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Food & drink in Mexico
One of the best ways to experience a culture is to indulge in the food. We’ve all heard of tacos and quesadillas, but there is much more to Mexican food than that. The exotic blend of herbs, spices and nuts results in a pungent, delicious cuisine that is entirely unique to Mexico.
A trip to Mexico wouldn’t be complete without sampling the best flavours and tastes of the country. With each region having a take on popular dishes, including their own specialities, there is so much to try! So explore, indulge and enjoy some of the best food in the world.
What is Mexico's national dish?
Mole
The national dish of Mexico is actually not a dish, but a sauce. Mole is a tantalising, rich sauce that you’ll find draped over a lot of popular Mexican meals. Made from onions, garlic, chilis and a combination of herbs, spices and nuts and simmered in dark chocolate.
Did you know?
Chocolate originates from Mexico!
Vegetarian food in Mexico
You may be thinking that a lot of the popular dishes in Mexico are meat-based - tacos, burritos, enchiladas, but vegetarians actually have just as much choice. Mexico can be one of the best places to travel if you have a vegetable-based diet. Most of the famous Mexican dishes have vegetarian options made with vegetables and cheese. Some of the best veggie-friendly Mexican dishes to try are entomatadas, enfrijoladas, quesadillas and papadzules.
Drinks in Mexico
Mezcal
Mezcal is distilled alcohol made from the Mexican plant maguey. It tastes a little like tequila but with a more smokey flavour and is served with orange and salt.
Tequila
Tequila is a distilled alcoholic drink made from Mexico’s blue agave plant. Served with salt and lemon, this iconic shot is beloved by all Mexicans. If there is one drink you must try in Mexico, make it Tequila.
Horchata
A refreshing milky drink made from rice, cinnamon, sugar and sometimes a few nuts and spices. Perfect for a hot day.
Cocktails
Mexico created some of the world's best cocktais, and there is an enormous variety to try. Some of our favourites are a margarita, a michelada, the paloma, and the bandera mexicana.
On a Budget
- La Casa de Tono Zona Rosa
(Londres 144 | Zona Rosa, Mexico City, Mexico) - El Caminero
(Rio Lerma 138, Mexico City, Mexico) - El Rincon Del Periban
(Mz. 277 Halacho Lt. 1 | Col. Héroes de Padierna, Mexico City, Mexico)
Won’t Break the Bank
- Sonora Grill
(Avenida Coyoacan 1955, Mexico City 14000, Mexico) - El Cardenal Alameda
(Avenida Juarez 70 | inside the Hilton Hotel, Mexico City 06000, Mexico) - Contramar
(Calle Durango 200, Mexico City 06700, Mexico)
Treat Yourself!
- Restaurante Antiguo San Angel Inn
(Calle Diego Rivera No. 50, Mexico City 01060, Mexico) - Limosneros
(Allende 3 | Centro Historico, Mexico City 06010, Mexico) - Dulce Patria en Las Alcobas
(Anatole France 100 | Col. Polanco, Mexico City, Mexico)
*Please note that these recommendations are a current guide only.
What food should I try in Mexico?
Chilaquiles
A popular thing to eat for breakfast in Mexico, Chilaquiles is essentially a plate of lightly fried corn tortillas drizzled with salsa and topped with either eggs or pulled chicken, then finished with cream and melted cheese. It's often served with a Mexican staple - refried beans.
Pozole
Pozole is a delicious, traditional dish dating back to the Aztec times. Pozole is a homely stew made from maize kernels, chunks of pork and a variety of toppings such as cabbage, onions, garlic, avocado, radish, chilis and salsa.
Tacos al pastor
One of the most famous street foods in Mexico, tacos al pastor is definitely a must-try on your holiday. The dish contains strips of spit-roasted pork topped with onions, coriander and pineapple, wrapped in a crispy tortilla.
Tostadas
Tostadas are a popular snack, side dish or entire meal. Made of corn tortillas which are fried until golden and crispy then topped with almost anything under the sun. Some of the most popular toppings are refried beans, cheese, meat or fish.
Chiles en nogada
Chiles en nogada is a unique patriotic dish, often eaten at festivals around Mexico. Large poblano chilis are stuffed with meat, dried fruits and spices, drizzled with a walnut cream sauce and sprinkled with pomegranate seeds.
Guacamole
A great appetizer, main or side, guacamole is a staple dish on any Mexican table. Dating back to Aztec times, guacamole is made by mixing avocado, onion, tomato, lemon juice and chilis. Great when served with chicharrones.
Huevos rancheros
One of the most popular things to eat for breakfast in Mexico is huevos rancheros. A bowl of fried eggs served with tortillas and topped with refreshing salsa. It also often comes with refried beans and guacamole.
Enchiladas
A dish dating back to Mayan times, enchiladas were traditionally corn tortillas filled with small, freshly caught fish. Today, enchiladas are usually stuffed with cheese, meats or vegetables and slathered in chilli sauce.
Pambazo
Pambazo translates to white bread but is also a delicious sandwich. Usually filled with meat, potatoes, cheese, lettuce and fried beans, then dipped in delicious red chilli sauce — a great option if you're after Mexican street food.