Cienfuegos

When vacationing in Merida, where do you go for high-quality steaks cooked over an open flame? The answer is Cienfuegos!

This restaurant offers fine dining in an eclectic setting, like the wood-accented ceiling inspired by the enormous alamo trees at cenotes, whose roots roam looking for water. 

Cienfuegos, which means "hundred fires," is renowned for its steaks, like the Tomahawk. The meat is hand-cut, then seasoned and cooked to your liking over an open flame. And with a diverse menu, there's an entree suitable for everyone in your party.

Since Cienfuegos is near famous landmarks like the Plaza Grande and the Catedral de Merida, planning a day of adventure and exploration followed by a delicious meal at the restaurant is easy.

Cienfuegos was founded by renowned chefs who wanted to create a unique dining experience in a breathtaking setting. Over the years, Cienfuegos has become a symbol of culinary excellence, celebrated for its unique approach to blending age-old recipes with modern twists.

Vibe

While architecture and decor are not the primary reasons for visiting an eatery, these features at Cienfuegos certainly add to the dining experience. 

Upon arriving, the intricate stone facade with ambient light and small yet elegant sign become portents of the fantastic cuisine and dining experience that awaits. 

On your way to your table, you'll pass a curved lattice wall made of interlocking clay tiles, which offers glimpses of the main room.  

Your eye will wander upward to admire the curved wood accents that bend and curve across the ceiling, like flames from a stoked fire. Modern tables and chairs offer comfort and privacy, while the stone bar, with its backdrop of gas-fueled flames, sets the tone for jovial conversations over delicious cocktails. 

These factors make Cienfuegos a visually appealing eatery that will enhance your meal experience.

Cienfuegos: Menu & Drinks

While Cienfuegos's menu is steak-centered, it offers traditional and contemporary Yucatan-inspired innovations, ensuring there is something for everyone. 

A popular appetizer is the Roca Oysters, which are savory, fresh, and tender. Served on the half shell in a tray of crushed ice, the oysters are perfectly seasoned and as beautiful to behold as they are delicious!

Meat lovers will want to slice into Cienfuegos' star cut, the Tomahawk. This majestic cut symbolizes excellence and sophistication and is cooked to your liking over an open flame. The steak is tender and juicy and served with several sides, making it the perfect choice after a day exploring the Mayan World Museum of Mérida.

The Zarandeados Shrimp will appeal to those looking for something other than meat and with an adventurous palate. The fresh shrimp are marinated, bathed in a black sauce of garlic and Eureka lemon, and then cooked on the grill. The combination of spices, textures, and smoke makes this a unique culinary experience.

The wine selection at Cienfuegos is impressive, ensuring there's a red or white to pair with your entree or celebrate after a concert at Jose Peon Contreras Theater. With a full bar, the mixologists can create classic cocktails or signature drinks like the Carajillo CienFuegos. This sublime cocktail, crafted with chocolate, coffee, and liqueurs, will delight the senses.  

When only the best will suffice, visit Cienfuegos on your Merida vacation, where cuisine, ambiance, and beverages are the trifecta for the ultimate dining experience.