Oaxaca City, a cultural hub nestled in the heart of Mexico, is a paradise for expats and digital nomads who cherish vibrant marketplaces. The city’s markets are not just places to shop; they are lively community centers where one can experience the rich tapestry of Oaxacan life. From bustling food markets to serene craft havens, each market has its own unique charm and offerings. Here are some of the best markets in Oaxaca City that provide a feast for the senses and a treasure trove of local goods.
Mercado Benito Juarez
Location: Between Calles Flores Magon and Las Casas, Centro
Type of Market: Traditional Mexican Market
Open: Daily, 8 AM – 8 PM
Mercado Benito Juarez is a quintessential Oaxacan market named after Mexico’s beloved former president. It’s a bustling maze of vendors selling everything from fresh produce and meats to textiles and souvenirs. The market’s vibrant atmosphere is a sensory overload, with the colors, smells, and sounds of Oaxaca all under one roof.
We Recommend: Trying the local cheese, known as quesillo, which is a stringy and delicious treat often sold in large, hand-rolled balls.
Mercado 20 de Noviembre
Location: 20 de Noviembre and Miguel Cabrera, Centro
Type of Market: Food Market
Open: Daily, 7 AM – 7 PM
Adjacent to Mercado Benito Juarez, Mercado 20 de Noviembre is a food lover’s haven. This market is famous for its “Pasillo de Humo” or “Hall of Smoke,” where you can select your own meats and have them grilled on the spot. The market also offers a wide array of traditional Oaxacan dishes, spices, and chocolate.
We Recommend: Indulging in a tlayuda, a large crispy tortilla smothered with asiento (unrefined pork lard), beans, cheese, and a choice of toppings like tasajo (thinly sliced beef) or chorizo.
La Cosecha Organic Market
Location: Calle Macedonio Alcala, Centro
Type of Market: Organic Farmers Market
Open: Wednesday to Sunday, 9 AM – 3 PM
La Cosecha Organic Market is a small but charming market that focuses on organic and locally sourced products. It’s a great place to find fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and artisanal goods. The market also features a quaint café area where visitors can enjoy organic coffee and snacks.
We Recommend: Sampling the homemade jams and moles, which are made with organic ingredients and provide a true taste of Oaxaca’s culinary traditions.
Mercado de Artesanias
Location: J.P. Garcia and Zaragoza, Centro
Type of Market: Craft Market
Open: Daily, 9 AM – 7 PM
The Mercado de Artesanias is a must-visit for anyone interested in Oaxacan handicrafts. This market is a colorful display of the region’s artistic talents, with stalls overflowing with hand-woven textiles, pottery, wood carvings, and jewelry. It’s an ideal place to find unique gifts and souvenirs.
We Recommend: Picking up a hand-embroidered blouse or a woven wool rug, both of which are traditional crafts that showcase the intricate work of local artisans.
Mercado Sanchez Pascuas
Location: Calle Porfirio Diaz and Humboldt, Centro
Type of Market: Neighborhood Market
Open: Daily, 8 AM – 8 PM
Mercado Sanchez Pascuas is a smaller, more intimate market frequented by locals. It’s a great spot to experience everyday Oaxacan life and find a wide range of products, from fresh produce and flowers to meats and household items. The market also has several fondas, or small eateries, serving up delicious, home-cooked meals.
We Recommend: Enjoying a comforting bowl of caldo de piedra, a traditional soup made with fish, shrimp, and hot stones that cook the broth at your table.
Mercado de la Merced
Location: Calle Independencia and Callejon Hidalgo, Centro
Type of Market: Local Market
Open: Daily, 7 AM – 7 PM
Mercado de la Merced is a smaller, less touristy market that offers a more authentic shopping experience. It’s known for its selection of fresh ingredients, including chiles, beans, and corn products. The market also has a number of stalls selling prepared foods, perfect for a quick and tasty meal.
We Recommend: Trying the empanadas de amarillo, savory pastries filled with a spicy yellow mole sauce and chicken or cheese.
Tianguis de Pochote
Location: Calle Rayon, Centro
Type of Market: Organic and Artisanal Market
Open: Fridays and Saturdays, 9 AM – 3 PM
The Tianguis de Pochote is a weekend market that takes place in the shade of large pochote trees. It’s a gathering place for organic farmers, artisans, and food producers to sell their goods. The market has a relaxed atmosphere and often features live music, making it a pleasant place to shop and socialize.
We Recommend: Savoring a cup of traditional Oaxacan hot chocolate, made from locally grown cacao and hand-ground on the premises.
