​​Gastronomy in Mexico City

Mexico City is one of the most vibrant culinary destinations in the world. Its cuisine blends pre-Hispanic traditions, colonial influences, regional recipes, and contemporary creations, making it a diverse and exciting food capital. Eating in CDMX is a cultural experience. Each dish tells a story, each market reflects a local identity, and every street corner offers something new to discover.

Must-Try Dishes

Mexico City’s culinary identity is built on centuries of tradition and regional influences. While the options are endless, there are a few standout dishes that every visitor should try at least once.

• Tacos: The city’s most iconic street food. Whether filled with al pastor, carnitas, barbacoa, or suadero, tacos are a daily staple served in markets, taquerías, and late-night stands across CDMX.

• Tamales: Traditional breakfast staple made from corn dough filled with meats, chilies, or sweet ingredients, then wrapped in corn husks and steamed.

• Mole: A rich, complex sauce made from chilies, spices, nuts, and sometimes chocolate. Served over chicken or enchiladas, it’s one of Mexico’s most iconic dishes.

• Pozole: Soup made from hominy corn and pork or chicken, garnished with lettuce, radish, oregano, and lime. Often eaten on festive occasions.

• Chilaquiles: A comforting dish made with lightly fried tortilla chips simmered in green or red salsa, then topped with cheese, cream, onions, and often a fried egg or shredded chicken.

Typical Drinks

To accompany your meal, try traditional aguas frescas like horchata, jamaica, o tamarindo. In historic pulquerías, you can sample pulque, an ancient fermented drink. For something stronger, mezcal and tequila are served in classic cantinas and specialty bars. There is also a growing scene of craft cocktails and local beers, especially in areas like Juárez and Roma.

Where to Eat in CDMX

Restaurants and Culinary Hotspots

Gastronomic experiences in Mexico City range from humble food stalls to Michelin-starred restaurants. For contemporary and upscale dining, neighborhoods like Polanco, Roma, and Condesa offer a wide variety of culinary options. Highlights include Pujol, ranked among the world’s best restaurants for its elevated take on Mexican cuisine, and Quintonil, known for seasonal menus that showcase native ingredients. You’ll also find innovative fusion spots, international flavors, and creative tasting menus that reflect the city's dynamic food scene.

Markets and Local Experiences

For authentic and affordable meals, head to traditional markets like San Juan, Coyoacán, or La Merced, where fresh ingredients and time-honored recipes come together. San Juan Market is famous for its exotic products like chapulines and escamoles, both traditional Mexican insects, as well as rare meats like crocodile and wild boar. Coyoacán Market, on the other hand, offers delicious street-style snacks; and Jamaica Market is a feast of flowers, fruits, and local flavors.

To explore these places more in depth, the Tacos, Exotic Food & Local Markets of Mexico City Tour offers a guided walk through the Historic Center and traditional markets.

Don´t be afraid to try street food. Just look for places with a steady flow of customers. Always carry cash for small vendors and local eateries. Avoid drinking tap water. Bottled water is a safer choice. If you have dietary restrictions, ask about ingredients in advance, as many recipes include dairy, corn, or chili.