The Best Hidden Gem Shops, Bars And Restaurants In Mexico, According To Locals

To find the best-hidden gems in any destination, it always helps to have local advice. That’s why, in celebration of Mexico as our Destination of the Year, T+L contacted some of our favourite Mexican authors, hoteliers, and chefs to ask for their recommendations in their home country. Here are their suggestions, from Oaxaca to Baja. By Liz Cantrell

Must-visit destinations according to Hoteliers

“For years we have been discovering the greater Baja Peninsula. An incredible culinary journey starts with a taco tour of Todos Santos ― including stops at Barracuda Cantina, Santo Chilote, and TikiSantos. Then make your way north to Magdalena Bay, where you will find the best seafood in Baja, then to Concepción Bay, where you should take the El Burro Baja Tour and go diving for fresh clams.”
—Josh Kremer and Pablo Carmona, cofounders of Paradero Todos Santos 

Recommendations from a Chef

“A vibrant destination with endless things to discover, Oaxaca is one of my favourite cities in the world. It’s only a one-hour flight from Mexico City, my hometown. There is a small shop called Xaquixe, where you can buy beautiful blown-glass objects. But I’m a proud chilango, and I’m always happy to be back in CDMX: Fonda Margarita (entrées USD 3 or INR 223 – USD 4 or INR 297) offers delicious casual breakfasts. After a day exploring the city, stop by my bar, Ticuchi, for a cocktail.”
—Enrique Olvera, founder and co-owner of the restaurants Pujol, Cosme, and Damian, among others.

Recommendations from an Author

“My favourite thing to do in Mexico City is to head downtown and walk by the used bookstores at Calle Donceles, a historic bookseller alleyway. There are more than a dozen; some of them have been there for decades. Afterwards, it’s just a question of finding a coffee shop and sitting down to read your recent purchases while sipping a coffee with milk.”
—Silvia Moreno-Garcia is the New York Times best-selling author of Mexican Gothic, among other novels.

Related: Why These 8 Mexico City Neighbourhoods Are Worth Planning Your Next Trip Around

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