The city of Oaxaca has been a haven for foodies in 2024, offering an array of dishes that have not only comforted but also healed. Among the standout bites that left us wanting more are La Frijolería’s delectable beans, Tacomiendo’s mouth-watering tacos, La Niña de las Caguamas’ refreshing drinks and botanas, La Cevichería’s fresh flavors, Pleyadiana Kombucha’s rejuvenating elixirs, and Lácteos Artesanales Yucuita’s perfect quesillo.
La Frijolería: Where Beans Take Center Stage
A newcomer to the Oaxacan culinary scene, La Frijolería has won hearts with its authentic take on traditional beans. The restaurant’s signature dish is a must-try, with each bite bursting with flavor and texture. From the rich, velvety consistency of their frijoles de olla to the savory undertones of their frijoles negros, every bean dish is a testament to the culinary artistry of its chefs.
Tacomiendo: Tacos Like No Other
For taco enthusiasts, Tacomiendo is a paradise. This unassuming eatery serves some of the city’s best tacos, with each bite a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. From the tender carnitas to the spicy tinga, every taco is a masterclass in balance and flavor. Be sure to try their signature taco de lengua, which will leave you wanting more.
La Niña de las Caguamas: Refreshing Drinks and Botanas
Located in the heart of Oaxaca City, La Niña de las Caguamas is a hidden gem for those seeking refreshing drinks and delicious botanas. Their menu features an array of unique flavors, from the zesty lime and ginger to the sweet hibiscus and mint. Pair any drink with their crispy tortilla chips or savory empanadas for a snack that’s both satisfying and Instagram-worthy.
La Cevichería: A Kaleidoscope of Flavors
For seafood lovers, La Cevichería is a must-visit destination in Oaxaca City. This vibrant eatery serves an array of fresh dishes, each one showcasing the diversity of flavors found in Mexico’s Pacific coast. From the tangy ceviche to the smoky chintextle, every dish is a testament to the culinary expertise of its chefs.
Pleyadiana Kombucha: Nourishing Elixirs
In an era where wellness is on everyone’s mind, Pleyadiana Kombucha offers a refreshing alternative to coffee and sugary drinks. This local brand sources high-quality ingredients from across Oaxaca, creating elixirs that not only quench thirst but also provide strength and clarity. Try their signature flavors like ginger or wild mint for a taste experience unlike any other.
Lácteos Artesanales Yucuita: The Best Quesillo in Town
Last but certainly not least is Lácteos Artesanales Yucuita, a family-owned operation that produces some of the city’s finest quesillo. Made entirely by hand using traditional methods, this artisanal cheese is milky, luscious, and melts perfectly into any dish. Whether you’re in the mood for quesadillas, tlayudas, or queso fundido, Yucuita’s quesillo is an essential ingredient to try.
Festive Pinole and Rich Chocolate Ice Cream: Delights from Oaxaca
In Oaxaca, Mexico, the summer heat is a great excuse to indulge in some of the region’s delicious cooling beverages and rich desserts. One drink that stands out is pinole, a traditional specialty originating from the Sierra Norte mountains served throughout the town of Ixtepeji. This festive drink combines toasted corn flour with cinnamon, cacao, and achiote seeds, creating a flavorful and colorful powder that’s whisked into water to create a super-frothy treat.
At La Barbachería, a popular barbacoa spot in Oaxaca, you can try an authentic version of pinole. The drink consists of two elements: a plain corn atole as its base, and the toasted corn pinole powder mixed with cinnamon, cacao, and achiote seeds. When combined, they create a creamy yet refreshing beverage that looks almost too beautiful to drink.
But Oaxaca has more to offer than just pinole. For those with a sweet tooth, El Rito is a must-visit destination. This artisanal chocolate shop offers high-quality pastes for making traditional hot chocolate, frothy chocolate milkshakes, and most notably, rich, dense chocolate ice cream. Laced with crunchy cacao nibs, this treat is the perfect combination of flavors and textures.
If you’re looking for a heartier option, sopa de guías is a hearty soup made from the crops of the milpa, or complementary system of growing corn alongside other crops like squashes, beans, and wild greens. This simple-to-make yet complex-tasting soup features fresh ears of corn, zucchini, onion, garlic, salt, and fragrant wild herbs.
At El Fortincito, a family-owned café in Oaxaca, you can enjoy sopa de guías year-round. Their flavorful version features the classic combination of elotes, zucchini, onion, garlic, salt, and wild herbs, along with chochoyotes, or little corn masa dumplings. Whether you’re looking for a refreshing drink or a rich dessert, Oaxaca has plenty to offer.
Key Takeaways:
* Pinole is a traditional Oaxacan drink made from toasted corn flour, cinnamon, cacao, and achiote seeds.
* La Barbachería offers an authentic version of pinole in Ixtepeji.
* El Rito is a popular destination for artisanal chocolate and rich, dense chocolate ice cream.
* Sopa de guías is a hearty soup made from the crops of the milpa, or complementary system of growing corn alongside other crops.
Recommendations:
* Try pinole at La Barbachería in Ixtepeji for an authentic taste.
* Visit El Rito for high-quality chocolate and rich chocolate ice cream.
* Enjoy sopa de guías year-round at El Fortincito, a family-owned café in Oaxaca.
In conclusion, Oaxaca City has truly outdone itself this year with its incredible array of dishes that cater to all tastes and preferences. From comfort food to refreshing elixirs, each bite offers a unique experience that will leave you eager for more. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, be sure to try these standout bites and discover the culinary magic of Oaxaca City.
Source: Culinary Backstreets
