Mercado de San Juan, Mexico City - Market hall in Guanajuato in Mexico. The market stalls are selling typical Mexican food. When using my images please cite me as follows: Marie Volkert / Reiseblog Worldonabudget and link to my website: www.worldonabudget.de
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Mercado de San Juan Mexico City

4.5
·23k reviews·Ciudad de México, Mexico

Mexico City's most exotic and gourmet market, offering everything from lion meat to tarantulas and fresh seafood.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning (9 AM - 12 PM)

Freshest produce & seafood

CrowdMedium
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Mercado de San Juan, Mexico City - Market hall in Guanajuato in Mexico. The market stalls are selling typical Mexican food. When using my images please cite me as follows: Marie Volkert / Reiseblog Worldonabudget and link to my website: www.worldonabudget.de

Mercado de San Juan Mexico City

Best Time

Morning (9 AM - 12 PM)

Freshest produce & seafood

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Mexico City's most exotic and gourmet market, offering everything from lion meat to tarantulas and fresh seafood.

4.5
(23k reviews)

"An out of this world market that sells all sorts of exotic consumables."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Be Adventurous with Food

Don't shy away from the exotic! Try insects, game meats, or unique seafood dishes.

💰 Prices are Very Cheap!

Enjoy delicious and unique food at surprisingly affordable prices.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Exotic Meats

Exotic Meats

Various stalls

Sample lion, tiger, crocodile, ostrich, and more. A true taste of adventure!

Cabo San Juan

Cabo San Juan

Stall 94

Fine dining seafood experience in a market setting. Chef Alan's fresh catches are a must-try.

Deli Caseus

Deli Caseus

Stall 299-300

Spanish tapas, paella, and a wide selection of cheeses and Iberian ham.

Fried Insects

Fried Insects

Various stalls

Try crispy chapulines (grasshoppers), scorpions, and tarantulas for a unique snack.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Exotic

Mercado de San Juan is famous for its exotic meats and ingredients. Be prepared for unique offerings like insects, reptiles, and game meats. It's a culinary adventure, not your typical grocery run!

Go Early for the Freshest Finds

To experience the market at its liveliest and snag the best seafood and produce, aim to visit in the morning. Many vendors start packing up by mid-afternoon.

Best Times

When
Morning (9 AM - 12 PM)
Why
Freshest produce & seafood
Crowd
Medium
When
Weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds, more relaxed
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Cabo San Juan, Centro, CDMX! 🦐🦪Mi lugar favorito de la ciudad para comer mariscos, la joya más grande del mercado San Juan. Un negocio familiar que empezó con una pescadería hace más de 50 años, Alan y su hermano decidieron usar el local de alado para ofrecer una experiencia más Fine Dining dentro de un mercado, y siempre está experimentado lo que va aprendiendo. Alan ha trabajado en algunos de lo...
@soyelarturito
298.4K likes • 4M views

🎯 Be Adventurous with Food

Don't shy away from the exotic! Try insects, game meats, or unique seafood dishes. TikTokInstagram

💰 Prices are Very Cheap!

Enjoy delicious and unique food at surprisingly affordable prices. Reddit

Deli Caseus 🇲🇽 #parati #fyp #mercadosanjuan #delicaseus #tapasespañolas #paella #queso #jamoniberico #baguette #cdmx #mexicocity #reseña
@refrivargas
27.5K likes • 605K views
Part 3 | Mexico City | eating a tarantula at @elgrancazadormx 🤤🇲🇽 Next up | cooking ingredients I gathered from Mercado de San Juan 🔥 #mexicocity #exoticfoods #trantula #cdmx
ethicaltable
0 likes • 14.2K views

🚶‍♀️ Easy to Navigate

No need for a tour, the market is easy to explore on your own. Reddit

☕ Try the Coffee

There's a cafe inside rumored to have award-winning coffee. Reddit

Exploring Mercado de San Juan 🐜🕷️👀 Mexico City’s most exotic and gourmet food market! Here’s everything you need to know before visiting: 📍 Location: Ernesto Pugibet St, Historic Center, CDMX ⏰ Hours: Open daily, usually 9 AM - 5 PM (go early for the freshest finds!) 🍷 What to Expect: Exotic delicacies (tarantulas, crocodile meats, ants!), fresh seafood, gourmet cheeses, imported delicacies & mor...
carmen.wanders
1.6K likes • 69.1K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Be Adventurous with Food

Don't shy away from the exotic! Try insects, game meats, or unique seafood dishes. TikTokInstagram

💰 Prices are Very Cheap!

Enjoy delicious and unique food at surprisingly affordable prices. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Easy to Navigate

No need for a tour, the market is easy to explore on your own. Reddit

☕ Try the Coffee

There's a cafe inside rumored to have award-winning coffee. Reddit

⚖️ Vendors are Helpful

Don't hesitate to ask questions; vendors are friendly and informative. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(23k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Mercado de San Juan offers a unique and exciting culinary adventure with its exotic meats, fresh seafood, and adventurous insect dishes. Visitors praise the affordability and the friendly, helpful vendors. While some find it a bit touristy, the sheer variety and quality of food make it a memorable experience for those willing to step outside their comfort zone.

"We wanted to buy cacao beans, hence we came here. It is a very unique mercado. I was very surprised especially with the whole young piglets and big rabbits for sale!! Vendors are very helpful and friendly. We ate at one of the eateries and the food and drinks were super! They have exotic tacos- crocodile. Garantula, crickets, etc etc. Prices are very cheap! Service was also excellent! I love this mercado!"

Nisi Arel

"Interesting experience, got to eat lion, tiger and ostrich meats - they taste/feel much like beef. Grasshoppers were flavorful!"

Wang Wang

"The food was tasty and pretty cool to walk around. No need to get a tour, very easy to navigate and the food is self-explanatory."

Erik Meltzer

What People Like

Exotic food options
Fresh seafood
Affordable prices

What People Dislike

Can be touristy
Some find it overwhelming

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Mercado de San Juan is conveniently located in the Historic Center (Centro Histórico) of Mexico City, near attractions like the Zócalo and Palacio de Bellas Artes. You can easily reach it by metro, taking line 2 to the Allende station, or by taxi/ride-sharing service. It's also walkable from many central hotels. Reddit

Yes, Mercado de San Juan is considered safe to visit. While it offers exotic items, it's not dangerous and is a popular spot for both locals and tourists seeking unique culinary experiences. Reddit

The market is typically open daily from around 9 AM to 5 PM. For the freshest selection, especially seafood, it's best to visit in the morning. Instagram

Absolutely! The nearest metro station is Allende on Line 2. From there, it's a short walk to the market. Many bus routes also serve the area. Reddit

While street parking can be challenging in the historic center, there are several paid parking lots and garages nearby. Using public transport or ride-sharing is often more convenient. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, there is no admission fee to enter Mercado de San Juan. You can wander through the market freely. You only pay for the food and goods you purchase. Reddit

To avoid the biggest crowds, try visiting on a weekday morning. Weekends, especially around lunchtime, tend to be busier. Instagram

While not explicitly prohibited, it's generally expected that you'll purchase food and drinks from the vendors within the market. It's part of the experience! Reddit

No, the restaurants and food stalls within Mercado de San Juan do not have separate entrance fees. You simply order and pay for what you consume. Reddit

Most vendors accept cash (Mexican Pesos). Some of the more established restaurants and stalls may also accept credit cards, but it's always a good idea to have cash on hand, especially for smaller purchases. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Mercado de San Juan is renowned for its exotic offerings, including tarantulas, scorpions, crocodile meat, lion meat, ostrich, and various insects like chapulines. You can also find fresh seafood, gourmet cheeses, and imported delicacies. TikTokInstagramReddit+1

For exceptional seafood, head to Cabo San Juan, known for its fine dining experience within the market, or Marisquería El Saladito for delicious seafood dishes. TikTokInstagram+1

While the market is famous for meats and seafood, you can find fresh fruits, vegetables, and some prepared dishes that might be suitable. Deli Caseus offers Spanish tapas which may have vegetarian options. TikTok

Don't miss the exotic meats like crocodile or ostrich, try the fried insects for a crunchy snack, and indulge in the fresh seafood at places like Cabo San Juan. The TNT toast from Cabo San Juan is also highly recommended. TikTokInstagram+1

Yes, Mercado San Juan is a fantastic place to buy fresh ingredients, including exotic meats, seafood, unique produce, cheeses, and imported goods, if you have access to a kitchen. Instagram+1

📸 📸 Photography

Yes, photography is generally allowed inside Mercado San Juan. However, always be respectful of vendors and other shoppers. If you plan to take close-ups of people or their products, it's polite to ask for permission first. TikTok

The vibrant displays of colorful produce, exotic meats, and bustling market activity offer great photo opportunities. The stalls with unique items like insects or whole animals are particularly striking. TikTokInstagram

It's best to avoid using flash, especially when photographing food or people, as it can be intrusive and affect the natural lighting. Natural light within the market is usually sufficient. TikTok

While generally permitted, some vendors might prefer you not to photograph their specific products or stalls. Always be mindful and ask if you're unsure. TikTok

A smartphone with good low-light capabilities is excellent for capturing the market's atmosphere. If using a DSLR or mirrorless camera, a versatile zoom lens or a fast prime lens would be ideal for various shots. TikTok

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mercado de San Juan can be an exciting, albeit unusual, outing for families with older children who have an adventurous palate. While the exotic meats and insects might be too much for some, the market also offers a vibrant display of fresh produce, fruits, and more conventional food stalls. TikTok You can find delicious seafood and potentially some less adventurous meat options. The sheer variety and bustling atmosphere can be a sensory experience for kids. Instagram

Consider focusing on: the colorful fruits and vegetables, trying some of the delicious seafood dishes, or perhaps a less intimidating snack like a pastry or a fresh juice. It's a great opportunity to expose children to different cultures and foods in a safe environment. Reddit Just be mindful of their sensitivities when discussing or pointing out the more exotic items. TikTok

💰 Budget Travelers

Mercado de San Juan offers incredible value for money, especially considering the quality and uniqueness of the food. While some of the exotic meats might be pricier, you can still find very affordable and delicious meals. Reddit Eating at the market stalls is significantly cheaper than dining at a restaurant, allowing you to sample a variety of dishes without breaking the bank. TikTok

Tips for saving money:
* Eat at the stalls: Opt for prepared foods from vendors rather than buying raw exotic meats to cook yourself (unless you have a kitchen).
* Share dishes: Portions can be generous, especially at places like the Peruvian ceviche spot mentioned in reviews, where two can eat from one lomo saltado. Reddit
* Focus on local specialties: While exotic meats are a draw, don't overlook delicious and affordable seafood or traditional Mexican snacks available throughout the market. Reddit

🧑‍🍳 Foodies & Culinary Explorers

For serious food enthusiasts, Mercado de San Juan is a pilgrimage site. It's a place to discover ingredients and flavors that are hard to find anywhere else, offering a deep dive into Mexico's rich culinary landscape, from traditional pre-Hispanic foods to modern gourmet creations. InstagramReddit The market is a living pantry, showcasing the diversity of Mexican gastronomy. TikTok

Must-dos for foodies:
* Explore the exotic meats: Sample lion, tiger, or crocodile for a truly unique protein experience. TikTokInstagram
* Indulge in fresh seafood: Experience the quality at Cabo San Juan or El Saladito. TikTok+1
* Taste edible insects: Try chapulines or scorpions for a crunchy, protein-rich snack. InstagramReddit
* Discover imported delicacies: Look for gourmet cheeses and other international products. Instagram+1
* Engage with vendors: Learn about the sourcing and preparation of ingredients from passionate sellers. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Thrill of Exotic Meats

Mercado de San Juan is a global destination for the adventurous eater, offering a staggering array of exotic meats. You can find everything from venison, duck, ostrich, and wild boar to more unusual options like alligator, lion, tiger, and even bear meat, all sourced from legal farms for human consumption. TikTokInstagramReddit This isn't just about novelty; it's an opportunity to taste flavors and textures rarely encountered elsewhere. Many visitors report that meats like lion and tiger taste surprisingly similar to beef, offering a familiar yet thrilling culinary experience. Reddit

When exploring these stalls, don't hesitate to ask vendors about the origin and preparation of the meats. They are often passionate about their products and happy to share insights. While some vendors sell these meats fresh for you to take home, others offer prepared dishes, allowing you to sample them on the spot. Reddit It's a truly unique aspect of the Mercado San Juan experience that sets it apart from traditional markets.

Tasting Tips for Exotic Meats



* Start small: If you're hesitant, try a small portion or a taco featuring an exotic meat. TikTok
* Ask for recommendations: Vendors can guide you to their most popular or best-prepared options. Reddit
* Consider preparation: Some meats are better grilled, while others might be stewed or served as part of a dish. TikTok

Seafood Delights at Mercado San Juan

Beyond the exotic meats, Mercado San Juan is a premier destination for incredibly fresh seafood. Stalls like Cabo San Juan and Marisquería El Saladito are highly recommended by visitors and creators alike. TikTokInstagram+1 Chef Alan at Cabo San Juan, who comes from a long line of fishmongers, offers a fine-dining experience within the market, preparing dishes with the freshest catches from across Mexico. TikTok+1 His 'TNT toast' made with fresh tuna is a standout. TikTok

Whether you're craving ceviche, grilled fish, or other seafood specialties, you'll find a wide variety of options. The quality is exceptional, often sourced directly from coastal regions. Reddit Many reviewers praise the deliciousness and freshness of the seafood, noting that it rivals that found in dedicated seafood restaurants, but at market prices. TikTokReddit

Seafood Recommendations



* Ceviche: A classic choice, often prepared with the freshest fish and vibrant flavors. Reddit
* Grilled Fish: Simple yet delicious, allowing the freshness of the seafood to shine. TikTok
* Tuna Dishes: Look for specials like the TNT toast for a unique tuna experience. TikTok

The Insect Experience

For the truly adventurous, Mercado San Juan offers a fascinating array of edible insects. You can find chapulines (grasshoppers), scorpions, tarantulas, and even beetles, often seasoned and ready to eat. TikTokInstagram+2 While the idea might seem daunting, many visitors find them to be a surprisingly tasty and crunchy snack. Reddit The preparation often involves toasting or frying, making them a flavorful treat. Instagram

Instagram reels showcase people bravely trying tarantulas, describing the legs as crispy like chicken and the body having a different flavor. Instagram Some reviewers mention scorpion liqueur as another unique item available. Reddit It's an experience that pushes culinary boundaries and offers a glimpse into traditional Mexican cuisine, where insects have long been a source of protein. Reddit

Tips for Trying Insects



* Start with chapulines: Grasshoppers are often the most approachable insect to try first. Reddit
* Ask about preparation: Vendors can explain how they are seasoned and cooked. TikTok
* Embrace the crunch: The texture is a key part of the experience! Instagram

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