Puerto Escondido isn’t just about beaches and surf—this seaside town in Oaxaca is a treasure trove for food lovers. Its vibrant street food scene, local markets, and authentic eateries make it a fantastic destination for culinary exploration. We particularly love tours that go beyond the typical tourist spots, like the Made in Oaxaca Food Tour, which offers a deeper dive into Oaxacan cuisine with visits to local joints many travelers never find on their own. Whether you’re curious about traditional mole, want to try ancient beverages, or just enjoy sampling authentic dishes, Puerto Escondido’s food tours promise a memorable experience. If you prefer a mix of city touring and tasting, the Mexico Magico Food Tour offers a flavorful walk through both old and new neighborhoods. For those interested in spirits, the Food & Mezcal Journey combines culinary delights with a deep dive into Oaxaca’s famous mezcal. And if you’re up for learning how to cook traditional Mexican dishes yourself, the Puerto Escondido Mexican Cooking Class is perfect. Finally, for the adventurous eater, the Exotic Food Tasting introduces you to unique ingredients like Huitlacoche and toasted chapulines.
1. Made in Oaxaca Food Tour
At number one, the Made in Oaxaca Food Tour offers a full immersion into authentic Oaxacan cuisine in Puerto Escondido. This three-hour, 15-minute walking tour takes you through local joints often missed by travelers, giving you a taste of real, homemade flavors. Food and drinks are included in the $74 price, and the small-group setting ensures personalized attention. The tour’s itinerary kicks off at the main market, where you’ll sample food made right on-site and explore traditional dishes like mole and ancient beverages. What makes this tour stand out is the chance to go behind the scenes and learn about the origins of each dish, with one guide praised for sharing rich stories that make each bite more meaningful. Reviewers love how this tour is perfect for curious travelers eager to see beyond the typical tourist spots, and many mention the well-paced walking that makes it comfortable for most fitness levels. The highlight is the opportunity to try classic Oaxaca dishes in a relaxed environment, making it ideal for foodies and cultural explorers alike.
Bottom line: This tour offers a deep dive into the local cuisine with a personal touch, making it a top choice for those wanting an authentic food experience in Puerto Escondido.
2. Mexico Magico Food Tour
Coming in at number two, the Mexico Magico Food Tour combines city touring with tasting—perfect if you want to see both Puerto Escondido’s neighborhoods and its flavors. For about $79, you’ll spend around three hours walking through Rinconada and Centro neighborhoods, sampling between 8 and 10 dishes from local eateries and award-winning restaurants. This tour emphasizes culinary secrets, and the intimate group size (maximum 8) allows for a more personalized experience. The guide’s enthusiasm and local knowledge shine through, making the tasting stops more engaging. Reviewers highlight the back-to-back meals as a great value, especially since it feels like a full lunch experience. The walk between stops adds a relaxed rhythm to the day, and the variety of food—ranging from street eats to refined dishes—keeps it dynamic. If you’re interested in local flavors with a cultural twist, this tour balances sightseeing and tasting very well.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers looking to combine city exploration with a substantial taste of Puerto Escondido’s vibrant food scene in a small-group setting.
3. Food & Mezcal Journey
Third on our list, the Food & Mezcal Journey offers a unique pairing of cuisine and spirits. This 3.5-hour tour explores Puerto Escondido’s streets and local producers, where you’ll interact with artisans and sample organic products. You’ll also enjoy a meal at an authentic restaurant and taste more than 10 types of mezcal, making it particularly appealing for those interested in Oaxaca’s famous spirit. What sets this tour apart is the opportunity to learn directly from local producers about the traditional and modern ways of making mezcal, which many say enhances the tasting experience. The tour’s focus on organic and local ingredients provides a genuine taste of regional flavors, and the combination of food, mezcal, and cultural insights make it a well-rounded experience for spirits enthusiasts and foodies alike.
Bottom line: This is a perfect choice if you want to explore local spirits alongside delicious food, with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.
$98 per person
4. Puerto Escondido: Mexican Cooking Class, Enjoy Mexican Food
For those who prefer hands-on experiences, the Puerto Escondido Mexican Cooking Class offers an interactive way to learn Mexican culinary techniques. Priced at $82 for about 3.5 hours, this class guides you through preparing dishes like mole, tacos, and sopes, all with guidance from a local host. You’ll also enjoy a traditional fruit drink, Oaxaca’s finest coffee, or rich hot chocolate, ending the session with a sweet treat. The instructor explains each step carefully, sharing stories about the cultural significance of each dish, which enhances your understanding and appreciation. This experience is perfect for hands-on learners who want to bring home new skills and recipes. The focus on authentic ingredients and traditional methods makes it stand out. While the reviews aren’t listed, the consistent mention of a comprehensive, well-explained process indicates a high-quality class.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who want a personal cooking lesson and the chance to recreate authentic Mexican dishes back home.
$82 per person
5. Exotic Food Tasting: Taste the Unexpected
The most adventurous, the Exotic Food Tasting promises to surprise your palate with unusual ingredients. For about $100.56, this three-hour tour introduces you to Huitlacoche (Mexican truffle), toasted chapulines (grasshoppers), and mangrove clams. This experience takes you to lively neighborhoods and local markets, where each bite tells a story of Mexican culture and tradition. You’ll visit family-run eateries and hidden street stands, discovering authentic flavors outside typical tourist fare. The tour emphasizes cultural storytelling alongside the tastings, making it engaging and educational. It’s suitable for travelers eager to try something different and learn about lesser-known ingredients that are staples in Oaxaca. While it’s more niche, many find it a rewarding adventure for the curious eater.
Bottom line: Perfect for those wanting a culinary thrill and insights into Mexico’s more exotic ingredients.
$100.56 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Food Tour
When selecting a food tour in Puerto Escondido, consider your interests and fitness level. If you love authentic local flavors and want a detailed cultural experience, the Made in Oaxaca Food Tour is an excellent pick. For those who want to combine sightseeing with food, the Mexico Magico Food Tour offers a balanced mix. If spirits excite you, the Food & Mezcal Journey dives into Oaxaca’s famous mezcal scene. For a more interactive experience, the Mexican Cooking Class teaches you to cook authentic dishes. And if you’re craving something unusual, the Exotic Food Tasting offers a bold adventure.
Booking early is advisable, especially for popular tours like the Made in Oaxaca Food Tour, which consistently receives top ratings. Consider what kind of experience excites your taste buds most, and plan around your schedule—most tours last around 3 hours, making them easy to fit into a day of exploring.
Final Thoughts
Puerto Escondido offers a fantastic range of culinary adventures—from traditional tastings to hands-on cooking classes and exotic ingredient experiences. For a deep dive into Oaxacan cuisine and culture, the Made in Oaxaca Food Tour and Mexico Magico Food Tour are top contenders. If you’re more interested in spirits, the Food & Mezcal Journey can satisfy your curiosity. For the culinary enthusiast wanting to learn new skills, the Mexican Cooking Class is an excellent choice. And for thrill-seekers, the Exotic Food Tasting delivers a truly unique experience.
No matter your taste, booking ahead will ensure you secure your spot on these popular tours. Whether you want to taste Oaxaca’s most cherished dishes or try something unexpected, Puerto Escondido’s food scene is ready to surprise and delight.