I have been back out on the road, hunting for my next bite of something new. In Mérida, here are some of my latest finds.
Hogsons Smokehouse
Barbecue is popular everywhere and Yucatán is no exception. Hogsons Smokehouse looks like an upscale Texas restaurant, starting with its bullhorn light fixtures. For appetizers, we tried their crispy Buffalo wings (120 pesos) and a plate of nachos with barbecued beans, cheese, guacamole and either pulled pork or brisket (290 pesos). The sampler platter caught my eye. There are several to choose from, but mine came with ribs, sausage, brisket, coleslaw, and mashed potatoes, plenty to share with a friend. A tangy honey barbecue sauce, honey mustard sauce, and blue cheese dressing were for dipping (560 pesos). The melt-in-your-mouth brisket was the star of the show. Sandwiches include barbecue pulled pork with fries (180 pesos). The Man Cave Bar is the place to retreat for a beer, a stiff drink or a glass of wine. The staff was very attentive and accommodating, and parking is available. Tuesday-Sunday 1-5:30 p.m. at Calle 13, No. 108, Itzimná, facebook.com/Hogsonsmid
Méndez Jr.
Most seating is upstairs at this striking red-and-black eatery. Service was courteous and fast. For a variety of tacos, tortas, and a good take-out selection, this is your place. I had a huge torta with chicharron. It was served on a large, toasted bun with a thin layer of refried beans, a huge portion of flavorful and crisp pork, and fresh-cut avocado on top (120 pesos). At the counter, you can also choose your meats, sauces, and sides to take home. Open daily 9 a.m.-5 p.m. at Avenida Andres García Lavín, No. 338 San Antonio Cucul, facebook.com/mendezjrmerida
Mykos Gyros & More
This cute, small restaurant offers dine-in service or delivery. For a snack, the fresh pita bread and tzatziki sauce (80 pesos) were my favorite. Adding a good cucumber sauce made it all the more refreshing. They also sell different gyros with a choice of toppings. An arrachera combo — gyro, side, and a drink (190 pesos) — was my choice of the day. For a change of pace, order a falafel gyro combo (150 pesos). When we need something on the lighter side, meat may be added to a salad or potatoes instead, (150 pesos). They also sell rich, fresh kibis. Open daily at Calle 63, No. 259, San Ramon Norte, facebook.com/mykosgyros
Chunkies
I was not searching for sweets, but who can pass by such an adorable place? They have giant cookies stuffed with Snickers (50 pesos), a biscotti-type vanilla or chocolate bar stuffed topped with Nutella, ice cream topped with cookie crumbles, and gift boxes. They also have blondies topped with Nutella and mini marshmallows (30 pesos). While you are there, grab a frappe or coffee. There is indoor seating of about four tables and staff are helpful in making sure you get your cookie fix for the day. Open daily at Plaza Sermar, Avenida García Lavín, San Antonio Cucul, facebook.com/chunkiesmid
And Finally …
A follow-up on Dulce Ch’uhuk, which we covered when they first opened. They are still open 8 a.m.- 9:30 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday at Mercado Chen Bech, Calle 57, No. 402b. When we first wrote about them, they were a friendly dessert-and-coffee place with two tables. They have expanded to serving meals, with Mexican breakfast on my list of favorites (120 pesos). Their cute courtyard has another three tables and restrooms and staff is very attentive.
