Discover Mexico’s Best Local Hidden Gems: Shops, Bars, and Restaurants

To uncover the best hidden gems in any destination, local advice proves invaluable. Therefore, in honor of Mexico as our Destination of the Year, iBestTravel reached out to some of our favorite Mexican authors, hoteliers, and chefs for their insights. The following are their top recommendations spanning from Oaxaca to Baja.

1. Baja Peninsula Culinary Journey

According to Josh Kremer and Pablo Carmona, cofounders of Paradero Todos Santos, “For years, we have been discovering the greater Baja Peninsula. An incredible culinary journey starts with a taco tour of Todos Santos, which includes stops at Barracuda Cantina, Santo Chilote, and TikiSantos. Moreover, you can head north to Magdalena Bay, famed for the best seafood Baja has to offer, and continue to Concepción Bay, where you should opt for the El Burro Baja Tour to dive for fresh clams.”

2. Exploring Oaxaca

Enrique Olvera, a renowned chef and owner of award-winning restaurants, states, “Oaxaca is a vibrant destination filled with endless discoveries; it ranks among my favorite cities worldwide. It is only a one-hour flight from Mexico City. Don’t miss a visit to Xaquixe, a shop featuring stunning blown-glass items. As a proud chilango, returning to CDMX makes me happy; I recommend Fonda Margarita, where you can enjoy affordable, delicious casual breakfasts (entrées priced at $3–$4). After exploring the city, stop by my bar, Ticuchi, to savor a refreshing cocktail.”

3. Mexico City Bookstores

As for personal recommendations, Silvia Moreno-Garcia, best-selling author of Mexican Gothic, shares, “One of my favorite activities in Mexico City is to stroll downtown and visit the used bookstores along Calle Donceles, a historic alleyway lined with over a dozen bookstores, many of which have been there for decades. Consequently, the only task left is to find a cozy coffee shop where you can sit down, relax, and enjoy your new finds over a warm coffee with milk.”