Chef arranging a gourmet dish on a white plate during a culinary event.

MID City Top Picks: Food Lover events in Merida, Yucatan

Mérida’s culinary scene continues to evolve with creativity, passion, and a deep respect for local flavors. Each month, the city offers unique gastronomic experiences ranging from chef-led dinners and specialty tastings to festive culinary gatherings and seasonal menus.

Whether you’re a devoted foodie, an adventurous diner, or simply someone who loves discovering new flavors, this curated guide highlights the most exciting food-forward events happening in the city. From intimate culinary workshops to vibrant community food celebrations, here’s where to savor the best of Mérida this season.

January 13 : Chef in Residence: Loreena Ghalem at Galopina Casa Silvestre

Galopina Casa Silvestre welcomes chef Loreena Ghalem as its second chef in residence this January. Her culinary proposal is deeply inspired by the land, local ingredients, surrounding landscapes, and their energy—blending them with techniques and recipes from around the world.

Guests can enjoy intimate dining experiences under the stars or a countryside communal table, designed for slow dining, connection, and storytelling through food. Reservations are limited, making this a special opportunity for those seeking meaningful gastronomic experiences in Yucatán.

Dates:
– January 13–16 | 7:00–10:00 PM (Dinners under the stars)
– Saturday, January 17 | 4:00–7:00 PM (Countryside table: Mestiza de Indias)

Location: Acanceh, Yucatán
Reservations: Via DM or WhatsApp
Note: Dinner-only option available (no lodging required)
Capacity: Limited

January 17 : Wine Pairing Dinner at Restaurante Valentina

A slow-paced, intimate wine pairing dinner where cuisine and wine engage in thoughtful dialogue. The evening features a signature tasting menu by Chef Raúl Carrillo, with the collaboration of Chef Araceli Pérez, paired with a carefully curated wine selection by guest sommelier Javier Toledo and Elisa García.

Date: Saturday, January 17, 2026
Venue: Hacienda Santa Cruz – Restaurante Valentina
Location: Mérida, Yucatán
Price: $1,650 MXN per person
Admission: Limited capacity
Reservations: Direct message or WhatsApp

An experience designed to be enjoyed slowly, where every course and every glass finds its balance.

Chef Raul Carillo

January 22 : SIP, SAVOR & CELEBRATE — A WINE TASTING EVENING

Tickets are on sale now! Join us for a special Wine Tasting in one of Centro Histórico’s most beautiful private colonial homes, located in the heart of Mérida’s Gastronomic Corridor. This elegant, art-filled residence sets the perfect scene for a relaxed and memorable evening.
📅 Thursday, January 22
7:00–9:00 pm
Guests will enjoy a curated selection of wines, complimentary tapas, and live music throughout the evening by a wonderful Yucatecan Trio.
🎟️ $700. MEL Member tickets have been available since January 8 and are ready to purchase now in the MEL Shop. This popular Wine Tasting often sells out—secure your spot today!

Buy Tickets (MEL Shop): 👉https://meridaenglishlibrary.com/register/p/wine-tasting-member-presale

🍷🎶 An evening to sip, savor, and enjoy great company.

Wine Testing

January 24 : Baldío x Ramiro: A Slow Midday Gastronomic Experience

This special midday dining event brings together Ramiro Cocina and Baldío for a calm, detail-driven culinary experience designed to be enjoyed without rush. The collaboration celebrates thoughtful cooking, seasonal ingredients, and the pleasure of sharing food and drinks in good company.

Guests are invited to savor each moment of the experience, choosing the time that best fits their day, and enjoying a relaxed approach to dining that highlights flavor, connection, and craftsmanship.

Date: January 24
Time: Two start times available — 12:00 PM & 2:00 PM (reservations between 12:00–4:00 PM)
Venue: Ramiro Cocina
Address: Calle 41 x 58 y 60, Paseo de Montejo No. 386 D, Centro, Mérida
Admission: Reservation required
Audience: Adults / food lovers
Capacity: Limited

January 29 : Tuna Ronqueo Experience at Yisushi

Discover the artistry behind one of Japan’s most iconic culinary rituals with The Best Tuna Ronqueo at Yisushi—an exclusive gastronomic experience for true food lovers. This special evening showcases the traditional tuna-cutting technique, where precision, craftsmanship, and flavor take center stage.

Guests will enjoy a premium tasting experience paired with drinks from the house, making it a perfect plan for celebrating or simply indulging in elevated Japanese cuisine.

Event Details
📅 Date: January 29
💰 Price: $1,600 MXN per person
🍶 Includes:

  • House sake

  • One glass of wine

  • One Sapporo beer

With limited availability, this is a one-night-only opportunity to experience sushi culture at its finest in an intimate, refined setting. Reservations are highly recommended.

February 1st : MEL 30th Anniversary Gala

The Merida English Library proudly celebrates 30 years of community, culture, and connection with an elegant anniversary gala.

Join this special evening hosted at the beautiful Hotel Fiesta Americana Mérida, featuring a formal three-course dinner prepared by the hotel’s chefs, beverages included, and live music by the extraordinary Gina Osorno.

✨ A night to celebrate a milestone that belongs to the entire community.

📅 Date: Sunday, February 1st, 2026
📍 Location: Hotel Fiesta Americana Mérida
🍽️ Includes: Three-course dinner + beverages
🎶 Live Music: Gina Osorno
🎟️ Tickets:
👉 https://meridaenglishlibrary.com/register/p/mel-30th-anniversary-gala

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