Guide to Cantinas in Mérida / El Nuevo Tucho Centro, Generous Snacks and Comedian Shows
Despite Yucatán's attempt at independence in 1848, the peninsula cannot deny that there are many things that unite us, including the cantina.
By Jajo Crespo / Photos El Nuevo Tucho (Facebook)
In Mérida, they are also called "botaneros" or "salones de cerveza," operating much like cantinas in Mexico City that offer free snacks. The difference at El Nuevo Tucho Centro is that the snacks never stop: it's an endless array of generous food that keeps coming as long as you keep ordering drinks, or until you simply say you've had enough.
We can say that the botana (snack selection) at El Nuevo Tucho Centro is one of the largest and most varied we've seen. On the day we visited, they offered — take a deep breath because here comes a list: kibis, beans, sausages, chicharrón, cochinita tacos, relleno negro tacos, brazo de reina, poc chuc, and brochettes. One of the most cherished aspects of this tradition is that they maintain a clear line: traditional, free, and generous food. This allows us to taste the flavors of the region without having to move around. And even after eating, you may not want to leave because every day there's a comedy show at five in the afternoon.
The Legend of Tucho:
El Nuevo Tucho takes its name from a Maya legend. The Tucho, not to be confused with "tuch" (an exclusive joke for Yucatecans), refers to a kind of supernatural monkey associated with darkness. The word comes from "xtucha" or "tucha," which is the Maya term for the spider monkey; however, tradition has transformed its meaning to refer to the aforementioned monster, often used like the "Coco" in central Mexico to scare children into going to bed, for example. Despite its name, the atmosphere of this botanero is family-friendly.
Either way, if Tucho is taking me to El Nuevo Tucho, count me in, because just thinking about it makes me crave a pineapple and chaya water, and if we can spike it, even better.
- Address: C. 60 482, Parque Santa Lucia, Centro, 97000 Mérida, Yuc.
- Contact info: 9991127140
- Hours of Operation: Daily from 12 pm to 10 pm
- Ideal for: Lunch
- Type of Cuisine: Yucatecan food
- Payment: Cash and cards
- Accessibility: Yes
- Parking: No
- Reservations: Not necessary, but can be made by phone
- Pet friendly: No
- Suitable for children: Yes
- Vegan options: No
- Beer price: 64 pesos
