Food in Mexico

Mexico is renowned not only for its rich history, culture, and landscapes but also for the incredible diversity of its cuisine. Mexican culinary artistry brings together a myriad of flavors, textures, and aromas. From meaty traditions to exquisite seafood dishes, from hot and spicy soups to sweet desserts, Mexican cuisine offers an endless variety of dishes that delight and astonish both locals and tourists alike.

Mexico City, undeniably one of the world's culinary capitals, offers a plethora of dining options. Navigating this vast and bustling metropolis might seem daunting, but I can attest to the city's friendliness, cleanliness, and overall comfort, especially in areas like Roma Norte where I stayed. My exploration of the city's streets for delectable tacos and other delights was a memorable experience.

Mexico City is a haven for food lovers, with street food vendors gracing nearly every corner and a multitude of restaurants showcasing regional Mexican cuisine from every part of the country. In this list of top dining spots, I've personally vetted and recommend places, most of which are street food vendors. These culinary gems offer an array of flavors, from El Vilsito's extraordinary Al Pastor to Taqueria El Abanico's renowned carnitas and Taqueria Los Güeros' delectable tripa tacos.

The culinary journey in Mexico City continues with seafood delights at El Pescadito de Sonora, flavorful Al Pastor and cabeza tacos at Tacos Los Juanes, and sizzling cabeza and suadero tacos at Los Cocyuos. You'll find legendary tortas and chilaquiles at El Esquina de Chilaquiles and an unforgettable shrimp tostada at Mariscos Orizaba.

Further culinary adventures await at Birria Estilo Jalisco, known for its flavorful meat stew, and at Tlacoyo and Quesadillas Colima, where blue corn tlacoyos and quesadillas shine. The bustling Mercado La Merced offers a sensory overload of Mexican food, and the family-style restaurant Los Sifones serves mouthwatering dishes, including a molcajete caliente bursting with flavor. Don't forget to indulge in churros at Churrería El Moro, where these delectable treats are available 24/7.

Explore the city's exotic food scene with these local specialties:

1. Donkey Jerky: Discover this chewy and gamey street food at Chapultepec Park's weekend market. The bright-red meat can be doused in a semi-spicy sauce for an extra kick.
2. Escamoles: Try ant egg sacs, which resemble plump, shiny risotto, at Restaurante El Cardenal. They're mild and delightful, and you can enjoy them in a Spanish omelet.
3. Eyeball Tacos: Keep an eye out for tacos de ojo at streetside stands, featuring cow eyeballs. They have a texture and flavor reminiscent of tongue and can be customized with salsa and condiments.
4. Fried Tarantulas: Visit San Juan Market for exotic ingredients and prepared food, including fried tarantulas at Mexico en el Paladar. A daring choice for the adventurous eater.
5. Gusanos de Maguey: These hearty caterpillars, found on agave plants, can be enjoyed in a tortilla with guacamole and salsa at Restaurante Bar Chon. A unique pre-Hispanic dish.
6. Mosquito Eggs: Known as Mexican caviar, these tiny eggs are a specialty at Restaurante Bar Chon, served in vegetable-based patties with green salsa or mole sauce. A local delicacy with a crackly texture.
7. Pulque: Explore the world of pulque, a fermented agave sap drink available in various flavors. Pulque tastes similar to kombucha and can be found in pulquerias like Pulqueria Insurgentes in the Roma neighborhood.

In Mexico City, there are numerous delicious and diverse vegetarian food options. You can try classic Mexican dishes like vegetarian tamales (steamed corn cakes filled with vegetables and sauce) or vegetarian enchiladas (rolled tortillas filled with vegetables and cheese in sauce). You should also explore tostadas with guacamole and salsa, as well as various soups like pozole (corn hominy soup) and sopa azteca (a soup with agave and vegetables).

Vietnamese cuisine in Mexico City offers a delightful fusion of flavors and textures. You can savor traditional Vietnamese dishes like pho (noodle soup with herbs and meat or tofu), fresh spring rolls, and banh mi (Vietnamese sandwiches) with various fillings like lemongrass tofu or grilled pork.

Traditional Mexican food is a reflection of the country's unique culinary heritage, characterized by artisanal preparation and the use of simple, fresh ingredients enhanced with natural herbs and spices. Authentic Mexican cuisine is deeply rooted in history and regional traditions, featuring dishes that vary from region to region.

Among the top traditional Mexican foods, Chilaquiles are a popular breakfast choice, made from fried tortilla chips smothered in red or green salsa, layered with shredded chicken, avocado, radishes, onions, queso fresco, and crema. Pozole, a hearty stew, is another must-try, with variations like red, green, or clear broth, all featuring hominy, spices, tomatoes, and pork shoulder. Tamales are a ubiquitous and portable favorite, made from corn-based dough stuffed with various fillings and wrapped in corn husks or banana leaves. Chiles en Nogada, a dish that mirrors the colors of the Mexican flag, is a festive choice, featuring roasted poblano chili peppers stuffed with a flavorful mixture and topped with walnut cream sauce and pomegranate seeds. Lastly, Mole Poblano, a complex sauce that incorporates chocolate, provides a unique flavor experience when served over chicken and rice, making it a hallmark of Mexican cuisine.

been woven together over centuries. From the vibrant and zesty green chile to the earthy and robust red chile, the state's cuisine offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience. Green chile, a beloved local treasure, can be found in various forms, from green chile stew to green chile cheeseburgers, adding a touch of heat and flavor to every dish. Chiles rellenos, stuffed with Jack cheese and fried to crispy perfection, are a mouthwatering treat that showcases the state's own green chiles.

Red chile, with its smoky depth and rich character, is the mature counterpart to green chile, often incorporated into sauces and dishes like carne adovada. Speaking of carne adovada, it's a succulent delight of slow-braised pork bathed in a spicy red chile sauce, making it a versatile option for various meals. Stacked red chile enchiladas, served with a fried egg, offer a hearty and satisfying New Mexican feast, while huevos rancheros, featuring eggs atop blue corn tortillas smothered in chile, bring a spicy kick to the breakfast table.

Blue corn, a native staple, adds a sweet and nutritious touch to dishes like blue corn tortillas, chips, and pancakes. Tamales, wrapped in corn husks and filled with blue cornmeal and flavorful chiles, are a Christmas tradition that can be enjoyed year-round. And don't forget about tortillas, especially the soft and fluffy blue corn tortillas that are a northern New Mexico specialty, serving as versatile companions to a variety of dishes.

Mexico is renowned for its diverse and delicious cuisine, and one of the most popular foods in the country is tamales. Tamales are corn dough parcels filled with various ingredients such as meat, cheese, chilies, or even sweets. They are often wrapped in banana leaves and can be prepared in different variations across Mexico.

Another widely popular dish is tacos. These are small tortillas filled with meat or vegetables and often served with a variety of toppings like sauces, onions, cheese, and guacamole. Tacos also offer a wide range of options and can be found on the streets, in restaurants, and at local markets.

Japanese cuisine has become quite popular in Mexico over the past few decades. Sushi, sashimi, and other Japanese dishes are readily available in restaurants and sushi bars across the country. Many Mexicans have found enjoyment in this exotic cuisine, and it has become a part of the local culinary scene.

It's important to note that in Mexico, there are often local variations of Japanese dishes, such as "sushi with avocado" or "sushi with chili," reflecting the influence of local tastes and ingredients. Additionally, Japanese cuisine can also be found in fast food establishments and supermarkets.

To avoid food poisoning while in Mexico or any other destination, it's essential to take precautions and follow best practices for food safety. Here are some tips to help you stay healthy:

1. Choose reputable establishments: Opt for restaurants and food vendors with good reviews and a high customer turnover. Well-established places are more likely to follow proper food safety practices.
2. Wash your hands: Regularly wash your hands with soap and clean water before eating or handling food. Carry hand sanitizer with you in case clean facilities are unavailable.
3. Drink bottled water: Avoid drinking tap water and use bottled water for drinking, brushing your teeth, and making ice. Ensure that the bottle's seal is intact.
4. Avoid ice and ice-cold drinks: Ice made from tap water can be a source of contamination. Stick to bottled or canned beverages and ask for no ice in your drinks.
5. Eat thoroughly cooked food: Ensure that your meat, poultry, and seafood are cooked thoroughly and served hot. Undercooked or raw dishes, such as ceviche, can pose a risk.
6. Be cautious with street food: While street food can be delicious, it's important to choose vendors that look clean and have a high customer turnover. Make sure the food is cooked or prepared to order and is served piping hot.
7. Peel fruits and vegetables: If you're unsure about the cleanliness of fruits and vegetables, peel them before consuming. Avoid salads that may be washed with tap water.
8. Use caution with dairy products: Opt for pasteurized milk, cheese, and yogurt, which are less likely to carry harmful bacteria.
9. Watch for cross-contamination: Ensure that utensils and surfaces are clean when eating out. Avoid condiments that are left out in the open.
10. Trust your senses: If something smells or looks off, or if it's not at the right temperature, it's better to be safe and avoid eating it.
11. Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of safe fluids to stay well-hydrated, especially in hot and humid climates.
12. Carry over-the-counter medications: Consider bringing medications for common digestive issues, like antacids or anti-diarrheal medication, in case you need them.
13. Travel insurance: Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies in case you do become ill.