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Etiqueta: street food

  • Top Mexico City Street Food Tour: Best Tacos, Markets & Local Eats

    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

    In the bustling heart of Mexico City

    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

    Nestled in the Roma Sur neighbourhood

    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

    In the fashionable Roma Norte district

    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

    Explore all the colours of Mexico

    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

    Cheff´s paradise

    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

    Explore all the arts and food of this market

    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

    Street Food Gem of the Chilaquiles

    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

    The sweet tradition of the churros

    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!

    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.

    Want to check out the Mexico City blog? Explore more of our travel guides:

  • Mercado de San Telmo: Get To Know the Buenos Aires’ Historic Flea Market 

    Mercado de San Telmo: Get To Know the Buenos Aires’ Historic Flea Market 

    San Telmo is one of the city’s oldest neighbourhoods and a living tapestry of Argentina’s past and present. Known for its cobblestone streets, antique shops, and thriving art galleries, San Telmo captures the spirit of Buenos Aires like no other district. At its heart lies the San Telmo Market (Mercado de San Telmo), an indoor market teeming with history, culture, and local flavor that makes it a must-visit destination.

    This weekly market offers a vibrant blend of antique vendors, street food, and local artisans, drawing visitors seeking an authentic experience in Argentina. Just around the corner, Plaza Dorrego comes alive each Sunday with the renowned San Telmo Street Fair (Feria de San Telmo), adding to the area’s appeal as the best place in Buenos Aires for lovers of antique treasures, tango dancers, and unique souvenirs. 

    mercado de san telmo san telmo market

    About The Market

    The San Telmo Market was built in 1897 during Argentina’s Belle Époque, and its metal columns and grand architectural style have been preserved to this day. Located near Calle Defensa and Plaza de Mayo, the market’s distinctive indoor space showcases classic iron and glasswork, with natural light streaming in, creating an inviting ambiance for visitors. Originally constructed as a traditional food market for the neighborhood, it has evolved into a cultural hub where locals and tourists alike gather to explore a mix of food stalls, antique shops, and a new wave of artisanal offerings.

    While many come to admire the antique shops and unique market stalls, others are drawn by the fresh food and vibrant street scene. As you wander through, you’ll encounter local artisans, leather goods vendors, and art galleries, reflecting San Telmo’s creative spirit. The market embodies the city’s rich heritage, blending Buenos Aires’ historical roots with a fresh, contemporary vibe that makes it one of the best markets in Buenos Aires.

    Most Known Vendors

    1. Mundo Beat

    Central area within San Telmo Market, Mundo Beat is a treasure trove for collectors and those nostalgic for past decades. This quirky stall offers a fascinating mix of vintage items, from collectible records to pop-style lamps, retro clocks, and even 1980s board games. It’s a true journey back in time, capturing the essence of past eras with a unique twist. 

    Visitor Tips: Come ready to explore—you may find a one-of-a-kind souvenir. If you’re a music lover, don’t miss their rare record collection.

    2. La Papelera Contemporánea

    Near the main aisle, La Papelera Contemporánea is a beautiful stationery shop offering an array of unique items, from elegant envelopes and specialty papers to decorative candles, notebooks, and art prints. It’s an ideal spot for those looking for a meaningful, artistic souvenir from Buenos Aires. 

    Visitor Tips: This shop is perfect for finding small, lightweight gifts and mementos. Stationery fans will find plenty to inspire them here.

    3. La Carnicería de Ángel y Luis

    In the stall 54, La Carnicería de Ángel y Luis is one of the market’s longest-standing butcher stalls. The Arribas brothers have maintained a loyal customer base, known for their warm service and high-quality meats. In a time when supermarkets have taken over much of the meat trade, this stall preserves a personal touch that has made Ángel and José Luis friendly faces for locals. 

    Visitor Tips: Stop by to see a slice of local life, even if you’re not buying. If you are, the brothers will gladly recommend the best cuts for an Argentine barbecue.

    4. El Patio de Atrás

    Inside the market, tucked in a quieter corner, a small but charming antique shop, El Patio de Atrás transports visitors to a different era with its unique collection of items from yesteryear. Expect to find vintage picture frames, typewriters, retro TVs, old-fashioned tableware, and more. With a nostalgic feel, as if stepping into someone’s carefully preserved attic. It’s a peaceful retreat within the market, filled with hidden treasures from Argentina’s past. 

    Visitor Tips: Early morning visits are best for browsing without the crowds.

    Culinary Highlights

    1- El Hornero

    El Hornero is celebrated for its freshly baked empanadas. These empanadas are cooked in a traditional oven, offering a delicious and authentic taste of Argentina’s culinary heritage.

    Visitor Tips: We recommend the empanadas of carne cortada a cuchillo, wich is a sweet meat empanada. 

    2- Nuestra Parrilla

    From the southeast corner, Nuestra Parrilla is one of the market’s most beloved restaurant, serving up Argentina’s best street food, including choripán (grilled sausage in a crusty roll) and steak sandwiches. 

    Visitor Tips: Nuestra Parrilla can be busiest around lunchtime, so plan to arrive early for a more relaxed experience. Don’t miss the house chimichurri for an extra burst of flavor!

    3- Coffee Town

    At the northern section, near the central court, Coffee Town has made a name for itself as a leading spot for specialty coffee in San Telmo. Known for its globally sourced beans, it’s a go-to for coffee lovers looking to sample expertly brewed lattes and espressos. 

    Visitor Tips: Coffee Town tends to be quieter in the afternoons, making it an ideal time for a relaxing coffee. Ask about their seasonal coffee options to try something unique.

    4- Choripanería 

    In the number 2 store, La Choripanería offers a variety of high-end choripanes, from the Patagónico with lamb chorizo, mushrooms, arugula and dried tomatoes to the Blue, accompanied by blue cheese, and a variety of premium meat sandwiches (Bondiola, Picaña) to complement with a touch of spontaneous and original flavour.

    Visitor Tips: You can check their menu here.

    An Essential Stop for Buenos Aires Visitors

    San Telmo Market provides a unique blend of history, food, and vibrant local culture that captures the essence of Buenos Aires. If you are interested in getting to know the San Telmo neighborhood in depth, take a San Telmo food tour. In just three hours, this tour takes visitors through five restaurants and historic sites, showcasing San Telmo’s rich flavours and unique atmosphere. 

    Do you want to explore the best spots in Buenos Aires? Check our travels blog!
  • 6 Best Street Food in Buenos Aires for Argentine Food Lovers

    6 Best Street Food in Buenos Aires for Argentine Food Lovers

    Argentina is a country known for its rich culinary heritage, from its world-renowned beef and steakhouses to its vibrant street food culture. Buenos Aires, the country’s bustling capital, is a melting pot of flavours where traditional recipes blend with modern influences, offering visitors an authentic taste of Buenos Aires street food.

    Argentina cuisine is deeply rooted in the country’s history and traditions, shaped by indigenous ingredients and a rich tapestry of immigrant influences, from Spanish and Italian to Middle Eastern flavours. Whether you’re wandering through the lively stalls of San Telmo Market, grabbing a choripán from a street vendor in Palermo, or enjoying freshly fried empanadas while strolling along the riverbank in Puerto Madero, there’s always an irresistible bite waiting for you.

    choripan street food in buenos aires

    This guide is designed for travellers eager to explore the city’s vibrant street food scene, showcasing must-try traditional dishes, local favourites, and where to find the best flavours of Buenos Aires on the go.

    Get To Know The Buenos Aires Street Food

    1 – Choripán: Argentina’s Street Food King

    The Choripan, often referred to as «chori,» is iconic street food. This Argentinian food consists of a grilled chorizo sausage, sliced in half, and served in a crusty bread roll. The sandwich is accompanied by chimichurri sauce, a tangy and herby sauce made from parsley, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar.

    This sandwich is often associated with futbol matches and political rallies in Argentina, where vendors gather to serve thousands of hungry attendees. The key to a perfect choripán is a generous helping of chimichurri or salsa criolla, a fresh mix of tomatoes, onions, and peppers. Also, for the bravest, there is the option of choripan but with blood sausage.

    • Main ingredients: Juicy and flavorful pork chorizo, grilled and served in a crispy bread roll.
    • Where to enjoy it? Head to Costanera Sur, a riverside promenade lined with food trucks. Popular spots include El Puestito del Tío. For a more upscale twist, Chori in Palermo offers gourmet versions of this classic.

    2 – Chipa: A Real Cheesy Delight

    The Chipas are small, round bread rolls made with cassava flour and filled with cheese. Originally from the northern provinces of Argentina, especially in regions near to Paraguay and Brazil, these gluten-free snacks are crispy on the outside and soft and cheesy on the inside.

    Chipa has Guaraní roots and is popular in the provinces of Misiones, Corrientes, and Formosa. This snack reflects the indigenous influence on Argentina, and it has become a popular in cafés and bakeries in Buenos Aires. Chipa is best enjoyed warm, fresh from the oven, where the cheese is still melty. Pair it with coffee or mate to try the traditional Argentine merienda (afternoon snack).

    • Main ingredients: Small cheese bread made from cassava starch, cheese, eggs, and milk, with a chewy texture.
    • Where to Find It? While chipa is traditionally found in Argentina’s northern provinces, but you can find some places in Buenos Aires like Atelier Fuerza, Oli Café, Anchoita, or any neighbourhood bakery. 

    3 – Empanadas: The National Favourite

    Empanadas are savoury pastries filled with a variety of ingredients, most commonly beef, chicken, or ham and cheese. Each region of Argentina has its own version, from the spicy empanadas of Salta to the sweeter, raisin-filled versions in Tucumán, each with its own delicious flavours.

    Empanadas are a local food of Argentine cuisine, served at family gatherings, festivals, and as a quick meal on the go. Their origins trace back to the Spanish colonization, but the dish has been adapted over centuries to reflect local ingredients and preferences.

    The best way to enjoy empanadas is with your hands, straight from the oven. Try them with a side of chimichurri sauce or salsa criolla. There are different flavours like beef empanadas, sweet corn (humita) or spiced lamb.

    • Main ingredients: Wheat flour pastry filled with knife-cut beef or matambre, onion, boiled egg, cumin, and chili powder, then either fried or baked.

    4 – Sandwiches: A Feast Between Two Breads

    Argentina’s sandwich culture is strong, with offerings ranging from bondiola sandwich (pork shoulders) to sandwich de milanesa (breaded steak) and sandwich de lomito (lomo steak) or steak sandwich.

    These are hearty and often piled high with different other types of grilled meats and other ingredients such as lettuce, cheese, tomato, fried egg or hard-boiled eggs, ham and chimichurri. They’re usually accompanied by French fries and chimichurri sauce.

    They are intended to be a go-to meal, like a snack during a road trip, a casual lunch at a food stall or even after leaving the clubs dancing. Sandwiches have become a staple of Argentina’s street food.

    • Main ingredients of the Bondiola sandwich: Marinated and grilled pork shoulder, served in a bread roll with chimichurri and vegetables.
    • Main ingredients of Lomito sandwich: Tender beef tenderloin steak, accompanied by ham, cheese, egg, lettuce, tomato, and mayonnaise in toasted bread.
    • Main ingredients of the milanesa sandwich: Breaded and fried beef or chicken, served in a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and condiments.

    5 – Tortilla Callejera: A Simple Street Staple

    The Tortilla Callejera is a flat, round bread made from flour, water, and fat (typically animal fat), cooked until golden brown and crispy on a griddle or hotplate. It is food that is eaten with the hands, is consumed in areas outside major cities, where vendors set up near bus stops or along highways. These tortillas are simple and affordable, making them a popular choice for workers and commuters looking for a quick, filling snack. They are reminiscent of traditional rural cooking.

    Tortillas callejeras are best enjoyed fresh off the griddle, still warm and crispy. Many vendors offer them plain, but you can also find them with fillings like ham and cheese, dulce de leche for an extra treat. Pair one with a coffee or yerba mate as a quick snack on the go.

    • Main ingredients: A flat, round bread made with flour, water, and fat, crispy on the outside and soft inside, perfect as a side or on its own.
    • Where to Try Them? You’ll often find vendors selling these tortillas near major transit routes or street corners, especially around Panamericana and other busy roadways. Look for small makeshift stands or carts near bus stops or in high-traffic areas where locals gather during their commute.

    6 – Torta Frita: A Traditional Snack

    Torta Frita is a fried dough snack that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, often dusted with sugar. It’s a simple, comforting treat, perfect during a rainstorm. Torta Frita is a staple in the Argentine countryside, often served with mate during rainy days. The dish has indigenous roots and is similar to other fried bread treats found across Latin America. It’s often eaten in the afternoon as part of the traditional merienda.

    • Main ingredients: A simple dough made from flour, fat, and water, deep-fried until golden, with a crispy yet fluffy texture.
    • Where to Enjoy It? For a taste of the best torta frita, head to Abuela 22 in the Cañitas neighbourhood, there you can find not only torta fritas, but also churros or pastelitos filled with dulce de leche and covered in chocolate. An insider tip it’s to also try the ones from the street vendors across the city.

    Discover Argentina Through Their Street Food

    From the smoky, savoury choripan to the cheesy warmth of chipa, every bite offers a glimpse into the most typical dishes of this fascinating country. On your next trip, make sure to immerse yourself in the street food culture—it’s the best way to experience Argentina cuisine, one of the most recognized in South America.

    Exploring authentic food quest from Argentina is more than just eating—it’s about connecting with the country’s cultural heritage and local traditions. By stepping away from the traditional restaurant menu and into the vibrant world of street vendors and food stalls, visitors get a true taste of Argentina’s diverse flavours. A real plus it’s that you can now always order the vegetarian options for all of these dishes.

    Are you a food lover and want to experience Argentine cuisine? Discover tours in Palermo, San Telmo, Buenos Aires Half-Day tour or Buenos Aires Private Experience.

    Buenos Aires Street Food Delights

    Exploring Buenos Aires street food is more than just a culinary adventure—it’s a journey through Argentina’s rich cultural heritage, where every bite tells a story of tradition, migration, and local passion. From the smoky aroma of a freshly grilled choripán to the crispy perfection of an empanada, the city’s streets are filled with flavours that capture the essence of porteño life.

    Whether you’re indulging in a late-night slice of fugazzeta, sipping on mate alongside medialunas, or discovering hidden gems in the bustling markets, Buenos Aires offers a street food experience like no other. No matter where your cravings take you, one thing is certain: the best way to truly experience the soul of the city is through its food.