All about 130 Grados Steakhouse in Mérida (2025)

A friend recommended this steakhouse to us, and the very next night we were the first ones through the door. I’ve been raving about it to everyone ever since.

As with most houses in the historic center, the exterior gives no hint of what lies behind the door. That’s part of the charm of the city, each entrance hides a little surprise.

130° Steakhouse has branches in Mérida, Tulum and Santiago de Querétaro. The restaurant in Mérida on the Restaurant Row (Calle 47) is relatively small (so there are only a few tables), but authentically furnished in a nice dim atmosphere.

Let’s cut to the chase: As the name suggests, 130 Grados Steakhouse specializes in high-quality cuts of meat. For me, that means I’m right where I belong.

You’ll find options like ribeye, New York strip, porterhouse, and tomahawk steak, as well as ribs. They also offer some unique creations - have you ever tried a New York steak with a coffee crust, for example?

The wine selection is extensive, with a particularly wide range of red wines, which is no surprise for a steakhouse. Among them is the prestigious Opus One from Napa Valley, but if you’re interested, be prepared to spend well over $1,000 for a bottle.

Cost of Steaks by Weight

The price of the meat is based on weight, which can make things a bit unclear and sometimes lead to surprises. In my case, I hadn’t noticed that my steak was actually meant for two people.

Well, that was unexpected! Even for two, it was a massive portion, and with a side dish, my bill ended up being over 100 US dollars. The price level is definitely on the higher end, but if you’re a steak lover, you’ll get your money’s worth.

Awards, Reservations & Online Presence

TripAdvisor has recognized the restaurant with its Travellers' Award. You can easily make a reservation by phone or online. Since there are only a few tables, I highly recommend booking in advance.

If you’d like to check it out online first:

• 130 Grados Steakhouse website

• 130 Grados Steakhouse on Facebook

Steak Doneness Guide

130° refers to the ideal core temperature for a medium-rare steak, measured at 130°F (54°C). At this temperature, the steak stays juicy and tender while maintaining the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and moisture.

In my opinion, this is the sweet spot for a perfectly cooked steak. But of course, you can have your steak grilled exactly how you like it. Typically, the following doneness levels are used:

• Rare: 120-125°F (49–52°C): Cool, red center, very soft texture.

• Medium Rare: 130-135°F (54–57°C): Warm, red center, tender and juicy.

• Medium: 140-145°F (60–63°C): Warm, pink center, slightly firmer texture.

• Medium Well: 150-155°F (65–68°C): Slight pink center, firmer and less juicy.

• Well Done: 160°F+ (71°C+): Fully cooked, no pink, firm and drier texture.

The Restaurant Row

130 Grados Steakhouse is situated along Calle 47, in an area known as the Corredor Gastronómico, or Restaurant Row. This lively stretch begins just east of the southern roundabout of Paseo de Montejo.

The street is home to some of Mérida’s top restaurants and trendiest cafés. The entire street underwent a major renovation in 2023, making it an even more inviting spot for dining and exploring the city’s evolving culinary scene.

You will find for example the fine restaurants Olivia Enoteca, Catrín or Micaela Mar & Leña, the cafés Cafetería Impala, Baretto Espresso Bar, Marmalade 47 or Latte Quatro Sette and the cantina El Lucero del Alba.