Mercado La Merced Mexico City
Experience the heart of Ecuadorian cuisine at Mercado La Merced, famous for its succulent hornado and refreshing Chimborazo ice juices.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more authentic feel
Mercado La Merced Mexico City
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more authentic feel
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the heart of Ecuadorian cuisine at Mercado La Merced, famous for its succulent hornado and refreshing Chimborazo ice juices.
"Be really careful when you buy the Hornado... some people here are not honest."
🎯 Compare Hornado Portions
Vendors may offer samples, but compare portion sizes carefully before ordering to ensure fair value. :moneybag:
💰 Confirm Prices Upfront
Always establish the final cost of your meal before you start eating to avoid surprises. :moneywithwings:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Hornado Perfection
Various food stalls
Savor the succulent, slow-roasted pork, a quintessential Ecuadorian delicacy. A must-try for any food lover!
Chimborazo Ice Juices
Fruit juice vendors
Experience refreshing fruit juices made with ice from the majestic Chimborazo Volcano. A unique local treat.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Market
Culinary Delights & Caution
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Good food suggestions for quito (2 days), riobamba (5 days), banos (1 day)? Coming from US
🎯 Compare Hornado Portions
Vendors may offer samples, but compare portion sizes carefully before ordering to ensure fair value. :moneybag:
💰 Confirm Prices Upfront
Always establish the final cost of your meal before you start eating to avoid surprises. :moneywithwings:
🥤 Taste Unique Juices
Don't miss the fruit juices made with ice from Chimborazo Volcano – a truly local experience. :tropical_drink:
🚶♀️ Explore with Awareness
While vibrant, be mindful of your surroundings and belongings in this busy market. :woman_walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Compare Hornado Portions
Vendors may offer samples, but compare portion sizes carefully before ordering to ensure fair value. :moneybag:
💰 Confirm Prices Upfront
Always establish the final cost of your meal before you start eating to avoid surprises. :moneywithwings:
🥤 Taste Unique Juices
Don't miss the fruit juices made with ice from Chimborazo Volcano – a truly local experience. :tropical_drink:
🚶♀️ Explore with Awareness
While vibrant, be mindful of your surroundings and belongings in this busy market. :woman_walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Mercado La Merced offers a truly authentic taste of Ecuadorian culture, with its famous hornado and unique Chimborazo ice juices being major draws. However, some visitors have reported aggressive sales tactics and price discrepancies, urging caution and clear communication before ordering.
"Pro: This is a great place to visit is a good representation of the Ecuadorian culture with the main products Fruit juice with Esther and Ice of the Chimborazo, test great, and after the delicious Hornado or Roasted pork.
Cons: Be really careful when you buy the Hornado, when somebody enter in the Hornado place start a really theatrical offering of Hornado test sample if you accept one be ready to be deceived if they think you are not Local, or tourist. Because first if you ask they will be offer a really overpriced and not full product , please look around and compare the quantity there are offering you for such overpriced product, if you look a difference claim immediately for a fair Hornado amount, because some people here are not honest, Happened to me I recuest a 5 dollar product and received a half portion on comparation the another locks like local Who recuest a 2.5 dollar portion.
What's happened with this, I am already living here for 2 months and will not comeback to the Merced Market, I will look for another place to eat Hornado and of course the honest people working on here will be lost credibility, and of course customers, because a lot of people like me show Merced Market as a just One visit place."
Yanko
"It's a small market with lots of restaurants. The food is nice but they sell quite aggressively. Haha"
estela z
"Unfortunately, this is not the same place I knew few years ago. It's a kind of scary go to this place... The prices are very high and the dishes are not delicious anymore... So, be careful, before order, establish the real cost for the meal you are asking for...."
SeventhBeatle
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Mercado La Merced is centrally located in Riobamba. Taxis are readily available and affordable for a quick ride. You can also walk from many parts of the city center.
Yes, Mercado La Merced is a well-known landmark in Riobamba and is easily accessible. Just ask locals for directions to 'Mercado La Merced'.
For convenience, a taxi is recommended. However, if you enjoy exploring, walking through the charming streets of Riobamba is also a great option. :walking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Mercado La Merced is a public market and does not have an entrance fee. You only pay for the food and goods you purchase. :ticket:
The market is typically open daily from early morning until late afternoon, with most food stalls operating during peak meal times. It's best to visit during daylight hours. :clock1:
No advance booking is necessary for general entry. You can simply walk in and explore the market. :shopping_bags:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The undisputed star is 'hornado,' a whole roasted pig, renowned for its crispy skin and tender meat. You'll also find incredible fruit juices. :pig2:
While hornado is the main attraction, you can find other dishes like mote (hominy), salads, and various fruit-based items. It's advisable to ask vendors about their offerings. :salad:
Prices can vary, but expect to pay around $5-$10 USD for a generous portion. Always confirm the price and portion size before ordering. :moneywithwings:
Look for juices made with local fruits like naranjilla, maracuyá (passion fruit), and tree tomato. The juices with ice from Chimborazo are a unique specialty. :tropical_drink:
Generally, yes, especially at busy stalls with high turnover. However, be mindful of hygiene and always confirm prices to avoid scams. :warning:
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, you can take photos, but it's always polite to ask vendors before taking close-ups of them or their products. Be respectful of people's space. :camerawithflash:
Capture the vibrant colors of the produce, the cooking process of the hornado, and the lively interactions between vendors and customers. The juice stands are also very photogenic. :art:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during weekday mornings to avoid the largest crowds. If you decide to try the hornado, clearly agree on the price and portion size beforehand to prevent any misunderstandings. Bringing a stroller might be difficult due to the market's density, so a baby carrier could be more practical. :stroller:
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize your budget, compare prices across different vendors before committing. Be firm but polite when negotiating or confirming prices. Avoid accepting too many unsolicited samples, as this can sometimes lead to pressure to buy. Eating like a local here is definitely achievable without breaking the bank. :moneywithwings:
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Art of Hornado
When visiting, you'll see numerous stalls dedicated to hornado, each with their own unique flair. Vendors are often eager to offer you a taste of their signature dish. While this is a great way to sample, be aware that accepting samples can sometimes lead to more persistent sales pitches. It's wise to observe the portions being served to locals and compare prices before making your choice.
Beyond the main dish, hornado is typically served with mote (a type of hominy corn) and a flavorful sauce. Some stalls also offer tostado (toasted corn) on the side. The experience of enjoying hornado at Mercado La Merced is not just about the food, but the lively atmosphere and the cultural immersion it provides. :pig2:
Refreshing Juices and Local Flavors
Visitors can expect to find juices made from exotic fruits like naranjilla, maracuyá (passion fruit), tamarillo (tree tomato), and many more. The vendors are skilled at blending these fruits into delicious and invigorating concoctions. The ice, purportedly from Chimborazo, is said to impart a special purity and coolness to the drinks.
When ordering, don't hesitate to ask for recommendations or try a combination you've never encountered before. The vibrant colors and fresh tastes are a delightful contrast to the rich flavors of the hornado, making for a well-rounded culinary adventure at the market. :tropical_drink:
Navigating Market Dynamics
A common point of feedback is the potential for price discrepancies, particularly for tourists. Some reviews mention instances where prices were inflated after the meal or portions were smaller than expected compared to what locals received. It's crucial to establish the final price and confirm the portion size before you begin eating to ensure a fair transaction.
Despite these cautionary notes, many visitors still find the experience rewarding. The key is to approach the market with a sense of adventure, a willingness to engage, and a mindful approach to purchasing. By being informed and observant, you can enjoy the incredible food and vibrant atmosphere of Mercado La Merced. :shopping_bags:
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit