Top 5 Places to Eat in Puebla

Charming street in Puebla, Mexico with vibrant buildings and string lights, capturing a lively evening ambiance.
Noé García, Pexels

Puebla's dining scene is a vibrant testament to Mexico's rich culinary traditions, offering everything from iconic regional dishes to contemporary interpretations, catering to a diverse range of palates and budgets.

1. El Mural de los Poblanos

Cuisine: Traditional Pueblan Mexican

This fine-dining establishment is dedicated to preserving and enhancing original Mexican gastronomy, set within a 17th-century mansion adorned with murals. It is highly regarded for its rich mole poblano and beautifully presented seasonal chiles en nogada. Diners can also experience unique delicacies like escamoles (ant larvae), typically served from February to May. The service is polished yet welcoming, making it ideal for a special meal.

Price: Approximately 1,400 - 2,000 MXN / $75 - $100+ USD per person for a three-course meal

Getting There: Located in the historic center on 16 de Septiembre 506, it is easily walkable from the main Zócalo area.

2. Augurio

Cuisine: Modern Pueblan Mexican

Augurio offers a contemporary approach to traditional Pueblan cuisine, helmed by the renowned Chef Ángel Vázquez. The ambiance is warm and stylish, featuring an open kitchen. It is praised for its mole poblano, which features a unique recipe without chocolate, and is a strong contender for those seeking an elevated and experimental take on local dishes.

Price: Approximately 900 - 1,400 MXN / $50 - $75+ USD per person

Getting There: Situated in the historic center, on the ground floor of La Quinta Esencia, it is conveniently located and walkable from central accommodations.

3. Comal

Cuisine: Traditional Pueblan Mexican

A local favorite, Comal provides a casual and informal setting with excellent views of the Puebla Cathedral. It is highly recommended for its mole poblano, considered one of the best in the city. The menu also features a wide variety of Pueblan specialties, including cemitas, chalupas, pelonas, and various local tacos, perfect for experiencing classic comfort food.

Price: Approximately 350 - 750 MXN / $20 - $40 USD per person

Getting There: Found directly in front of the Puebla Cathedral, just a short walk from the zocalo.

4. Tacos Beyrut

Cuisine: Tacos Árabes

Tacos Beyrut is a smaller, focused taqueria that specializes in tacos árabes, a unique Puebla dish influenced by Lebanese immigrants. These flavorful tacos feature pork carved from a spit, wrapped in a soft taco shell. It's a simple yet essential culinary experience when visiting Puebla, offering an authentic taste of this regional specialty.

Price: Approximately 20 - 50 MXN / $1 - $3 USD per taco; a full meal under $10 USD

Getting There: Located at Av 5 Pte 718-A in the historic center, it's a few blocks from Tacos Árabes Bagdad and easily accessible by foot.

5. Cemitas del Carmen (Mercado el Carmen)

Cuisine: Cemitas and traditional antojitos

Inside the vibrant Mercado el Carmen, Cemitas del Carmen is a popular food stall renowned for its cemitas. These iconic Puebla sandwiches are generously filled with breaded meat, Oaxaca cheese, avocado, and the distinct herb 'papalo', all served on a sesame-seed-covered brioche-like bun. It's an excellent spot for an authentic, bustling local dining experience.

Price: Approximately 60 - 120 MXN / $3 - $6 USD per cemita; a meal under $10 USD

Getting There: Located within Mercado el Carmen, which is within walking distance of the historic center.