Underrated Mexican Dishes You Have to Try in Mexico City 🌮🌶️🥑 Part I

Everyone knows tacos al pastor and guacamole—but Mexico City’s street corners, markets, and fondas are full of lesser-known treasures that deserve the spotlight. If you’re coming to CDMX, don’t miss these underrated Mexican foods that locals love and most tourists overlook!

1. Tacos de guisado

Soft tortillas packed with home-cooked stews like chile relleno, milanesa, tinga, or papas con chorizo. They're the comfort food of busy locals and found everywhere—from street stalls to traditional markets.

🥄 Tip: Ask for a spoonful of rice or beans inside for the full experience.

2. Tlacoyos

Oval-shaped corn masa snacks stuffed with beans, requesón (white cheese), or fava beans, then griddled and topped with nopales, salsa, and cheese. A pre-Hispanic snack that’s both filling and nutritious.

📍 Where: Look for street vendors near public parks or in mercados like Coyoacán or San Juan.

3. Molletes

Open-faced bolillo bread topped with refried beans, melted cheese, and pico de gallo. It’s Mexico’s take on a breakfast bruschetta—and it’s absolutely delicious.

☕ Best enjoyed with a café de olla on a chill morning. For the full chilango experience, order them at Sanborns—they're a classic.

4. Mole verde

Often overshadowed by its famous cousin mole poblano, mole verde is a fragrant, herb-based sauce typically served with chicken or pork. It’s fresh, nutty, and packed with flavor.

💚 Made with tomatillo, pumpkin seeds, green chiles, and herbs like epazote.

5. Pozole

This hearty soup made with hominy corn and shredded pork or chicken is a Mexican classic—but not all tourists know to try it. Topped with lettuce, onion, radish, lime, and oregano, it’s a full meal in a bowl.

🍲 There are green, white, and red versions—try them all if you can!

6. Tortas de tamal (a.k.a. guajolotas)

Yes, it’s a tamal inside a bread roll. Yes, it’s carbs on carbs. And yes, it’s iconic. This Mexico City breakfast classic is both delicious and filling—don’t knock it till you try it.

⏰ Grab one early in the morning from a tamalero with a big metal steamer. Pair it with a warm atole for the ultimate combo.

7. Huauzontles

A pre-Hispanic veggie that’s often compared to broccoli leaves. It’s usually battered, stuffed with cheese, and served in tomato sauce. Totally unique—and totally underrated.

🥦 Find them at traditional fondas or family-style restaurants.

8. Buñuelos

These crispy, fried treats are sprinkled with sugar or soaked in cinnamon syrup. Served especially around holidays, they’re sweet, crunchy, and addictively good.

🍬 Best eaten fresh from the street—look for vendors near plazas in the evening.

Come Hungry, Leave Surprised!

Mexico City is full of flavor—and not just the Insta-famous kind. If you want to experience the city like a local, give these underrated dishes a try. They’ll surprise you in the best way.

✨ Want to explore CDMX through food? Join one of our curated food experiences at TREEP—designed by locals who know all the hidden gems.

👉 Follow us on social media for more travel tips, local insights, and what to eat ideas! Instagram & Tiktok: @treeptours

Xoxo,

Treep Troop ✨🦄🧚‍♀️🫔