
La Negrita Cantina
A historic cantina buzzing with live Cuban bands, colorful murals, and a vibrant mix of locals and tourists.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
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La Negrita Cantina

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic cantina buzzing with live Cuban bands, colorful murals, and a vibrant mix of locals and tourists.
"This is easily one of the most fun bars I have ever been to."
Arrive Early on Fridays
Get there before 8 pm on Fridays for the best experience without long waits.
QR Code Menu
Access the extensive menu via a convenient QR code.

Quick Facts
Cuisine
Mexican, Cuban
Price
Mid-range
Phone
+52 999 955 4038
Address
Calle 62 esquina, C. 49 415, Centro, 97000 Mérida, Yuc., Mexico
Website
cantinanegrita.com/Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vibrant Live Music & Dancing
Experience the infectious energy of live Cuban bands and immerse yourself in a bustling atmosphere perfect for dancing and mingling.

Massive Portions & Free Snacks
Enjoy generous servings of popular dishes like nachos with pollo and receive complimentary chips to start your meal.

Unique & Colorful Atmosphere
Soak in the lively ambiance with colorful murals, fiesta bunting, and a vibrant courtyard that draws locals and tourists alike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Arrive Early on Fridays
Get there before 8 pm on Fridays for the best experience without long waits.
QR Code Menu
Access the extensive menu via a convenient QR code.
Cocktail Caution
Cocktails can be watery and sugary; consider opting for beer.
Embrace the Crowd
Evenings can be crowded, but don't hesitate to find space for dancing.
Tips
from all over the internet
Arrive Early on Fridays
Get there before 8 pm on Fridays for the best experience without long waits.
QR Code Menu
Access the extensive menu via a convenient QR code.
Cocktail Caution
Cocktails can be watery and sugary; consider opting for beer.
Embrace the Crowd
Evenings can be crowded, but don't hesitate to find space for dancing.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
La Negrita Cantina is celebrated for its incredibly lively atmosphere, fueled by vibrant live music and a diverse crowd that encourages dancing. Diners rave about the generous portions, especially the massive nachos, and the complimentary snacks. However, some patrons note that cocktails can be diluted and sugary, and service can be slow during peak hours, leading to frustration for some.
"Stopped by for drinks and entertainment. We found both great drink choices and live music. They even brought out botanas that were delicious. This was a find atmosphere and worth the time to get here. Come and enjoy."
Teakeyman
"Very fun lively atmosphere, live Cuban band. The music great, somewhat crowded but people had no problem creating space to dance. Wasn't able to have food or drinks as we had to wait outside in line and by the time we entered the kitchen was closed. So if going on a Friday get there before 8 pm to enjoy the full experience."
Dexter Smith
"Very fun lively atmosphere with a live band. The music great (and local) Was given complimentary chips at the beginning. We also ordered nachos with pollo (chicken) - massive portion! It was a Friday and we were there around 7:45 onwards but it was busy!! Online menu is extensive and it reached via a QR code. Only negative point is that the cocktails are super watered down and sugary - Probably why many tables were ordering just beer."
Richa K
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
For the full experience with food and drinks without extremely long waits, aim to arrive before 8 pm on Fridays.
Live bands play most evenings, creating a lively atmosphere for dancing and enjoying drinks.
While specific options aren't detailed, the menu includes items like falafel and nachos, suggesting potential for customization.
Service can be mixed. While some reviewers praise it, others report slow service and instances of pushy tip requests.
Yes, an extensive online menu is accessible via a QR code provided at the restaurant.
Reservations are not explicitly mentioned, but arriving early, especially on weekends, is advised due to crowds.
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This cantina at the corner of Calles 62 and 49 is popular with locals, expats, and visitors thanks to its large courtyard and likewise large cocktails. You'll be offered free bar snacks as long as you keep ordering drinks, though it's worth trying some of the delicious (if basic) ceviches, enchiladas, and tacos, too. Live bands play most evenings.
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La Negrita se identifica como una parada típica de los lugareños y los turistas, ya que gracias al ambiente que se mezcla entre personas, se puede vivir una mágica experiencia entre bailes, risas y alguna que otra anécdota. Desde la calle 62 del Centro de Mérida, podrás encontrar este espacio que diariamente exhibe música en vivo y ofrece preparaciones gastronómicas de Yucatán. Destacando entre ellos los taquitos, el relleno negro y otros muy particulares, tal como los salbutes y los panuchos
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If you were to ask about the most famous bar in Merida, La Negrita Cantina would be it. This old-fashioned cantina awaits just a couple of blocks away from Parque Santa Lucia and has been serving up strong drinks to the locals for over 100 years. Entrance to the bar is made via old saloon-style wooden swing doors and the rustic interiors feature high ceilings, colorful azulejo tile floors, and ornate colonial detailing.
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The food off the menu here is awful, but they make up for that by serving draft beer and even mixed drinks in liter sized mason jars. And if you’re only a little peckish, waiters continuously deposit baskets of free chips, popcorn and other snacks at your table to have with your bucket ‘o beverage. None of which is why La Negrita Cantina made our list.
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One of the most popular places to go out and dance to live music every day of the week is La Negrita Cantina, but be aware that this place closes at 10:00pm. Apparently they don't have a liquor license for later and the music stops around 9:30pm already. It still is an amazing place and always busy and full of locals.
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This cantina usually has live music playing and you can enjoy drinks, free botanas (snacks) and food if you can get a table or seat on the patio or bar area. If you want a table try and get their earlier in the evening as it’s a popular place and get’s busy quickly. We tried the ceviche and tacos here.
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Join the lively crowds at La Negrita Cantina, indulge in drag performances at Dix bar around the corner from El Pueblo, or dance the night away at Papis. The city also hosts an annual Pride celebration, showcasing the warmth and inclusivity of Merida’s gay community.
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La Negrita Cantina – This cantina is a century-old establishment with a lot of character. Wednesdays and Thursdays, they serve two margaritas for the price of one (50 pesos). Evening drinks come with botones (snacks) like chips and 3-4 little side dishes.
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5 La Negrita Cantina, Calle 49 No 415 x 62 y 60 (Centro), ☏ +52 999 267 9582. Daily 12:00-22:00, daily happy hour 17:00-19:00. Operating since 1917, this classic place is popular with both locals and tourists.
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La Negrita Cantina: Check the La Negrita Merida Facebook page for specials and events. It is located at Calle 62 x 49, Centro Histórico, Merida within walking distance of Casa Azul.
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A Caribbean atmosphere, out of the ordinary with music to dance and enjoy an afternoon in one of the most popular places in the historic center.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit