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This Oaxaca Meat Market Is More Than Just a Food Market, It's a Cultural Experience

by Matador Creators Mar 22, 2023

If you’re looking for the best place to explore and Oaxaca’s culinary culture, look no further than the Mercado 20 de Noviembre. Located in Oaxaca City’s historic center, this lively outdoor market is full of color, texture, and flavor. From traditional Mexican cuisine to handmade crafts and souvenirs, Mercado 20 de Noviembre is more than just a meat market — it’s a cultural experience.

The market is known for its delicious food stalls offering traditional Mexican dishes such as tacos al pastor (tacos filled with pork), tlayudas (a large corn tortilla topped with refried beans), tamales oaxaqueños (a type of steamed dumpling) and chapulines (grasshoppers spiced with chilies).Just pick your favorite meat stand, choose the meats you’d like, and they’ll cook it right in front of you. Then, you’ll be taken to your table, where you’ll choose sauces to pair with your meal. There are also plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables available here if you want to buy some groceries or whip up some Mexican recipes at home.

One of the largest public markets in Mexico, this place offers more than just food. It allows travelers a chance to immerse themselves in local culture through its dozens of vendors offering handmade items such as clothing, jewelry, pottery, leather goods, home decorations and more. Whether you’re looking for souvenirs or gifts for friends and family back home, you are sure to find something special to take home from your travels.

When you visit the Mercado 20 de Noviembre, it’s important to remember that bargaining is expected here. When you encounter merchants selling items like jewelry or clothing, don’t be afraid to haggle with them to get a better price on your purchase. Just make sure you set a limit for yourself so that you don’t overspend.

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