About
When your Merida vacation requires a meal in a festive setting that's close to the beach, visit the palapa at Viejo Bar Chicxulub!
This family-friendly eatery, ten minutes from the center of Progreso, is known for its live music, vibrant shows, visiting comics, and ample room for dancing. Offering three separate menus, Viejo Bar Chicxulub is perfect at any time of the day, with breakfast starting at 8 AM and dinner service kicking off at 6 PM through closing.
Viejo Bar Chicxulub opened in 2019 and quickly carved its niche as a popular spot to gather for a great meal with a side of fiesta. The eatery is a block from Chicxulub's pier and dinosaur statue. A dinosaur, you say? Indeed! Though no longer visible, the Chicxulub crater is where a meteor struck, which scientists believe led to the extinction of the dinosaurs. Further proof of this historical event is that Chicxulub translates from Mayan into "devil's tail" or "devil's thumb," alluding to the historic meteor.
Over the years, the fishing community of Chicxulub has become a popular vacation getaway, especially since it's under an hour's drive from the Yucatan capital. It's easy to start your day exploring Merida's Plaza Grande and then make your way to dine and dance into the evening at Viejo Bar Chicxulub.
Vibe
The ample open space features a vaulted palapa with exposed woven thatch palm fronds, which sets the tone for the laidback eatery. Pendant lights in rustic woven baskets add a soft glow to the space, while greenery frames doorways and windows. During the day, additional light comes in through the window openings lining the wall.
The seating area contains wooden tables that accommodate small and large groups. All seating arrangements point toward the bright stage, and the dinosaur murals near the stage provide a unique backdrop.
The overall vibe at Viejo Bar Chicxulub is one of celebration and relaxation. It's the perfect spot to unwind after a day at the beach or exploring the Yucatan Peninsula.
Viejo Bar Chicxulub: Menu & Drinks
The menu at this eatery is a delightful blend of traditional Yucatecan dishes, innovative culinary creations, and all-time favorites. A must-try item is the "Camarones ala Diabla," spicy shrimp sautéed to perfection and bursting with flavor.
Additional stand-outs are their varied preparation of salmon, including with mezcal or lime. To fulfill anyone's cravings, Viejo Bar Chicxulub also offers delicious hamburgers (also with shrimp) and fulfilling snack items to enjoy during one of their frequent shows.
Regarding drinks, Viejo Bar Chicxulub offers an impressive selection that caters to diverse tastes. For a refreshing twist to cerveza, choose one of their freshly prepared margaritas, mojitos, or summer tintos. Like sangria, the popular tinto de verano in the Yucatan is mixed with lemon soda and does not include fruit. For a non-alcoholic option, Agua de Jamaica is always a refreshing choice. This delightful beverage is made from hibiscus flowers and is known for its vibrant color and tangy taste. The menu also includes unique, locally inspired offerings that provide an authentic taste of the region.
Dining at Viejo Bar Chicxulub is a quintessential experience for anyone visiting Merida, offering exceptional food and a memorable time.
Local Tips
- The best time to visit to avoid crowds is early evening on weekdays.
- Reservations are highly recommended on weekends.
- Check the website for indoor markets, comic shows, and live music.
- Viejo Bar Chicxulub is also wheelchair accessible.
- Dancing is highly encouraged!