Best food in Tlacolula: 1 Must‑Try Spot

Tlacolula, Oaxaca, Mexico – A Food Ranger’s Ultimate Barbacoa & Breakfast Guide

If you’re craving the best barbacoa in Tlacolula, this guide is your passport to the most satisfying Mexican street food experience. In a tiny town outside Oaxaca, The Food Ranger Trevor James shows us how to start the day with classic Oaxacan breakfast and finish it by devouring an entire 80‑kg lamb.

A Day of Flavorful Highlights

Tlacolula’s streets burst with color and aroma, making it a culinary hotspot for travelers. We’ll explore:

• Classic Oaxacan breakfast: higaditos (scrambled eggs with chicken) and the legendary coloradito mole.
• The massive barbacoa lamb: cooked right in front of you at a local joint that turns an ordinary meal into an unforgettable feast.

With over 30 spots to discover, Tlacolula offers a blend of tradition and bold flavors that will leave your taste buds dancing.

Best Street Food Spots in Tlacolula

• Barbacoa Joint – The star attraction where the chef roasts an entire lamb on the spot. Watch the meat sizzle as it’s seasoned with local spices, then sliced into juicy strips served with fresh tortillas.
• Higaditos & Mole Café – Ideal for breakfast lovers. Their higaditos are fluffy scrambled eggs mixed with chicken, garlic, and a hint of smoky chipotle. Pair them with a bowl of coloradito mole, rich in chocolate, raisins, and a fiery blend of chilies.

Hidden Gems Worth Visiting

• Local markets – Browse stalls selling fresh produce, handmade tortillas, and traditional Oaxacan sweets.
• Street vendors – Sample quick bites like tamales or elote (grilled corn) to complement your main dishes.

Things to Do in Tlacolula

1. Explore the town square – Admire colonial architecture while sipping a hot chocolate that tastes like a cinnamon bun.
2. Attend a cooking demo – Learn how locals prepare their signature moles and barbacoa techniques.
3. Taste local beverages – Try Oaxaca’s famous mezcal or fresh fruit juices for a refreshing finish.

Where to Eat in Tlacolula

• Barbacoa Joint – The must‑visit spot for lamb lovers. The entire 80 kg lamb is cooked right before your eyes, ensuring maximum freshness and flavor.
• Higaditos & Mole Café – Perfect for breakfast or a light lunch. Their mole sauce is a sweet‑spicy masterpiece that showcases Oaxaca’s culinary diversity.

Pro Tips from the Food Ranger

• Arrive early: The lamb joint gets crowded, so start your day before noon to secure a good spot.
• Bring cash: Small vendors often don’t accept cards; having local currency makes transactions smoother.
• Stay hydrated: Pair spicy dishes with cold agua fresca or a light beer to balance the heat.

Final Thoughts

Tlacolula, Oaxaca, Mexico is more than just a picturesque town—it’s a culinary adventure where you can taste the best barbacoa in Tlacolula and savor authentic Oaxacan breakfasts. Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or a curious traveler, this destination offers unforgettable flavors that will keep you coming back for more.

Ready to explore? Pack your appetite, head to Tlacolula, and let the street food magic begin!