Gato Gordo Café — Restaurant in Mérida

Cats and coffee, heck-yeah! That alone caught my attention. Even though it had been our 3rd café experience that day. I couldn't just pass this place without checking it out. Three times a charm, though, and boy, am I glad we stumbled into Gato Gordo. It turned out to be the 2nd best cup of coffee we've had in all of Merida, and that's over the past 5 weeks of trying many cafes. I ordered an Americano coffee and was in coffee heaven. It blew me away with how good it tasted that I savored every sip as if it was my last coffee ever. I am so grateful to have had such a nice coffee experience since I've drank my fair share of disappointing coffees offered around Merida. The owner explained to my spouse and I that the coffee beans she used were fair trade and organic. Well, whatever beans she's using or however it's being processed, more cafes should take note and replicate what Gato Gordo is doing on some level, as it's perfection in a cup. From the smell, the strength, the taste, it's just amazing coffee. The café itself is very cozy and beautifully decorated with cat theme paintings. We were served by the owner herself, and she's very friendly to speak with and is passionate about her business. I'm so glad we found this café. It was such a pleasant surprise to find randomly along...

This coffee shop is the very definition of why one travels. It is yet another hidden gem in Merida. I am blown away by the quality and consistancy of this town's dedication to healthy ingredients. She has healthy menu options including gluten-free desserts (slay queen!), a fruit plate, as well as organic coffee. It is supurb, we even got coffee grounds to enjoy in our AirBnB!

Gato Gordo is a quaint, cozy cafe that is ripe for the discovery of traveler's who enjoy authenticity and personality. Not only is this a cat themed cafe, but the art inside the shop is all done by the owner herself. It's the perfect tucked away spot for an afternoon snack or for remote working in the morning (she does have wifi!). Gato Gordo reminds of the tiny cafes in Florence, Italy. Do yourself a favor and add this to your go-to's...

I've been coming here every time I've been in Mérida for years. The owner is a lovely lady, incredibly friendly. Both times that I was in town for my birthday, she made me a surprise birthday cake, with candles and everything.

The food hits the spot. Just the right amount and made with care. I particularly love her espresso tonicos, which I discovered here for the first time some years ago. It's a joy to work from here and to spend time here with friends. The place is filled with cute art of cats and has a real personal touch.

I hope to come back here many more times in the...