Mercad Álvaro Obregón, Venustiano Carranza

The Mercado Álvaro Obregón is one of the little known neighborhood markets of Venustiano Carranza. Just south of the neighborhood of the same name, it’s almost in the shadow of the giant Jamaica flower market to the southwest. The market is technically in Magdalena Mixuhuca, one of the two original settlements of Venustiano Carranza.

The neighborhood lines both sides of the Avenida Mocorito, named for the colonial town in Sinaloa. An ancient town, today it’s known as a Pueblo Magico and the birthplace of the Tigres del Norte. Here in Venustiano Carranza, the neighborhood surrounding the main street dates from the early 20th century when so much of the area was built up to provide housing for industrial workers. Much of the local architecture still reflects the early influence of the Functionalist movement.

The Mercado Álvaro Obregón is home to a tremendous number of merchants. A 2017 UAM study counted some 211. But broader Magdalena Mixiuhuca is known for some giant pet supply tianguis. Some of these merchants line the streets leading to the market. And like so many Mexico City public markets, this one is a great place for lunch.

International visitors get better, fresher, quality food handsomely prepared. You pay less, and support independent and small, often-women-owned businesses. Prepared food is off-the-truck, as you’re basically eating inside of a giant food warehouse. There’s lots of other things to see and experience too.

Hours: Daily, 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.