Cocina Económica

For those looking to experience authentic pueblo culture outside of Merida.
Available year round by request.

Your host will be Chef Mario Canul, our head chef and director. He will drive you to a little pueblo near Mérida where you will visit a popular cocina económica – a small, family-owned restaurant that operates out of their home. The cocina económica emerged as a phenomenon in Yucatán after World War II as women set out to gain more independence and augment the family income. Cocina económica translates literally to “economical cooking,” and that’s just what these venues offer.

Your first stop is a tour of the quaint local market. Afterward, with the owner and a few of her family members you will cook a simple dish that will be served to you and that will also be available for customers; you may also observe as the family prepares other offerings for the day’s menu. This class is an ideal way to experience what’s cooking at these local establishments – up close and personal.

CLASS DETAILS

Duration Approximately 4 hours
Group Size Groups of 2 or more
Dates Year round by request
Price $140.00 USD/per person

ITINERARY

8:30 am Arrive at Los Dos; depart for pueblo
9:00 Market visit
10:00 Cooking begins
11:30 Meal is ready!
12:30pm Return to Mérida

PRICE INCLUDES
– Transportation from Los Dos to the cocina económica

– Return to Los Dos, or to your hotel if located in the Centro Histórico

– Visit to the local market and breakfast snack from a market vendor

– Full meal at the cocina económica (this is the mid-morning meal known as almuerzo)

– Non-alcoholic aguas frescas

Service tip for your guide is not included, and is at the discretion of the visitor; pesos or US dollars are welcome.

NOTE: All classes and visits to Los Dos must be booked at least 72 hours in advance. Booking can only be completed via e-mail; unfortunately, we cannot accommodate phone booking or drop-ins.

* Class ending times are approximate only.