By Anna Ortega
September 18, 2026 – 12:13
For lovers of sweet treats and rich cultural heritage, a new viral sensation has emerged on the vibrant culinary landscape of Mexico City. Combining traditional iconography with modern artisanal dessert craftsmanship, a local paletería has successfully transformed one of Mexico’s most beloved cultural symbols into a colorful, edible work of art.
Ts’unu’um Paleterias, an artisanal establishment known for its creative frozen treats and traditional paletas, is currently capturing widespread attention online for its innovative, Catrina-shaped ice cream. The striking dessert serves as a playful yet respectful tribute to Mexican culture, blending the whimsical artistry associated with Día de los Muertos aesthetics with the refreshing indulgence of high-quality ice cream.
The striking creation has quickly become a social media favorite, drawing curious food enthusiasts, locals, and tourists alike to the shop to witness and taste the frozen cultural icon firsthand. Customers visiting the paletería can order the intricately molded Catrina-shaped treat served either in a traditional cone or a convenient bowl. To match the visual appeal of the dessert, the shop offers a curated selection of popular flavors for the creation, including rich chocolate, earthy taro, and the nostalgic, sweet notes of beso de ángel.
Beyond its headline-grabbing Catrina creation, Ts’unu’um Paleterias maintains an expansive and diverse menu designed to cater to a wide variety of palates. The shop also offers an adorable duck-shaped ice cream alongside an extensive selection of traditional paletas. These frozen bars highlight classic Mexican flavors and ingredients, ranging from refreshing fruit options like guava, tamarindo, and mango-chamoy to creamy, comforting staples such as horchata, tres leches, and arroz con leche.
Despite the intricate craftsmanship and viral popularity of their specialty molds, the establishment remains committed to accessibility and quality. Prices for the artisanal treats range affordably from 35 to 50 pesos, ensuring that both everyday customers and visitors looking for a unique photo opportunity can enjoy the creations. Furthermore, the shop prides itself on utilizing fresh, natural ingredients for all of its menu items, bridging the gap between high-end artisanal dessert-making and traditional street-style paleteras.
The shop’s distinct identity is deeply rooted in local heritage, starting with its very name. According to the owner, the business is named after a Mayan word for the hummingbird—pronounced as "tzuzun" or "ts’unu’um." This graceful and energetic bird also serves as the inspiration for the paletería’s logo, which features a hummingbird cheerfully carrying a paleta. The symbolism reflects both the vibrant spirit of the brand and its commitment to bringing sweetness and swift delight to its customers.
With its playful, eye-catching shapes, deep cultural nods, and wide-ranging flavor profiles, Ts’unu’um Paleterias offers plenty of reasons for dessert enthusiasts to explore its menu. However, among the colorful array of frozen delights, its meticulously crafted Catrina creation stands out as perhaps the sweetest tribute of all to Mexican tradition. For those planning a visit to Mexico City’s thriving culinary scene, the question remains whether they would step up to the counter and order one.
