Secret Food Tours Oaxaca de Juarez in Mexico

If you’re planning a trip to Oaxaca City and want to truly taste what makes this place special, Secret Food Tours Oaxaca de Juarez offers a compelling way to do just that. This guided experience promises a journey through the heart of Mexican cuisine, from beloved family recipes to artisan-made treats, all wrapped in a lively, culturally rich atmosphere. With a perfect rating of 5.0 from 16 reviews, it’s clear this tour leaves many travelers satisfied.

What we love about this tour is how it balances delicious food, engaging storytelling, and a glimpse into local life. The stops at lively markets give you a real feel for the city’s vibrant street scene, while the inclusion of iconic dishes like black Mole and Tlayudas showcase Oaxaca’s culinary depth. Plus, the small-group setting ensures a more personalized experience—something that’s often missing with larger, more commercialized tours.

One potential consideration is that the tour lasts around 3 hours, which means you’ll want to pace yourself if you’re a big eater or have dietary restrictions. Also, the tour doesn’t include transport to and from the meeting point, so plan accordingly if you’re staying far from the starting location. This tour is best suited for food lovers, culture enthusiasts, or anyone eager to see Oaxaca beyond its tourist spots.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re keen on authentic food experiences, enjoy wandering through markets, and appreciate stories behind each dish, this tour should be on your list. It’s especially ideal for those who prefer intimate group sizes and guided insights into local traditions. It also fits well for travelers wanting a well-rounded taste of Oaxaca’s culinary and cultural scene in a manageable timeframe.

Good To Know

• Authentic Food Experience: Enjoy traditional dishes like black Mole, Tlayudas, and quesillo cheese.
• Cultural Insights: Learn about local market life, history, and recipes from passionate guides.
• Small Group Setting: Limited to 12 travelers, ensuring personalized attention.
• Strategic Stops: Markets, historic squares, and bustling shopping streets offer a full sensory experience.
• Pricing & Value: At $80 per person for around 3 hours, you get a comprehensive taste of Oaxaca’s flavors.
• Ideal for: Food lovers, culture seekers, and travelers wanting an authentic, yet manageable, culinary tour.

Meeting Point and Initial Impressions

The tour kicks off at C. de Ignacio Aldama 217, right next to the popular Mercado 20 de Noviembre. Our guide, introduced at the start, immediately sets a friendly tone, sharing their enthusiasm for Oaxaca’s food scene. Reviewers comment on guides like Antonio, who was described as passionate and engaging, making the experience both educational and fun.

Expect to spend about 10 minutes here, during which you’ll get a quick overview of the tour’s layout. This is a good chance to ask questions, clarify dietary preferences, or just get a feel for what the next few hours will involve.

Exploring Mercado 20 de Noviembre

This is where your taste buds start tingling. Here, the tour truly shines—sampling two different moles at the famous market sets a high bar for the culinary journey. The moles are a highlight, with reviews noting the quality and depth of flavor. One reviewer found the experience “a delicious start,” while another appreciated how it showcased Oaxaca’s signature dishes.

As you wander through the bustling stalls, expect to see vendors selling everything from fresh produce to homemade salsas. The vibrant colors and lively chatter make this a sensory feast.

Moving to Mercado Benito Juarez

A short stroll brings you to Mercado Benito Juarez, offering a different atmosphere—more local, less touristy. Here, you’ll try quesillo cheese, which is a staple in Oaxacan cuisine, and a sweet local snack that reviewers describe as “delicious.” One noted that the quesillo was “authentic and fresh,” which adds a genuine touch to the tasting experience.

Walking through these markets provides insight into the everyday life of locals, away from the more touristy areas. It’s a great way to see the city’s vibrant street food culture firsthand.

The Zocalo and Traditional Drinks

Next, the tour stops at the Zocalo, Oaxaca’s main square, which is a charming hub of activity. Here, you’ll be introduced to Tejate, a pre-Hispanic drink that’s earthy and slightly frothy, often called the “drink of the gods.” Pairing it with Pan de Yema, a sweet bread, provides a perfect balance of flavors. Reviewers mention that the taste of Tejate is a unique experience—“like nothing else,” as one put it.

Expect this part to last about 40 minutes, allowing time to absorb the lively atmosphere, watch street performers, and snap photos of the stunning architecture.

Exploring Calle Macedonio Alcalá

The final stop takes us through the bustling shopping streets of Calle Macedonio Alcalá. Here, the tour visits spots favored by locals, including a lovely terrace where more food awaits. You’ll get to try a handmade crispy Tlayuda, a traditional Mexican pizza topped with meat, and a special “Secret Dish” that changes depending on what’s fresh or in season.

One reviewer appreciated the variety, saying, “We sampled some of Oaxaca’s best dishes, all within a beautiful historic setting.” It’s the perfect way to wind down, soaking in the lively city ambiance.

The Food and Beverages Included

Throughout the tour, you’ll taste a variety of authentic dishes and drinks. Highlights include:

• Oaxacan Black Mole and Mole Rojo: Rich, complex sauces served with local staples.
• Fried Chile Relleno: Crispy and flavorful.
• Chocolate Bite: Oaxaca is famous for its cacao—this is a must-try.
• Chapulines: For the adventurous, crunchy roasted crickets seasoned just right.
• Quesillo Cheese: Melty and fresh.
• Pre-Hispanic Cacao Brew & Coffee: A nod to ancient traditions, earthy and aromatic.
• Traditional Oaxacan Olla Coffee: Earthy and robust.

The tour also includes water, making sure you stay hydrated amid all these flavors.

What’s Not Included

Keep in mind, the tour doesn’t cover gratuities or transportation. You’ll need to arrange your own way to and from the meeting point, but the location is near public transportation, making logistics straightforward.

Practicalities and Tips

• Duration: Approximately 3 hours—exactly enough time to sample a good variety without feeling rushed.
• Group Size: Limited to 12 people, which enhances interaction and makes it easier for questions.
• Price: At $80 per person, you’re getting a well-rounded introduction to Oaxaca’s cuisine and culture, especially considering the variety and quality of food.
• Physical Level: Moderate activity level—expect some walking through markets and streets.
• Booking: Usually booked 19 days in advance, so plan ahead for popular dates.

For those who value authenticity over tourist traps, this tour offers a genuine taste of Oaxaca. The stops at local markets and the chance to try traditional recipes prepared by artisans make it stand out. The guides’ passion, as highlighted by reviews, makes each bite come alive with stories and context. If you’re curious about local ingredients, like quesillo or chapulines, this tour provides ample opportunities to taste and learn.

The small-group size ensures a more intimate experience, allowing for personalized attention and deeper conversations about Oaxaca’s food culture. The variety of foods—including the bold flavors of mole, the earthy cacao brews, and the crunchy chapulines—means there’s something for all, whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a casual traveler.

However, keep in mind that the tour focuses on tasting and culture rather than sightseeing or transportation. If your priority is exploring Oaxaca’s landmarks, you might want to combine this with other tours. But if you’re after a culinary adventure that’s both fun and educational, this tour is a fantastic choice.

This Secret Food Tours Oaxaca de Juarez offers a balanced mix of tasting, storytelling, and local immersion. It’s perfect for travelers who want a manageable, well-organized way to explore Oaxaca’s culinary landscape in just a few hours. Budget-conscious yet high in value, this experience promises to leave you with a full belly and a deeper appreciation for Oaxaca’s food traditions.

The knowledgeable guides, authentic dishes, and lively market visits make for an engaging and fulfilling experience. Whether you’re traveling solo, as a couple, or with friends, it’s a delightful way to connect with Oaxaca’s culture through its food.

How long does the tour last?
The tour takes approximately 3 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy multiple tastings and explore key sites without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at C. de Ignacio Aldama 217 near Mercado 20 de Noviembre and concludes near Santo Domingo Square, on Calle Macedonio Alcalá.

Is the tour suitable for vegetarians or those with dietary restrictions?
While the tour includes traditional dishes, it’s best to communicate any dietary needs when booking. The guides are generally accommodating, but specific restrictions aren’t detailed in the provided info.

Do I need to arrange my own transportation?
Yes, transportation is not included. The meeting point is accessible via public transportation, and the tour ends close to the starting area, making it easy to navigate.

What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 12 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.

Are tips included?
Tips are not included in the price. As a common practice in Mexico, tipping is appreciated if you enjoyed the experience.

Can I book this tour in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book around 19 days in advance, especially during peak travel seasons.

Is this tour suitable for children?
The tour’s moderate physical activity and food focus should be suitable for older children, but under-12s should be accompanied and may need to skip certain items like chapulines if sensitive.

For anyone eager to taste their way through Oaxaca’s vibrant streets, this guided food tour offers a perfect starting point. It’s a thoughtful, flavorful introduction that respects the city’s culinary heritage while providing lots of fun along the way. Expect engaging guides, authentic dishes, and a genuine feel for the local culture—all for a reasonable price. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or simply curious about Mexican cuisine, this tour is a delicious way to connect with Oaxaca’s soul.