It’s September and the patriotic vibe is in the air and seen all over the streets with festive lights along Paseo de Montejo and stalls of flags, shirts, toys, and lots of Mexican Red, White, and Green trinkets! And what is more Mexican, than eating the fantastic food that we so love and enjoy here. Mexico’s culinary variety vibrantly reflects its rich history and cultural diversity. From bustling Mexico City to the serene Yucatán, food is central to the nation’s identity. As Mexico’s Independence Day approaches, certain dishes take center stage, not only delighting the taste buds but also telling stories of the country’s past. These dishes blend indigenous ingredients with colonial influences, creating a unique culinary experience.
History of Chile en Nogada
Chile en Nogada is a dish deeply tied to Mexican history and patriotism, particularly with its connection to the country’s independence. The dish was first created in 1821 by the Augustinian nuns of the Convent of Santa Monica in Puebla. It was prepared in honor of Agustín de Iturbide, a key figure in Mexico’s independence movement and the future Emperor of Mexico, on his visit to the city after signing the Treaty of Córdoba, which granted Mexico its independence from Spain.
The dish’s ingredients and presentation are symbolic. The green of the poblano chiles, the white of the walnut-based nogada sauce, and the red of the pomegranate seeds represent the colors of the Mexican flag. These patriotic colors made Chile en Nogada a fitting dish for the celebration of Mexican Independence Day on September 16. Over time, it became a symbol of Mexican pride and culinary heritage, enjoyed especially during the months of August and September when pomegranates and walnuts are in season.
History of Pozole
Pozole, on the other hand, is a dish that dates back to pre-Columbian times, with roots in the Aztec and other indigenous civilizations of Mexico. The word “pozole” comes from the Nahuatl word “pozolli,” which means “foam.” This name likely refers to the appearance of the hominy (nixtamalized corn) as it cooks and opens up, creating a foamy surface. It’s made with pork or sometimes you can find different variations.
Over time, pozole evolved into a beloved national dish, enjoyed by Mexicans of all backgrounds. There are several regional variations, including Pozole Rojo (red), Pozole Verde (green), and Pozole Blanco (white), each using different types of chiles and seasonings.
Beyond the classic September dishes, Mexico boasts a wealth of beloved dishes that showcase the country’s culinary diversity, and Mérida, Yucatán, is the perfect place to try them. Panuchos, tortillas stuffed with black beans and topped with shredded turkey and pickled onions, and Frijol con Puerco, a hearty Monday meal of black beans and pork served with rice, are just a few local favorites.
With such a rich culinary heritage, it’s no surprise that Yucatán is home to a variety of excellent spots to enjoy these traditional dishes. Whether you’re craving the vibrant flavors of Chile en Nogada, a comforting bowl of Pozole, or the unique tastes of Yucatecan cuisine, there are plenty of places to satisfy your appetite.
Here are some of the best spots MID City Beat explores when we’re in the mood for authentic Mexican flavors:
Catrin
Always the spot for festivities and fun year-round, Catrin is a must-visit during September for their Chile en Nogada.
- Calle 47 x 52 y 54
- Open: 1pm - 12am
- @catrinmid
El Remate
Known for serving Mexican food from across the country, El Remate is adding Chile en Nogada to its menu this month.
- Calle 47 and Paseo de Montejo
- Open: 8am - 2am
- @Elrematedemontejo
La Reforma
A real cantina feel, with a great bar and a perfect spot to watch sports, La Reforma has some of the best authentic Mexican dishes in town. You can enjoy a taste of Mérida and Mexico, offering Chiles en Nogada and Pozole this month.
- Av. Líbano #39A, Col. México Norte
- Open: Tue-Fri 12pm - 10pm
- @la.reforma_
Salon Gallos
Dine, watch a movie, drink wine, or enjoy the evenings. Their September specialty is Chile en Nogada
- Calle 63 x 52 and 50
- Open: Mon-Sat 12pm - 12am
- @salongallos
Micaela Mar y Leña
A seafood lover’s paradise, highlighting 3 different types of Chile en Nogadas: beef and pork, seafood and vegan options are all available.
- Calle 47 por 52 y 54
- Sun-Mon 1pm - 10:30pm, Thu-Sat 1pm - 11:30pm
- @micaelamarylena
Matilda Salón Mexicano
Offering traditional food from all around Mexico, with Chiles en Nogada and Pozole on their menu this month.
- Calle 63 No. 516 Por 62 y 64
- Open: 8am - 12am
- @matildasalonmx
Apapacho
A Mexican food restaurant that also highlights art and culture, is featuring Pozole and Chiles en Nogada throughout September.
- Calle 62 #354 col centro entre 41 y 43
- Mon-Fri 1pm - 9:30pm, Sat-Sun 8am - 10pm
- @elapapacho
Los Platos Rotos
Bringing authentic Mexico City flavor to Mérida, with Pozole available throughout September.
- Calle 33D #498 col. Garcia Gineres
- Open: 9am - 5pm
- @losplatosrotos_
Hacienda Xcanatun Casa de Piedra
A beautiful spot offering a blend of Asian fusion, Mexican and also local Yucatecan dishes. Enjoy their Chiles en Nogada for $450 pesos.
Volta Café Santa Lucia
Volta Cafe is a cafe that serves breakfast lunch and dinner and some fantastic Sunday brunch! The menu has a bit of a fusion, but many dishes have Oaxacan roots. You will always get a great meal at Volta. This year they have their Chile en Nogada and we tried it just this week and it was fantastic!
- C.53 x 62, 450, Centro, 97000 Mérida, Yuc.
- Open: 8am-11pm
- @voltacafemid
Apoala
Is a household name among foreigners who live here or are coming to visit. It’s located in Santa Lucia and is Oaxacan food taken to a whole new level of incredible. Chef Sara Arnaud has done a superb job with the menu which never disappoints.
- C. 60 471-Local 2, entre 55, Parque Santa Lucia, Portales de Santa Lucía, Mérida, Yuc.
- Open: Monday to Saturday 1 pm - 12 am Sunday 1 pm - 10 pm
- @apoalamxcuisine
Tizatlan
This is a new bar with a Oaxacan street food menu of tacos, gorditas, and quesadillas ranging price from $45-$120 pesos depending on the ingredients. The place is super cool and a new MID City hot spot.
- C. 62 450-x 53, Parque Santa Lucia, Centro, 97000 Mérida, Yuc.
- Open: Tuesday to Sunday 12 pm - 11 pm
- @tizatlanmx