When me and my mates decide to visit long-term city, we usually start by looking at what famous sights there are and the best places to eat. However, the authentic flavor and the essence of culture lies at times shown by locations that are not the common tourist exploration. The beautiful and historic city of Cholula in Mexico also offers such an experience.
Cholula is famous not only for its huge pyramids, churches and colorful streets, but also for its traditional and authentic food. Although some restaurants have gained international recognition, today we are talking about those hidden, lesser-known but incredible food joints, which only locals know about – and which are an adventure to discover.
La Casa de Frida -Home style food, in the shadow of Frida
Situated in a peaceful alley of Cholula, La Casa de Frida is regarded not only as the restaurant that offers delicious food, but also as the restaurant with the atmosphere of art and classical decor. The restaurant is very small, has paintings by renowned Mexican artist Frida Kahlo on its walls, and a stylish setting which makes it feel as though you are in one of the homes of locals.
The delicious Chiles en Nogada (peppers stuffed in a cream sauce), and homemade Mole Pablano (spicy chocolate sauce) are the tastes to get close to Mexican heart.
El Rincón del Maíz – The Authentic Taste of Corn
El Rincón del Maíz — the name itself tells what this place is all about. This tiny, almost dhaba-like eatery serves dishes made from only local corn. Tourists rarely visit, but locals call it the “Shrine of the Taco.”
The handmade blue corn tacos, which are served piping hot on an iron griddle, can completely change your taste buds.
Cocina de Doña Licha – A Mother’s Kitchen
If you want to taste authentic homemade Mexican food, you have to visit Doña Licha’s Kitchen. This restaurant is not a fancy place, but a simple place where Doña Licha cooks herself – just like her grandmother did.
Special dishes:
- Pozole Rojo – red soup full of chili peppers
- Tamales de Dulce – sweet pink tamales
- Arroz con leche – traditional rice pudding
Every dish is flavored with love and tradition.
Mariscos El Güero – Freshness of the sea in the mountains
Cholula may be far from the sea, but El Güero is the place to get the freshest seafood you can find in a coastal town. This hidden seafood restaurant is only discovered by the locals.
The specialties here are:
- Aguachile Verde – Shrimp in a spicy sauce of chili and lime
- Camarones al Mojo de Ajo – Shrimp cooked in garlic
- Pulpo a la Diabla – Octopus in a spicy sauce
The airy open seating and local music make the experience even more special.
Antojitos El Callejón – Taste, simplicity and street charm
When it comes to “Antojitos” or snacks and chaat, there is no better place than the streets of Cholula. El Callejón is a small stall located in a narrow street, but its Tostadas, Sopes, Tlacoyos are so delicious that people come from far and wide to eat them.
The atmosphere here is all Indian and cool — wooden benches, the smell of lime, and a local artist playing the guitar nearby.
Dulcería La Abuela – The Sweet Shop
No trip is complete without Mexican sweets. La Abuela means ‘Grandma’s Sweet Shop’ — here you will find traditional sweets like Camotes, Cajeta, and Buñuelos that are no longer available in regular stores.
It is a small shop run by an elderly couple. They smile at every customer, and give free candy to children — that’s an experience worth remembering.
Why are these restaurants special?
All these restaurants and eateries have one thing in common — a local soul. They are not widely known or well promoted in the social media, though this does not keep them out of our reach in case we need to get to know a culture through food.
Tourists usually restrict themselves to catering the luxurious cafes and picture-will-take places, yet it is those old roads, where grandmothers cook with their decades old recipes and the clients became family members.
- Have cash: In some points they have tiny strolls that do not approve cards.
- Ask the locals: The taxi or auto drivers, the shop or hostel people can give information about these restaurants.
- Bring cash: In some cases, they have small shops that do not accept cards.
Dine without prejudices: Do not worry about trying new flavors and new types of cuisine, they will diversify your taste experience.
Conclusion:
The process to finding the food treasures in an ancient town like Cholula is like a treasure hunt. Every dish, every recipe, and every experience at these off-the-radar eateries tells a story — from a mother’s kitchen to an old couple’s sweet shop.
Next time you visit Cholula, don’t limit yourself to just the famous places. Do try these lesser-known but heartily prepared food joints too – trust me, you will remember their taste for the rest of your life.
