
Between the Lines – More Than a Bookstore
As its name implies, it’s more than a bookstore; it’s a whole experience that maintains the tradition of buying and flipping through the pages of a new book, writing in a diary, or sending a hand-penned note. Between the Lines has books in English for all tastes including art, biographies, young adult, fiction, non-fiction, and of course: cats! You’ll also find reading glasses and sunreaders, one-of-a-kind greeting cards, gift wrap, puzzles, board games for all ages, planners, fans from Sevilla, and Venetian masks. Pay special attention to the reading corner, maybe the store’s green velvet chair next to the window will be your new favorite spot.
FB: Between the Lines Mérida
IG: Between the Lines Mérida
Wed. – Sun. 10 am – 4 pm
Miel Nativa Kaban – Yucatecan Melipona Honey
Andrea and Rodrigo began this project to promote the conservation of native bees (just in Yucatán there are over 17 species of stingless bees), and to connect producers and consumers in a fair way that generates value chains for mutual benefit. By learning more about the practices of stingless beekeeping, its medicinal properties, and ancestral techniques; you’ll open your eyes to the world of bees. In the store, you can also try their all-natural Apis and Melipona varieties and enjoy your first honey tasting by sampling six different types. Tastings take place every Saturday from 10 to 11:30 a.m. (please call ahead). Discover, contribute, and honor the honey produced in Yucatán.
FB: Miel Nativa Kaban
IG: Miel Nativa Kaban
Tue. – Sun. 10 am – 7 pm
Uumbah – Hamacas and Yucatecan Art
The Hamaca is a symbol of cultural identity, it’s a product that accompanies Yucatecans from birth. This is how Uumbah is conceived – a shop that sells both traditional cotton thread and macramé-adorned hammocks. Under the leadership of Gaby and Ivonne, you’ll also find ceramics and contemporary Mexican art. Ask about their new arrivals!
FB: Uumbah Arte Mexicano
IG: Uumbah Arte Mexicano
Tue. – Sun. 10 am – 7 pm
Editorial by Violeta H. Cantarell
“Meridana,” traveler, animal lover, passionate reader, commentator, and enthusiastic promoter of the natural and human beauty of Yucatán.
Photography by Violeta H. Cantarell and Jasson Rodríguez for use in Yucatán Today
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