{"id":28408,"date":"2017-08-30T15:23:19","date_gmt":"2017-08-30T20:23:19","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/offmetro.com\/world\/?p=28408"},"modified":"2025-08-25T07:25:10","modified_gmt":"2025-08-25T12:25:10","slug":"journey-to-oaxaca-the-foodie-capital-of-mexico","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/offmetro.com\/world\/28408\/journey-to-oaxaca-the-foodie-capital-of-mexico\/","title":{"rendered":"Oaxaca: The Foodie Capital of Mexico"},"content":{"rendered":"

Beyond the flashy beaches of Cancun and cosmopolitan Mexico City, lies the state of Oaxaca. Oaxaca (also the name of the state\u2019s capital) is a gentle city that mixes the colonial character of traditional Spanish plazas, churches and cobblestone with the indigenous legacy of agricultural and pre-Columbian art. Modern day Oaxaca is a testament to both cultures and their years of living side by side with Zapotec mole as popular as, and often mixed with, dishes made with rice (a Spanish descendent). As you prepare to explore, make sure to pack a good pair of shoes because the artistic alleyways and extensive markets will keep you on your feet all day. <\/span><\/p>\n

What to Eat – The Basics<\/b><\/h3>\n

When you\u2019re in Oaxaca, make sure not to miss these staples.<\/span><\/p>\n

Chocolate<\/b>– Chocolate shops abound in Oaxaca and while the most ubiquitous, Chocolate Mayordomo, offers a popular chocolate smoothie option, our favorite was Chocolates La Soledad<\/a>. Here you\u2019ll smell the chocolate steps before you see it, as the aromas of fresh chocolate production waft into the street. They offer samples of the majority of their chocolates which means you can find the perfect one before purchasing.<\/p>\n

\"Mezcal<\/p>\n

Mezcal<\/b>– Oaxacans are pretty darn proud of their regional beverage, a smoky flavored cousin of tequila, and will offer you a drink at every turn. When imbibing, remember that mezcal is meant to warm you up – so sip it like a wine. Most restaurants have extensive options and enthusiasts can even head to one of the local distilleries to see the Mezcal making in action.<\/span><\/p>\n

C<\/b>offee<\/b>–  The classic coffee drink in Oaxaca is a sweet mix of coffee and cinnamon called Cafe de Olla. For those who prefer a stronger, no-frills morning cup of joe, we recommend Nuevo Mundo<\/a> and Caf\u00e9 Br\u00fajula  for fresh roasts, crafted espresso drinks, and pastries that will remind you of your favorite Brooklyn cafe.<\/p>\n

Quesillo<\/b>– This \u201cstring cheese\u201d style queso is the<\/i> cheese of Oaxaca. Buy a block of quesillo at any of the markets or try it for lunch as part of a tlayuda. This traditional Oaxacan street food (sometimes referred to as Oaxacan Pizza) can be found on many a corner throughout the city, with options to also include beans, meat and vegetables with your cheese.<\/p>\n

The Dining Scene<\/b><\/h3>\n

There\u2019s a reason Oaxaca is known as a foodie destination.<\/span><\/p>\n