Summary
There are many misconceptions about Mexican food; many people think it only includes tacos, burritos, and refried beans. However, that is just the beginning of what Mexico truly offers. In fact, the country’s cuisine is incredibly diverse and varies greatly from region to region. Therefore, here are some of the best destinations for food lovers in Mexico, along with must-try dishes in each location.
Oaxaca
Oaxaca has long been celebrated as a culinary destination. This state boasts significant biodiversity and a rich cultural tapestry, featuring 16 different ethnolinguistic groups. Consequently, the cuisine reflects this diversity, offering a wide array of dishes ranging from fried grasshoppers called chapulines to large prepared tortillas known as tlayudas. It is a must-visit for any culinary enthusiast.
Dishes to try: mole, tlayudas, quesillo, tamales, chapulines
Puebla
During the colonial era, recipes for Puebla’s famous dishes were created by nuns from the Santa Rosa and Santa Monica convents. These ingenious cooks blended European and Mexican ingredients, giving rise to signature dishes such as mole poblano and chiles en nogada. In addition to these delectable options, visitors can stroll through la calle de los dulces, or “candy street,” to indulge in traditional sweets.
Dishes to try: chiles en nogada, dulces de camote, mole poblano, cemitas, chalupas
Morelia
When UNESCO recognized traditional Mexican cuisine as part of the intangible cultural heritage of humanity, it highlighted Michoacan’s traditional culinary practices. Morelia, the state’s capital, offers a fascinating opportunity to explore the region’s diverse dishes.
Dishes to try: carnitas, enchiladas placeras, uchepos, corundas, churipo, ate
Mexico City
As one of the largest cities globally, it’s no surprise that Mexico City features a plethora of food vendors and restaurants. Here, you can find a wide representation of cuisines from different regions of Mexico, alongside dishes specifically favored by the residents known as chilangos. Moreover, considering a street food tour can be an excellent way to taste local flavors, especially if the variety seems overwhelming. You might want to discover the city’s offerings through a tour with Eat Mexico.
Dishes to try: tacos al pastor, pozole, tlacoyos
Merida
Merida, the capital of Yucatan, is a remarkable destination to explore Yucatecan cuisine. This culinary style stands out as one of Mexico’s most unique, embodying the blend of Mayan and European ingredients. The relative isolation of this region significantly contributes to its distinctive flavors.
Dishes to try: cochinita pibil, sopa de lima, queso relleno, papadzules
Puerto Vallarta
Puerto Vallarta is rapidly becoming known as a gourmet hotspot. The culinary range here spans from taco stands on the beach to high-end, white-tablecloth restaurants. For dedicated foodies, timing your visit with the Puerto Vallarta Gourmet Festival in November or Restaurant Week in May is recommended. Regardless of when you visit, a taco tour with Vallarta Food Tours offers a delightful culinary experience.
