If you’ve been in Mérida long enough, you’ll remember Raffaello’s—the legendary Italian pizzería that set the bar for authentic calzones and pizzas over 17 years ago. Well, good news: it’s still here, now called Il Calabrese, and it’s as delicious as ever.
The new name honors the southern Italian roots of the cuisine, but the soul of the place hasn’t changed a bit. That’s because the current owner worked side-by-side with Raffaello for nearly 14 years before taking over the restaurant four years ago. The original recipes remain untouched, and each dish continues to reflect the rustic, rich flavors of Calabria.
A Taste of Tradition
Il Calabrese specializes in Calabrian-style Italian food with fire-kissed pizzas, pillowy calzones, and hearty antipastos made with simple, high-quality ingredients. And in a city where prices are creeping up fast, this spot is refreshingly affordable without compromising flavor.
On our recent visit, we shared a house-made antipasto platter of jamón serrano, marinated mushrooms, provolone cheese, artichoke hearts, grilled zucchini and eggplant—all served with fresh, warm bread straight from their gas-fired pizza oven. We also tried the spinach salad with cranberries, almonds, goat cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes, plus the Ivan pizza topped with mozzarella, arugula, jamón serrano, and tomato.
This is true Italian pizza—crafted with time-honored techniques passed down through generations. Unlike the famous Neapolitan style, this pizza has a thinner, crispier base that still retains a tender bite. The dough is made from high-quality Italian flour, slowly fermented to develop a delicate flavor and airy texture.
For dessert? Don’t even think of skipping the pannacotta made with real Italian mascarpone or their velvety tiramisu.
Summer Nights, Italian Style
Il Calabrese joins the Corredor Gastronómico every Thursday to Saturday, putting tables out on the street and giving the whole place a charming, bohemian feel. Add live music Fridays and Saturdays from 8:30 PM to 11:30 PM on those nights, and you’ve got the recipe for a perfect evening in Mérida.
What We Love:
- It still feels like old-school Mérida—comfortable, casual, and welcoming
- Recipes that haven’t changed in nearly two decades
- Patio and A/C dining options
- Easy parking just 5 meters away
- Recognized in the Michelin Guide two years ago
Whether you’re a nostalgic regular or discovering it for the first time, Il Calabrese delivers comfort food with a story—and it’s one you’ll want to come back for again and again.
📍 Calle 60 x 49 on the corner in the heart of the Centro
📲 Find them on Instagram: @ilcalabrese.merida
