You know those places that somehow feel like home the moment you walk in? The kind of restaurant that’s been around for nearly two decades, survived gentrification waves, economic dips, changing trends—and still packs a punch with amazing food, funky charm, and unbeatable hospitality? That’s El Templo.
We stopped by this Mérida institution recently (located at Calle 59 x 50 and 52, if you’re wondering) and were reminded why everyone—locals, expats, tourists, and street wanderers alike—has fallen in love with this place over the years. And let’s just say: the love is well-deserved.
A Vibe All Its Own
From the outside, El Templo looks like a quirky little corner joint. But step inside and you’re hit with a wave of color, culture, and character. We’re talking walls covered in murals, painted tables turned into art pieces, plants hanging out in every corner, antiques collected from all over Yucatán, and even a photo wall of world leaders behind the bar (we’ll let you interpret that however you like 😉).
The music? Pure Mexicano. The mood? Relaxed and effortlessly cool. The prices? Shockingly affordable for how good the food is. And the food? Let’s get into that.
A Menu that Makes You Want to Try Everything
Here’s what we tried—and absolutely devoured:
- Frijoles Prehispánicos – $109
A traditional chuli-buul dish from the region, made with tender beans, corn masa, onion, epazote, pumpkin seed, and garlic. Earthy, comforting, and rooted in Yucatecan tradition. - Tostones de Plátano Macho – $129
Little plantain cups filled with chilorio (seasoned pork), topped with avocado and pico de gallo. Crispy, savory, and beautifully presented. - Tlayuda
Oaxaca’s answer to pizza: a crispy tortilla base with pico de gallo, avocado, cheese, and jalapeños. Always a winner. - Chamorro en Adobo de Chile Yucateco – $259
Tender pork shank slow-cooked in Yucatecan chili adobo and dark beer, served with pickled onions, roasted tomato salsa (chiltomate), pico, and tortillas. This one had us licking our fingers. - Chile Relleno de Cuitlacoche – $179
A poblano chile stuffed with cuitlacoche (corn fungus delicacy) and cheese, served with rice. So good, we forgot to share. - Canoa de Plátano Macho – $175 Ripe plantain “canoe” filled with ground beef picadillo and cheese, served with beans and guac. Comfort food with a twist.
Cocktails & Mocktails That Beat the Heat
El Templo has recently stepped up its cocktail game, and let us tell you—their berry mojitos and mezcalitos are a total vibe on a hot Mérida afternoon. We tried the Mezcal Mule (a smoky take on the classic Moscow mule) and a ginger lemonade mocktail that hit the spot. Cold, refreshing, and made with love.
More Than a Meal—It’s a Community
Owner and chef Gabriel is the heart of the place. He and his team are constantly present—smiling, checking in, pouring their soul into every plate that comes out of the kitchen. It’s that kind of warm hospitality that keeps people coming back, year after year. Honestly, we love them for it.
All the Details You Need
📍 Address: El Templo Gastro Barrio, Calle 59 x 50 y 52
🕗 Hours:
Monday–Thursday: 8 am – 11 pm
Friday–Saturday: 8 am – Midnight
(Closed Sundays)
🍽 Meals Served: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
📅 Daily lunch specials: Two different dishes every day, Monday to Friday
🛵 Delivery: Monday to Saturday, 12 pm – 4 pm
🎉 Catering available
💳 Cards accepted
🚗 Parking available
For all the contact info and menu here: https://linktr.ee/ElTemploRestaurante
So here’s the deal: If you haven’t been to El Templo yet, it’s time. And if you’re one of the many who already knows it and loves it—this is your sign to go back. Grab a friend, order way too much food, sip something cool, and bask in the joy of Mérida’s old-school bohemian soul
