10 Must-Try Dishes in Mexico City That Changed How I Think About Food

Mexico City is a culinary playground, and my stomach has never been happier—or more challenged. From high-end restaurants to street-side stalls, every meal felt like a revelation. I came expecting tacos and tequila; I left with a deeper appreciation for mole, tamales, and the endless creativity of Mexican chefs.

My favorite find? Tacos al pastor from a vendor near Parque México. Perfectly spiced pork, carved off a spinning spit, topped with pineapple and cilantro, all for under a dollar. Then there was the unexpected elegance of huitlacoche (corn fungus) served in a gourmet quesadilla at a fusion restaurant in Roma Norte. It tasted like truffles and history.

I took a food tour that introduced me to dishes I’d never heard of: tlayudas, tlacoyos, and a soul-warming pozole made with hominy and pork. Every vendor had a story, and many had been perfecting their craft for generations. Even the street corn, grilled and smothered in mayo, cheese, and chili powder, felt like a revelation.

If you love food, put Mexico City at the top of your list. It’s not just about taste—it’s about culture, memory, and pride. I’ll never eat a taco the same way again.