Best Places to Eat in San Cristobal De Las Casas

Discovering the Flavors of San Cristóbal de las Casas

San Cristóbal de las Casas, a charming colonial town in Chiapas, Mexico, is a culinary haven that will delight your taste buds. From traditional indigenous dishes to delicious street food, this city offers a gastronomic experience like no other. Here are the best places to eat in San Cristóbal de las Casas, with a focus on popular street food:

Street Food Heaven

Mercado de San Cristóbal

  • Address: Av. 16 de Septiembre, Centro
  • Must-try: Tlayudas (large tortillas topped with beans, cheese, and meat), Churros con Cajeta (fried dough pastries coated in cinnamon sugar, served with a side of cajeta, a caramel-like sauce)

This bustling market is the heart of San Cristóbal’s street food scene. Wander through the stalls and indulge in local delicacies, from savory to sweet.

Tacos de carnitas “El Fogoncito”

  • Address: Calle 5 de Febrero, Centro
  • Must-try: Carnitas tacos (slow-cooked pork tacos) with salsa, onion, and lime

This tiny street food stall has been serving the best carnitas in town for over 20 years. Don’t miss their mouthwatering tacos.

Elotes y Esquites “Doña Lupita”

  • Address: Av. Belisario Domínguez, Centro
  • Must-try: Elotes (grilled corn on the cob) with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, and chili powder; Esquites (fried corn kernels) with lime juice and chili powder

Doña Lupita’s street cart has been a local institution for over 30 years. Her elotes and esquites are cooked to perfection, and her warm smile will make your day.

Restaurants

La Casa de Toño

  • Address: Calle 1a de Marzo, Centro
  • Must-try: Sopaipillas (deep-fried dough balls sprinkled with sugar cane syrup) for dessert; traditional dishes like Chiles Rellenos (stuffed peppers)

This cozy restaurant serves up delicious Chiapas cuisine in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

Tierradentro

  • Address: Av. Belisario Domínguez, Centro
  • Must-try: Tzotzile (traditional indigenous soup made with turkey or chicken); Comida Corrida (daily specials like chiles rellenos or sopa de tortilla)

Tierradentro offers a modern take on traditional Chiapas cuisine, using locally sourced ingredients and creative flavor combinations.

Desserts

Helados y Frutas “La Flor de Mexico”

  • Address: Calle 5 de Febrero, Centro
  • Must-try: Fresh fruit like mango, papaya, or coconut; ice cream flavors like horchata (rice milk) or rompope (eggnog)

This colorful street cart offers a refreshing escape from the heat. Enjoy their delicious fruits and creamy ice creams.

Tips and Essentials

  • Be sure to try some of the local fruits like guayabas, tejocotes, or ciruelas.
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.
  • San Cristóbal de las Casas is a popular tourist destination, so be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular eateries.
  • Learn some basic Spanish phrases to enhance your culinary experience and interact with the friendly locals.

With this guide, you’re ready to embark on a gastronomic adventure in San Cristóbal de las Casas. ¡Buen provecho!