Mexico City is a food lover's paradise, and its street food scene is one of the most vibrant in the world. From tacos to tamales, churros to chicharrones, the city's streets are lined with vendors selling all manner of delicious snacks and meals. Mexican street food is known for its bold flavors, fresh ingredients, and affordable prices, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
When it comes to the best street food in Mexico City, there are countless options to choose from. Some of the most popular dishes include tacos al pastor, made with marinated pork and served on a soft corn tortilla, and elote, a grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayo, cheese, and chili powder. Other must-try foods include churros, crispy fried dough coated in chocolate and cinnamon sugar. Tlacoyos is also a must-try, which is a type of stuffed masa cake topped with beans, cheese, salsa, and nopales (cactus). With so many delicious options available, it's no wonder that the Ciudad de México (CDMX) has become a mecca for foodies from around the world.
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Popular Street Foods
Mexico City is famous for its street food scene, offering a wide variety of dishes that are both delicious and affordable. Here are some of the most popular street foods in the city:
Best Tacos
Tacos are a staple of Mexican cuisine and are a must-try when visiting Mexico City. There are many different types of tacos available, but some of the most popular varieties include:
- Tacos al Pastor: These tacos are made with marinated pork that is cooked on a spit and served with pineapple, onion, and cilantro.
- Tacos de Cabeza: These tacos are made with beef head meat and are served with onion, cilantro, and lime.
- Tacos de Carnitas: These tacos are made with slow-cooked pork that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside.
- Tacos a la Plancha: These tacos are made with grilled meat and are served with onion, cilantro, and lime.
Quesadillas
Quesadillas are another popular street food in Mexico City. They are made with a corn tortilla that is filled with cheese and other ingredients such as squash blossoms, huitlacoche, or mushrooms. They are then cooked on a griddle until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
Tortas
Tortas, the quintessential Mexican street food, is a delightful symphony of flavors that capture the heart and soul of Mexico City's bustling food scene. These hearty chicken sandwiches pack a punch and come in a dazzling array of varieties, making them a must-try for any foodie exploring the city's streets. The torta, essentially a Mexican-style sub sandwich, consists of a fluffy, freshly baked telera roll, generously stuffed with a medley of fillings that can range from succulent cuts of meat like carnitas or chorizo to an array of sautéed veggies. Add a dollop of creamy avocado, a sprinkle of crumbly queso fresco, and a kick of spicy salsa, and you've got yourself a flavor explosion that's nothing short of spectacular.
The magic of tortas lies in their versatility – you can find them on every street corner, each vendor putting their unique twist on this beloved classic. Whether you're savoring a classic torta de pierna at a bustling market, indulging in a torta de chilaquiles from a friendly street cart, or sinking your teeth into a gourmet torta crafted by a trendy food truck, there's no wrong way to enjoy this Mexican treasure.
Corn-Based Delights
Mexico is known for its corn-based dishes, and Mexico City is no exception. Some of the most popular corn-based street foods in the city include:
- Elotes: These are grilled corn on the cob that is coated in mayonnaise, crumbly cheese, and chili powder.
- Esquites: These are similar to elotes but the kernels are cut off the cob and served in a cup. They are also topped with mayonnaise, crumbly cheese, and chili powder.
- Sopes: These are thick corn tortillas that are topped with beans, meat, lettuce, and crumbly cheese.
- Tlacoyos: These are oval-shaped patties made from corn dough that are filled with fava beans, cheese, or meat and are topped with salsa, onion, and cilantro.
- Tamales: These are made from corn masa that is filled with meat, vegetables, mole, or cheese and is wrapped in a corn husk and steamed.
- Huarache: This is an oval-shaped masa base, resembling the sole of a sandal, topped with refried beans, salsa, and a variety of mouthwatering toppings.
Other Delicacies in CDMX
Mexico City has a wide variety of other street foods that are worth trying, including:
- Carnitas: These are slow-cooked pork that is crispy on the outside and tender on the inside. They are served with onion, cilantro, and lime.
- Birria: This is a spicy stew made with goat, lamb, or beef meat and is served with tortillas and lime.
- Churros: These are deep-fried dough that is coated in sugar and cinnamon.
- Pambazos: These are sandwiches made with bread that is dipped in guajillo chili sauce and then filled with potatoes, chorizo, lettuce, and crumbly cheese.
- Jicaletas: These are jicama sticks that are coated in chili powder and lime juice.
- Camotes: These are sweet potatoes that are roasted and served with condensed milk.
Desserts
Mexico City also has a variety of delicious desserts available, including:
- Churros: These are deep-fried dough that is coated in sugar and cinnamon.
- Flautas: These are rolled-up tortillas that are filled with sweetened cream cheese and are deep-fried.
- Tostadas: These are crispy corn tortillas that are topped with condensed milk, sugar, and cinnamon.
Drinks
No street food experience in Mexico City is complete without trying some of the delicious drinks available, including:
- Agua Fresca: This is a refreshing drink made with fruit, water, and sugar.
- Horchata: This is a sweet drink made with rice, cinnamon, and sugar.
- Jamaica: This is a tart drink made from hibiscus flowers.
Condiments
Finally, no street food experience in Mexico City is complete without trying some of the delicious condiments available, including:
- Salsas: These are spicy sauces made from chilies, tomatoes, and other ingredients.
- Lime Juice: This is a common condiment that is used to add acidity and brightness to dishes.
- Chili Powder: This is a spice blend that is used to add heat and flavor to dishes.
Street Food Locations
Mexico City is known for its delicious street food, and there are many locations throughout the city where you can find affordable and tasty options. Here are some of the best street food locations in Mexico City, divided into four categories: markets, restaurants, neighborhoods, and street vendors.
Markets
If you want to experience the full range of Mexico City's street food, head to one of the city's many food markets. Here are some of the best:
- Mercado de San Juan: This market is known for its exotic meats, including crocodile, iguana, and even lion. It's not for the faint of heart, but adventurous eaters will love it.
- Mercado Medellin: This market is a great place to try traditional Mexican dishes like tamales and chilaquiles. It's also home to many vendors selling fresh fruits and vegetables.
- Mercado de Coyoacan: This market is located in the charming neighborhood of Coyoacan and is a great place to try traditional Mexican street food like tacos, tamales, and elotes.
- Mercado de Medellin: Located in the Guerrero neighborhood, this market is known for its seafood and is a great place to try ceviche and other seafood dishes.
- Mercado La Merced: This is one of the largest markets in Mexico City and is home to many street food vendors selling everything from shrimp tacos to churros.
Restaurants
If you prefer to sit down and enjoy your street food in a restaurant setting, there are many great options in Mexico City. Here are a few to check out:
- El Huequito: This restaurant has been serving up delicious tacos al pastor since 1959 and is located in the Cuauhtemoc neighborhood.
- Los Sifones: This restaurant is located in the Juarez neighborhood and is known for its delicious pozole, a traditional Mexican soup made with hominy and meat.
- El Pescadito de Sonora: This restaurant is located in the Centro Historico and is a great place to try seafood dishes like fish tacos and ceviche.
Neighborhoods
Mexico City is a large city with many neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and street food scene. Here are a few neighborhoods to check out:
- Coyoacan: This charming neighborhood is known for its traditional Mexican architecture and is home to many street food vendors selling tacos, tamales, and elotes.
- Polanco: This upscale neighborhood is home to many high-end restaurants, but there are also many street food vendors selling delicious tacos and other Mexican dishes.
- Centro Historico: This historic neighborhood is home to many street food vendors selling traditional Mexican dishes like churros and tamales.
Street Food Stalls
Finally, no list of street food locations in Mexico City would be complete without mentioning the many street vendors selling delicious and affordable food throughout the city. Here are a few to check out:
- Tacos Hola El Güero: This street vendor is located in the Alameda neighborhood and is known for its delicious tacos de guisado.
- Tostadas de Coyoacán: This street vendor is located in the Coyoacan neighborhood and is known for its delicious tostadas topped with a variety of meats and vegetables.
- El Vilsito: This street vendor is located in the Paseo de la Reforma neighborhood and is known for its delicious tacos al pastor.
Cultural Insights
Mexico City is a vibrant and culturally rich city that offers visitors a unique and exciting experience. The city is home to numerous museums, art galleries, and historical landmarks that showcase Mexico's rich cultural heritage.
One of the most famous cultural icons of Mexico is Frida Kahlo. The Frida Kahlo Museum, also known as the Casa Azul (Blue House), is a must-visit destination for those interested in Mexican art and culture. The museum is located in the Coyoacán neighborhood, where Kahlo was born and raised, and features a collection of her paintings, personal belongings, and photographs.
Another popular attraction in Mexico City is the Chapultepec Castle, located in the heart of Chapultepec Park. The castle was originally built in the 18th century as a summer residence for the Spanish viceroy and later served as the presidential palace. Today, it houses the National Museum of History, which features exhibits on Mexico's history and culture.
In addition to its cultural attractions, Mexico City is also known for its delicious street food. Visitors can find a wide variety of traditional Mexican dishes, such as tacos, tamales, and churros, at the city's many street food markets and stalls. Some of the best places to try street food in Mexico City include El Vilsito, Taqueria El Abanico, and Churrería El Moro.
Overall, Mexico City offers visitors a unique blend of culture, history, and cuisine. Whether you're interested in exploring the city's museums and landmarks or sampling its delicious street food, there's something for everyone to enjoy in this vibrant and exciting city.
Travel Information
Mexico City is a vibrant and exciting destination that offers a unique blend of history, culture, and cuisine. If you're planning a trip to the city to experience the best street food, there are a few things you should keep in mind.
Flights
Mexico City is served by two major airports: Benito Juarez International Airport and Toluca International Airport. Benito Juarez is the main airport and is located just a few miles from the city center. Toluca International is located about 40 miles from the city and is often used by low-cost airlines.
Tourism
Mexico City is a popular tourist destination, and as such, it's important to plan your trip in advance. Some of the must-visit tourist attractions in the city include the National Museum of Anthropology, the Palacio de Bellas Artes, and the Zocalo. It's also worth exploring the city's various neighborhoods to get a taste of the local culture.
Travel Guide
A good travel guide can be invaluable when planning your trip to Mexico City. Look for guides that include information on the city's history, culture, and cuisine, as well as practical information such as transportation options and safety tips.
Beaches
While Mexico City is not located on the coast, there are several beaches within driving distance of the city. Some of the most popular beaches include Acapulco, Cancun, and Puerto Vallarta.
Map and Photos
A map can be a useful tool when exploring Mexico City, especially if you're not familiar with the city's layout. Additionally, photos can help you get a sense of what to expect when you arrive. Look for maps and photos online or in travel guides to help you plan your trip.
Kelly Smith says
So many delicious options, it's hard where to know where to start first when eating your way through Mexico City. I think I'd have to go for the tacos --- ALL of the tacos. Yum!