Several eating counters in the market, all full of patrons.
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Mercado 20 de Noviembre Oaxaca

4.2
·745 reviews·Tuxtla Gutiérrez, Mexico

Oaxaca's vibrant food market, famous for its smoky 'Pasillo de Humo' and giant tlayudas. A must-visit for authentic, affordable Oaxacan cuisine.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Beat the crowds, fresh food

CrowdLow
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Several eating counters in the market, all full of patrons.

Mercado 20 de Noviembre Oaxaca

Best Time

Morning

Beat the crowds, fresh food

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Oaxaca's vibrant food market, famous for its smoky 'Pasillo de Humo' and giant tlayudas. A must-visit for authentic, affordable Oaxacan cuisine.

4.2
(745 reviews)

"Dive into the smoky heart of Oaxaca for an unforgettable culinary adventure at Mercado 20 de Noviembre."

Vertical photo
TIP

🔥 Embrace the Smoke!

Don't shy away from the 'Pasillo de Humo' – the smoky air is part of the experience!

💰 Affordable Eats

Enjoy delicious Oaxacan cuisine at budget-friendly prices. Meals can be around $3-$5 USD.

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Pasillo de Humo (Corridor of Smoke)

Pasillo de Humo (Corridor of Smoke)

Central food section

Experience the smoky aroma and sizzling sounds of grilled meats cooked over open coals. A true Oaxacan culinary adventure.

Giant Tlayudas

Giant Tlayudas

Various food stalls

Savor massive, delicious tlayudas, some famously half-meter long, a must-try Oaxacan specialty.

Local Delicacies

Local Delicacies

Throughout the market

Sample traditional Oaxacan foods like tasajo, mole, tamales, and regional drinks like tejate.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Culinary Chaos

Dive into the vibrant Mercado 20 de Noviembre for an authentic Oaxacan food experience. Arrive hungry and ready to explore the 'Pasillo de Humo' for grilled meats and local delicacies. Be prepared for a lively atmosphere and delicious, affordable eats.

Timing is Everything

While the market is open daily, visiting during peak lunch hours can mean crowds. For a more relaxed experience, aim for earlier in the day or slightly after the main lunch rush. Some vendors open as early as 7:30 AM.Reddit

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Beat the crowds, fresh food
Crowd
Low
When
Lunchtime (1 PM - 3 PM)
Why
Bustling atmosphere, peak energy
Crowd
High
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Fewer crowds, still vibrant
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Todo lo que comimos en el Mercado 20 de Noviembre, un mercado de comida callejera en Oaxaca 🇲🇽 #sisomosgemelos #mercado #comidacallejera #oaxaca #mexico #comidamexicana #todoloquecomoenundia #opinionespersonales
@sisomosgemelos
136.9K likes • 1.4M views

🔥 Embrace the Smoke!

Don't shy away from the 'Pasillo de Humo' – the smoky air is part of the experience! TikTokInstagram+1

💰 Affordable Eats

Enjoy delicious Oaxacan cuisine at budget-friendly prices. Meals can be around $3-$5 USD. TikTok

No puedes dejar de hacer estas 7 cosas la proxima vez que vayas a #Oaxaca 🇲🇽 #guiamexico #guiaoaxaca #oaxacamexico #oaxacalotienetodo #oaxacavivelo #oaxacatravel #quehacercdmx #oaxacacity #oaxacatienetalento #oaxacatips #travelblogger #travelvlog #guiadeviajes #quehacerenoaxaca #fyp #oaxacacool #oaxacaaesthetic #hm #modamexico #modamexicana #cantinacrew #cantinamexicana #joansebastian
@sofia.lascurain
54.7K likes • 1.1M views
Pasillo de Humo 🇲🇽 Carne Asada En el mercado 20 de noviembre de OAXACA 😍 #oaxaca #reels #vlog
elvillalteco
162 likes • 4.9K views

🚶‍♀️ Explore Both Markets

Mercado 20 de Noviembre is great for food, while Mercado Benito Juárez nearby offers crafts and produce. Instagram+1

☕ Try Local Drinks

Don't miss out on traditional Oaxacan beverages like tejate or fresh pozol. Instagram

📍Mexico /Oaxaca 🌵Mercado Benito Juárez ☑︎買い物系メルカド 🌵Mercado 20 de Noviembre ☑︎ご飯系メルカド ソカロから歩いてすぐの隣り合わせにあるメルカド。 独特の匂いと雰囲気でワクワクが止まらない❤️‍🩹✨ #mexico #mexico🇲🇽 #メキシコ #メキシコ旅行 #メキシコ刺繍 #オアハカ #oaxacatravel #oaxaca #oaxacamexico #mexicotrip #mexicotravel #mercado20denoviembre #mercadobenitojuarez #mercado #87journey
taken_by_me_memories
6 likes • 390 views

Tips

from all over the internet

🔥 Embrace the Smoke!

Don't shy away from the 'Pasillo de Humo' – the smoky air is part of the experience! TikTokInstagram+1

💰 Affordable Eats

Enjoy delicious Oaxacan cuisine at budget-friendly prices. Meals can be around $3-$5 USD. TikTok

🚶‍♀️ Explore Both Markets

Mercado 20 de Noviembre is great for food, while Mercado Benito Juárez nearby offers crafts and produce. Instagram+1

☕ Try Local Drinks

Don't miss out on traditional Oaxacan beverages like tejate or fresh pozol. Instagram

🫓 Tlayuda Time

Look for the famous half-meter tlayudas for a truly epic meal! TikTokInstagram

What Travellers Say

4.2
(745 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the authentic and affordable culinary experience at Mercado 20 de Noviembre, particularly the smoky 'Pasillo de Humo' and giant tlayudas. While the vibrant, sometimes chaotic atmosphere is a highlight, some find the intense smoke overwhelming. The variety of local delicacies and the budget-friendly prices make it a must-visit for food lovers.

"Excellent variety of flowers. They open early. I was there at 7:30 am, and several businesses were already open."

MTRO. ALEJANDRO GUTIÉRREZ GALLEGOS

"The food is cheap and good place to have lunch"

Daniel Neira

"Please be respectful
My boyfriend gave me a huge bouquet of flowers. I thanked him, they looked impressive but wilted. He told me he asked for a huge flower arrangement and they told him one with 100 roses would look as huge as he wanted. He asked for it, but they didn't have a physical one. He trusted me it would be beautiful because they showed him a photo of what it would look like, but it seems they chose flowers that would die the next day, and that's how it did.
It didn't have a base so that when you put water in it, it wouldn't fall, but when you did, everything fell to the bottom and there was no way to hydrate them, so they put some ugly crumpled paper in it to decorate the vase."

silvana evt evt

What People Like

Authentic Oaxacan food
Affordable prices
Pasillo de Humo experience

What People Dislike

Intense smoke
Crowded during peak hours

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The market is centrally located in Oaxaca City, making it easily accessible. It's a short walk from the Zócalo and other main attractions. Taxis and ride-sharing services are also readily available. Instagram+1

Yes, it's right next to Mercado Benito Juárez, which focuses more on produce and crafts. You can easily walk between them to experience a wider range of Oaxacan goods. Instagram+1

The markets are pedestrian-friendly. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be doing a lot of walking and standing. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to Mercado 20 de Noviembre is free. It's a public market where you pay for the food and goods you purchase. TikTok

The market generally opens early, around 7:30 AM, and stays open through the evening. Specific vendor hours may vary, but the food stalls are typically active throughout the day. Reddit

There is no separate entrance fee for the Pasillo de Humo. It's a section within the market where you purchase food directly from the vendors. TikTokInstagram

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The 'Pasillo de Humo' (Corridor of Smoke) is a famous section of the market known for its dense, aromatic smoke from numerous food stalls grilling meats like tasajo over open coals. It's a quintessential Oaxacan culinary experience. TikTokInstagram+2

You'll find a wide array of Oaxacan specialties, including grilled meats (tasajo), tlayudas, mole, tamales, empanadas, and local drinks. It's a fantastic place for street food and authentic regional dishes. TikTokInstagram+2

While the market is famous for its grilled meats, you can find some vegetarian options like empanadas, tostadas, and possibly some vegetable-based dishes. It's best to ask vendors directly. Reddit

Yes, it can get very crowded, especially during peak lunch hours. Visiting earlier in the morning or later in the afternoon can offer a less crowded experience. Reddit

While Mercado 20 de Noviembre is primarily a food market, its neighbor, Mercado Benito Juárez, offers a wide selection of local crafts, textiles, and souvenirs. Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The 'Pasillo de Humo' for grilled tasajo is a must. Also, try the giant tlayudas, especially from La Chinita, and don't miss out on empanadas and regional drinks like tejate. TikTokInstagram+2

Food here is very affordable. You can expect to pay around $3-$5 USD for a substantial meal, making it a great value for authentic Oaxacan cuisine. TikTok

La Chinita is a highly recommended spot for their famous half-meter tlayudas. Many other stalls also offer delicious versions of this Oaxacan staple. TikTokInstagram+1

Look for vendors selling empanadas, tostadas, and taquitos. While meat is dominant, these offer delicious alternatives. Pozol and coffee are also great accompaniments. Reddit

Yes, you can find ingredients like Oaxacan chocolate and coffee at the market, perfect for souvenirs or to recreate the flavors at home. TikTok

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the vibrant atmosphere of the 'Pasillo de Humo' with its dramatic smoke, the colorful displays of produce in Mercado Benito Juárez, and the sheer size of the giant tlayudas. TikTokInstagram+1

Generally, it's appreciated to ask for permission before taking close-up photos of vendors or their stalls. A smile and a polite gesture usually suffice. TikTok

Morning light can be beautiful for capturing the market's activity without harsh shadows. The evening can offer a more atmospheric, smoky vibe in the 'Pasillo de Humo'.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Mercado 20 de Noviembre can be an exciting adventure for families, offering a vibrant introduction to Oaxacan culture and food. The sheer scale of the tlayudas and the lively atmosphere of the 'Pasillo de Humo' can be captivating for children. While the smoky environment might be intense for very young children, older kids will likely enjoy the sensory experience and trying new foods. Look for stalls offering simpler options like empanadas or tamales, which are often kid-friendly. Remember to keep a close eye on children in crowded areas. TikTok+1

💰 Budget Travelers

This market is a paradise for budget travelers! You can enjoy incredibly delicious and filling Oaxacan meals for very little money. A substantial meal can cost as little as $3-$5 USD, making it one of the most economical and satisfying dining options in Oaxaca. TikTok Exploring the market allows you to sample a variety of local flavors without breaking the bank. It's the perfect place to experience authentic cuisine on a shoestring budget.

🍜 Food Enthusiasts

For serious food lovers, Mercado 20 de Noviembre is a pilgrimage site. The 'Pasillo de Humo' offers an unparalleled opportunity to taste authentic tasajo and other grilled meats cooked over open flames. Beyond that, exploring the diverse offerings of tlayudas, moles, and regional drinks provides a deep dive into Oaxacan gastronomy. Don't be afraid to try new things and ask vendors for recommendations – that's where the real culinary discoveries happen. TikTokInstagram+1

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Iconic Pasillo de Humo

The Pasillo de Humo, or Corridor of Smoke, is the undisputed heart of Mercado 20 de Noviembre's culinary scene. As you step into this section, you're immediately enveloped by a thick, aromatic haze rising from countless open grills. Here, vendors expertly cook tasajo (thinly sliced beef), chorizo, and other meats over glowing charcoal, filling the air with an irresistible smoky scent. The visual of the sizzling meats and the constant plume of smoke is as much a part of the experience as the taste itself. It's a sensory overload in the best possible way, offering a truly authentic Oaxacan street food adventure. TikTokInstagram+2

Visitors often describe the experience as intense and exhilarating. The sheer volume of food being prepared simultaneously creates a unique atmosphere. You can choose your meat, and it's typically served with tortillas, salsas, and guacamole. While it's a meat-lover's paradise, the vibrant energy and the theatricality of the cooking process make it a must-see even for those who aren't indulging in the grilled offerings. It's a place where locals and tourists alike gather to savor the bold flavors of Oaxaca. TikTokInstagram

Beyond the Smoke: Culinary Treasures

While the Pasillo de Humo steals the spotlight, Mercado 20 de Noviembre offers a broader spectrum of Oaxacan culinary delights. Don't miss the tlayudas, often referred to as Oaxacan pizzas. Some stalls, like the famous La Chinita, serve enormous, half-meter versions that are perfect for sharing (or a serious challenge for one!). These crispy tortillas are topped with beans, cheese, avocado, and your choice of meat or vegetables. TikTokInstagram+1

Beyond these stars, explore stalls offering empanadas, tamales steamed in corn husks, and rich, complex moles. For beverages, try tejate, a pre-Hispanic drink made from corn and cacao, or a refreshing pozol. The market is also a great place to pick up Oaxacan ingredients like artisanal chocolate and coffee to take a taste of Oaxaca home with you. TikTokInstagramReddit+1

Navigating the Market Experience

Mercado 20 de Noviembre is a bustling hub, and understanding its layout can enhance your visit. It's conveniently located next to Mercado Benito Juárez, which is more focused on produce, flowers, and crafts. Instagram+1 This proximity allows for a comprehensive market experience in one outing. When visiting, wear comfortable shoes as you'll be on your feet exploring the various stalls. Reddit

Be prepared for crowds, especially during peak lunch hours. If you prefer a more relaxed atmosphere, consider visiting in the morning when vendors are just setting up, or in the late afternoon as the lunch rush subsides. Interacting with vendors, even with a language barrier, is part of the charm. A smile and a few basic Spanish phrases can go a long way. TikTok

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