''Cornucopia'' is the word that best describes Oaxacan cuisine. The variety of dishes reflects the astonishing geographic, biological and ethnic diversity of the state territory. For example, there are 7 kinds of mole, most likely the largest tortillas known in Mexico (tlayuda), two classics for a typical Mexican breakfast, entomatadas (chicken or egg filled tortillas covered with a thick tomato sauce) and enfrijoladas (chicken or egg filled tortillas covered with a thick bean sauce), even ants and grasshoppers can be found in a nutritious and delicious dish.
Just as in the rest of Mexico, the cuisine is based on corn and some other vegetables but meat has an important role as well. Up by the sierra, chicken and turkey are the most common whereas beef and pork are popular in the valley. Closer to the Pacific shore, fish, seafood and even iguana are the most popular dishes.
Oaxacan artisans are known for their detailed works of art and, if cooking is an art, it is not a surprise that Oaxacan cuisine is so meticulous in its preparation, producing dishes that are aesthetically pleasing. Colorful, varied and, above all, intense in aromas and flavors, whether you like to start your day with a coffee or with a chocolate, make sure it is Oaxacan and prepare your palate for a culinary adventure without parallel. Dining in Oaxaca will be a delightful experience.
Doña Elpidia
You will not find a sign indicating the entrance, nor the sophistication of a common restaurant. A waiter will not come to your table to offer you the menu because Dona Elpidia is modesty to begin with. She cooks for her family and she serves anyone crossing the doorway. It has been like that for 40 years, during which she has given home cooking a delicious, hospitable meaning, becoming the best kept secret of the city.
El Biche Pobre
This Oaxacan family restaurant has prevailed as a typical gastronomy landmark. Do not miss the sampler botana, Oaxaquena, which is a banquet in itself. Try to arrive early if you go on weekends. Oaxacans are not known for wasting their treasures. There are three branches, one of which you can find on Calzada de la Republica.
El Che
Located in an elegant modern hall with an excellent view of Santo Domingo Church, El Che will cheerfully bring the best cuts in the city and other Argentinean and Italian specialties. Enjoy impeccable service and a casual ambience. To go with your meal, there is an ample wine selection.
El Naranjo
Famous among travelers for its quality and price, it is internationally acclaimed for the creativity in its dishes. El Naranjo specializes in rescuing old Oaxacan family recipes, adding a contemporary touch to them. They are served under an orange tree in the cool patio of an old house, steps south of the Zocalo. The ample menu includes 7 moles, organic salads and excellent seafood.
El Tio Guero 
Ideal for lunch, this Oaxaca restaurant will make you feel at home with the personal attention of its owners and flavorful and traditional family dishes. The menu consists of three courses and fresh fruit juice for a modest price. The picturesque patio is decorated with original art from Oaxacan artists and it is for sale. Located in the Carmen Alto area.
La Casa de la Abuela
Skillfully prepared traditional dishes, such as three different kinds of mole, and its privileged location on the second floor corner of the zocalo, turn this restaurant into a classic in dining guides. You will have beautiful views of the Rock of San Felipe and the colorful activity of downtown from your table.
La Toscana
This restaurant, in the picturesque Jalatlaco neighborhood, is located in an old house remodeled in minimalist rustic style. The menu is an exquisite surprise of contemporary Italian fusion with regional accents from Oaxaca. A central patio with a fountain and soft lights create a peacefully romantic ambience, elegantly unforgettable. The wine selection is pretty much the best in town.
Las Tlayudas de Libres
The peculiar schedule of this eatery on Libres Street is not the strangest thing (it opens at 10:00 p.m. and closes at 5:00 a.m.). The most asked for dish is prepared right on cinders and it is eaten with the hands. Tlayudas are basically a popular meal consisting of a big crunchy tortilla, with a spread of refried beans, cabbage and shredded chicken or beef tenderloin. There is an hour early in the morning when the street in front seems like a parking lot.
Los Danzantes
This is a more sophisticated version of the famous Coyoacan restaurant in Mexico City. It occupies the backyard patio of a recently restored 16th century house on Alcala Street. The modern architectonic concept includes adobe walls, pressed steel blocks, a minimalist fountain and a wooden solarium covered by bougainvillea. The lounge ambience is the perfect frame for succulent creations of contemporary Mexican cuisine.
20 de Noviembre Market
Dining in Oaxaca is incomplete if you don't visit the 20 de Noviembre Market. The market is mostly dedicated to food, raw as well as processed. The west alley hosts beef, pork tenderloin and sausages vendors, sold as in a butcher shop. Once chosen, the meat will be thrown on a grill and can be sold with onions, coriander, avocado, lime, chili, tomato and tortillas to accompany your meal. If you wish, there are people who can prepare a delicious guacamole with these ingredients.