Apoala, located in the vibrant Parque Santa Lucia of Mérida, Yucatán, is quickly becoming a must-visit for both locals and tourists seeking an authentic Mexican dining experience. The reviews speak volumes about the restaurant's culinary mastery, showcasing flavorful dishes that leave diners thoroughly satisfied. Customer Jo M. highlights the sheer richness of flavors in every dish, while Wendy Robinson raves about the artistic presentation and freshness of their renowned braised rib and shrimp ceviche. Maddy Pape emphasizes the attention to detail, particularly in their spicy margaritas that stand out in Mérida’s dining scene. Daidai C. further extols the unique offerings like the taco tlayudo de pulpo, skillfully paired with Yucatan cheese and avocado, making it a standout menu item. Patrons also appreciate the atmosphere, described as charming and lively, though some note the lack of air conditioning. Overall, Apoala combines exceptional food quality with a welcoming ambiance. Whether you’re savoring tacos or indulging in crispy snacks, this restaurant promises a delightful culinary adventure in the heart of Mérida. Highly recommended for those looking to explore the depths of Mexican cuisine!
Amenities and More
Accessibility
Has wheelchair accessible entrance
Has wheelchair accessible parking lot
Has wheelchair accessible restroom
Has wheelchair accessible seating
Service options
Has outdoor seating
Offers takeout
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Has great beer selection
Serves great cocktails
Serves great coffee
Serves great dessert
Has live music
Has rooftop seating
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves cocktails
Serves coffee
Serves food
Serves happy hour drinks
Serves happy hour food
Serves hard liquor
Serves late-night food
Serves organic dishes
Serves small plates
Serves vegan dishes
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves brunch
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has catering
Has counter service
Serves dessert
Has seating
Amenities
Has bar onsite
Has restroom
Has Wi-Fi
Free Wi-Fi
Atmosphere
Cozy
Quiet
Romantic
Trendy
Upscale
Crowd
Family-friendly
Good for groups
LGBTQ+ friendly
Popular with tourists
Transgender safespace
Planning
Lunch reservations recommended
Reservations required
Dinner reservations recommended
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Accepts NFC mobile payments
Credit cards
Children
Has changing table(s)
High chairs available
Has kids' menu
Parking
Paid parking lot
Usually difficult to find a space
Pets
Dogs allowed
Dogs allowed outside
Photos
Reviews For Apoala
Jo M
Apr 27,2025
This is the best meal we had in Merida. The food was delicious, each dish was rich with flavor and very fulfilling. I was surprised to eat every bite from my plate but it was so good, I just could not stop eating. I enjoyed the ensalada ...
Wendy Robinson
Apr 21,2025
Fantastic meal. Everything was wonderful. We had the house salad (the tuna, the braised rib (so amazing our 4yr old wouldn’t stop eating it) and the shrimp ceviche. The presentation was just as beautiful as the freshness and flavors of everything. Highly recommend. The plantain and cheese balls were so good (with the rib) As well.
Maddy Pape
Apr 15,2025
The food here was fantastic, really great attention to detail. The spicy margaritas were the best ones we had in all of Merida!oat restaurants won’t really make the margarita spicy but they showed they cared by listening to our needs! It’s pricey but great value. Definitely would recommend
Amy Acosta
Apr 14,2025
Restaurant is inside a fun little square. No A/C but the ambiance was nice! There are local people who walk up to the table to try to sell you souveniers, but if you wave them off they walk away quietly. Food: Picana tacos were a hit, especially loved the green tomato garnish on the tacos. We tried the verde salad which was very good and a seafood appetizer which was also tasty. Drinks: the mezcal drinks are on the light/weak side, but have good flavor and fun presentation (mine had flaming rosemary). Will return and try more items.
Daidai C
Apr 12,2025
Taco tlayudo de Pulpo - love the tender char grilled octopus! It’s so good with yucatan cheese and avocado. It’s a huge taco by the way. Very recommended! Tiradito de Shrot Rib - it’s very juicy and tender short rib in slices with avocado, the pineapple puree sauce is a perfect match with it. Snacks is also my favorite, the thin crispy baked tortilla is an excellent cracker to match with short rib and hot salsa! They even gave us a free mutton roll sample!! Wonderful atmosphere and awesome service. Definitely will visit again when around Santa Lucia Park
Megan Close
Feb 24,2025
Beautiful little spot in Santa Lucia. Delicious food, wonderful service, and beautiful ambiance. We enjoyed ceviche polpo, braised short ribs, and pasta de la dia for our picky one. Perfect meal in Merida.
Bhumika Patel
Feb 16,2025
We had the best meal of Merida so far. Each one of us (4 total) had different meals and preferences, and we were all blown away by the food. One in our group was recovering from the stomach bug and the waiter was able to get a lime bitters club soda mocktail made for him because bitters help to settle the stomach. Each part of our meal was delicious and muy bonito! I loved my octopus and scallop ceviche!
Dominic Grosleau
Feb 7,2025
Good food , location is great and the service was good. The price goes along with the location so it’s not cheap but you can still have a decent meals without being overpriced.
Reviews For Apoala