If you're planning a trip to Mexico City, one of the most exhilarating ways to experience the city's vibrant culture is through a street food tour. Mexico City, or CDMX, is a culinary paradise where every corner offers a new flavour, a new story, and a new tradition waiting to be discovered. A street food tour in Mexico City is more than just a meal; it's an immersive experience that delves into the heart of Mexican cuisine, guiding you through the city's culinary backstreets, iconic markets, and local eateries.
With knowledgeable local guides, you'll uncover the authentic flavours of Mexico, from the best tacos to hidden gems in the city's bustling markets. Whether you're a food enthusiast, a curious traveller, or simply someone who loves to eat local, a Mexico City street food tour promises to be an unforgettable adventure that will leave you craving more.
Discover the Best Tacos in Mexico City
Mexico City, a haven for taco aficionados, is brimming with taquerias each presenting a unique take on the cherished Mexican staple. Explore some of the premier destinations to enjoy the finest tacos the city has to offer.
1 - El Vilsito: From Auto Repair Shop to Taco Haven
In the bustling heart of Mexico City lies El Vilsito, a covert treasure that metamorphoses from an auto repair shop by daylight to a vibrant taco hub at night. This taquería is famed for its exquisite tacos al pastor, marinated to perfection and cooked on a spit. Quick and attentive table service ensures your tacos are served promptly, letting you indulge in the succulent and rich flavours without delay. The distinctive ambiance and stellar cuisine of El Vilsito render it a quintessential stop for any taco aficionado.
- Address: Petén 248 y, Av. Universidad, Narvarte Poniente
2 - Taquería Los Parados
Nestled in the Roma Sur neighbourhood, Taquería Los Parados boasts a coveted spot in the Michelin Guide for Mexico, highlighting its superior culinary offerings. Since 1965, this traditional taco stand has focused on grilled meats, presenting an array of tacos such as alambre de rez con queso and tacos al pastor, alongside other tempting dishes like quesos fundidos and volcanes. With its widespread presence across the city, Taquería Los Parados promises a consistent and authentic taco experience.
- Address: Monterrey 333, Roma Sur, Cuauhtémoc
3 - Taquería Orinoco
Set in the fashionable Roma Norte area, Taquería Orinoco distinguishes itself with top-notch tacos and a distinctive dining ambiance. This trendy taqueria offers a choice between corn or flour tortillas and is especially renowned for its chicharrón tacos, hailed as exceptional. The menu also includes enticing alternatives like piratas and gringas, akin to quesadilla variations. Open until late, Taquería Orinoco is perfect for a nocturnal snack, complemented by homemade beverages such as Jamaica and Guava, adding a refreshing element to your dining experience.
- Address: Av. Álvaro Obregón 100, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
Explore Iconic Markets for Local Eats
Mexico City boasts a rich tapestry of vibrant markets, each presenting a distinct culinary journey reflective of the city's deep cultural roots. Discover some of the most emblematic markets to savour the local flavours.
4 - La Merced: A Market Steeped in History
Nestled on the eastern fringe of Mexico City's historic center, La Merced Market stands as the city's largest traditional food retail market. Its history stretches back to the early colonial era, marking La Merced as a cornerstone of commerce for centuries.
Occupying several expansive buildings on the former grounds of the La Merced monastery, the market is celebrated for its vast selection of fresh produce, meats, and traditional Mexican fare. Visitors can explore an array of fresh and dried chili peppers, nopals, chicharrones, authentic Oaxaca cheese, and various herbal remedies.
La Merced is also an ideal spot to relish in Mexican street food, or "antojitos," offering an assortment of quesadillas and tostadas with a variety of fillings and toppings.
- Address: Circunvalación, La Merced, Zona Centro, Venustiano Carranza
5 - San Juan Market: A Gourmet’s Paradise
At the heart of Mexico City lies the Mercado de San Juan, a culinary haven that celebrates the vast diversity of Mexican cuisine. Known for its premium ingredients, gourmet meats, and artisanal delights, this market is a food lover's dream.
Visitors can taste premium beef cuts, fresh seafood, traditional cheeses, and savor freshly made dishes like succulent tacos, traditional mole, and other local favorites. The lively ambiance, characterized by vendor interactions and a kaleidoscope of colorful displays, underscores its status as a culinary destination.
Unique offerings such as Oaxacan snacks, including fresh quesillo and crunchy grasshoppers, as well as seasonal Mexican fruits and smoky dried chiles, are not to be missed.
- Address: 2ᵃ Calle de Ernesto Pugibet 21, Colonia Centro, Centro, Cuauhtémoc
6 - Coyoacán Market: Art and Flavor
In the historically rich neighbourhood of Coyoacán, celebrated for its association with Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, the Coyoacán Market melds art with flavour. Beyond its selection of vibrant Tehuana fabrics, handmade bags, and leather goods, the market's culinary offerings steal the show.
Seafood, traditional Mexican tacos, tostadas, and other local dishes await. Its proximity to the Frida Kahlo Museum and Parque Allende enhances its appeal, making it a perfect venue for combining cultural and culinary exploration. On weekends, the vicinity outside the market bursts into life with local artists displaying their creations, contributing to the market's dynamic and eclectic vibe.
Address: Ignacio Allende, Del Carmen, Coyoacán
Sample Other Must-Try Local Eats
Beyond the iconic tacos and markets, Mexico City offers a diverse array of local eats that are equally captivating. Here are some other must-try options to enhance your culinary adventure.
7 - La Esquina de Chilaquiles: A Street Food Gem
Scattered throughout Mexico City are numerous street food stands and hidden gems that offer a taste of authentic local cuisine. One such gem is La Esquina de Chilaquiles in the Condesa neighbourhood. This legendary street food stall is renowned for its chilaquiles, tortas filled with fried chicken cutlets, and loaded with salsa.
The chilaquiles here are a breakfast champion, made with fried tortilla chips simmered in salsa and often served with cream, cheese, and onions. Another popular item is the torta de milanesa, a sandwich filled with a breaded and fried chicken cutlet, which is both hearty and delicious. For those looking to try something unique, tlacoyos are a pre-Hispanic street food that should not be missed.
These oval-shaped blue corn patties are hand-formed around fillings such as beans, requesón, or fava beans, then grilled on a comal until slightly crispy. You can find tlacoyo vendors at street corners in Roma and Condesa, outside metro stations, and in traditional markets like La Merced and Sullivan. Traditional toppings include nopales, queso rallado, cilantro, onion, red or green salsa, and Mexican cream.
- Address: Alfonso Reyes 139, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc
8 - Churros and Chocolate: A Sweet Tradition
No visit to Mexico City is complete without indulging in the sweet tradition of churros and hot chocolate. Churrería El Moro, established in 1935, is the most iconic place to experience this classic combination. El Moro's churros are fried to a golden perfection, dusted with cinnamon sugar, and served with a variety of dipping sauces and hot chocolates.
The original location is open 24/7, making it a perfect stop at any time of day or night. The combination of the crispy, sugary churros and the rich, foamy hot chocolate is a quintessential Mexican treat that you won't want to miss.
Address: Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas 42, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc
Walk Around Mexico City with a Food Tour
Exploring Mexico City through its vibrant food scene is an unforgettable way to experience its rich culture, history, and traditions. The Mexico City Private Experience by Sherpa Food Tours offers a fully customizable culinary adventure, designed to match your tastes and preferences for an exclusive and personalized journey.
Unlike traditional group tours, this private experience allows you to discover the city’s diverse flavours at your own pace. Taste authentic Mexican specialities like tacos al pastor, tamales, and churros, or uncover hidden gems loved by locals. Along the way, an expert guide will introduce you to the fascinating stories and traditions that make Mexico City’s cuisine one of the most celebrated in the world.
Perfect for food lovers, families, and those with dietary preferences, this tailored experience ensures a truly unique and immersive exploration. Whether you're seeking bold flavours, cultural insights, or a relaxed private adventure, the Mexico City Private Experience is the ultimate way to indulge in the city's rich culinary heritage—one delicious bite at a time.
Why Choose This Tour?
✅ Exclusive & Personalized: A private food tour tailored to your preferences.
✅ Authentic Mexican Cuisine: Savour Mexico City’s must-try dishes and hidden gems.
✅ Great for Everyone: Ideal for foodies, families, and travellers with dietary needs.
Embark on a one-of-a-kind culinary journey and taste the best of Mexico City!
A culinary experience just for you and your family!
3.5 Hours
+10 dishes & drinks
Just for your family
Gastronomic Journey in Mexico City
Mexico City is a culinary treasure trove, offering an unparalleled dining experience that blends traditional flavors with modern innovation. From the iconic tacos at El Vilsito and Taquería Los Parados, to the vibrant markets like La Merced and San Juan, each stop is a journey through the city's rich culinary heritage.
Don't miss the chance to sample churros and hot chocolate at Churrería El Moro, or explore the nighttime food scene with guided tours. Whether you're a food enthusiast or just looking to eat local, Mexico City's street food tours, markets, and restaurants promise an unforgettable culinary adventure. So pack your bags, come hungry, and immerse yourself in the flavors of this incredible city.
FAQ About Mexico Street Food
What Part Of Mexico City Has The Best Street Food?
The most celebrated street food in Mexico City can be savoured across a few distinct neighbourhoods, with Roma Norte, Condesa, and the Centro Histórico standing out. Roma Norte, in particular, boasts a lively street food culture, featuring popular spots like Tacos Los Juanes and the Tlacoyo and Quesadillas Colima.
What Food Is Famous In Mexico City?
Mexico City is renowned for several iconic dishes, such as tacos al pastor, characterized by marinated pork roasted on a vertical spit and garnished with pineapple; tamales, corn dough steamed and stuffed with a variety of fillings; pozole, a hearty soup made with hominy and meat; elotes and esquites, which are grilled and sautéed corn delicacies, respectively; and churros, crispy deep-fried dough pastries typically accompanied by chocolate.