Mercado de San Juan

Overview

Mercado de San Juan is a gourmet market near the historic centre known for its exotic ingredients, imported cheeses, artisanal charcuterie, and edible insects.

Highlights

• Exotic meats: Crocodile, wild boar, ostrich, and other unusual proteins.
• Edible insects: Chapulines (grasshoppers), escamoles (ant larvae), and chicatana ants.
• Imported goods: European cheeses, pâtés, and wines alongside Mexican specialities.

History

The market has served as a specialty food destination since the 1950s, catering to chefs, diplomats, and food enthusiasts.

Visitor Tips

• Lunchtime tastings: Several stalls offer sit-down tastings of exotic meats and insects.
• Closed Sundays: The market is closed on Sundays.
• Duration: 30-45 minutes.