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Trip Report
Unveiling Mexico's Culinary Tapestry: A Journey Through Oaxaca's Flavorful Delights and Mexico City's Street Food Extravaganza
The foods that are forever in my dreams, salivating just thinking about it.
+ 7
North AmericaMexico11 days / February - March 2023
Highs & Lows
Tacos al pastor
Risk of an unsettled tummy - it's still worth it.
Itinerary Overview
Narrowing it down to two places that I think offered the best food:
- Oaxaca (9 days)
- Mexico City (4 days)
Oaxaca (9 Days):
During my 9-day stay in Oaxaca, I had the pleasure of visiting some incredible culinary destinations. One of the highlights was Hierve el Agua, where I witnessed the breathtaking petrified waterfalls and indulged in the local food offerings. I also made sure to stop by El Roy's Taco Truck, where I enjoyed delicious and satisfying tacos that left me craving for more. Exploring Mercado 20 de Noviembre was a treat, immersing myself in the vibrant market culture and sampling a variety of traditional dishes. Memelas Doña Vale was another standout, where I relished in the authentic flavors of memelas, a beloved Oaxacan specialty. And of course, Casa Taviche provided a delightful dining experience with its flavorful Oaxacan cuisine, leaving me with lasting memories of the local gastronomy.
Mexico City (4 Days):
During my 4-day exploration of Mexico City, I had the opportunity to visit some iconic culinary spots. A visit to San Juan Teotihuacán was a must, where I marveled at the ancient ruins and enjoyed delicious snacks to refuel. Tacos El Huequito became a favorite stop, offering mouthwatering tacos that perfectly captured the essence of Mexico City's vibrant street food scene. I also couldn't resist exploring Mercado Libertad - San Juan de Dios, navigating the bustling aisles and indulging in a wide array of Mexican delicacies. And last but not least, my taste buds were treated to the savory delights of Los Cocuyos, where I savored their delectable tacos.
Throughout my culinary journey, I fully immersed myself in the distinct flavors and culinary traditions of both Oaxaca and Mexico City. From the natural wonders of Hierve el Agua to the bustling markets and street food scenes, I experienced a fusion of cultural and gastronomic delights. This itinerary provided me with a comprehensive taste of the local cuisine, leaving me with a profound appreciation for the diverse culinary landscape of these two remarkable destinations.
Oaxaca Mexico City: A Street Food Paradise Overflowing with Flavors
3+Mexican gastronomy is truly remarkable, captivating taste buds both within the country and worldwide. The food I had during my visit remains a delightful obsession, as I find myself yearning for those incredible flavors each day. Experiencing it firsthand is an absolute must. Plan your visit to Mexico and immerse yourself in the vibrant food culture, indulging in a culinary extravaganza that will leave an indelible mark. Make sure to allocate enough time to explore the sites and, most importantly, savor the diverse and mouthwatering cuisine. From the aromatic markets of Oaxaca to the authentic street food scene, prepare to embark on a journey of gastronomic delights. Delve into iconic dishes such as tacos al pastor and relish the regional specialties that showcase Mexico's rich culinary heritage. The cultural experience of dining in Mexico adds an extra layer of enjoyment, whether you're sampling street food from skilled vendors or savoring traditional meals at family-owned restaurants. Allow the flavors of Mexico to ignite your senses and create lasting memories.
Mexico City Fly in spot from Aus, amazing foods and things to do.
1+I don't think it competes with Oaxaca, though it has some good contenders. Walk around the streets and any place with locals lined up or sitting out the front, you're guaranteed to have some good tacos and for really cheap.
Make sure you know what you're ordering, theres options of head, brain, eyes etc. The sauces are spicy! Some are mild so try a little before getting too excited. Stick to al pastor (pork), bistek (steak) or pollo (chicken) if you're not too fancy on venturing in those waters ( I wasn't brave enough). Use translate or if you can speak Spanish lucky you, ask the locals and or staff their favourite food/drink and order it. It's a good way to try new things and an easy recommendation. If you see people selling packets of corn chips with boiled corn, cheese and sauces on top - get it! I can't recall the name but they were fantastic!
If you prefer to cook, there are plenty of grocery stores and markets. At Mercado de San Juan de Dios, there is everything, I mean everything. Scorpions, maggots, crickets, meats, fruits and vegetables.
Most importantly - ENJOY!
Q & A
What would you have changed?
Eating meals at the hostel lol, so much better to eat out and stuff your belly with tacos and all the other amazing foods mexico has to offer.Anything go wrong during the trip?
Walking nearby some of the secluded parks, there was some drunk men hanging around. Most of the time they are harmless but we did have two come up to us and we felt a little uncomfortable - be mindful and stay near people and you will be fine. Some people say that the markets can be unsafe and not to walk with cameras/ phones out - though we had no problems!Restaurant recommendations?
Any street food vendors, most of the time they are fine to eat! If there's lots of people lining up or already eating give it a go. Get the marquesitas with nutella, cream cheese and strawberry, absolutely divine!Tips you would give a friend?
Try everything and enjoy it. It's worth spending a few more dollars to buy a meal out if you feel like it, because one day you'll be missing it!Packing tips?
Both cities were warm during the day and cool in the night.Transportation Tips?
Local buses are great in both Oaxaca and Mexico City.Any surprises?
Surprisingly, didn't we get sick from any of the street foods here - I think it could be a myth? Or maybe we were lucky.Booking details?
Booking.com and Hostel World - read your reviews!
Lodging
Hostal de Las Americas, average. Included breakfast is always a plus, staff are really nice but amenities are poor and our room had no window. Nice rooftop terrace and central.
Hostal Regina, clean, amazing breakfast, really cool vibe and nice staff.