Food Tour at the 20 de Noviembre Market (All-inclusive)

Discover Authentic Oaxaca Flavors at the 20 de Noviembre Market

The Food Tour at the 20 de Noviembre Market in Oaxaca offers a full taste of the local culinary scene in just 2.5 hours. Led by a local guide, the tour takes visitors through two bustling markets, with all food and drinks included. At a reasonable price point, this experience is perfect for those looking to sample genuine Oaxacan cuisine while learning about cultural traditions. The guide’s expertise ensures a smooth visit, even in the market’s lively chaos.

Despite its popularity, the tour maintains a small group size of only 6 participants, providing an intimate setting for an engaging experience. The 4.2 rating from past participants reflects its well-rounded offering, combining food, stories, and cultural insights with ease. It’s especially suitable for travelers keen on discovering local flavors and crafts in an authentic setting.

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Key Points

• Authentic flavors in Mercado 20 de Noviembre: Sample traditional Oaxacan food in a lively market environment.
• Guided by a local expert: Learn about local dishes, crafts, and mezcal from someone who knows the area intimately.
• All-inclusive experience: Food, drinks, and samples of bread and chocolate are included with no extra cost.
• Visits to two markets: The tour covers Mercado 20 de Noviembre and Mercado Benito Juárez, with a focus on cultural and culinary highlights.
• Historical and cultural stories: The guide shares stories behind Oaxacan dishes, ingredients, and local traditions.
• Flexible booking: Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund or reserve now and pay later.

Starting Point and Meeting Details in Oaxaca

The tour begins at Parroquia de San Juan de Dios, a church next to the markets. The guide greets visitors at the church entrance, a site often overlooked but rich in local history. The coordinates are 17.058446884155273, -96.72722625732422. This central meeting point makes it easy to locate, and the guide’s friendly presence ensures a smooth start to the adventure.

Exploring Mercado 20 de Noviembre

The first market visit lasts about one hour. This iconic marketplace is the heart of Oaxacan food culture, buzzing with vendors selling fresh ingredients and prepared dishes. The tour begins with a guided walk through the stalls, highlighting famous spots like San Antonino Castillo Velazco, where an empanada is sampled. Known for its preparation and local flavor, this empanada provides a tasty introduction to Oaxacan cuisine.

In this market, visitors also try grasshoppers, a traditional snack, while the guide explains the cultural significance behind eating insects. The story behind this tradition adds depth to the tasting experience, making each bite more meaningful.

Sampling Aguas Frescas at a Historic Stall

Next, the tour moves to a renowned aguas frescas stall, famous for its flavorful drinks and historic significance. The owner of this stall has photos with more than five Mexican presidents, a testament to its reputation and the legacy of tradition. Here, visitors enjoy refreshing beverages made from fresh fruits, which perfectly complement the bustling market atmosphere.

This stop offers a chance to experience local hospitality and witness a tradition that has persisted through generations. The flavor and authenticity of these aguas frescas make them a highlight for many.

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Enjoying Tacos in the Pasillo del Humo

The tour then guides visitors to Pasillo del Humo, where meat tacos, guacamole, and mocajete sauce are served. The all-inclusive setup means no need to worry about ordering or overpricing—everything is arranged in advance for your convenience.

The tacos are prepared with authentic ingredients, offering a bold taste of Oaxaca’s meat dishes. The fresh guacamole and mocajete sauce add layers of flavor, showcasing local culinary craftsmanship. The relaxed setting allows for enjoying food without logistical distractions.

Tasting Black Mole and Local Delights

No Oaxacan food experience is complete without black mole, a rich sauce packed with complex flavors. The tour includes a tasting at a local spot known for its genuine and well-balanced mole. This dish exemplifies the depth of Oaxacan cuisine, often made with a variety of spices and ingredients.

For dessert, the tour offers bread and chocolate samples, emphasizing the region’s tradition of sweet treats. These samples round out the tasting experience, leaving participants with a sweet memory of Oaxaca’s culinary richness.

Visiting Mercado Benito Juárez

The second market, Mercado Benito Juárez, offers a different perspective on local produce and crafts. The guided walk here lasts about one hour, focusing on traditional products and craftsmanship. The guide highlights distinguishing features of authentic Oaxacan crafts and mezcals, helping visitors understand what separates genuine from imitation products.

This market complements the first with its vibrant atmosphere, offering insights into daily life and local commerce. Visitors experience the diversity of Oaxaca’s market culture beyond just food.

Return and Summary at Parroquia de San Juan de Dios

The tour concludes back at the meeting point after exploring both markets, offering a chance to reflect on the culinary and cultural highlights. The small group size ensures a personalized experience, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions or revisit favorite tastings.

This 2.5-hour tour balances guided storytelling, tasting, and market exploration. Its emphasis on authenticity and local knowledge makes it a valuable way to understand Oaxaca’s culinary traditions.

Why Choose This All-Inclusive Market Food Tour?

This experience excels at providing a comprehensive look at Oaxaca’s food scene in a manageable, well-organized format. The all-inclusive setup means participants can focus solely on enjoying the flavors and learning the stories behind each dish without worrying about logistics or extra costs.

The small group size fosters an intimate atmosphere, and the local guide’s expertise shines as they explain cultural nuances and culinary techniques. It’s a fantastic choice for anyone curious about Oaxacan cuisine, from food lovers to those wanting a deeper understanding of regional traditions.

Final Thoughts on the Oaxaca Food Market Tour

The Food Tour at the 20 de Noviembre Market offers a rich taste of Oaxaca with delicious food, engaging stories, and authentic experiences. It’s especially appealing for visitors who want a hands-on introduction to traditional dishes, crafts, and mezcal.

While the duration of 2.5 hours is just enough to cover key highlights, the small group and all-inclusive approach make it a relaxed and informative outing. This tour suits those seeking genuine local flavors in a vibrant market setting, paired with insider knowledge from a local guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for vegetarians?
The tour focuses on meat tacos and traditional dishes, so it may not be ideal for vegetarians. The emphasis is on authentic, often meat-based Oaxacan cuisine.

Are drinks included in the tour?
Yes, aguas frescas and samples of mezcal are included, allowing participants to taste local beverages without extra cost.

How long is the tour?
The entire experience lasts approximately 2.5 hours, covering two markets, tastings, and cultural insights.

What is the meeting point?
The tour starts at the Parroquia de San Juan de Dios, with the guide waiting at the church entrance.

Can I cancel the tour?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically mentioned, the focus on food and small group setting suggests it’s suitable for families with older children, especially those interested in cuisine.

What languages are available for the guide?
The tour is led in Spanish; some content may be in its original language.

Do I need to prepare or bring anything?
No special preparation is needed, just a curiosity about local food and culture.

Is the tour accessible for those with mobility issues?
No specific accessibility information is provided, but the tour involves walking through markets, which can be crowded and uneven.

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