15 of the Top Food Tours in Mexico, According to Viator Travelers

Oaxaca is often called the food capital of Mexico, thanks to popular items such as squash blossoms and locally made cheese, as well as traditional dishes that include mole and tamales.

You can feast on Oaxacan food at most restaurants in the city, of course, but there's no better way to fully understand what makes this regional cuisine special than to learn family recipes while in a local’s kitchen during a cooking class. During this small-group lesson you’ll make a 3-course meal, leaving with a full stomach and precious memories.

What one reviewer said: “Chef Adhey and her husband Enrique invited us into their beautiful home and provided the highlight of our week in Oaxaca. You learn amazing cooking techniques from a professional who has cooked all over the world. […] Don’t miss the chance to eat this well and have this much fun!” Mark_G, November 2025

It’s no surprise that Mexico City, the Mexican capital, has a world-class food scene. Learn more about the city on this food tour through the historic center, hitting some of the biggest landmarks such as the San Juan Market, Miguel Lerdo de Tejada Library, and more.

Along the way, a local foodie will show you some of their favorite eats, from street food items to chef-prepared dishes. It’s a great way to get acquainted with the city before you visit other main attractions, such as the Frida Kahlo Museum or Arena Mexico, home to lucha libre (Mexican wrestling).

What one reviewer said: “I couldn’t have been more impressed with the layout of the tour, the food choices, and our guide Angel—he really knew his stuff and was SO passionate about his job. I skipped breakfast, did a noon tour, and didn’t need dinner after either. It was all so good!” Tamara_M, November 2025

Puerto Vallarta may now be a lively resort city in Mexico’s Jalisco state, but it also has a rich history. This region on the Pacific coast was once home to the Aztatlan Indigenous people, before becoming a vacation destination as early as the 19th century.

Learn more about its history, architecture, and culture on this culinary tour in Mexico, guided by a local. Sample fresh seafood, tacos, moles, and more, with a little stroll between destinations to help you digest.

What one reviewer said: “Wonderful food tour; one of the highlights of our trip. […] The food stops were not places we would have known to visit ourselves; many were carts or small family-owned restaurants rich in tradition. Highly recommended for a memorable time in Puerto Vallarta!” Heather_R, December 2025

The small town of Sayulita in Nayarit is known as a surfing haven, and there’s no better way to fuel aquatic activity than with tacos galore. But knowing where to get the best tacos in town is a guessing game you probably don’t have time for.

Instead, trust a local who has experience in the street food industry to show you to the hidden gems most tourists will miss. In between tacos and drinks, you’ll also learn about local food culture and how each taquería is a valuable part of the community.

What one reviewer said: “This was the first thing we did on our trip, and we highly recommend you do the same. It was so fun getting to try a variety of taco spots so we’d know which ones were our favorites for the rest of the trip.” Isaac_B, October 2025

The UNESCO World Heritage town of San Miguel de Allende is known for its colorful architecture, thriving arts scene, and well-preserved colonial history. On this walking tour, get to know what makes San Miguel tick by visiting main attractions such as its main plaza and oldest art school, stopping along the way to sample mole, churros, and more from beloved local eateries.

With a small group and an expert guide, you’ll get the feeling that San Miguel is all yours, making this one of the best cultural food tours in Mexico.

What one reviewer said: “This is a great way to learn a little bit about the history of San Miguel and get introduced to some of the local cuisine. Omar was an awesome guide and storyteller!” Autumn_H, November 2025

The beauty of a walking food tour is that you get to soak up your surroundings at a comfortable pace, and there’s no better way to experience authentic daily life than at local food markets in Mexico.

On this street food tour in Merida you’ll visit markets that highlight top dishes of the Yucatan, from slow-cooked cochinita pibil to empanadas and tacos. You’ll also have the opportunity to visit the Merida Cathedral and end the experience with a sweet treat—if you still have room in your stomach!

What one reviewer said: “Our guide, Zulma, was excellent. She explained everything so well and gave us a great cultural and historical background. It was a taste and smell extravaganza. I would definitely recommend this tour.” Helen_A, November 2025

It’s hard to find a restaurant in Tulum that hasn’t already been discovered, which is why you need a local’s guidance to get off the beaten path. During this food walking tour, trade the touristy parts of Tulum for local haunts, sampling a wide variety of delicious dishes that help you better understand what defines regional cuisine. Along the way, you’ll learn more about local history and culture and get to the real heart of Tulum.

What one reviewer said: “What an excellent way to get your bearings and eat at some authentic spots in downtown Tulum. Muy delicioso, great for foodies!” Andrea_R, November 2025

The city of Puebla has a reputation for being one of the gastronomic hot spots in Mexico and is thought by many to be the birthplace of mole. To better understand the city’s culinary offerings, this culinary tour takes you not only to street food stands and markets, but also to some of the best restaurants and cafés around.

Begin in the zocalo, or main plaza, where the famous Puebla Cathedral sits. As you walk Puebla’s cobblestone streets, you’ll learn some about the history and significance of this impressive city.

What one reviewer said: “The best food tour we have ever been on. You get both a historical and a food tour. The food was plentiful and delicious. The guide, Ronaldo, was excellent and very informative.” Carlos_C, July 2025

The state of Quintana Roo on the eastern side of the Yucatan Peninsula is known as a vacation destination where sparkling beaches and colorful resort towns await. One of the more popular of those towns is Playa del Carmen, where you’ll find great restaurants, family-run food stands, markets brimming with fresh produce, and more.

On this walking tour, get a thorough guide to the best eats in Playa del Carmen as you visit a variety of eateries, many of which are easy to overlook without an insider’s knowledge.

What one reviewer said: “Step away from tourist-land for a few hours and show up hungry. […] The best mole, tamale, and birria I’ve ever had. And that was only half the food!” Eric_L, November 2025

Huatulco, on the coast of Oaxaca, is known for its beautiful beaches and national park teeming with wildlife. It also has an underrated food scene, which is best experienced on a walking food tour around the city.

You’ll get to sample at least seven local dishes as well as snacks, so bring a healthy appetite. Thanks to the knowledge of a local guide, you’ll also learn about the history of Huatulco as you pop into small restaurants, bakeries, and coffee shops.

What one reviewer said: “Giovanni talked about the history of Huatulco and knew the city well. He picked out some terrific places to eat and one place to sample mezcal! If you want to get an idea of the place you’re visiting and some good places to eat then this tour is for you!” Don_P, December 2025

To truly understand Oaxacan cuisine, you have to first understand the ingredients that play starring roles—for example: corn, at the heart of almost all local dishes. On this small-group tour, you’ll sample local corn as well as taste regional specialties, visit local markets, and learn about the rich culinary tradition of this part of Mexico.

If you’re ready to eat outside of your comfort zone, try fried grasshoppers, a local specialty that’s crispy, savory, and full of unexpected flavor.

What one reviewer said: “Incredible food tour in Oaxaca City, especially within the markets. Don’t eat breakfast, you’ll regret being too full to try all of the delicious foods they provide for you along the way.” Dustin_S, December 2025

Cancun is the gateway to the Riviera Maya, and a buzzing beach destination popular among spring breakers. Because of this, there are often lines at the top taco shops, which is why taking a tour with skip-the-line privileges is a must.

On this particular outing, you’ll stop at four different local taco shops while also enjoying beers and churros. As you get a taste of local nightlife, you’ll also learn about the different types of tacos and what makes them special.

What one reviewer said: “We had an amazing time on our food tour in Cancun! The variety of tacos and different hot sauces was delicious. Our guide was fantastic, informative, and friendly. Highly recommend.” Tina_N, October 2025

Of all the culinary delights available in Mexico City, none are as famous as the street tacos. Since this mezcal crawl takes you to the top taco shops in the city, it’s surely one of the best Mexican street food tours available.

Wash down local specialties such as pastor, carnitas, and barbacoa with mezcal as you make your way through the hipster Roma neighborhood. It’ll feel more like a night out on the town with friends than a formal tour, and that’s just what makes it so special!

What one reviewer said: “The tacos on this tour were the best we had all trip. The mezcal is great as well and you get a chance to learn lots about it.” Todd_H, December 2025

The Los Cabos towns of Cabo San Lucas and San Jose del Cabo are known for their laid-back pace and vibrant nightlife. One of the best ways to experience Baja California Sur cuisine for yourself is, of course, via Cabo food tours.

Feast on an array of tacos (including those filled with fresh seafood)—plus elotes and tamales—on this downtown tour, with opportunities to try more unusual dishes as well. Just make sure to save room for dessert! It also includes a visit to a tequila gallery to learn about and sample tequila.

What one reviewer said: “Be prepared to eat! The best tacos and so many to try, come hungry! David was an amazing tour guide, very knowledgeable and enthusiastic.” Travis_b, November 2025

Guadalajara is Mexico’s second-largest city, and may be best known for its tequila (such as that found at the Jose Cuervo Distillery in neearby Tequila), but it also offers amazing culinary experiences you won’t want to miss.

Take this private food tour to visit family-owned and -operated restaurants as well as local markets, and check out the Nueve Esquinas neighborhood for the regional favorite birria. Along the way you’ll also get to see the Guadalajara Cathedral, the city’s most significant architectural landmark.

What one reviewer said: “Diego was super awesome! He really knew what he was talking about and doing, and you could tell he had built personal relationships with everyone at the market. The food was amazing too. It really is a worthwhile experience and a must-do when you’re in Guadalajara.” Daniel_E, August 2025