The Best Street Food Markets in Mexico

Also situated in what can likely be classed as the food capital of Mexico, Oaxaca City hosts this market that offers local produce that has been carried to the market through the city’s canal. This is a classic venue for eating some of Oaxaca’s most popular food items, in particular pan de yema (egg bread) and traditional Mexican hot chocolate. This market is a bustling breakfast and lunch spot with traditional regional cuisine (mole de olla, Oaxacan tamales) as well as other favorites like chilaquiles, guisados and fixed, three-course menus (comida corrida).

Popping up out of what seems like nowhere is an outdoor market just outside of Mexico City. Every Tuesday, the Santiago Tianguistenco market turns this area into a unique world, hidden under multicolored tarps that drape over the array of stalls. Wandering through this market allows you to experience the handwork, craftsmanship and positivity of the people behind them. The vast options can be overwhelming, and we can’t guarantee you will find the most hygienic environment at every stand, but look for the crowds and dig in.

An abundance of fresh fish in every shape and color awaits you in Zihuatanejo’s municipal market, as well as tropical fruits like mango, papaya and dozens of citrus fruits. The market, which used to be one big, outdoor area, has now been divided into a covered produce area and an area with food stalls. With so much to see, be sure to try some of the regional dishes at the stalls and a cup of steaming hot café de olla. That said, it’s the breakfast here that can’t be beat.

A classic tianguis (market) in the town of Chalco, this market completely takes over the center every Friday. Local farmers buying and trading fruit, veg and livestock make it a real adventure with lots going on. There are dozens of stalls to peruse and an abundance of delicious food on offer. Quesadillas, barbacoa and rabbit are specialities in the area and worth a try.

This traditional market happens every Sunday in Mexico City. Known as the weekend market, it is the place to go for antiques and crafts, and is perfect for those who want to return home with something unique. Next to the antiques is an outdoor market with clothing, accessories and a food section. Here, you can sample Spanish paella, Argentine choripán, Mexican pulque and finish off your trip with American-style barbecue chicken wings. Come to shop, stay to eat.

This market isn’t for the faint-hearted, as livestock are butchered on-site and buyers are able to take the meat home with them immediately. But Tianguis Campesino is a great place to find northern delights, like semitas turcas, regional cheeses, salsas, flour tortillas and, of course, cabrito, the Monterrey speciality. The market is also known for the sale of herbs and medicinal plants.

In the historic center of Mexico City are a set of four markets known as the the Fresh Markets of San Juan. The markets are rich in history and a key point in the transport of merchandise, and unfortunately this once included slaves who were sold here. When considering the history, it can be a little dark and food may be the last thing on your mind; however, experiencing the cuisine of San Juan is essential, and the market is the best place to do so.

Mercado Roma is a gourmet market, where the community sits around a table to share good food and wine while supporting new talents and producers and creating a platform for new dishes made with local produce and traditions. Described as an avant-garde gourmet market, the gastronomy is entirely based on the quality of ingredients combined with the unique dishes, culinary trends and artisan flare of each dish. The market has a positive impact on the local community and economy and will leave you with fond memories.

A wholesale produce market, Central de Abasto was originally constructed to be a meeting point for producers, wholesalers, retailers and consumers. Located in the eastern borough of Iztapalapa, it has become just what it was intended to be. One of the largest markets in the world – shifting over 30,000 tons of produce every day – there is sure to be something here to suit your fancy. Whether you’re looking to cook at home (hello, Airbnb) or want some souvenirs for relatives, there is an array of food, fresh and dry, as well as street food stalls to tempt you as you wander through the maze.