Mexico City: or CDMX, as the locals call it: is a sensory overload in the best possible way. The air is thick with the scent of charred corn, simmering pork, and fresh limes. If you’re a photographer or a traveler on a budget, this city is essentially your playground. You can capture world-class street photography by day and eat like a Michelin-starred critic by night, all without spending more than $15 or $20 USD a day.
At Photoguides, we’re all about helping you capture the world’s beauty, but we also know that you can’t take great photos on an empty stomach. Our CEO, Edin Chavez, has spent years traveling and documenting the vibrant cultures of Latin America, and he always says the heart of a city is found in its street food.
If you’re worried about navigating the chaotic food stalls or getting "Turista Tummy," don’t be. We’ve rounded up the best cheap eats in Mexico City that are not only affordable but are local institutions you’ll find yourself craving long after you’ve flown home.
1. El Parnita: The Blue Corn Revelation
Located in the trendy Roma Norte neighborhood, El Parnita is the bridge between street food and a sit-down restaurant. While Roma can be pricey, El Parnita stays true to its roots. Everything here is served on homemade blue corn tortillas, which have a richer, nuttier flavor than the standard yellow ones.
You have to try the Taco Carmelita, which features perfectly breaded shrimp, or the Zacatlan, a vegetarian dream with seasoned zucchini. If you’re looking to save even more, plan your visit for a Tuesday when they offer a "three for two" deal on tacos. It’s a great spot to practice some food photography: the colors of the blue corn against the vibrant salsas are a dream for any lens. If you’re looking to upgrade your travel kit before you go, check out our guide on essential photography gear.
2. Taquería Orinoco: The Chicharrón King
You’ll see the bright neon signs of Taquería Orinoco from blocks away. It’s a bit of a cult favorite, and for good reason. They specialize in Northern-style tacos, and their Tacos de Chicharrón are legendary. Imagine pork skin that is crispy, fatty, and soft all at once, served with a side of smashed potatoes.
Their Al Pastor is also top-tier, shaved thin from a massive vertical spit topped with a pineapple. At roughly $1 to $2 per taco, you can easily fill up for under $10. It’s fast, it’s loud, and it’s quintessentially Mexico City.
3. Casa de Toño: The Comfort of Pozole
If you ask a local where to go for a reliable, cheap, and comforting meal, they will almost certainly point you toward Casa de Toño. While it’s technically a chain, it’s one of the most respected in the country. Their specialty is Pozole, a traditional pre-Columbian soup made from hominy (dried corn kernels) and meat.
For about $5, you get a massive bowl of Pozole Blanco or Rojo, served with a mountain of garnishes: radishes, oregano, lime, and crispy tostadas. It’s the ultimate budget travel food. It’s also incredibly consistent and clean, making it a "reassuring" choice for those who might be a little nervous about their first day of eating in Mexico.
4. El Pescadito: Seafood Bliss in the City
You might not think of a landlocked city as a seafood destination, but El Pescadito will change your mind. This spot is famous for its Marlin and Shrimp tacos. The portions are huge, honestly, two tacos are usually enough for a full lunch.
The best part? The "topping bar." Once you get your taco, you head over to a station filled with different slaws, pickled onions, and at least six different types of salsa. It’s an interactive dining experience that costs less than a latte in New York. If you are planning a trip and debating between different Mexican vibes, you might enjoy our breakdown of the Dominican Republic vs Cancun for more coastal inspiration.
5. Tortas Las Margaritas: The Polanco Secret
Polanco is often called the "Beverly Hills of Mexico City," known for high-end boutiques and luxury hotels. But tucked away is Tortas Las Margaritas, a tiny counter-service deli that serves some of the best sandwiches (tortas) in the city.
A Torta de Milanesa (breaded pork or chicken) here will cost you under $3. It’s packed with avocado, beans, cheese, and jalapeños on a soft bolillo roll. It’s the perfect budget-friendly fuel if you’re spending the day photographing the stunning architecture of the Soumaya Museum nearby.
6. Café El Asturiano: The "Menu del Día" Hero
To truly eat like a local and save money, you need to look for signs that say Menu del Día or Comida Corrida. Café El Asturiano in Roma Norte is a master of this. For around $7, you get a fixed three-course meal: a soup (the chicken consommé is a must), a starter (usually rice or pasta), a main course (like chicken in mole or meatballs), a dessert, and a fresh agua del día.
It’s the most economical way to experience a traditional Mexican home-style meal. For more tips on finding great local spots during your travels, check out our cheap weekend getaways guide.
7. Mercado de Coyoacán: A Feast for the Senses
Markets (mercados) are the lifeblood of Mexico City. The Mercado de Coyoacán is one of our favorites because it’s slightly more manageable than the massive Mercado de la Merced, but just as delicious.
Head to the Tostadas Coyoacán stall. These aren’t your average taco-bell-style shells; they are piled high with shrimp, octopus, or tinga (shredded chicken in chipotle). After you’ve had your fill of savory, walk a few aisles over for fresh churros and a cup of Mexican hot chocolate. The lighting in these markets is often moody and dramatic, perfect for capturing those "best cheap eats" shots for your Instagram or portfolio.
8. Delmar Sinaloense: Spicy and Fresh
Located in Polanco, Delmar Sinaloense is perhaps the smallest restaurant in the neighborhood, but it packs a massive punch. They specialize in Sinaloa-style seafood, specifically Aguachile.
Aguachile is similar to ceviche but much spicier, made with raw shrimp submerged in a liquid of lime juice, salt, cilantro, and serrano peppers. At around $6 for a cocktail that tastes like the ocean, it’s a steal. It’s refreshing, vibrant, and a great break from the heavier fried foods of the street stalls.
9. Tacos La Chula: The Neighborhood Gem
If you find yourself in the Juárez neighborhood, look for Tacos La Chula. It’s a clean, modern take on a traditional taquería. They are famous for their Tacos de Chuleta (pork chop) and their incredibly fresh aguas frescas (fruit waters).
The vibe here is very welcoming, and the menu is easy to navigate even if your Spanish is a bit rusty. It’s a great place to stop for a quick bite between photography sessions. If you’re looking to improve your skills while on the road, consider booking a photography booking experience to get professional eyes on your work.
10. El Rey de los Mariscos: The Hidden Seafood House
El Rey de los Mariscos is literally a converted three-story house. It doesn’t look like a restaurant from the outside, but inside you’ll find some of the lowest seafood prices in the city. Their Quesadilla de Camarones (shrimp quesadilla) is a standout: it’s cheesy, salty, and incredibly satisfying.
It’s one of those places that makes you feel like you’ve discovered a secret that only the locals know. That feeling of discovery is exactly why we travel, isn't it?
Pro-Tips for Budget Dining in CDMX
Eating street food in Mexico City is an art form. Here are a few tips to keep you safe and satisfied:
- Follow the Crowd: If a stand is busy, the food is fresh. Locals know where the good stuff is.
- Salsa Warning: "No pica" (not spicy) usually still means it’s a little spicy. "Pica un poco" means your mouth will be on fire. Proceed with caution!
- Cash is King: While many restaurants in Roma and Condesa take cards, street stalls and mercados are strictly cash only.
- Hydrate Safely: Always drink bottled water. Most restaurants use purified water for their aguas frescas, but it’s always okay to ask "Es agua de filtro?" (Is it filtered water?).
Capturing the Flavor
As you explore the best cheap eats in Mexico City, don't forget to look up from your plate. The city is a canvas of color and life. Whether you're using a professional DSLR or just your phone, the food stalls of CDMX offer some of the most authentic travel photos you'll ever take.
For more inspiration on travel and photography, visit Photoguides to explore our latest tutorials and gear reviews. And if you want to see how a pro like Edin Chavez captures the essence of a city through his lens, his portfolio is a great place to start.
Mexico City is a place that rewards the curious and the hungry. So, grab a couple of pesos, find a spot on a plastic stool, and get ready for the best tacos of your life. Buen provecho!
