In Mexico, there are five main meal times: breakfast, brunch, lunch, snack, and dinner. Each has its typical schedule, traditional dishes, and customs.

Meal Times in Mexico

While many countries talk only about breakfast, lunch, and dinner, in Mexico each part of the day has its own culinary meaning. Daily routines are marked by meal schedules and traditions that reflect the country’s history and regional identity.

🕒 Schedule Table by Region

Meal Time Mexico City Monterrey Guadalajara
Breakfast 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. 7:00 – 9:00 a.m.
Brunch 10:00 – 12:00 p.m. 10:00 – 12:00 p.m. 10:00 – 12:00 p.m.
Lunch 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. 2:00 – 4:00 p.m.
Snack 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. 5:00 – 6:00 p.m. 5:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Dinner 8:00 – 10:00 p.m. 8:00 – 10:00 p.m. 8:00 – 10:00 p.m.

(Schedules may vary slightly depending on local customs.)

🥐 Typical Dishes and Traditions by Meal Time

Breakfast (7:00 – 9:00 a.m.)

  • Green or red chilaquiles with cream and cheese

  • Coffee de olla (Mexican spiced coffee)

  • Sweet bread

Tradition: start the day with homemade flavors and energy.

Brunch (10:00 – 12:00 p.m.)

  • Tamales

  • Tacos with stews

  • Light snacks

Tradition: a small break before the main meal.

Lunch (2:00 – 4:00 p.m.)

  • Mole poblano

  • Pozole

  • Enchiladas

  • Rice and beans as side dishes

Tradition: the most important meal, family gathering, and complete dishes.

Snack (5:00 – 6:00 p.m.)

  • Chocolate bread

  • Fruits

  • Coffee with milk

Tradition: a light snack to continue the day energized.

Dinner (8:00 – 10:00 p.m.)

  • Light stews

  • Comforting broths

  • Atole or homemade dishes depending on the region

Tradition: end the day with a light or typical night dish.

Late-night snacks and leftovers

  • Tacos al pastor, sandwiches, quesadillas

  • Leftovers the next day: turning yesterday’s meal into a new feast

If you want to experience these mealtimes like a local, you can easily do it from your phone. With the Homlunch app, you can discover nearby home cooks, explore homemade menus, and book authentic food experiences based on the time of day (breakfast, lunch, or dinner). Download it on Android or iOS and start exploring Mexican cuisine wherever you are.

Enjoy authentic Mexican home-cooked meals prepared by local cooks. Experience the daily culinary routine with genuine flavors.

The Mexican Dining Experience Today

Each meal time reflects history, flavor, and family traditions. Exploring these customs helps understand how Mexicans live their gastronomy every day.

For those looking to experience authentic flavors without hassle, there are options to explore traditional dishes directly with local hosts, connecting with real Mexican home cooking.


Share your cooking skills and earn money from home. Publish your dishes and connect with diners looking for authentic experiences.

💰 Turn Your Kitchen into Income

If you know how to cook, Homlunch allows you to:

  • Register your kitchen

  • Publish your dishes

  • Earn extra income from home without opening a restaurant

✅ Additional Recommendations

  • Discover typical Mexican desserts to finish each meal with a sweet touch.

  • Explore new cities and hosts to experience the five meal times as Mexican families do.