Tika'aya
Experience the heart of Indigenous Oaxacan cuisine, celebrated for its complex flavors, artistic presentation, and unique fermented drinks. A true cul...
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Tika'aya
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience the heart of Indigenous Oaxacan cuisine, celebrated for its complex flavors, artistic presentation, and unique fermented drinks. A true culinary adventure.
"An incredibly well-thought-out dining experience with artistic presentation and unique flavors."
Cash Only
Bring enough cash as Tika'aya is a cash-only establishment; an ATM is nearby if needed.
Reserve Ahead
Make reservations in advance to secure your spot at this popular dining destination.
Quick Facts
Cuisine
Indigenous Oaxacan
Price
$$$
Phone
+52 951 313 0485
Address
Primera Priv. de, Independencia 12, Centro, 69600 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico
Website
facebook.com/TikaayacocinaHighlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Indigenous Oaxacan Tasting Menu
A culinary journey through complex flavors showcasing Indigenous cuisine from all over Oaxaca. Chef introduces each dish personally.
Creative Drink Concoctions
Enjoy unique drinks made with fermented fruits and intriguing ingredients that perfectly complement each course.
Unique Atmosphere and Presentation
An intimate and charming space with a bohemian vibe and artistic food presentation on lava rocks and charcoal.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Menu
Most Popular Items
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Cash Only
Bring enough cash as Tika'aya is a cash-only establishment; an ATM is nearby if needed.
Reserve Ahead
Make reservations in advance to secure your spot at this popular dining destination.
Be Adventurous
Be open to trying new flavors outside the norm for a truly unique culinary experience.
Confirm Reservation & Pricing
Confirm reservation details and pricing in advance, as this can be unclear.
Tips
from all over the internet
Cash Only
Bring enough cash as Tika'aya is a cash-only establishment; an ATM is nearby if needed.
Reserve Ahead
Make reservations in advance to secure your spot at this popular dining destination.
Be Adventurous
Be open to trying new flavors outside the norm for a truly unique culinary experience.
Confirm Reservation & Pricing
Confirm reservation details and pricing in advance, as this can be unclear.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Tika'aya offers a unique and artistic Indigenous Oaxacan dining experience with innovative flavors and presentations, praised for its creative drinks and personal chef interactions. However, some diners have noted inconsistent service, lack of price transparency, and smaller portions that don't always justify the cost for a fine dining establishment. While the culinary artistry is often lauded, service and value for money can be points of contention.
"Hidden gem that rivals Casa Oaxaca or Criollo for artístic presentation, elevated mixture of flavors. It’s a tasting menu with 6 courses that may be pared with creative unique drinks that complement the flavors of each dish.
Service has improved from last review. Prices are not listed and while high for Oaxaca, are in line for what you get. Cash only, so plan accordingly (1500 pesos pp"
Mary Boyer
"We had our Christmas dinner here, and it was a real treat! The food and ingredients were amazing, and some of the dishes we had tried in Oaxaca were even better. The place has a really cool bohemian vibe that makes you feel right at home. But unfortunately, the service was terrible. It took us an hour get out of the “welcome drink” and our waitress, who was also explaining the dishes, didn’t seem to care as much as the chef did. I hope the service improves soon because it really ruined the experience."
Edwin Cortes
"Incredibly well thought out dunning experience from the well decorated seating area with a mix of jugs extracting flavors to a view of the main fire fed stove for making tortillas and smoke flavored foods. Set menu that comes out plate by plate with deep explanation. Servings are unique; lava rock with sap burning on it, a bowl of charcoalized wood with a hot ember and rosemary making the taco on top and filled with aroma. My only complaint is I left hungry which feels weird for the price"
Damon Tighe
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, Tika'aya is a cash-only establishment. It's advisable to bring enough cash or use the nearby ATM.
Yes, reservations are highly recommended to secure a table at this intimate and popular restaurant.
Tika'aya offers a set tasting menu, often described as a seven-course or fixed menu, focusing on Indigenous Oaxacan cuisine.
They can adjust for some restrictions like gluten intolerance or no fish, but it's best to confirm when booking as some guests have reported varying levels of accommodation.
The tasting menu is priced around 1250-1500 pesos per person, not including drinks. Prices can sometimes be unclear beforehand.
The restaurant is known for its tasting menu showcasing Indigenous ingredients and creative drink concoctions made with fermented fruits.
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At Tika’aya (reservations required), an Indigenous kitchen by the self-proclaimed “five boys from La Mixteca,” Oaxaca’s fertile region to the west, you’ll find a weekly changing prix fixe menu that is complex and beautiful yet unpretentious.
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On the outskirts of el Centro is Tika’aya, a tasting menu-only Indigenous kitchen where Chef Toño Mack Garcia draws on the ancestral culinary knowledge of his land and family while eschewing expectations of what Oaxacan cuisine is. Often overlooked in favour of more traditional Oaxacan fine dining experiences, Tika’aya is a tremendous example of contemporary elevated dining and hospitality.
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Tika’aya also offers a creative tasting menu that is rooted in traditional Oaxacan ingredients. Formally known as Teocintle (which I will always know it as), this Oaxaca restaurant is intimate and charming. Chef Tono is inspired by the food of his home in the Mixtec region of Oaxaca.
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