Yucatán’s Restaurant Crisis Amid Tourism Slump

Mérida, Yucatán — Yucatán’s gastronomic sector is grappling with a severe crisis due to the state’s ineffective tourism strategy, despite its recent designation as the Iberoamerican Capital of Gastronomy. Restaurant owners report declining sales, with some forced to cut staff, while the hotel industry also faces low occupancy rates.

Struggles in the Restaurant Industry

Carlos Aguirre Aguilar, President of the Yucatán Gastronomic Federation, confirmed that the restaurant sector has experienced a difficult start to 2025, with sales falling below previous years’ levels. The downturn is particularly acute in the state’s interior, where some businesses have resorted to layoffs.

Aguirre Aguilar expressed cautious optimism for the upcoming vacation season, predicting a 30% to 35% increase in business, particularly in coastal areas like Sisal, Progreso, and Telchac, as well as in colonial towns and designated "Pueblos Mágicos." Valladolid, in the eastern region, has already seen a notable uptick in tourism.

“The beginning of the year was complicated, with some setbacks, especially along the coast. But we trust this season will help us recover,” he said.

Broader Tourism Decline

The restaurant sector is not alone in its struggles. Hotels across Yucatán are reporting low occupancy rates, a situation industry leaders attribute to flawed tourism promotion strategies overseen by Darío Flota Ocampo, head of the state’s tourism efforts.

The lack of effective marketing has led to fewer visitors, compounding financial pressures on businesses reliant on tourism.

Hopes for Recovery

Despite the challenges, stakeholders remain hopeful that the vacation period will provide much-needed relief. The sector’s ability to rebound hinges on attracting more tourists to Yucatán’s diverse destinations, from its beaches to its historic towns.

The crisis underscores the urgent need for a revised tourism strategy to revitalize the state’s hospitality and gastronomy industries.