The oldest continuously inhabited capital city in the Americas, Mexico City, has a rich history and an even richer gastronomy showcasing regional specialities from all over the country. Mexican cuisine has been awarded UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage status in recognition of its complex and fascinating food culture underpinned by traditional techniques and an incredibly diverse range of indigenous ingredients. Join our small group food tour led by a knowledgeable local guide and navigate the sprawling metropolis to uncover the historic and culinary heritage of CDMX, allowing you to savour some of the city’s most emblematic flavours.
On this half-day small-group food tour, you will:
- Enjoy an informative walking tour of the historic centre of Mexico City;
- See quintessential Mexico City landmarks including Zócalo Square, Casa de los Azulejos and the Palacio de Bellas Artes;
- Stop at a local taqueria and try a varied selection of tacos;
- Discover the key ingredients involved in the most iconic Mexican recipes;
- Find out about the unique cultural factors that have shaped Mexican cuisine awarded UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage;
- Explore the Mercado de San Juan, and get the chance to try exotic fruit and vegetables, unusual meat, or even insects if you are feeling adventurous;
- Visit the Mercado de Ciudadela, and dive into the extensive variety of Mexican handicrafts;
- Taste one of the iconic Mexican drinks such as Tequila or Mezcal;
Your afternoon of culinary adventure will begin at the meeting point in the historic heart of Mexico City where you will get acquainted with the guide and the rest of your group before embarking upon a walking tour of Mexico City's historic center. Beginning in the bustling Zócalo square, you will travel back hundreds of years and learn about the origins of the city which was founded by the Mexica people in 1325. You will get the low down on the different civilizations that have shaped the destiny of what is now Mexico City as you pass by some of the most iconic landmarks including the ornate Casa de los Azulejos and the extravagant Palacio de Bellas Artes.
Once you get a feel for the city’s history, it is time to delve into the local food scene. You will have your first taste of world-class Mexican gastronomy with a stop at a local taqueria. Here, you’ll enjoy a variety of mouthwatering tacos with different fillings, giving you an indulgent introduction to one of Mexico's most beloved dishes. You will learn about the traditional variations of tacos as well as the cultural significance of the corn used to make the tortillas. This versatile grain was first cultivated by the indigenous people of southern Mexico over 9000 years ago and remains the cornerstone of Mexican cuisine to this day.
No food tour of Mexico City would be complete without visiting one of the city’s food markets, an integral part of the city’s culinary fabric. The next stop on your tour will be the Mercado de San Juan, a vibrant haven for food lovers nestled within the historic centre. As you wander through the mishmash of stalls bursting with colourful produce, you will see a vivid representation of many of the key ingredients that are the basis for exemplary Mexican recipes and benefit from the generosity of the vendors who frequently offer samples. Your guide will help you uncover some of the more unorthodox elements of Mexican cuisine famously found within the market including unusual meats and insects and you will have the opportunity to expose your taste buds to these unique flavours if you are so inclined.
As you sample the fresh market fare, your guide will explain the unique cultural influences that have shaped Mexican food, from indigenous traditions to Spanish colonial history. You will then proceed to explore another traditional market dedicated to showcasing the work of incredible artisans from all over the country: the Mercado de la Ciudadela. This picturesque multicoloured market is a feast for the eyes and with over 350 vendors selling everything from textiles to ceramics to fantastical folk art sculptures, it is the perfect place to find souvenirs to take home a piece of CDMX.
Following your marvellous market visits, you will end your tour by sampling traditional Mexican beverages, including a taste of Tequila or Mezcal, and learn about their significance in Mexico’s culture and celebrations. As your time together comes to an end, your passionate local guide will be happy to offer a wealth of recommendations of where else to explore in the historic centre and beyond. You will end your day having savoured incredible food and gaining a deeper understanding of the history and traditions that have put Mexican cuisine on the map.