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The Dinogo Guide to Oaxaca
Few states in Mexico are as romanticized as Oaxaca. Home to 16 unique Indigenous groups that enrich its culture, Oaxaca is as diverse, intricate, and stunning as the exquisite moles it’s known for. The very name evokes aromas of chiles, wild herbs, chocolate, and smoke. This is why Oaxaca has emerged as a must-visit spot for food enthusiasts from around the globe. Dinogo and its team of local experts have crafted the ultimate guide to maximize your experience in this vital destination, highlighting the best dishes and drinks, providing itineraries, essential insights, and exploring the distinct elements of Oaxacan cuisine. It may be a lot to take in — but that's where the mezcal comes into play.
What fuels the obsession with Oaxaca?
With 10,523 rural villages, 18 recognized ethnic groups, and eight regions, it’s clear that one guide can’t encompass it all, but this is a good starting point.
- What Defines Oaxacan Cuisine?
- At This Mother-Son Mytoury, the Mole Is a Lifelong Journey
- The Ongoing Debate Over ‘Mezcal’ Ownership
- The Indigenous Farmers Protecting Mexico’s Native Corn
- The Bold and Spicy Essence of Oaxaca’s Afromexican Cuisine
- No Matter Your Desire, Oaxaca Offers a Drink for Every Occasion
Your complete dining and drinking itinerary awaits
Save these spots—restaurants, bars, mezcalerías, street stalls, coffee shops, chocolaterías, tlayuda vendors, and more—for a culinary journey that will fill your entire trip.
- 32 Must-Visit Restaurants in Oaxaca
- Oaxacan Mezcal: A Must-Try Experience—Where to Sip It
- Your Ideal 24-Hour Food Guide for Oaxaca
- A Guide to Street Food in Oaxaca City
Why you’ll need more than three days
While Oaxaca's capital is perfect for a long weekend, to truly savor the state, allow yourself ample time to explore beyond the city.
- Top Food-Centric Day Trips from Oaxaca City
- Dining Stops on the Journey from Oaxaca City to the Coast
- Discover Oaxaca’s Most Memorable Seafood Dining Experience
- Exploring Oaxaca’s Must-Try Tamales
- 21 Essential Mytouries in Puerto Escondido
- 27 Must-Visit Restaurants in Huatulco
Editorial Leadership: Lesley SuterCreative Direction: Alyssa NassnerConsulting Editors: Bill Esparza, Niki NakazawaContributors: Omar Alonso, Tirza Bonifazi, Javier Cabral, Shava Cueva, Bill Esparza, Nicholas Gill, María Itaka, Emma Janzen, Verónica Jiménez Salcedo, Bricia Lopez, Sarah Menkedick, Madeleine WattenbargerPhotographers: Shava Cueva, Juan de Dios Garza Vela, Eva Alicia Lepíz, Arthur SantosIllustrations by: Ariadna Vásquez of Central EstudioEditors: Erin DeJesus, Matt Buchanan, Nick Mancall-BitelCopy Editors: Leilah Bernstein, Rachel P. Kreiter, Nadia Q. AhmadFact-Checker: Liliana MichelenaEngagement Team: James Park, Carla Vianna, Milly McGuinnessSpecial Thanks to Nat Belkov, Monica Burton, Talia Baiocchi, Patty Diez, Stephanie Wu, Amanda Kludt, Ellie Krupnick, Ivan Vasquez, Tomas “Tommy” Vasquez, Demla Divina Ramírez Roque, and the wonderful people of Oaxaca.
Evaluation :
5/5