Taco Tuesday? Make it Every Day with These Must-Try Street Foods in Mexico City"

Mexico City is a foodie paradise, and its street food scene is no exception. From succulent tacos to spicy salsas, there's no shortage of delicious options to choose from. But with so many options, it can be tough to know where to start. Never fear! We've compiled a list of the best street foods in Mexico City that you simply can't miss.

What are some classic street foods to try in Mexico City? 

 One of the most iconic street foods in Mexico City is the taco. Whether you prefer them filled with succulent pork, spicy chicken, or slow-cooked beef, you can't go wrong with a classic taco. Other must-try street foods include tamales, which are steamed corn dough filled with a variety of fillings, and elotes, grilled corn on the cob slathered in mayonnaise, cheese, and chili powder.

Are there any unique street foods that I should try in Mexico City?

Definitely! If you're feeling adventurous, you might want to try tlacoyos, which are oval-shaped masa cakes filled with beans and topped with a variety of toppings. You can also find a variety of interesting snacks and sweets, such as buñuelos, deep-fried dough balls coated in cinnamon and sugar, and churros, long, fried dough sticks that are often served with chocolate dipping sauce.

Where can I find the best street food in Mexico City? 

There are street food vendors and stalls throughout the city, but some of the most popular areas to find them include the historic center, specifically around the markets such as La Merced and San Juan, and the neighborhoods of Roma and Condesa. These areas are known for their lively street food scenes and offer a diverse array of options to choose from.

What are some great street food markets or neighborhoods to visit in Mexico City? 

One of the best neighborhoods for street food in Mexico City is the Mercado de Jamaica, which is known for its fresh produce and flowers, as well as a variety of street food vendors. If you're looking for more upscale options, you might want to check out the Roma neighborhood, which has several trendy street food stalls and food trucks.

How can I make sure I'm eating street food safely in Mexico City?

 

One of the best ways to ensure that you're eating street food safely in Mexico City is to stick to vendors who are busy and have a high turnover rate. This typically indicates that the food is fresh and has been handled properly. You should also be mindful of your surroundings and avoid eating from vendors who seem unkempt or are located in areas that are dirty or poorly lit. Finally, it's a good idea to use common sense and listen to your body - if something doesn't look or smell right, it's probably best to pass on it.

How much does street food in Mexico City cost? 

The cost of street food in Mexico City can vary, but in general, you can expect to pay anywhere from 30-50 pesos (about $1.50-2.50 USD) for a single taco or tamale. Elotes and aguas frescas (fresh fruit waters) are often a bit cheaper, with prices ranging from 10-30 pesos (about $0.50-1.50 USD). Of course, prices can vary depending on the specific vendor and location, so it's always a good idea to ask before you order.

What are some lesser-known street food dishes to try in Mexico City?

 

While tacos, tamales, and elotes are certainly popular and well-known street food dishes in Mexico City, there are plenty of lesser-known options to explore as well. One dish to try is the torta, a Mexican sandwich made with a bolillo roll and filled with a variety of meats, beans, cheese, and toppings. Another option is the tlacoyo, a type of fried masa (corn dough) topped with beans, cheese, and a variety of other ingredients. And don't forget about the delicious array of fresh fruit juices and smoothies known as licuados, which can often be found at street stalls and markets throughout the city.

How has the street food scene in Mexico City evolved over the years? 

Mexico City's street food scene has a long and rich history dating back centuries. Originally, street food vendors were a vital part of daily life in the city, providing a quick and convenient way for people to grab a bite to eat on the go. Over the years, the street food scene has evolved and grown to include a diverse array of dishes, with vendors incorporating new ingredients and flavors from a variety of cultural influences. Today, Mexico City's street food scene is as vibrant and diverse as ever, with new stalls and vendors popping up all the time.

How can I make the most of my street food experience in Mexico City? 

To make the most of your street food experience in Mexico City, there are a few key things to keep in mind. First, be open to trying new things, and don't be afraid to ask locals for recommendations. Street food vendors are often a great source of culinary knowledge and can point you toward some lesser-known dishes that you might not have tried otherwise. It's also a good idea to come on an empty stomach and be prepared to try a variety of different dishes. And finally, be sure to take the time to explore the different neighborhoods and markets throughout the city, as each one has its own unique street food scene to discover.

How do traditional Mexican street food dishes differ from those found in other parts of the country? 

Mexico is a large and diverse country with a wide variety of regional cuisines. As such, the street food you'll find in Mexico City may differ somewhat from the street food found in other parts of the country. For example, in the Yucatan peninsula, you might find a greater emphasis on dishes made with seafood and tropical fruit, such as cochinita pibil (slow-roasted pork) and ceviche. In the state of Oaxaca, you might encounter more dishes made with mole sauces and a variety of different types of masa-based dishes such as tlayudas and memelas. It's always a good idea to do some research and ask locals for recommendations when traveling to a new region in Mexico to get a sense of the unique flavors and specialties of the area.

How has the street food scene in Mexico City been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic?

 Like many industries around the world, the street food scene in Mexico City has been significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Many street food vendors were forced to close or significantly reduce their operations due to lockdown measures and social distancing requirements. Additionally, with fewer tourists and commuters on the streets, many vendors saw a significant decrease in business. However, despite these challenges, many street food vendors in Mexico City have adapted by implementing new safety measures such as face masks and hand sanitizer stations, and some have even begun offering delivery and pickup services. As the situation continues to evolve, it's important to keep an eye on local guidelines and support street food vendors in a way that is safe and responsible.

Top 12 Street Food Stops in Mexico City: Your Guide to the Best Tacos, Tamales, and More:

1. Tacos El Vilsito - This popular taco stand in the Condesa neighborhood is known for its al pastor tacos, made with spit-grilled pork and pineapple.
   
   
   
2. Taqueria El Paisa - Located in the Roma neighborhood, this taqueria is famous for its carne asada tacos and bistec (steak) tortas.
   
   
   
3. Tamales Dona Emi - This beloved tamale stand in the La Merced market is known for its flavorful tamales filled with a variety of meats and vegetables.
   
   
   
4. Elotes Elote Loco - This street vendor, found throughout the city, is famous for its delicious grilled corn on the cob smothered in a creamy mayonnaise sauce and sprinkled with cheese.
   
   
   
5. Tortas La Hechizera - Located in the historic center, this sandwich shop is known for its hearty and flavorful tortas filled with a variety of meats and toppings.
6. Tlacoyos Doña Tere - This street vendor in the Roma neighborhood specializes in tlacoyos, a type of fried masa topped with beans and a variety of other ingredients.
7. Eloteque - This street vendor, found throughout the city, is known for its delicious elotes (grilled corn on the cob) and esquites (corn salad).
8. Agua Fresca de Fresa - This popular agua fresca (fresh fruit water) stand in the La Merced market is known for its delicious strawberry-flavored drink.
9. Licuados La Pitahaya - This smoothie and licuado (fruit juice smoothie) stand in the Condesa neighborhood is known for its refreshing and flavorful drinks made with a variety of fresh fruits.
   
   
   
10. El Farolito - This street vendor in the La Merced market is known for its tasty quesadillas filled with a variety of meats and vegetables.
    
    
    
11. Torta de Milanesa - This sandwich shop in the Roma neighborhood is known for its delicious milanesa (breaded and fried meat) tortas.
12. Churros La Lupe - This street vendor in the historic center is known for its delicious churros, deep-fried pastries dusted with sugar and served with a rich chocolate dipping sauce.
    
    
    

Mexico City's street food scene is a delicious and exciting adventure that can't be missed. Whether you're a foodie looking to try something new or just want to grab a quick bite on the go, you're sure to find something that satisfies your cravings. So don't be afraid to dive in and try something new - your taste buds will thank you!