25 iconic Oaxaca street food stalls to visit (including what to eat)

Check out these 25 iconic Oaxaca street food stalls and save it on your map to for your trip to Oaxaca City!

Oaxaca street food stands out for its rich diversity, deep cultural roots, and the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients that capture the essence of Oaxacan cuisine.

This culinary tradition is celebrated for its complexity, featuring a variety of flavors and textures that range from savory tlayudas and succulent meats to sweet treats and refreshing beverages.

Oaxacan street food is not just about eating; it’s an immersive experience that offers a taste of the region’s history and traditions.

Chefs and vendors passionately preserve ancestral cooking methods while also embracing innovation, making Oaxaca a must-visit destination for food enthusiasts seeking authenticity and flavor.

If you’re wondering what to try first, the most popular Oaxaca street food is arguably the tlayuda, often referred to as the Mexican pizza.

It consists of a large, crispy corn tortilla topped with beans, cheese, avocado, and a choice of meats such as tasajo or chorizo, all cooked over an open flame.

Here are our best recommendations for Oaxaca street food stalls with prices, location, and a background on what to order:

1. Las Tlayudas de Mina y Bustamante: best Oaxaca street food for tlayudas

Las Tlayudas de Mina y Bustamante specializes in the iconic Oaxacan dish known as tlayudas, which are large, crispy tortillas topped with a variety of ingredients, including beans, cheese, and meat.

This dish is a staple of Oaxaca street food, deeply rooted in the region’s culinary traditions.

When visiting, consider ordering their signature tlayuda con asiento (unrefined pork lard), tasajo (thinly sliced beef), or chorizo.

Prices are reasonable, with tlayudas ranging from 70 pesos (about $3.50 USD) to 100 pesos (about $5 USD), offering a fulfilling meal without breaking the bank.

Visit late in the evening, as the ambiance and cooler night air complement the dining experience, and it’s also a great time to mingle with locals.

2. Memelas Doña Vale: best Oaxaca street food for memelas

Memelas Doña Vale is renowned for its exceptional memelas, a traditional Oaxacan street food made from masa (corn dough), cooked on a griddle, and topped with black beans, cheese, and salsa.

This dish represents the heart and soul of Oaxacan cuisine, with each memela being a blend of flavors perfected over generations.

Memelas Doña Vale offers a variety of toppings, including avocado, chorizo, and different types of salsa.

For a true taste of Oaxaca, order their memela with quesillo (Oaxacan cheese) and tasajo, typically priced at 25 MXN (about $1.25 USD) each.

For those looking to explore further, their memelas with chorizo are a must-try at 30 MXN (about $1.50 USD).

Go in the morning when the memelas are freshly made, and the crowd is thinner, providing a more intimate experience with the cooks preparing your meal right in front of you!

3. Lechoncito de Oro: best late-night Oaxaca street food stall

Lechoncito de Oro is celebrated for its tacos de lechon, offering a succulent and flavorful take on this beloved dish made from slow-roasted suckling pig.

This Oaxaca street food gem is a testament to the region’s rich culinary diversity, drawing both locals and travelers to its bustling location.

The crispy skin and tender meat wrapped in a fresh tortilla create an unforgettable taste sensation.

The tacos de lechon are priced at 35 pesos each (about $1.75 USD), providing a savory experience that’s both affordable and delicious. An order of three tacos is usually sufficient for a satisfying meal.

Arrive early, as their tacos de lechon sell out quickly due to high demand. This also gives you the chance to see the lechon being expertly carved directly off the roast!

4. Carnitas La Luz: best Oaxaca street food for carnitas

Carnitas La Luz offers a sublime selection of carnitas, a dish featuring tender, slow-cooked pork that’s a cornerstone of Mexican cuisine.

This stall has honed its recipe to perfection, making it a must-visit for enthusiasts of Oaxaca street food seeking authentic carnitas. Their method of cooking in a copper pot over an open flame ensures every bite is juicy and flavorful.

The tacos de carnitas are an excellent choice, priced at 20 MXN (about $1 USD) each, or consider a mixed plate of carnitas for 120 MXN (about $6 USD), allowing you to sample a variety of cuts.

A visit to Carnitas La Luz is not complete without trying their cueritos (pork skin), a delicacy that perfectly complements their carnitas.

For those looking to enjoy Carnitas La Luz to the fullest, visit on a weekend morning when the selection is freshest and the atmosphere is most lively, providing an authentic glimpse into the local food culture.

5. Tacos del Carmen: best Oaxaca street food for tacos de flor de calabaza

Tacos del Carmen stands out for its specialty in Tacos de flor de calabaza (squash blossom tacos), a delightful and unique offering in the realm of Oaxaca street food.

These tacos feature the delicate flavor of squash blossoms, combined with cheese, and sometimes with the addition of epazote, wrapped in a freshly made corn tortilla.

This stall’s focus on fresh, vegetarian-friendly ingredients sets it apart from the typical meat-centric street food stalls. The Tacos de flor de calabaza are reasonably priced at 15 pesos (about $0.75 USD) each, making them an affordable and light option.

For a comprehensive experience, pair them with a glass of agua fresca, typically around 20 pesos (about $1 USD).

These tacos run out fast, especially in the evenings so it’s better to visit during opening hours.

6. Comedor Típico La Abuelita: assorted Oaxaca street food in one place

Comedor Típico La Abuelita is renowned for offering a wide array of Oaxacan street food, encapsulating the rich culinary heritage of the region.

This eatery prides itself on serving traditional Oaxacan dishes, prepared with recipes that have been passed down through generations.

The ambiance here is reminiscent of dining in a local Oaxacan home, complete with the warmth and hospitality that the region is known for.

For those looking to experience the essence of Oaxacan cuisine, ordering their mole negro with chicken is a must, typically priced at 120 MXN (about $6 USD).

Additionally, their tlayudas, generously topped with local ingredients, are a steal at 80 MXN (about $4 USD). For a lighter option, the quesillo (Oaxacan cheese) quesadillas are delightful and cost about 50 MXN (about $2.50 USD).

7. Fonda Florecita: best Oaxaca street food for enmoladas

Fonda Florecita is a celebrated spot in the heart of Oaxaca City, famous for its exquisite enmoladas, a traditional dish consisting of tortillas soaked in mole sauce.

This stall’s version of the dish highlights the complex and rich flavors of mole, a sauce that is a cornerstone of Oaxacan cuisine and culture.

The family-run establishment adds a personal touch to each dish, making it a memorable part of any Oaxaca street food tour.

The enmoladas filled with chicken and smothered in their signature mole sauce are a popular choice, available for about 90 MXN (approximately $4.50 USD).

For vegetarians, the cheese enmoladas offer a sumptuous alternative at the same price. Additionally, their homemade horchata, priced at 20 MXN (about $1 USD), is the perfect complement to the bold flavors of their dishes.

8. Itanoni: best Oaxaca street food for tetelas

Itanoni, beloved for its dedication to preserving the ancient grain heritage of Oaxaca, specializes in tetelas, triangular corn masa snacks filled with beans, cheese, or other local ingredients.

This establishment stands out in the Oaxaca street food scene for its commitment to using heirloom corn varieties, supporting sustainable agriculture in the region. The result is a menu that offers a taste of Oaxaca’s biodiversity and agricultural richness.

Their bean and cheese tetelas are highly recommended, priced at 35 MXN (about $1.75 USD) each. For something different, try their avocado and quesillo tetela, which goes for 40 MXN (about $2 USD).

Itanoni also offers a range of atole flavors, a traditional corn-based beverage, for 25 MXN (about $1.25 USD) that pairs wonderfully with their snacks.

9. La Guerita: best Oaxaca street food empanadas

La Guerita is a standout empanada vendor in Oaxaca City, known for its crispy, golden empanadas filled with a variety of local ingredients.

This stall takes the classic empanada and infuses it with Oaxacan flavors, making it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.

The use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients elevates their empanadas to a gourmet level, yet they are served in the laid-back setting typical of Oaxacan street food.

The empanadas de amarillo (yellow mole) with chicken are a must-try, costing 50 MXN (about $2.50 USD) each.

For a vegetarian option, the empanadas filled with flor de calabaza (squash blossoms) and cheese are equally delicious and priced similarly.

La Guerita also serves refreshing aguas frescas, with prices starting at 20 MXN (about $1 USD).

10. Gastronomic Center of Oaxaca: fancy Oaxaca street food

The Gastronomic Center of Oaxaca represents a unique fusion of high-end dining and the vibrant street food culture of Oaxaca, offering an upscale twist on traditional Oaxacan street food.

This innovative concept brings together chefs from fine dining establishments across the city to create street food stalls that serve gourmet versions of classic Oaxacan dishes.

One of the standout offerings is the gourmet mole negro tacos, which are priced at around 100 MXN (about $5 USD) each, reflecting their premium ingredients and preparation.

Another must-try is the artisanal quesadillas with rare Oaxacan cheese, available for approximately 80 MXN (about $4 USD).

For an exquisite drink to complement your meal, the mezcal-infused agua fresca, at 60 MXN (about $3 USD), offers a refreshing twist.

Plan your visit during one of their special event nights, which often feature live music or cooking demonstrations by renowned chefs, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to the gourmet street food experience.

11. Antojitos Regionales “Doña Irma”

Antojitos Regionales “Doña Irma” is a beloved stall in Oaxaca City, specializing in regional delicacies that showcase the diversity of Oaxacan cuisine.

Known for its authentic flavors and traditional cooking methods, this eatery serves a variety of dishes that have been part of Oaxaca’s culinary heritage for centuries.

It’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike, seeking to experience the true essence of Oaxaca street food.

When visiting, be sure to try their mole coloradito tamales, which are a delightful blend of sweet and spicy, priced at 25 MXN (about $1.25 USD) each.

Another must-try is the tasajo cemita, a hearty sandwich filled with thinly sliced grilled beef, avocado, and Oaxacan cheese, for 70 MXN (about $3.50 USD).

For a lighter option, their quesadillas filled with flor de calabaza (squash blossoms) and quesillo are simply irresistible, costing 35 MXN (about $1.75 USD) each.

12. Tamales Doña Mari

Tamales Doña Mari is famous throughout Oaxaca City for its exceptional tamales, offering a wide variety of flavors that cater to all tastes.

This stall uses traditional recipes and cooking techniques, ensuring each tamal is steamed to perfection and packed with flavor. The tamales here are a staple of Oaxacan street food, beloved for their comforting warmth and rich, savory fillings.

Highly recommended are the mole negro tamales, enveloped in banana leaves and filled with chicken, available for 30 MXN (about $1.50 USD) each.

For vegetarians, the tamales de rajas con queso, featuring strips of chili pepper and cheese, are a great choice at 25 MXN (about $1.25 USD).

Don’t miss the sweet tamales for dessert, such as the pineapple or sweet milk (leche quemada) tamales, priced similarly.

13. La Flor de Huayapam: best Oaxaca street food tejate

La Flor de Huayapam is a hidden gem in Oaxaca City, famed for its tejate, an ancient pre-Hispanic drink made from maize, cacao, mamey pits, and flor de cacao (cacao flowers).

This refreshing beverage is a testament to the rich culinary history of Oaxaca and is considered a cultural heritage drink.

La Flor de Huayapam is one of the few places where tejate is prepared following the traditional method, making it a must-visit for those looking to dive into the authentic flavors of Oaxaca street food.

A large cup of tejate here costs about 20 MXN (approximately $1 USD), making it an affordable and unique experience.

They also offer small bags of handmade tejate paste to take home for 50 MXN (about $2.50 USD), allowing you to recreate this exquisite drink.

14. Tortas Lalita – Jalatlaco

Tortas Lalita, located in the quaint neighborhood of Jalatlaco, is celebrated for its tortas, a type of Mexican sandwich that is a staple of Oaxaca street food.

This family-run stall is known for its generous portions, fresh ingredients, and the warm, welcoming atmosphere it provides to every customer.

Each torta is crafted with care, featuring a variety of fillings that cater to both traditional and contemporary tastes.

The torta de milanesa (breaded beef cutlet) is a crowd favorite, offered at 60 MXN (about $3 USD), and is known for its satisfying crunch and flavorful toppings.

For those seeking something a bit different, the torta de chorizo with Oaxacan cheese is a spicy delight, priced at 65 MXN (about $3.25 USD).

Additionally, their aguas frescas, in flavors like horchata and tamarind, are the perfect complement to your meal, costing around 20 MXN (about $1 USD).

Explore the charming streets of Jalatlaco either before or after your meal, as the area is full of colorful murals and local artisan shops that offer a glimpse into the vibrant culture of Oaxaca.

15. Chocolate Mayordomo

Chocolate Mayordomo is a cornerstone of Oaxacan street food culture, specializing in traditional Oaxacan hot chocolate, a rich and aromatic beverage that has been enjoyed in the region for generations.

This stall stands out for its use of high-quality cacao beans, which are ground with almonds, sugar, and cinnamon to create a chocolate that is both complex and comforting.

The hot chocolate here is not just a drink; it’s an experience that embodies the warmth and richness of Oaxacan cuisine.

A cup of their signature hot chocolate costs 35 MXN (about $1.75 USD), and for those who wish to take a piece of Oaxaca home, they offer chocolate bars and powder starting at 60 MXN (about $3 USD).

Don’t leave without trying their chocolate atole, a thicker, mealier version of hot chocolate, for an authentic taste of Oaxaca!

16. Chefinita: best Oaxaca street food pozole

Chefinita has earned its reputation in Oaxaca City as the go-to destination for pozole, a traditional Mexican soup that is particularly beloved in the region for its rich flavors and comforting qualities.

This street food stall distinguishes itself by serving an authentic version of pozole, which is deeply rooted in the culinary traditions of Oaxaca, featuring hominy corn with meat, garnished with lettuce, radish, onion, lime, and chili.

The dedication to traditional cooking methods and the use of fresh, local ingredients make Chefinita’s pozole a must-try dish for anyone looking to explore the depth of Oaxacan cuisine.

Try the pozole verde with chicken, priced at 80 MXN (about $4 USD), for a tangy and hearty meal. The pozole rojo with pork is another excellent choice, offering a slightly spicier flavor for the same price.

Accompany your pozole with tostadas and a cold beer, typically costing around 20 MXN (about $1 USD), for the complete experience.

Come on a Thursday evening, as it’s a local tradition to eat pozole on this day of the week, allowing guests to enjoy their meal alongside a lively and festive atmosphere.

17. Nieves Chagüita: best Oaxaca street food ice cream

Nieves Chagüita is celebrated throughout Oaxaca City for its artisanal Oaxacan ice cream, known locally as “nieves”.

This stall stands out for its wide array of unique flavors, many of which are made from local fruits, herbs, and spices, showcasing the biodiversity and culinary creativity of Oaxaca.

Nieves Chagüita offers a delightful escape from the heat with its refreshing and often surprising flavor combinations, making it a staple of Oaxaca street food culture.

Must-try flavors include leche quemada (burnt milk) and tuna (prickly pear), each priced at 30 MXN (about $1.50 USD) for a generous scoop.

For those adventurous in palate, the beso de ángel (angel’s kiss), a mix of fruity and floral notes, is an intriguing option at the same price.

Additionally, their sorbets, particularly the mango and lime, offer a refreshing and dairy-free alternative, perfect for cooling down on a hot day.

Ask for a sample of their more exotic flavors before deciding, as this allows you to explore the unique taste profiles characteristic of Oaxacan cuisine.

18. Cangreburger: best Oaxaca street food burgers

Cangreburger has quickly become a favorite among both locals and visitors in Oaxaca City for its outstanding street burgers, known for their juicy patties, fresh toppings, and inventive sauces.

This stall operates late into the night, making it an ideal spot for a satisfying meal after exploring the vibrant nightlife of Oaxaca.

The burgers here are a fusion of local flavors with the classic American dish, offering a unique twist on Oaxaca street food.

The signature Cangreburger, featuring a beef patty, cheese, and a special house sauce, is a must-try, priced at 100 MXN (about $5 USD). For something a little different, the shrimp burger is an innovative option, priced similarly.

Pair your burger with a side of hand-cut fries for 30 MXN (about $1.50 USD), completing the quintessential street food dining experience.

Visit after experiencing Oaxaca’s nightlife, as the bustling atmosphere of the stall adds to the vibrant night scene, providing not just a meal but an immersive cultural experience.

18. Elotes y Esquites El Chuy

Elotes y Esquites El Chuy is the premier destination in Oaxaca City for those in search of the best esquites and elotes, traditional Mexican street foods made from corn.

This stall has perfected the art of preparing these beloved snacks, offering them with a variety of toppings such as mayonnaise, cheese, lime, and chili powder, which highlight the natural sweetness of the corn.

The commitment to using fresh, locally sourced corn and preparing each order to perfection has made El Chuy a standout in the Oaxaca street food scene.

The elotes (corn on the cob) are a steal at 20 MXN (about $1 USD) each, while the esquites (corn in a cup) are equally tempting and priced similarly.

For an extra kick, ask for your esquites or elotes with a dash of spicy chili sauce.

19. Marquesitas El Mateo

Marquesitas El Mateo offers a unique and delightful dessert option in the form of marques itas, a Yucatecan treat that has found a loving home in Oaxaca City’s street food scene.

These crispy rolled crepes filled with sweet or savory ingredients are a perfect way to conclude a culinary exploration of Oaxaca.

Marquesitas El Mateo is known for its creativity, offering a variety of fillings ranging from the traditional Edam cheese to more adventurous options like Nutella and banana.

The classic cheese marquesita is a great starting point, priced at 35 MXN (about $1.75 USD), while the Nutella and banana option offers a decadent treat for 40 MXN (about $2 USD).

For those seeking a savory end to their meal, the ham and cheese marquesita is an excellent choice.

20. Benito Juarez Market: best place to try chapulines

Benito Juarez Market is a vibrant hub of Oaxacan culture and cuisine, offering an array of traditional foods, among which chapulines (grasshoppers) stand out as a must-try delicacy.

Chapulines have been a staple in the Oaxacan diet for centuries, valued both for their nutritional content and their unique, savory flavor.

This market offers a unique opportunity to sample this traditional snack, which is often seasoned with garlic, lime, and chili, providing a crunchy and spicy treat.

For those looking to try chapulines, they are typically sold by weight, with small bags starting at around 20 MXN (about $1 USD), making them an affordable and authentic taste of Oaxaca street food.

Larger quantities can be purchased for those who wish to bring some home, with prices varying based on size and seasoning.

Additionally, the market is a great place to explore other Oaxacan specialties, such as quesillo (Oaxacan cheese) and mezcal.

21. Garnachas La Güera

Garnachas La Güera is celebrated in Oaxaca City for serving up some of the best garnachas, a type of street food consisting of small corn tortillas topped with savory toppings such as shredded meat, salsa, and cheese.

This stall has perfected the art of making garnachas, with each bite offering a crispy base, rich and flavorful toppings, and a delightful combination of textures that make it a favorite among locals.

The simplicity of the dish, combined with the freshness of the ingredients, captures the essence of Oaxacan street food culture.

When visiting Garnachas La Güera, be sure to order a plate of garnachas with a mix of toppings, typically priced at 50 MXN (about $2.50 USD) for a serving that includes five pieces.

For an additional flavor, try their homemade salsas, which range from mildly spicy to fiery hot, at no extra cost. A refreshing glass of horchata, priced at 15 MXN (about $0.75 USD), is the perfect way to cool down.

22. Pasillo de Humo

Pasillo de Humo is a celebrated destination within the Oaxaca street food landscape, renowned for its exquisite carne asada.

This stall takes pride in its high-quality meats, grilled to perfection over open flames, embodying the rich tradition of Mexican barbecue.

For a taste of their signature dish, the carne asada plate, accompanied by grilled vegetables and handmade tortillas, is offered at around 150 MXN (approximately $7.50 USD).

To complement your meal, consider adding a side of their guacamole, freshly prepared and priced at 30 MXN (about $1.50 USD), and a cold cerveza artesanal (craft beer), which typically costs 50 MXN (about $2.50 USD).

Pasillo de Humo provides not just a meal, but a gastronomic experience that captures the essence of Oaxaca street food.

23. Super Jugos Angelita

Super Jugos Angelita is a vibrant juice bar that stands out in the bustling Oaxaca street food scene for its wide array of fresh, nutrient-packed juices and smoothies.

This stall is dedicated to promoting health and wellness through a delightful selection of beverages made from fresh fruits, vegetables, and superfoods, all sourced locally to ensure peak flavor and nutrition.

With a colorful and inviting setup, Super Jugos Angelita attracts health-conscious locals and tourists alike, eager to refresh themselves with a natural energy boost.

Among the must-try options is the mango and passion fruit juice, a tropical delight priced at 35 MXN (about $1.75 USD).

For a more substantial option, the mixed berry smoothie with a scoop of protein, perfect for the fitness enthusiast, is offered at 50 MXN (about $2.50 USD).

Additionally, the detox green juice, a blend of leafy greens, cucumber, and pineapple, is ideal for a morning pick-me-up, costing 40 MXN (about $2 USD).

24. Tortas La Hormiga

Tortas La Hormiga has gained a loyal following in Oaxaca City for its mouth-watering late-night sandwiches, making it a beloved staple of the Oaxaca street food scene for night owls and after-party crowds.

This stall specializes in tortas, a type of Mexican sandwich that is generously filled with a variety of meats, cheeses, avocado, and sauces, all packed into a toasted bun that’s both crispy and soft.

Open until the early hours of the morning, Tortas La Hormiga is the go-to spot for satisfying late-night cravings with hearty and flavorful options.

The torta al pastor, featuring marinated pork sliced from a spit, is a crowd favorite, priced at 60 MXN (about $3 USD).

For something uniquely Oaxacan, try the torta de tasajo, a sandwich filled with thinly sliced grilled beef, for 70 MXN (about $3.50 USD).

And don’t forget to add a side of papas fritas (french fries) for an extra 20 MXN (about $1 USD), making for the perfect late-night feast.

25. Tlayudas La Chinita

Tlayudas La Chinita is another gem in the heart of Oaxaca, serving some of the best tlayudas in the city, a dish that has become synonymous with Oaxacan street food.

Tlayudas are large, crispy tortillas smeared with asiento (unrefined pork lard), topped with beans, cheese, avocado, and a choice of meat such as tasajo (thinly sliced beef), cecina (pork), or chorizo, and then usually grilled over an open flame.

La Chinita’s dedication to traditional preparation methods and the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients sets their tlayudas apart, drawing in a mix of locals and tourists eager to taste this iconic Oaxacan dish.

A classic tlayuda with tasajo is a must-try here, priced at 100 MXN (about $5 USD). For those who prefer something a bit spicier, the chorizo tlayuda, also at 100 MXN, offers a delightful kick.

Vegetarians aren’t left out, as La Chinita offers a veggie option with extra cheese and vegetables for 90 MXN (about $4.50 USD).