Disclaimer/apology: This blog could easily be several pages long and we wanted to mention many other places. 

So, if your favorite Mexican city isn’t mentioned, we’re sorry it didn’t make the cut. It’s a good problem to have that Mexico has so many incredible cities that they all don’t fit neatly into one online blog! 

Mexico City

OK, we are biased, but we had to start with our home city! We actually have a whole blog dedicated to what makes Mexico City famous, but briefly here, Mexico City offers both ancient and modern attractions including world-class museums and art galleries. 

Don’t miss the Floating Gardens of Xochimilco, the Frida Kahlo Museum, or the National Museum of Anthropology — one of the world’s largest collections of indigenous art.

Mexico City is our largest city, with a population of over 21 million in the wider metropolitan area, so it’s really worth getting your bearings and planning your trip well.  Luckily, the Mexico City Metro is a tourist attraction in itself, with an Aztec temple inside Pino Suárez Station, performing artists, and underground galleries. The metro is also ideal for visitors who don’t speak Spanish, as each stop has a color and an image.

For a hassle-free, true insider’s tour of Mexico City, join us on one of our Mexico City Food Tours. Our approach to food is to understand it as an expression of culture and history, and our tours are rich in flavor and culture. For our most popular experience, consider our delicious Taco Tours of Mexico City!

Neighborhoods not to miss include Coyoacan, Colonia Roma and, of course, the historic city center.

Oaxaca de Juárez 

Oaxaca is a state in southern Mexico with sixteen officially recognised indigenous groups. The capital city is Oaxaca de Juárez, a UNESCO world heritage site.  If you are visiting Mexico in mid-July, this city is a must because of the stunning Guelaguetza Festival, with parades of indigenous bands and displays of food and artisanal crafts.

Visitors should be aware of the deep cultural significance of this festival and of the indigenous culture in this area of Mexico. Taking some time to learn about these cultures directly from people you meet will give you the most insightful and respectful experience.

The Federal Palace in Oaxaca de Juárez showcases the unusual “Neo-Mixtec” architectural style: a blend of early 20th century nationalism and a contemporary reverence for Mixtec-Zapotec cultures.  Other interesting architectural mixes include the Andalucian-Oaxacan Museum of Contemporary Art — one of the oldest buildings in the city.

Our favorite spot in the city, however, has to be the Mercado Benito Juárez. This vibrant and bustling market offers traditional Oaxacan food such as crispy Tlayudas (tortillas), Quesillo cheese, cinnamon enriched chocolate and, of course, Mezcal — the spirit the city is famous for.

Mérida

Mérida is the capital city of Yucatán, and the largest city in southeastern Mexico. It was the first city to be named American Capital of Culture, a title it has received twice because of the rich combination of Maya and Spanish cultures. 

It is also known to be one of the safest cities to visit, perhaps because it is also rated as the best city to live in for quality of life. Walk down the Paseo de Montejo avenue for a fantastic sculptural exhibition, added to every year by the MACAY Museum. 

Maya culture has been extraordinarily resilient in this area, and this is reflected in the food, which includes the pork dish Poc Chuc, the turkey stew Pavo en Relleno Negro, and the use of the red achiote spice.

To learn more about this culture, visit the Gran Museo del Mundo Mayo, and to immerse yourself in the natural world reflected in Mayan art, head out of the city to the mangroves and clear waters of the Celestún Biosphere Reserve.

San Cristóbal de las Casas

Located in the Central Highlands of Chiapas, San Cristóbal de las Casas is one of the cities identified as a “Pueblo Magico” by the Mexican government; places that offer visitors special experiences due to their natural beauty, cultural richness, and historical relevance. 

The center of the city maintains the old colonial layout, with cobblestones, red clay roofs, and balconies covered in flowers. 

In fact, the city played a crucial role in the colonial conquest of Chiapas, with enslavement, destruction of temples and dramatic depopulation due to imported viruses. The reason for the city’s contemporary cultural significance, however, is the still present indigenous culture of Tzotziles and Tzeltales. You can find examples of indigenous textiles, amber and jewelry at the open-air market, or tianguis at Santo Domingo. 

To escape the tourist trail for a really local food experience, head to the market north of Santo Tomas Church for saffron tamales and the delicious sugar cane alcoholic drink known as posh. Chocolate, too, has a long history in the area.

It is said that in 1625 the bishop of the city, Bernardino de Salazar, was poisoned by some upper class women because he tried to stop them drinking chocolate during mass! 
Chiapas is an important cocoa growing area, and if you are passing through Mexico City on your way south, get an insight into the area’s chocolate history by joining our Friends and Chocolate Mexico City tasting experience.

Guanajuato

Guanajuato lies on the “Bicentennial Route”, the path of Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla’s insurgent army at the beginning of the Mexican War of Independence. It was the site of the first battle of this war. Guanajuato’s historic city center is characterized by narrow, winding streets and stairs up the mountainsides. A great (although slightly gory) place to visit is the Mummy Museum, displaying naturally mummified bodies that were interred during a cholera outbreak in 1833. 

If you can, visit in fall for the Festival Internacional Cervantino; this is the most important artistic and cultural event in Latin America, attracting artists from all over the world. It features the Ballet Folklorico de Mexico, Chinese acrobats, opera, and eclectic music and literature. 

Mexico has so many other amazing, fascinating cities it has been really hard to select just a few. Perhaps we’ll follow up with some more of our favorite Mexican cities… 
Check out our blog on non-touristy Mexico destinations for more ideas, or get a good mouth-watering understanding of the country’s different regions, head to our Mexico regional foods guide.

You might be able to tell by now that we love our home country, and really want to make sure visitors experience it with the joy and fascination we bring to our tours. If you’d like to know more about our Mexico City food tours, please get in touch.

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Here at Sabores Mexico Food Tours, we are passionate about the ingredients, history, and vibrancy of authentic Mexican cuisine and we love to offer visitors a taste of our country that they simply can’t find in their local Mexican restaurant wherever in the world they come from. If we inspire you to have an experience with us, please consider our range of food tours in Mexico City. 

Mexico is a treasure trove of ancient ruins, breathtaking landscapes, and warm-hearted people. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an adventure seeker, a food lover, or simply someone looking for a memorable vacation, Mexico has something extraordinary to offer.  Come, explore the best of Mexico with Sabores Food Tours!

Mexico is renowned for its vibrant culture, colorful traditions, and lively festivals. If your idea of a good time involves taking part in local parties and festivities, then Mexico is a must-visit.

From the exuberant Day of the Dead celebrations to the lively Mariachi music and dance performances, Mexican culture is infused with energy and passion. Immerse yourself in the captivating folklore, delicious cuisine, and warm hospitality that make Mexico an unforgettable destination.

If you’d be interested in a themed dinner around the Day of the Dead, this is something we are creating at Sabores as the food during the festival is incredible! If this sounds like fun to you, please get in touch and we’ll take care of the details. 

9) Mexico’s Beautiful Beaches

With its huge, sprawling coastline along the Caribbean Sea and the Pacific Ocean, Mexico has an uncountable number of stunning beaches. This makes Mexico perhaps the best beach vacation destination in the world.

Whether you prefer the pristine white sands of Cancun, the laid-back vibes of Tulum, or the surf-friendly beaches of Sayulita, Mexico offers a paradise for sun-seekers and water sports enthusiasts alike!

8) Mexico’s Mouthwatering Cuisine

Now we get onto the main course: Mexico’s mouthwatering food! Mexican cuisine is celebrated around the world for its bold flavors, diverse ingredients, and unique culinary techniques. 

Wherever in the world you decide to eat Mexican cuisine, we’re sure you’ll enjoy yourself, but nothing compares to eating local Mexican fare, made with locally grown ingredients — many of which can only be found in Mexico. We grow produce you’ve probably never seen or heard of before, and we have recipes and methods passed down for generations.

We are called Sabores Mexico Food Tours and we design and deliver food tours in Mexico City that are packed with local personality and authentic flavors. One of our most popular tours, the Mexico City Center Food Tour offers guests the chance to experience authentic pre-Hispanic food and the oldest sweet shop in Mexico!

7) Mexico’s Natural Wonders

Mexico is full of natural wonders, from the lush jungles of Chiapas to the breathtaking Copper Canyon and the mesmerizing cenotes of the Yucatan Peninsula. If you’re more about nature than culture and civilization, then Mexico absolutely has you covered!

Hike ancient trails, dive into underwater caves, or marvel at the incredible monarch butterfly migration in Michoacán… There’s no limit to the natural wonders Mexico has to offer. 

6) The Colonial Architecture of Mexico

Mexico’s colonial heritage is beautifully preserved in its cities and towns. Explore the charming streets of Guanajuato, San Miguel de Allende, and Oaxaca, where colorful colonial buildings, baroque churches, and vibrant plazas will transport you to a bygone era. 

The architectural beauty and rich history make these places a delight for history and architecture enthusiasts. And even if you’re neither of these things, you’ll likely still enjoy the grandeur and beauty of our buildings and plazas.

5) Mexican Art and Crafts

Mexico has a rich artistic heritage through its folk art, pottery, textiles, and intricate silver jewelry. While it’s lovely simply to see the beautiful objects another country creates, it’s sometimes even better to find a little piece of that country to take home with you.

Visit the workshops in Oaxaca and Taxco, and watch as they practice crafts that have been passed down through generations. Take home unique souvenirs that reflect the artistic soul of Mexico.

4) Mexico’s Ancient Mayan Ruins

Mexico boasts some of the world’s most impressive ancient Mayan ruins, such as Tulum, Palenque, and Chichen Itza. For anyone fascinated by history and other civilizations, there is nothing quite like Mexico’s well-preserved ruins. The Official Chichen Itza website is full of information and guidance for visitors. 

While in Mexico, you will be transported back in time by the mystical pyramids, intricate carvings, and awe-inspiring architecture. The ancient Mayan civilization was vast, and modern-day Mexico has many of the best-preserved remaining structures and artifacts!

3) Ecotourism Opportunities in Mexico

There is a growing passion for ecotourism in Mexico. Explore the stunning biodiversity of the Riviera Maya’s coral reefs, go whale-watching in Baja California, or take a boat tour through the mangroves of Sian Ka’an Biosphere Reserve. Mexico’s commitment to conservation ensures that you can enjoy these natural wonders responsibly and sustainably. 

Perhaps more than anywhere else we’ve mentioned, La Huasteca, in San Luis Potosí, is the most impressive. It is packed full of waterfalls, caves, and natural sights, making it the perfect choice for ecotourists!

2) Mexico’s Warm Hospitality

If nothing else sold you on Mexico, we think the people could. Mexicans are famous for their warm hospitality and friendly nature. As you travel through Mexico, you will encounter welcoming locals who are eager to share their culture and traditions with you. 

Embrace their warmth, immerse yourself in their traditions, and create lasting memories of genuine connections with the people of Mexico!

1) Mexico’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Mexico is home to a large number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. There is the ancient city of Teotihuacan, the historic center of Mexico City, and the pre-Hispanic city of Uxmal. 

These sites hold immense historical and cultural significance and offer a glimpse into Mexico’s rich past. Exploring these UNESCO treasures will undoubtedly leave you with a deep appreciation for Mexico’s cultural heritage.

We hope we’ve inspired a few readers to visit Mexico. We believe that any one of these reasons is enough to visit Mexico… but then we’re more than a little biased. If we’ve inspired you to get a taste of Mexico on one of our tours and you have a few questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch!

The post 10 Compelling Reasons to Visit Mexico appeared first on Sabores México Food Tours.

Visitors can explore ancient ruins such as the pyramids of Teotihuacan and Chichen Itza, experience traditional Mexican customs and festivals, and enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking, snorkeling, and surfing. 

Mexico is also known for its delicious cuisine, a fusion of indigenous, European, and African influences. Additionally, Mexico is home to many biosphere reserves, national parks and protected areas, and a variety of flora and fauna, making it an excellent destination for eco-tourism. If you’re traveling in Mexico and will stop in Mexico City, please consider joining us on one of our Mexico City Food Tours, such as our ever-popular Taco Tour of Mexico City – unlock the magic of Mexico through its food!

Continue reading below as we pick some of our favorite places and sites often overlooked by tourists. 

A Note on Mexican Cuisine

As a tour company specializing in food experiences, we’ll begin by stressing how important Mexican gastronomy is to Mexican culture. Exploring our culinary traditions will serve as the perfect gateway to exploring our history and cultural make up.

Mexican cuisine varies significantly across the country. Each region of Mexico has its own unique culinary traditions and specialties, influenced by a combination of factors such as geography, climate, history, and culture.

In northern Mexico, the cuisine has tended to be heavily meat-based, influencing by Tex-Mex and cowboy culture. Traditionally, there has been an emphasis on hearty dishes such as carne asada (grilled meat) and barbacoa (barbecue). Though recent years have seen more northern chefs branching out, using local veggies in a variety of exciting ways. 

The Baja California region is famous for its seafood, and the state of Sonora is known for its beef and meat sourced from hunting, such as quality venison.

Central Mexico is the birthplace of traditional Mexican cuisine, and is known for dishes such as mole (a sauce made with chiles, spices, and chocolate), tamales (corn-based dumplings), and pozole (a traditional soup made with hominy and pork or chicken).

In the south and southeast of Mexico, the cuisine is heavily influenced by Mayan and indigenous cultures, with a focus on ingredients such as corn, beans, and chiles. The Yucatán peninsula is known for its traditional dishes, such as cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork) and sopa de lima (lime soup), while the state of Oaxaca is famous for its mole sauces and its many different varieties of tamales.

On the Caribbean coast, Afro-Caribbean culture heavily influences the cuisine, with dishes such as rice and beans, and seafood.

In summary, the variety of flavors and ingredients, as well as the cultural influences that shape Mexican cuisine, creates a diversity that makes it one of the most vibrant and delicious in the world. 

Deepen your Mexican journey by researching local specialties and trying them.

Tulum

Tulum is a Mayan city in the Mexican state of Quintana Roo, on the coast of the Yucatán Peninsula. It is located about 1 hour south of Cancun and 2 hours north of Playa del Carmen. The name Tulum means “wall” or “city wall.”

Tulum was occupied from about 600 BCE until about 1200 CE by people identified as part of the Late Preclassic Maya culture. At its peak, it may have had a population between 2500 – 5000 inhabitants and was one of the most important Maya cities during this time period due to its location along an active trade route with nearby Cozumel Island. 

The city probably served as an important trading hub for cacao beans from South America (which were used as currency), salt from Chetumal Bay, cotton textiles, and other goods produced by local farmers and artisans.

Tulum is by no means off the map when it comes to tourism. It is an understandably popular choice for tourists, particularly among young people who like to party hard or partake in wellness experiences like yoga. 

Since the pandemic, many cultural, music, and arts festivals are happening in Tulum, and Airbnbs are widespread.

Tulum will provide many exciting historical and cultural activities and an energetic atmosphere without the overwhelming crowds associated with Cancun.

San Miguel de Allende

San Miguel de Allende is a colonial city in the state of Guanajuato, Mexico. It is located in the San Miguel de Allende municipality and is part of the macroregion of Bajío. It was an important site during the Independence War of 1810-1821, with its main square serving as a refuge for insurgent soldiers against royalist troops.

Admire the city’s beautiful architecture, and enjoy some quiet time in the city’s botanical gardens (El Charco del Ingenio). 

San Cristóbal de las Casas

San Cristóbal de las Casas is a city in the Mexican state of Chiapas. It is one of Mexico’s most important tourist destinations, known for its beautiful colonial architecture, museums, and cultural centers.

Browse the city’s vibrant craft markets and delve into the region’s history with a visit to the Centro de Textiles del Mundo Maya museum. 

Real de Catorce, San Luis Potosí

Real de Catorce is a small Mexican town known for its silver mines. It’s located in San Luis Potosí, halfway between Mexico City and Monterrey. The town has been designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 2010 due to its impressive collection of colonial-era buildings and structures, including a church dating back to the 16th century. 

With only 1,500 residents currently living there today, Real de Catorce is quite tranquil compared to other destinations in Mexico (or anywhere else on Earth).

Guadalajara

Guadalajara is a city that has so much to offer! It’s known for its cultural heritage and rich history, making it one of Mexico’s most important cities. Guadalajara is also known for being the capital of the state of Jalisco, so you can expect this city to have many museums and landmarks.

If you’re looking for something different from your typical tourist destination, this may be the place for you to visit!

Puebla

Puebla is one of Mexico’s oldest cities and still maintains much of its original character. The city has a strong indigenous influence, which makes Puebla one of the most multicultural destinations in all of Mexico. Puebla has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site because it boasts so many cultural jewels.

The cuisine here is amazing, too! Because of its proximity to both Mexico City and Oaxaca (the birthplace of mole poblano), Puebla has evolved into a melting pot for various culinary styles and tastes. This means there are tons of great restaurants serving traditional Mexican dishes along with tacos al pastor with mole sauce or tortas ahogadas (drowned sandwiches).

Holbox Island

Holbox Island is one of the most underrated, non-touristy destinations in Mexico that you should visit. If you’re looking for a laid-back beach vacation with some of the best wildlife you will ever see and some amazing seafood, then this place is perfect for you.

Holbox Island is located in the Gulf of Mexico off mainland Yucatan, making it part of Veracruz state. 

The island has beautiful white beaches, warm water, and amazing scenery. It’s also home to some incredible wildlife, including manatees (sea cows), pelicans, and flamingos! You can go on tours through the area or spend your days relaxing on the beach playing cards or reading a book while drinking margaritas all day long!

You can reach this island by taking a ferry from Chiquilá on the northern coast of the Yucatán peninsula, which takes around 45 minutes.

Pátzcuaro

Pátzcuaro is a city in the Mexican state of Michoacán. It’s located in the Valley of Pátzcuaro, surrounded by high mountains.

The city is known for its colonial architecture and narrow cobblestone streets. The main plaza features an obelisk built to honor Miguel Hidalgo y Costilla, who led Mexico’s struggle for independence from Spain during the early 19th century.

Pátzcuaro has many restaurants serving regional cuisine such as Michoacan salsa ranchero (spicy pork strips cooked in tomato sauce), seasoned with chipotle peppers; carnitas (fried pork) and tamales made with corn husks; and papa con chorizo (potatoes sauteed with spicy sausage).

Oaxaca

Oaxaca is an underrated destination that’s definitely worth checking out. Oaxaca is especially popular with travelers who are interested in exploring Mexico from a foodie and cultural perspective. It’s also close to stunning places like Hierve el Agua with petrified waterfalls, stunning mountain views and natural spring pools.

A gorgeous city surrounded by mountains, Oaxaca has a UNESCO World Heritage Site called Monte Alban. The food is delicious, and many artisans make things like pottery and textiles in the city. 

There’s plenty to do—you can hike or eat your way through Oaxaca if you like! In addition to this city’s main attractions, there are other fascinating cities within the region with great art and culture like San Pablo Villa de Mitla. These smaller cities can be less busy than their larger counterparts, so they’re worth checking out if you have time.

The weather here is temperate year-round, making it ideal for all kinds of travelers no matter when you visit!

Mérida

Mérida, the capital of Yucatán, is a colonial city with a population of around 800,000 people. Mérida has an amazing mix of culture and architecture, making it one of Mexico’s most underrated destinations.

Mérida has several museums like the Museo de Arte Contemporáneo (MACAY) and others that showcase beautiful works from local artists. These museums are great places to visit if you want to learn more about Mexico’s history while appreciating its art scene at the same time.

Another thing that sets Mérida apart from other cities on your list is its food culture. There are plenty of restaurants offering traditional dishes such as cochinita pibil (a slow-cooked pork dish), panuchos (fried tortillas filled with beans), or chili rellenos (stuffed peppers).

Isla de Cozumel

Isla de Cozumel is a special place to visit. It has a rich history and culture that will make you feel like you’re in a different world when you visit the island. The best part about Isla de Cozumel? There are many beautiful beaches and things to explore on the island. For example, it’s home to many great restaurants where you can get authentic local food. If you’re looking for something more adventurous, then try scuba diving!

Cozumel attracts enough tourists that you’ll feel a positive, vibrant buzz about the place but you’ll never be overwhelmed as can be the case in the country’s most popular spots. 

As you can see, there are many beautiful places to visit in Mexico beyond the usual tourist choices. 

If you plan on exploring Mexico, consider visiting some of the underrated destinations mentioned above! And if you’re in Mexico City, please join us on one of our popular Mexican Food Tours.
If you have any questions, get in touch.

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Volume 5

For this volume of the Insider’s Map, Ro and Sof surprised us with the following spots:

1.    Expendio de maíz sin nombre (Corn retail store without a name)

This retail store aims fair trade and the use of creole corn through rural cooking techniques. The corn is brought from Guerrero and is used to prepare great dishes with exquisite sauces. The menu varies daily, depending on what the team finds in the market.

2. Amamba

Are you familiar with Morelian gaspachos? These are fruit cocktails accompanied with Cotija cheese and powdered chili, an exquisite combination to freshen you up on a hot day. Apart from the traditional street gazpacho from Michoacán, this spot in La Roma offers delicious kombuchas, juices and specialty coffee.

3. Mictlan vegan antojitos (cravings)

Many vegan chilangos miss enjoying delicious cochinita pibil tacos, a traditional pambazo, or a crunchy tasajo tlayuda. Therefore, this space in the Narvarte neighborhood serves vegan garnachas with the authentic Mexican seasoning, and with very accessible prices.

 4.       Aeromoto

If you are a literature lover, Aeromoto is perfect for you, as it gathers thousands of independent books about contemporary culture inside and antique house in the Historic downtown. This place holds diverse events, meetings, workshops and activities surrounding literature, and the collection is available for in-house consultation.

 5.       Fonda Margarita

This iconic place is perfect for early risers and party-all-nighters, because it opens its doors at 6 AM to offer several traditional Mexican dishes, prepared in huge and steamy coal pots. If you decide to visit the Tlacoquemécatl Del Valle neighborhood and check it out, we recommend you the scrambled eggs with black beans. Be sure to arrive early because they close at 11 AM.

6. Guillermo Tovar y de Teresa’s House

This not so popular museum and cultural center in La Roma used to be home of Mexico City’s last chronicler, which is why anyone who loves this huge city should walk through its ails and discover the collection of objects, furniture, and books that it harbors.

7. Koko Yaki

The traditional Japanese taiyaki or fish ice-cream are served in Koko Yaki in their most delicious and fun version, because seasonal flavors like cempasúchil flower or rose petals, as well as the favorites: matcha, horchata, and activated coal will make this way of eating ice-cream, become your favorite.

Volume 6

For the sixth Insider’s Map, it was Dul and Majo’s turn to share some chilango spots and activities.

1. Comedor de los milagros

This culinary paradise where ingredients and flavors from different Latin-American countries live together is in La Roma neighborhood. Agárrate Catalina, Valderrama, Lima mía, and La Carajita are some of this eatery’s restaurants, where the mood and the Latin flavors never dissapoint. We recommend you try the carajita tostones, the stuffed al plomo sweet potato, and the lulo water.

2. Don Frank

This taco and juice shop has already five branches in the city, because the tacos, fresh juice, and hamburgers they serve are warranty for quality and chilango tradition. The average check is from $80 to $140, depending on what you have. Among favorites, you’ll find the al pastor tacos, the rib quesadilla, and the bomb smoothie.

 3.       Tacos joven (Young tacos)

Whether you have a black bean, a potato, a pork rind, meat in adobo, green mole, or shredded meat taco, each one of this street delicacies in the Vértiz Narvarte neighborhood is a worth it. Even though they’re expensive for a basket taco ($15), their flavor and salsas (green with avocado and red with pork rinds) are worth each peso.

4. Greenway tours

If you like being a tourist, but you get tired easily, these segway tours are perfect for you. There are options to explore Reforma, Polanco, and the Historic Center during the day or by night, with or without historic stops, adequating the rhythm of the tour to your interests, an original way to wander around the city.

5. Los milanesos

The chilangos that live around Olivar de los Padres neighborhood are aware of Los milanesos’ location. These iconic tacos have conquered palates for more than 20 years, because Don Betancourt, the owner, is aware that apart from the specialty of the house (beef milanesa taco), the chicken milanesa one, the ham and cheese, and the stew options (pork rib with adobo, pork rinds with cactus, suadero with green sauce) never disappoint anyone.

We hope you are now hungry and ready to explore the streets of Mexico City after reading these recommendations. If you visit any of the spots shared on our Insider’s Map, don’t forget to tag us on social media (@saboresmexicoft) and use the #InsidersMapSMFT.

The post Insider’s Map: Vol. 5 & 6 appeared first on Sabores México Food Tours.

Thus, in Sabores México we continue with the idea to share with you our cultural and gastronomic favorite spots.

Volume 3

For the third volume or our Local Map, it was Dulce (Dul) and Sofía (Sof) who shared with us some of the places worth knowing in our beloved city.

1.       Nagaoka

Located in the Nápoles neighborhood, this traditional Japanese food restaurant transports us immediately to an Asian island, as through its food products they seek to approach its foodies’ happiness. What makes Nagaoka one of the best Japanese food restaurants in the city is that they transform Mexican ingredients into elaborete Japanese dishes with home technics supported by tradition. Some of the favorites are the kitsune udon and the zaru soba.

2.       Avocado Alley

This corner in Coyoacán is one of the most famous alleys in the quarter, for in spite of being quite narrow, it posseses various scary legends that make many people think twice before touring it. Do you dare to prove if it is certainly bewitched?

3.       XUVA’

This spot in Santa María la Ribera picks up the Nahuas cullinary practices and presents them in dishes with a gourmet touch, using the local technics and ingredients and regaining the cultural meanings of each one. Juan Aquino, Oaxacan chef of XUVA’ is convinced that gastronomy connects us with our past history’s greatness and our present’s pride. Therefore, the antique house in which the restaurant is located is decorated in a modern manner and has a lot of vegetation, with the objective of transporting the foodies to Oaxaca.

4.       Palmeiro Ice-Cream Parlor

One of the best ice-creams in the city is located in a commercial stand inside the Market of Medellín in the Roma neighborhood. The owner is a Cuban man who arrived to Mexico and from many years ago offers exquisite Cuban coffees and incomparable ice-creans like buttermilk, fig with cognac, caramel, “mantecado” and many more flavors. Whether you enjoy it at the bar or take-away for later, these ice-cream are always warranted.

5.       Popular Art Museum

Dedicated to promote and preserve Mexican popular art, this museum located in the Historic Downtown of the city is famous for its collection of ceramics, typical outfits, “alebrijes” and toys. On top of that, it offers severlas workshops, courses and seminars throughout the year for artisans, children and any interested person in Mexican arts and crafts.

6.       Zinco Jazz Club

Behind a hidden door in the Historic Downtown a small and exclusive jazz club is located. Zinco Jazz Clubs opens from Wednesdays to Saturdays from 9pm and relies on the presence of one or more jazz artists. To best enjoy the show, it has a refined cocktail bar and an international food menu. The cover payment varies between $150 and $300 and the average ticket is aproximately $350 per person.

Volume 4

A month after the third volume of our Local Map, all the saboristas in Sabores México Food Tours were excited to share places and restaurants. Following up, the interesting recommendations of Fernanda (Fer) and María José (Majo).

1.       Dolores Olmedo Museum

The ancient estate of La Noria at the south part of the city transformed into this museum, recognized for its beautiful and extensive gardens, its peacocks, xoloitzcuintles and, of course, the more than 900 Prehispanic pieces which are exposed along with artworks from Diego Rivera, Frida Kahlo, Angelina Beloff, and Pablo O’Higgins. One of the best periods to visit this museum is from October to December, as in these months you will also find the majestic Día de Muertos altar which is assembled each year.

2.       Morisco Kiosk

As one of the main attractions in the Santa Maria la Ribera neighborhood, the kiosk is one of the many artistic monuments of the National Anthropology and History Institute. This colorful kiosk was built for an exhibit in New Orleans and, even if its smelting was planned in the United States, the Mexican engineer achieved for it to be brought back to the country, where it has remained since and outstands for its colorful Arab-styled headpieces.

3.       Maison Française de Thé Caravanseraï

In the busy street of Álvaro Obregón Avenue in the Roma neighborhood, this space is located and offers a relaxed environment around  tea. In this house, whose menu contains more than thirty pages, there are diverse living rooms set out around China, France and the Arab world, and an unimaginable variety of teas. Once you have chosen one of the 200 available teas, we recommend you to ask for the dessert that best pairs with it.

4.       La Caravana CDMX

This is one of the unique board game clubs in the city. It is located in the Tlacoquemécatl Del Valle neigborhood and, besides having great beverages, hamburgers and snacks, it owns more than 200 board games that can be played time-free for a single payment of $50. In La Caravana there is a red light guide for board games which indicates the difficulty of each one and, further more, every waiter knows how to play them and can explain them to you if you are not familiar with them.

5.       C.O.M.E

C.O.M.E., aka “Cocina Original Muy Enternacional” (Original and Very Enternational Food) is located in the Roma neighborhood and is and excellent option for Japanese casual and good price food lovers. Even though there is an á la carte service, in his oriental stand almost every client opts for the Menu of the Day, which includes miso soup, rice, a choice of three different stews or main dishes, tea and dessert.

6.       The Dinamos

In the municipality of Magdalena Contreras this natural space is located, opened every day from 6 am and available for a series of activities like hiking, trecking, picnicking, or just escaping from the great chilando metropolis. The dinamos is an excellent place to spend with the family, exercising or going out to an adventure with your pets.

We are certain that after checking out these recommendations you must be hungry and willing to go out from home, so I invite you to explore Mexico City and follow the options you liked the most from our third and fourth Local Map Volumes. Remember to follow our blog and social media, Sabores México Food Tours (@saboresmexicoft) to get to know Mexico City like a local.

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Volume 1

The first Insider’s Map volume was a total experience because, even though the SMFT’s team gathered virtually, we had, for the first time, a moment specifically designed to share our favorite spots in the city. To inaugurate the activity, Nohemí (Nohe) and Raquel (Rachel) presented their places. Fun fact is even though both are vegan, they’re authentic saboristas, because their love for food has made them discover interesting vegan places where all dishes are more than enough to satisfy a foodie’s palate, despite their food habits. Check out the spots shared by our SMFT’s saboristas:

1. Los Loosers

Located in the Roma Norte neighborhood, this vegan restaurant promotes ethic food habits on each one of the dishes it serves. It started in 2011 with only hamburgers on the menu, using mushrooms as meat substitutes, but without trying to imitate the products of animal origin’s flavors. In exchange, this plant-based food binds Mexican ingredients with international dishes, making both maize and Asian dishes main characters on the menu.

2. Artículo 123

In the Historic Center, on a street with the same name, this place hosts a restaurant, an art gallery, and a store, looking forward on sharing the best out of chilango art, food, and design. The building used to be a magazine factory, which gives the place a unique ambience. The menu is not entirely vegan but stands out for the use of Mexican ingredients on oriental servings.

3. Forever

This place with a so-called “plant-based contemporary cuisine” is an amazing discovery for any foodie, because even though all dishes are vegan, they combine ingredients, flavors, and textures in a unique way, portraying Mexican and international dishes in a never-before-seen way.

4. Joe Gelato

In the Juárez neighborhood you’ll find this tiny place that hosts a very interesting ice cream shop with an extravagant selection of gelatos and sorbets prepared the Italian way, but with such experimental flavor combinations that only a Mexican could pull off. Although flavors are seasonal and change weekly, two permanent flavors catch the eye: the cocoa gelato and the olive oil gelato.

5. Kolobok

It is known by many as the famous Russian restaurant in the Santa María la Ribera area; what not everyone knows is that it started as a Russian empanadas street cart outside a university and now has five locations in the city. Kolobok is surely the best place to discover flavors from the other side of the world. Don’t miss the honey cake or the bread fermented drink.

Volume 2

After a whole month to discover the delicious spots presented by Nohe and Rachel, we got together virtually once again to learn about more interesting places with unique stories. Keep on reading and discover the places our saboristas Laura (Lau) and Grazielle (Graze) shared with the team.

1. El Cloister of Sor Juana

The building that housed the ex-convent of Saint Jerome and is actually occupied by the Universidad del Claustro de Sor Juana is worth a visit (or two), because its imposing architecture and interesting history are just a few of the things behind it being one of UNESCO’s Cultural Heritage sites. If you visit it, don’t miss the permanent musical instruments exhibit or any of its impressive six courtyards.

2. Mushu

Mushu’s bubble waffles are a must for both adventurous crêpe fans and those who crave sweets. You don’t have to go all the way to Hong Kong to taste their signature street waffles, because inside this spot, alongside the possibility of creating your own combinations, there are sweet and savory options for everybody.

3. Parque Natural Fuentes Brotantes

This natural paradise is like a mini version of Chapultepec, with a similar proposal, but less crowded. It Is located in the south part of the city, on the way to Cuernavaca, and is perfect for sports lovers, families, and nature enthusiasts that look for a place to escape the agitated city life.

4. Rinconcito Oaxaqueño

Tlayudas, molotes, moles, and memelas are some of the traditional dishes from Oaxaca that you’ll find in this small place, located on a small nook in Coyoacán. Here, everything is handmade, and you can order a café de olla, fresh flavored water, mezcal or even champurrado to drink alongside your meal. Apart from enjoying the authentic flavors of Oaxaca on each dish, in the Rinconcito Oaxaqueño you can buy products from the same origin, so you get to experiment at home.

We hope that the places and spots shared during the first two volumes of Sabores México Food Tour’s Insider’s Map give you a brief idea of the great cultural and gastronomic offer in our city. Don’t forget to follow us on our social media, Sabores México Food Tours (@saboresmexicoft) so you learn more about our city, what we do, and you can share our love for our city through its food.

The post Insider’s Map: Volume 1 & 2 appeared first on Sabores México Food Tours.

Even those who have lived in the city their entire lives have a long Mexico City bucket list of places and activities we have yet to accomplish. In our blog entry “One day in Mexico City” you’ll find some activities and spots you can’t miss while visiting the most popular areas in the city.

However, there are many places, restaurants, and hidden treasures in the streets of Mexico City waiting to be discovered by curious travelers and foodies like yourself.

To have the best cultural trip in Mexico City, consider the length of your stay and your travel preferences, so you can properly organize your time and take advantage of this city’s versatility whilst taking part in engaging, fun, and original activities focussed on what you like the most.

Mexico City tourist map

Mexico City has many tourist attractions, including the National Anthropology Museum, the Angel of Independence, Chapultepec, the Frida Kahlo Museum, and the Metropolitan Cathedral. However, each one of the city’s main districts has its worth-visiting spots.

In the Historic Downtown, for instance, the Fine Arts Palace, the Templo Mayor, the Alameda Central, the Zócalo or main square, the Latin American Tower, Chinatown, La Ciudadela Market, the National Art Museum, and the Santo Domingo square are some of the most remarkable places.

Inside La Roma, la Condesa, and La Juárez neighborhoods, it is classic to walk through Álvaro Obregón avenue, the Río de Janeiro square, the Cibeles fountain, and both Parque España and Parque México.

Conversely, in the Coyoacán and San Ángel quarters, it is almost mandatory to walk through Higuera street, enjoy a street churro and/or an ice cream in the Plaza Hidalgo, visit the market, the museums, the “La Paz” Avenue, the Bazaar del Sábado, and the San Jacinto square.

(Those wanting to see the city through the eyes of a local may want to consider joining us for our Coyoacán Food Tour.)

All these attractions and neighborhoods await with a varied gastronomic offer, as well as parks and streets surrounded by leafy trees, bars, nightclubs, a variety of boutique stores, restaurants, museums, markets, and libraries.

However, there are countless other places and not-as-famous spots that chilangos (locals born and living in Mexico City) discover daily. Would you like to learn about them?

Insider’s Map: underrated, non-touristy destinations in Mexico City

If one thing is clear for us at Sabores México Food Tours, there are more than nine million ways of experiencing Mexico City. Each one of its citizens and visitors enjoys its cultural, gastronomic, and entertainment offers in a truly unique way.

Therefore, as of the end of 2020, we took the assignment of creating a local guide with interesting places in Mexico City. In this guide, you’ll find restaurants, museums, parks, bars, bakeries, and other hidden and not-so-well-known spots.

Once a month, SMFT’s team will have a meeting to share their favorite places in the city. On each volume, two members will share some of their favorite restaurants, museums, and places in Mexico City.

This way, step by step, our local Insider’s Map will ?? with varied opinions you can consider giving your visit an authentic chilango feeling.

Don’t forget that having advice from different chilango foodies is a travel game changer and one of the best ways of getting to know Mexico City deeply. With our advice, you’ll be able to live like a local, not just visiting the classic destinations, but going off into unique places that will make you want to come back for more Mexico City adventures.

Discover our Insider’s Map and relive what was shared by SMFT’s team inside each volume through our blog and social media, Sabores México Food Tours.

If you have any questions, please get in touch.

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