Taxco South Of Mexico City, Mexico Travel Guide
Taxco’s cuisine belongs to the broader Guerrero state culinary tradition. This region is famous for its robust flavors and creative use of local ingredients.
The state of Guerrero, and by extension Taxco, is notably famous for its distinctive mole dishes and other unique local specialties. The food shares a story of the land and its people.
Corn, beans, a wide variety of chili peppers (mild to intensely spicy). Avocado and tomatoes are staples, alongside various meats like pork, chicken, and beef.
Local ingredients sometimes include Jumiles (stink bugs, a delicacy for adventurous palates) and various aromatic herbs and spices. Flavors are often robust, spicy, and complex.
Characterized by the fresh, earthy tastes of the region. Many dishes carry a hint of the land and its history.
This traditional white pozole is distinct from red or green versions elsewhere. It has hominy corn and tender pork, served with chopped onion, radish, avocado, crispy Chicharrón, oregano, and a unique green salsa.
Where to find: Many local restaurants, especially on Thursdays.
A pre-Hispanic delicacy of small, edible stink bugs, native to the Taxco region. Locals typically eat them raw and alive, sprinkled with salt and chili, or in salsas. They possess a distinct, slightly medicinal or cinnamon-like flavor.
Where to find: Seasonal, often in local markets (November to February).
Moles prepared in Guerrero are known for their richness and complex flavors. Tacos Mineros ("Miner's Tacos") are a local specialty, often filled with a hearty mixture of meat, potatoes, and other ingredients, reflecting the town's mining heritage. Aporreadillo is a flavorful dried beef dish.
Where to find: Traditional Mexican restaurants throughout the town.
Mezcal: an agave-based spirit, often smoky. Tequila: widely available. Taxco is near a mezcal-producing region, so good quality local mezcal is found.
Refreshing non-alcoholic drinks from blended fruit, flowers, or seeds (horchata, jamaica, tamarindo). Licuados are fruit smoothies, often with milk or water.
Restaurante del Hotel Montetaxco: Fine dining with panoramic views, for a special evening. Restaurante El Mural (Hotel Posada de la Misión): Elegant ambiance, traditional Mexican cuisine, a historic Diego Rivera mural.
Del Angel Inn Restaurante: Near the Zócalo, traditional Mexican dishes and good views. Flor de la Vida: Blends traditional and contemporary Mexican, often with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Hacienda del Solar: Outside town, charming, tranquil, good food.
Mercado de Plata (Silver Market): Surrounding area has small, informal eateries and food stalls for affordable tacos, quesadillas. Zócalo Area: Look for "fondas" or "comedores" on side streets for authentic, inexpensive meals. Street Food Vendors: Especially in evenings, find vendors for Elotes, Esquites, Churros, and tacos.
The main public market where you find fresh produce, meats, cheeses, and some prepared food stalls. A genuine glimpse into local life.
Authentic local life and daily commerce.
Mexican cuisine understandably dominates Taxco dining. Some hotels and larger restaurants may have basic international options (e.g., pasta, salads). Taxco mainly caters to authentic Mexican food. Embrace the local flavors!
Focus on local flavors for the best culinary experience.
Fried dough pastries, often with cinnamon sugar, sometimes with chocolate or Cajeta.
A wide variety of sweet breads and pastries, suitable for breakfast or an afternoon snack.
Traditional fruit paste candies, often from guava, quince, or other local fruits.
Jumiles (cooler months), Capirotada (Lent bread pudding).
Halal and kosher food are generally not available in Taxco.
Travelers with these requirements should plan to bring their own compliant food or select items carefully from markets.
Use a Translation app or carry a Translation card with specific dietary restrictions in Spanish.
Simple phrases are useful: "Soy vegetariano/a" (I am vegetarian), "No como carne" (I don't eat meat), "Sin gluten, por favor" (Without gluten, please).
Research restaurants in advance using online reviews that mention dietary options. Websites and apps like HappyCow.net are a resource for finding vegetarian and vegan-friendly places.
Saying "Buen Provecho" (enjoy your meal) to others dining nearby is common and polite. Breakfast (Desayuno), lunch (Comida - main meal), and dinner (Cena - lighter) have specific timings.
Participating in the Thursday Pozole tradition a truly unique cultural and culinary experience. This weekly custom has how locals celebrate their food heritage.
Several restaurants, especially those at hotels higher up the hill, feature stunning panoramic views of the city, especially at sunset. This joins a delicious meal with an unforgettable visual experience.
Taxco’s dining scene is primarily for authentic Mexican cuisine. Explore the regional specialties and unique dishes like Jumiles and Tacos Mineros for a true taste of Guerrero.
Mezcal is an agave-based spirit, often smoky. Tequila is widely available. Taxco is near a mezcal-producing region.
Look for local mezcal for an authentic taste.
Refreshing non-alcoholic drinks from blended fruit, flowers, or seeds (horchata, jamaica, tamarindo). Licuados are fruit smoothies, often with milk or water.
A great way to have fresh fruit.
Embracing local customs and flavors will make your experience more authentic. Do not hesitate to ask restaurant staff; many are willing to accommodate specific dietary needs.
Try Pozole Guerrerense, especially on Thursdays. Sample street food from busy vendors for a quick bite. Enjoy the main meal, 'comida', in the afternoon.
Learn a few Spanish phrases for ordering or allergies. A tip of 10-15% for good service is customary.
Taxco offers a rich culinary journey. Be open to new tastes and traditions.
