If you’ve never tried comida corrida, you’re in for a treat. You might be asking, what is comida corrida? Well, it’s an affordable lunchtime option served at restaurants all over Mexico, sometimes called menu del dia. You’ll often find the meal’s several small courses posted on signboards or on a chalkboard on the restaurant wall.
Trying comida corrida in Oaxaca is particularly delightful, as ingredients are fresh, locally-sourced, and change every day, giving you a chance to sample a variety of new recipes. It’s also affordable, with prices ranging between 30 and 130 pesos for the meal, which typically includes an agua del dia (sweet fruit water), a simple soup of pasta or vegetables in broth, and a hot entree. Many meals also come with a small dessert, like flan or pay de queso (similar to cheesecake). Some restaurants may substitute a salad for the starter, and these days, many places include coffee as well. While the meal is typically served between 1 and 4pm, chefs often prepare a limited quantity of food, which gets served until it’s gone.
Top 10 Spots for Comida Corrida in Oaxaca
Sabina Sabe
Artsy hotspot, Sabina Sabe, has a dark and swanky ambiance with brick walls and exposed pipes, giving it an industrial feel. It offers an extensive selection of mezcal and an inventive cocktail menu, which may increase the price of your comida corrida, but is worth it for a sweet afternoon drink.
Santo Sabor
This restaurant consistently serves decent food, including vegetarian options daily. The comida corrida at Santo Sabor is very affordable, around 60 pesos, and usually features multiple entree options alongside your agua and dessert. It offers traditional recipes as well as some fun fusion dishes, with menus rarely repeating for several months. If you’re in the area earlier, stop by for their breakfast buffet.
Cabuche
Located southeast of the Zocalo, Cabuche offers meals that fluctuate between 100 and 130 pesos, depending on the ingredients. The menu often features entrees like fish fillet or pork ribs. For a smaller, more affordable lunch, consider trying the pozole. Additionally, the menu includes burritos, tacos, and other corn dishes prepared on the comal, many of which are vegetarian, with a focus on blue corn.
Cocina Isabel
Near Llano park, Cocina Isabel may not offer the fanciest dining experience, but it provides a classic Oaxacan comida corrida with plenty of choices. You can enjoy two soups, a variety of entrees, and several desserts, with some combinations costing as little as 45 pesos. Extras, like black beans, can be added, and you even have the option to take your comida corrida to go!
Casa Taviche
Just down the street from Cabuche, Casa Taviche may appear unassuming at first; however, it shines when it comes to comida corrida. The cheerful atmosphere features pastel-painted furniture and relaxing music throughout the day. The menu is typically around 85 pesos and includes two glasses of agua del dia. As the menu changes daily, you can expect fresh, locally-sourced ingredients that highlight the best of Oaxaca.
Cafe Nuevo Mundo
Located on the northwestern side of downtown, Cafe Nuevo Mundo is well-known for its delightful beverages and sweets. A recommended dessert is the perfect way to sweeten your afternoon meal.
Comalá
The standard menu at Comalá may not be particularly exciting; however, the comida corrida menu is notably creative at an affordable price. The primary attraction of this downtown spot is the stunning view from the rooftop patio, unparalleled by any other options on this list.
Quinque
Another relatively new restaurant, Quinque has a fun and funky vibe with its black and white wall art and cheerful checkered tablecloths. Besides the regular menu, the restaurant offers a daily comida corrida for only 60 pesos, remaining open as late as 10pm, though the day’s selection may run out before closing.
La Quince Letras
At Las Quince Letras, you can enjoy a meal that tastes home-cooked while receiving five-star service. The restaurant is spacious, with several large open rooms within a downtown colonial building. The best seats feature a bright covered patio, where you can watch fresh handmade tortillas and other corn masa treats being prepared. A typical menu includes not just a soup but also a snack from the comal, such as memelas, and your main entree, all accompanied by plenty of agua del dia to drink, and a delectable dessert to finish off your meal.
