Whether you’re new to Mexican cuisine or an avid food lover of Mexican food, our foodie Mexico map is your passport to gastronomic bliss.

If you’re craving street tacos piled high with mouthwatering meats and tangy salsas or a steaming bowl of pozole, our foodie Mexico map will direct you to the best food places in Mexico.

Here’s our food guide to Mexico’s best foodie destinations and the dishes that make them worth a visit!

Foodie Mexico Map – 15 Places to Eat the BEST Food

1) Oaxaca

If you ask any foodie Mexico enthusiasts where they’ve enjoyed the best Mexican cuisine, they will likely tell you it was in Oaxaca.

Oaxaca is one of Mexico’s premier food cities due to its rich culinary diversity, blending indigenous, Spanish, and African influences into vibrant dishes like mole and tlayudas. 

There are seven different kinds of mole (a complex sauce), the dish people rave about.

Mole takes time, and loads of love to prepare, so it’s even more special once you sit down to enjoy one of Oaxaca’s most cherished dishes, chicken or turkey with mole negro (black mole).

Oaxaca City has good vibes, and I’ve spent months living in this vibrant city, eating as much Mexican food as possible.

Several food markets near the city centre offer comedors (small kitchens) serving homemade Oaxacan dishes at super affordable prices.

Read my Oaxaca food guide which lists 20 of the best dishes to try in Oaxaca.

These 12 excellent places to enjoy breakfast in Oaxaca are also worth visiting.

Some foods in Oaxaca you need to try:

• Tlayuda: Large, thin, crispy tortillas topped with beans, cheese, meat (such as tasajo or cecina), avocado, and salsa. I LOVE this dish!
• Moles: Moles are complex and rich sauces made from a blend of chillies, nuts, seeds, spices, chocolate, and other ingredients. Each mole has its own unique combination of flavours, ranging from spicy and smoky to sweet and savoury. Mole is usually served over chicken or turkey, I highly recommend you try a few moles when visiting Oaxaca.
• Quesillo: String cheese made from cow’s milk is a staple in my Mexico food shopping list when visiting Oaxaca. 
• Tacos de Huitlacoche: Huitlacoche is an edible fungus that grows on corn kernels. It has a distinct earthy, mushroom-like flavour. Huitlacoche, along with onions, garlic, and spices, is perfect inside tacos or memelas.
• Memelas: Thick corn tortillas topped with refried beans, cheese, salsa, and sometimes meat or vegetables. Memelas is one of the most popular breakfast foods in Oaxaca.
• Chapulines are a cherished delicacy in Oaxaca. Essentially, they’re grasshoppers seasoned and toasted with a blend of spices, such as chilli, garlic, and lime. You can find chapulines in other regions of Mexico; however, they say that the freshest and plumpest varieties are found in Oaxaca. I’m a fan of chapulines and enjoy them mixed with peanuts, eaten as a snack alongside a cold Mexican beer.
• Tejate is a traditional Oaxacan drink made from maise, cacao, mamey seeds, and the flor de cacao flower. It is often enjoyed chilled and just perfect on a hot day. Tejate looks a little odd, but please make sure you try some; it’s surprisingly delicious.
• Tacos dorados, or flautas, are corn tortillas filled with various ingredients, typically shredded meat (such as chicken, beef, or pork), rolled into a cylinder shape, and deep-fried until crispy. They are usually served with toppings such as shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco (fresh cheese), diced tomatoes, onions, guacamole, salsa, and Mexican crema. 
• Tamales Oaxaqueños: Tamales filled with mole, chicken, pork, or vegetables, wrapped in banana leaves and steamed. 
• Cecina Enchilada: Cecina refers to thinly sliced pork marinated in a mixture of spices, vinegar, and sometimes citrus juice. Then, it’s either grilled or pan-fried and slightly charred. It’s incredible when eaten atop your tlayuda with other delicious ingredients.

2) San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende is a stunning city, and you should plan to spend at least two nights to enjoy the vibes and gorgeous architecture.

And from my experience here, I remember the food was fantastic! 

Some foods in San Miguel de Allende you need to try:

• Enchiladas San Miguel: Corn tortillas filled with chicken, cheese, or beans, rolled up and covered in a savoury red or green sauce, then topped with cheese, crema, and onions.
• Churros: Fried dough pastries dusted with cinnamon sugar, often served hot and crispy from street vendors. They’re a delightful treat any time of day. Churros are found universally in Mexico, but I remember this city having a few memorable street vendors making fresh churros, especially during the evening.
• Tamales: Steamed corn dough filled with various ingredients like chicken, pork, or vegetables, wrapped in corn husks. They’re a popular street food here and come in sweet and savoury varieties. My favourite tamale is filled with chicken and salsa verde.
• Cochinita Pibil is a specialty featuring slow-roasted pork marinated in achiote paste and citrus juices, served with pickled onions and tortillas. It is a must-eat dish on your foodie Mexico adventure!

3) Mexico City

Mexico City is one of the world’s largest urban centres, bustling with street vendors and eateries that serve some of the country’s most mouthwatering food.

Whether you eat from a street cart, a market stall, or a 5-star restaurant, the food in Mexico City will rarely disappoint.

Among my favourite eats here were the iconic tacos al pastor, a culinary must-try!

Some foods in Mexico City you need to try:

• Tacos al Pastor: Marinated pork cooked on an upright rotisserie, typically served with charred pineapple, onion, and coriander in warmed corn tortillas.
• Tortas are hearty thick baguette-style crusty bread rolls filled with various meats, cheeses, avocado, beans, and other toppings. They’re cheap, filling and delicious.
• Sopes: Thick corn tortillas topped with refried beans, meat, cheese, lettuce, crema, and salsa.
• Quesadillas are grilled or fried tortillas filled with cheese and fillings such as mushrooms, squash blossoms, or huitlacoche (corn fungus).
• Carnitas: Slow-cooked pork that’s tender and scrumptious, typically served in tacos or tortas with onions, fresh coriander, salsa, and a good squeeze of lime.
• Pambazos: a sandwich made from chilli-soaked bread. If you see one of these, order it – you may not see them again.

• Chilaquiles: Fried tortilla chips smothered in salsa verde or roja, topped with cheese, crema, onions, and sometimes a fried egg or spicy shredded chicken. I love this Mexican breakfast; my go-to is Chilaquiles Salsa Verde.
• Flautas: Rolled-up corn tortillas filled with shredded meat, such as chicken, beef, or pork. They are then fried until crispy and golden brown. On top, they are served with shredded lettuce, crema, cheese, salsa, and sometimes guacamole.

4) Merida

Mérida, the capital of the Mexican state of Yucatán, is a vibrant and culturally rich city steeped in history and tradition. 

I REALLY loved this city, especially the plazas and squares that are especially busy with families spending time together in the evenings. 

The cuisine in Merida was fantastic and very diverse.

Some foods in Merida you need to try:

• Panuchos: tortillas stuffed with beans and topped with meat and vegetables.
• Sopa de lima: A clear chicken soup infused with lime juice, giving it a zesty and refreshing flavour. Typically, it includes shredded chicken, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices, often garnished with avocado slices, coriander, and crispy tortilla strips for texture and crunch.
• Papadzules: Rolled tortillas stuffed with hard-boiled eggs and covered in toasted pumpkin seed sauce and tomato sauce and often served with rice and beans.
• Tacos: There are many cool little ‘Taquerias’ (Taco Houses) in Merida, and you can choose from many different fillings or toppings.

5) San Cristóbal

San Cristóbal de las Casas, or often just San Cristóbal, is located in the southern Mexican state of Chiapas.

It offers a distinctive culinary scene influenced by indigenous traditions and local ingredients. 

This gorgeous colonial city, set in a highland valley, has the perfect mix of traditional restaurants, outdoor food markets and trendy cafes.

Fortunately for caffeine lovers, coffee beans are locally grown in the area, and the coffee is delicious.

You can feel a unique ambience walking along the cobble-stoned streets as traditionally dressed women and girls sell beautiful hand-sewn blouses and handicrafts, and homemade sweets of every kind are available everywhere.

But, let’s talk about what Mexico food specialities you can taste in San Cristóbal.

Some foods in San Cristobal you need to try:

• Birria: Slow-cooked goat meat in a deliciously flavoured red soup. This soup or stew has so many layers of flavour that it’s unmissable!
• Chocolate Chiapaneco: Chiapas is known for its high-quality cacao, and the local hot chocolate is rich, thick, and very addictive!
• Pepita con Tasajo: This dish features thinly sliced beef (tasajo) served with a sauce made from roasted pumpkin seeds (pepita), tomatoes, and chillies. I love the roasted pumpkin seed sauce, hands down – it tastes so good on anything!
• Sopa de Pan: A classic soup made with day-old bread soaked in chicken broth and flavoured with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and herbs. 
• Tamales Chiapanecos: Tamales are a staple in Chiapas cuisine, and the local variety often features a unique filling of mole sauce, chicken, and potatoes, all wrapped in banana leaves.
• Café de Olla: A Mexican coffee brewed with cinnamon and piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar).

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6) Puebla

Puebla offers a stunning blend of rich history, vibrant culture, and delicious cuisine, making it a must-visit city in Mexico. 

Moreover, Puebla is renowned for its high-quality and tasty cuisine, featuring must-try specialties like “Chile en nogada.” 

This dish combines seasoned ground meat with raisins, pine nuts, and local fruits, stuffed into roasted poblano chiles. After being dipped in batter and fried, they’re topped with a creamy walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds, resulting in a delightful culinary experience.

Another beloved Puebla favourite is the taco árabe, or “Arab-style taco.” 

This dish features sliced, spit-roasted pork served on charred Middle Eastern-style flatbread, which is grilled briefly to enhance flavour. 

Salt, lime juice, and salsa can be added to customise these tacos.

Head to Las Ranas Taqueria in Puebla for an authentic and affordable taste of these delicacies.

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Some foods in Puebla you need to try:

• Chile en Nogada: Roasted poblano chile stuffed with a savoury-sweet mixture is topped with walnut-based cream sauce and pomegranate seeds. This dish is seasonal and so delicious!
• Tacos Árabes– Spit-roasted marinated pork served on Middle Eastern-style flatbread, often with a dash of salt, lime juice, and salsa.
• Mole Poblano – A rich and complex sauce made from chocolate, chilli, spices, and other ingredients, served over chicken or turkey.
• Chalupas – Fried corn tortillas topped with shredded meat, onions, salsa, and cheese.
• Tortas de Santa Clara – sweet pastries filled with guava paste or sweet potato, then topped with powdered sugar.
• Tinga – Shredded chicken or beef cooked with tomatoes, onions, and chipotle peppers, typically served on tostadas or as a filling for tacos.

7) Valle de Guadalupe

Valle de Guadalupe, Mexico’s answer to Napa Valley, is famed for its vineyards and exciting wine scene. 

Here, Baja Mediterranean cuisine is popular, blending Mexican flavours with Mediterranean influences. 

Think fresh seafood, wood-fired pizzas, and paddock-to-plate experiences are significant highlights. 

Valle de Guadalupe is a must-visit for food and wine lovers with its scenic landscapes and diverse culinary offerings.

Some foods in Valle de Guadalupe you need to try:

• Fresh Seafood: Indulge in seafood caught fresh from the nearby Pacific Ocean. Tacos, ceviche, and grilled fish are all fantastic options here.
• Paddock to Plate Cuisine: Delight in paddock-to-plate style dining experiences, including creative dishes made with organically sourced vegetables, herbs, and fruits, grass-fed meats and artisanal cheeses sourced directly from local farms.

8) Santiago de Queretaro

Nestled in the heart of Mexico, Santiago de Querétaro beckons with its enchanting blend of history and architecture. 

Wander through its cobbled streets and discover the Spanish colonial architecture. 

Like many others in Mexico, this city is beautiful. Plan a few days to explore its many culinary hotspots.

Some foods in Santiago de Queretaro you need to try:

• Barbacoa is slow-cooked, delicate meat, typically lamb or goat, seasoned with spices and herbs. It is often served with fresh tortillas and accompanied by tomato salsa, onions, fresh coriander, and lime.
• Enchiladas Queretanas: These enchiladas are a local specialty. They’re typically made with corn tortillas dipped in a red chilli sauce and filled with chicken, cheese, or spiced potatoes. They’re usually served with lettuce, cheese, Mexican crema, and salsa.
• Gorditas are thick, stuffed corn tortillas filled with cheese, beans, meat, or vegetables, then fried or grilled until crispy.
• Tacos de Canasta are soft corn tortillas with ingredients like potatoes, beans, or chicharrón (deep-fried pork rinds). They are steamed in a basket and often served with fresh lettuce for crunch.

9) Veracruz

Veracruz’s cuisine offers a unique blend of flavours influenced by indigenous traditions, Spanish colonisation, African heritage, and Caribbean immigration. 

Fresh seafood, including red snapper and shrimp, takes centre stage in many popular dishes. 

Some foods in Veracruz you need to try:

• Enchiladas Veracruzanas are tortillas filled with shredded chicken or cheese, rolled and topped with a tasty tomato sauce flavoured with onions, garlic, and chilli. They are baked or fried until golden and served with garnishes such as avocado, cheese, and crema.
• Mojo de Ajo: One of Veracruz’s signature sauces, mojo de ajo is made with garlic, olive oil, and lime juice. It tastes divine with freshly grilled seafood.
• Huachinango a la Veracruzana: A specialty fish dish from Veracruz. Fresh fish (usually snapper) cooked in a tomato-based sauce infused with olives, capers, onions, garlic, herbs and spices. 
• Caldo de Mariscos: A hearty seafood soup made with a variety of shellfish, fish, and vegetables simmered in a yummy broth.
• Arroz a la Tumbada is a seafood rice dish consisting of fresh seafood such as shrimp, fish, and octopus cooked in a tomato-based broth with onions and spices.

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10) Monterrey

Located in northeastern Mexico, Monterrey is known for its dynamic culture, modern infrastructure, and active culinary scene. 

Local specialties include cabrito (roasted baby goat), and machacado con huevo (dried shredded beef with scrambled eggs).

Monterrey is also famous for its street food culture, with vendors cooking delicious tacos, tortas, and other savoury snacks.

Some foods in Monterrey you need to try:

• Cabrito: A regional specialty, cabrito is slow-roasted baby goat, served tender, often accompanied by tortillas, salsa, and grilled onions.
• Machacado con huevo: This hearty breakfast dish features dried shredded beef (machacado) pan fried with scrambled eggs, tomatoes, onions, and capsicum. It’s a filling start to your day!
• Cabuches: A unique local delicacy, cabuches are the flower buds of the biznaga cactus. They are often served pickled or pan-fried as a tasty addition to tacos. It sounds weird, but it tastes fantastic!

11) Puerto Vallarta

With an excellent location right along the coast – Puerto Vallarta is a popular vacation spot. 

In addition to many great things to see and do in Puerto Vallarta, the cuisine is a very good reason to pin this destination onto your Mexico Food Map.

Some foods in Puerto Vallarta you need to try:

• Pozole: Warm up with a bowl of pozole, a hearty soup made with hominy (dried maise kernels), meat (usually pork or chicken), and seasoned broth, topped with lettuce, radishes, onions, lime, and salsa.
• Ceviche is a dish made with raw fish or seafood marinated in citrus juices, mixed with onions, tomatoes, coriander, and chillies. When you’re right on the ocean, seafood dishes are a great idea!
• Tacos de Mariscos are seafood tacos filled with shrimp, fish, or octopus. They are often served with cabbage, avocado, lime, and various salsas and hot sauces.
• Pescado Zarandeado is a local specialty in Puerto Vallarta, featuring grilled fish marinated in a sauce made from achiote paste, citrus juices, and spices. It is served with tortillas and salsa. Take advantage of this dish here, my fave!

12) Morelia

Morelia, located in the state of Michoacán, Mexico, is renowned for its rich history, stunning architecture, and vibrant cultural scene.

As a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the city boasts well-preserved colonial buildings, charming plazas, and historic churches.

In terms of cuisine, Morelia is indeed a fantastic city to explore.

The region is known for its diverse and mouthwatering dishes, influenced by indigenous traditions and Spanish colonial heritage. 

Morelia’s bustling markets, such as Mercado de San Juan and Mercado de Independencia, offer a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and artisanal products, a great place to learn more about Mexico food facts and ingredients.

Some foods in Morelia you need to try:

• Carnitas: Carnitas is braised or roasted pork, typically cooked slowly until the meat is incredibly tender. Try carnitas in tacos; simply the best!
• Corundas are similar to tamales but distinguished by their triangular shape. This shape is achieved by wrapping the masa (corn dough) in corn husks and folding them into a triangular package. The package is then filled with ingredients such as cheese, pork, chicken, or vegetables and steamed until cooked through.
• Uchepos: These are sweet corn tamales made from freshly ground corn masa (dough) mixed with sugar and a pinch of salt, then wrapped in corn husks and steamed until cooked.
• Enchiladas placeras are open-faced lightly fried corn tortillas topped with shredded chicken or beef, potatoes, carrots, onions, and a rich tomato-based sauce. They’re garnished with Mexican crema, cheese, and coriander and I recommend you search for this one if you visit the lovely city of Morelia.

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13) Guadalajara

Guadalajara, Mexico’s second-largest city, is a vibrant destination known for its striking colonial architecture and lively atmosphere. 

The city boasts charming plazas, bustling markets, and a thriving arts scene, blending old-world charm and modern amenities. 

I  enjoyed this city and found it very welcoming and colourful with great energy.

In terms of cuisine, Guadalajara has some excellent street food to add to your Mexico food map. Vendors serve tacos, tamales, elotes, and so much more. 

Some foods in Guadalajara you need to try:

• Tortas ahogadas: Originating from the city of Guadalajara, they consist of crusty bread rolls filled with shredded pork or beef, dipped in a spicy chilli sauce, and then “drowned” or soaked in more sauce. A little messy but delicious!
• Birria is a Mexican stew made with slow-cooked meat, commonly goat or lamb, seasoned with garlic, cumin, and chilli. Order this dish here; it’s divine in Guadalajara. 
• Pozole: Warm up with a bowl of pozole, a hearty soup made with hominy (dried maise kernels), meat (usually pork or chicken), and seasoned broth, topped with lettuce, radishes, onions, lime, and salsa.

14) Guanajuato

Guanajuato is renowned for its colourful architecture, winding cobblestone streets, and lively cultural scene, and I admit that the food is a significant highlight, too.

After you’ve taken all the photos of the fascinating alleyways and coloured murals and paintings, take the time to say “hola” to the local street food vendors dishing out excellent street food in Guanajuato. That’s where you’ll find the most authentic Mexican food favorites.

Some foods in Guanajuato you need to try:

• Enchiladas Mineras: Corn tortillas filled with meat, potatoes, or cheese, rolled and topped with a rich guajillo chilli sauce and garnished with lettuce, cheese, and crema.
• Pipían: A traditional stew made with pork or chicken cooked in a sauce of ground pumpkin seeds, tomatoes, chilli, and spices.
• Cajeta: A sweet and creamy caramel sauce made from goat’s milk, sugar, and vanilla, often drizzled over desserts or used as a filling for candies and pastries.
• Gorditas are thick corn masa cakes stuffed with a variety of fillings, such as cheese, beans, chorizo, or shredded meat. They are then fried until crispy and topped with salsa, lettuce, and cheese.
• Chiles en Nogada: Poblano peppers stuffed with ground meat, fruits, and spices, topped with a creamy walnut sauce and garnished with pomegranate seeds and parsley. This dish depends on the season (for pomegranates), so if you’re visiting at the right time of year to enjoy this delicious Mexico food favourite (August – December), be sure to order it.

15) Baja California

Baja California is a famous region of Mexico for visitors wishing to enjoy the beach and great outdoors!

The Baja California peninsula is located in northwestern Mexico; it’s known for its stunning coastal landscapes, rugged desert terrain, and vibrant marine life.

The region offers diverse activities, including surfing, fishing, whale watching, snorkelling, scuba diving, and exploring scenic natural parks and reserves.

Some foods in Baja California you need to try:

• Tacos de Pescado: Baja-style fish tacos are THE thing to order in this region of Mexico, and it’s not difficult to work out why! Surrounded by the coast, fresh seafood is where it’s at! Crispy battered fish served in warm tortillas with cabbage, salsa, crema, and a squeeze of lime, and don’t forget to enjoy them with a cold beer.
• Lobster Tacos: Grilled lobster meat served in tortillas with avocado, cheese, and salsa.
• Ceviche: Fresh fish or seafood marinated in citrus juices with onions, tomatoes, coriander, and chillis. There’s nothing like tucking into a big bowl of fresh ceviche on the beach in Mexico.
• Tostadas de Ceviche: This dish is similar to ceviche but served atop crispy corn tortillas (tostadas).

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Best Group Tours in Mexico

Mexico is a great country to explore independently, but if you’d like to share the experience with like-minded people, consider joining a group adventure.

We recommend browsing these different group tours and adventures in Mexico.

I hope you have enjoyed reading this Foodie Mexico Guide! Are you ready to visit Mexico and eat all these dishes on your Mexico Food Map? Let us know what Mexican dish you plan to eat first!

Travel Tips for Mexico

We have many travel guides and tips for Mexico—what a delicious country!

Start your food journey with our Mexico Food Guide (21 of Mexico’s popular dishes).

Check out our Food Map of MEXICO, including 15 places to eat the best food! If you’re short on time, these are our top 5 food cities in Mexico.

Did you know Mexico is featured in our TOP 10 best countries for food lovers? 

Still trying to decide where to take your next trip? Read these 10 reasons to visit Mexico; it’s the ideal vacation spot.

For history lovers, these 11 historical places in Mexico will amaze you! 

If you plan to visit Oaxaca, a food lover’s paradise, you must taste these 20 most delicious dishes in Oaxaca. I also recommend these 12 best breakfast places.

For an unforgettable and authentic cultural experience, visit the Tlacolula Markets on Sunday – an absolute highlight of our visit! 

You may want to try as many of these popular Mexican drinks as possible; they’re so good!

You’ll need to stay connected while travelling in Mexico. We recommend eSIM. It’s easy, reliable and affordable. View options for eSIM in Mexico.

If your travels in Mexico are part of a much larger global adventure, then a Global eSIM may be the answer. It connects you in 124 countries, offering data-only eSIM and data/call/text eSIM. The Global eSIM has been a game-changer; we couldn’t imagine travelling without it now.

Want to travel in Mexico with like-minded travellers? View the best deals on group adventures in Mexico.

Check out our best-ever travel tips compiled from more than twenty years of experience.