Mexico City is known for its vibrant food scene, with street food at every corner and local markets offering a variety of budget-friendly eats. Whether you're looking for a quick snack or a hearty meal, these 10 dishes are perfect for anyone on a budget. All under $10, these tasty treats will leave you full and satisfied.
1. Tacos al Pastor – El Vilsito, Roma
What Makes It Special?
Mexico City's iconic tacos al pastor feature seasoned pork marinated with a mix of chilies and pineapple. El Vilsito serves them hot off the spit, with a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors.
Menu Highlights & Pricing
A taco al pastor costs around MXN 25–MXN 30 ($1.50–$1.80). Get a few to fill up without breaking the bank.
2. Tamales – Tamales Doña Emi, Coyoacán
What Makes It Special?
These soft, steamed masa pockets are filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, or even sweet fillings. Tamales Doña Emi is famous for its rich and flavorful fillings wrapped in perfectly cooked masa.
Menu Highlights & Pricing
Tamales range from MXN 20–MXN 40 ($1–$2.30) depending on the filling. Great for a snack or light meal.
3. Quesadillas – Mercado de Coyoacán
What Makes It Special?
Crispy corn tortillas filled with cheese and a variety of savory fillings such as mushrooms, huitlacoche (corn fungus), or squash blossoms. Mercado de Coyoacán has some of the best quesadillas in the city.
Menu Highlights & Pricing
Each quesadilla costs MXN 25–MXN 35 ($1.50–$2.10). Add your favorite fillings for a personalized bite.
4. Chilaquiles – Café de Tacuba, Centro Histórico
What Makes It Special?
This beloved breakfast dish is made from crispy tortilla chips smothered in green or red salsa, topped with cheese, crema, and often fried eggs or chicken. Café de Tacuba serves it up in traditional Mexican style.
Menu Highlights & Pricing
A plate of chilaquiles costs around MXN 50–MXN 80 ($2.90–$4.60). A satisfying and savory start to your day.
5. Tostadas de Tinga – Tostadas Coyoacán, Coyoacán
What Makes It Special?
Crispy tostadas topped with shredded chicken in a smoky, spicy chipotle sauce. This dish is perfect for a light yet flavorful lunch or snack.
Menu Highlights & Pricing
Tostadas de Tinga cost around MXN 30–MXN 50 ($1.80–$3). Simple but packed with bold flavor.
6. Elotes – Elote Loco, Polanco
What Makes It Special?
Grilled corn on the cob slathered in creamy mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime. Elote Loco brings a modern twist to this Mexican street snack.
Menu Highlights & Pricing
An elote costs around MXN 25–MXN 40 ($1.50–$2.30). A great snack to grab while exploring the city.
7. Sopes – Los Cocuyos, Centro Histórico
What Makes It Special?
These thick corn tortillas are topped with a variety of meats, beans, lettuce, cheese, and salsa. Los Cocuyos is known for its generous portions and flavorful toppings.
Menu Highlights & Pricing
Sopes range from MXN 30–MXN 50 ($1.80–$3). Choose from a variety of fillings like pork, chicken, or chicharrón prensado (pressed pork).
8. Molletes – Panadería La Ideal, Centro Histórico
What Makes It Special?
Molletes are split bolillo rolls topped with refried beans, cheese, and grilled to perfection. Panadería La Ideal serves these delicious, cheesy bites with a choice of salsa or chorizo.
Menu Highlights & Pricing
A mollete costs around MXN 25–MXN 40 ($1.50–$2.30). A perfect snack for a midday pick-me-up.
9. Tacos de Suadero – El Tizoncito, Condesa
What Makes It Special?
Suadero tacos are made from tender beef cooked until crispy and served on soft corn tortillas with onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. El Tizoncito is famous for its perfectly seasoned meat.
Menu Highlights & Pricing
A taco de suadero costs around MXN 20–MXN 30 ($1–$1.80). These tacos pack a punch of flavor.
10. Fajitas – La Casa de las Fajitas, Reforma
What Makes It Special?
Sizzling fajitas with a choice of meat, peppers, onions, and guacamole. La Casa de las Fajitas offers an authentic take on this Tex-Mex classic with a local twist.
Menu Highlights & Pricing
A serving of fajitas costs around MXN 70–MXN 90 ($4–$5.20). A hearty meal that fits within your budget.
Tips for Eating Like a Local
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Explore local markets like Mercado de la Merced or Mercado de Coyoacán for hidden gems.
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Check out the Comer Bien CDMX app for top recommendations.
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Try Locos por Tacos to find the best taco spots in the city.
Final Thoughts
Mexico City offers an exciting food scene that won't empty your wallet. With these 10 dishes under $10, you can enjoy a full day of eating like a local while keeping your budget intact. Bon appétit, or as they say in Mexico, ¡buen provecho!
