Mercado Pasteros

Photo Alcaldía Azcapotzalco.

The Mercado Pasteros is one of those classic neighborhood-beloved markets that’s been there forever.  At the corner of Jacaranda and Durazno streets, it’s just a few minutes walk from Metro Tezozómoc.

And while everything about the market is probably “typical,” in this case, it’s precisely perfect in every typical neighborhood kind of way. Pasteros is sandwiched between some of the city’s biggest housing developments. While they’re home to thousands, perhaps tens of thousands, that makes the need for something familiar and reasonably priced that much more important.

A few of the merchants will publish daily menus online. But most of the comida corridas will simply tape up the menu-del-día. The food is exquisite. If you’ve not had a lot of experience with comida corrida, see the guide to fonda eating. There’s no better way to recover from too many street tacos and too much hard Mexico City living (and drinking).

The Mercado Pasteros has a legendary status precisely because it’s exactly what you’re hoping for. Here and there, you’re guaranteed a look into daily life like you might not see in your home country. But in Mexico City, this is the real thing. The food is better, cheaper, more nutritious and better for you.

Hours: Daily 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.