Wednesday, December 1, 2010

Going Local

Local Markets have a limited variety of vegetables and fruits grown in the yucatan mostly around Oxkutzcab in the Ruta Puuc. The meat section is a gruesome reminder of where that ribeye comes from. It is well worth spending some time at the Central Market in Merida or one of these smaller markets in each neighborhood for there are many priceless photo ops, some local crafts and for the adventurous eaters there are food stalls and hawkers.  The Mercado Lucas de Galvez covers two city blocks from Calle 54 c 65 and 67 is the old market and the new cement palace is next door.  Don't miss the Museo de la Ciudad the Museum of the History of Merida on the ground floor with contemporary exhibits on the top two floors.  The building was the old post office constructed in 1908.   Santa Ana market on 47 x 58 & 60 is a lively place in the mornings and the Santiago Market 57 x 70 & 72 has some of the best tortillas in town and a good fresh juice bar.  At night the Reina de Itzlana is a very good place to have sopa de lima and panuchos.  The slow food market on Saturday is the best place to buy fresh made breads, jams and condiments.  Prepared foods mostly from Expats like the Italian cheesemaker or the French sausage maker or the Korean Kimchee maker.  Here you'll find the best organic salad greens and heirloom tomatoes if you come early.  Avenida Colon x Avenida Reforma.