Top 5 Places to Eat in Oaxaca City

Written by Andreas Keller, Marika Maslanka, Miguel Lopez
01/08/2025
Colorful papel picado decorates the streets of Oaxaca, Mexico, with taxis passing by.
Luis Ariza, Pexels

Oaxaca City boasts a rich and diverse culinary scene, celebrating its deep-rooted indigenous traditions through a wide array of flavors, from vibrant street food to innovative fine dining experiences.

1. Casa Oaxaca El Restaurante

Cuisine: Contemporary Oaxacan

Dine on sophisticated interpretations of Oaxacan classics in a stylish setting, often with a delightful rooftop view of the Santo Domingo church. The customizable tableside salsa is a highlight, and the mezcal cocktails are expertly crafted and balanced. It is recommended to make a reservation, especially for a sunset rooftop seat.

Price: $$$$ (Pricier end)

Getting There: Located in Centro, generally within walking distance from the main areas.

2. Boulenc

Cuisine: Bakery & Brunch / International & Traditional

This bustling spot is perfect for breakfast or brunch, renowned for its incredible baked goods, such as chocolate croissants and muffins. The menu offers both traditional Oaxacan and international options, like shakshuka. There is often a lively crowd, and a convenient grab-and-go bakery is available next door.

Price: Mid-range

Getting There: Centrally located in Centro, accessible by foot.

3. Mercado 20 de Noviembre: Pasillo de Humo

Cuisine: Traditional Oaxacan Street Food (Meats)

Step into the 'Hall of Smoke' for an immersive and chaotic culinary experience. Here, vendors grill a variety of meats like tasajo (dried beef), cecina (thinly sliced pork), and chorizo over open coals. Select your preferred meat, and then choose from an array of fresh condiments, salsas, and tortillas. This is a must-try for a truly authentic and budget-friendly lunch.

Price: $ (Budget-friendly)

Getting There: Located just south of Oaxaca Centro, easily walkable.

4. Lechoncito de Oro

Cuisine: Street Food (Pork Tacos, Tortas, Tostadas)

This emblematic street stall in downtown Oaxaca is a go-to for incredibly tasty and affordable pork tacos, tortas, or tostadas, served with a flavorful salsa. It offers a generous amount of food at a very low price, making it a popular choice for locals and visitors alike.

Price: $ (70-200 MXN per person)

Getting There: Located in Centro, easily accessible by foot.

5. Levadura de Olla Restaurante

Cuisine: Traditional Oaxacan with a modern touch

Experience traditional Oaxacan dishes, some with new interpretations, crafted from family recipes by Chef Thalía Barrios Garcia. The restaurant is celebrated for its emphasis on mole dishes and creative options like the native tomato plate. It also features a selection of mezcal. Booking in advance is recommended.

Price: $$ (Mid-range to slightly higher)

Getting There: Located in the heart of Oaxaca City, typically walking distance from central accommodations.

Check out our other pages on Oaxaca City

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