Oaxaca de Juárez, Oaxaca

The capital of flavor and tradition

Oaxaca is a constant feast. Land of seven moles — negro, rojo, coloradito, amarillo, verde, chichilo, and manchamanteles — it is also home to crispy tlayudas with asiento, tasajo, cecina enchilada, and quesillo. In its markets, like 20 de Noviembre, meats are grilled on the spot while the air fills with smoke, chile, and corn.

You also can’t miss trying tejate (a drink made of cacao and corn), toasted chapulines with lime and salt, pan de yema, and artisanal mezcal served with a worm. All of this while exploring a vibrant historic center, Monte Albán, and an artistic scene that lives in every street.