All about Dzalbay Cantina in Mérida, Mexico (2025)

Dzalbay Cantina is a great spot if you enjoy live jazz and blues, with performances happening every night. To see who is playing, check out their calendar on the website. Like many cantinas in Mérida, it is set in a historic colonial building, adding to its charm.

It is (like La Negrita Cantina or El Lucero del Alba Cantina) a corner building and also has a small courtyard with seating. And like La Negrita Cantina it is cater more towards tourists. The cantina is located downtown, two blocks west of Parque de Santa Lucia.

Drinks, Spirits, and Good Vibes

Dzalbay offers around 30 types of beer, including a solid selection of craft brews. They serve classic cocktails like Margaritas, Mojitos, Cosmopolitans, Martinis, and Aperol Spritz, along with house specials.

There is also a wide range of spirits, including 30 types of mezcal, plus tequila, rum, gin, vodka, whiskey, and a few wines. If you are not in the mood for alcohol, they have soft drinks and coffee as well.

The food menu includes salads, quesadillas, tacos, wraps, stuffed mushrooms, baguettes, burgers, and more, making it a good place to grab a bite while enjoying the music.

Stay Late at Dzalbay Cantina

In Mérida, many traditional cantinas close surprisingly early, often around 8:00 pm. This is because they have historically been daytime drinking spots where locals gather for a few drinks and snacks before heading home for dinner.

While some newer or tourist-friendly cantinas stay open later, the early closing time is still common in the city. Dzalbay Cantina is one of the few cantinas that stay open late, welcoming guests daily from 4:00 pm to midnight.

18+ Only - ID Required

Entry to Dzalbay Cantina is strictly limited to guests who are 18 years or older. To ensure compliance, a valid government-issued ID is required at the door. This policy is strictly enforced, so make sure to bring proper identification if you plan to visit.

Dzalbay Cantina Online

In addition to its own website (see above), you can also find

• Dzalbay Cantina on Instagram

The Tradition of Mexican Cantinas

Cantinas have been a part of life in Mexico for generations. They started out as simple spots where people could grab a drink, hang out, and swap stories. Back in the day, they were mostly for men, and drinks often came with free snacks called botanas.

Over time, things have changed. Many cantinas are now open to everyone, and while some still have that old-school feel with swinging doors and vintage decor, others have a more modern vibe.

Cantinas are a big part of life in Mérida, mixing old traditions with a more modern vibe. There are plenty of them around, especially in the historic center, though it is hard to say exactly how many.