Enjoy Authentic & Traditional Mexican Food on Vacation

couple eating in a Princess Cruises ship dining room
Taste authentic food on Mexico vacations.

When you think of traditional Mexican food, you probably think of tacos, burritos, and guacamole – but there's so much more to discover. Mexico vacations provide many delicious opportunities to sample authentic Mexican food.

Must-Try Authentic Mexican Foods

It would be impossible to taste every Mexican culinary masterpiece, but there are some authentic Mexican foods you might not be able to get at home:

Alambre: A dish where meat (typically beef or pork), vegetables, and cheese are cooked together. Alambre is usually served with tortillas.

Barbacoa: The literal translation of barbacoa is "barbecue," but instead of being grilled, Mexican barbecue is steamed and smoked.

Chilaquiles: Chilaquiles are a traditional Mexican breakfast dish, but they can be served at any meal. These are made by cooking tortilla chips in a chile sauce and topping them with cheese. Chilaquiles are sometimes served with fried eggs, chicken, or beef.

Corunda: Corundas are made with a dough of soft corn flour mixed with water, baking powder, and shortening. They are then filled, typically with chilies and a salty cheese called doblecrema (though they may also be filled with meat), and steamed. Corundas are eaten with salsa and cream.

Mole: Pronounced "MOH-lay," this sauce can be made with chocolate and a variety of nuts and spices, but the standard ingredient is dried chili peppers. Mole sauces, which traditionally take hours to make, range in color depending on their ingredients and how long they're cooked.

Sample Traditional Mexican Foods Onboard

Mexico vacations begin with an introduction to the region's cuisine and Mexican culture onboard. While dining, you'll be able to taste mole, as well as traditional Mexican foods, such as ceviche and fajitas, and desserts like coconut cocadas, a traditional Mexican confection.

You can also learn more about another treat that has its origin in Mexico: chocolate. The exclusive Chocolate Journeys experience features creations by our talented pastry chefs.

Indulge in Local Cuisine on Land

In Cabo SanLucas, the Salsa and Salsa excursion will give you the opportunity to learn from two chefs how to make five different Mexican salsas. You'll sample your creations with chips, chicken taquitos, and cheese quesadillas — before you cool down with ice cream. Then cap off the event with salsa dancing lessons.

When you're in Loreto, attend a traditional clambake and Mexican fiesta. You'll sample delicious local foods, enjoy music and dancers, and even get to take your turn batting at a piñata.

Puerto Vallarta offers a colonial San Sebastian tequila tasting and lunch excursion that takes you on a tour filled with history. You'll visit a coffee plantation and feast on a lunch that includes handmade tortillas, guacamole, and refried beans.

Ready to enjoy authentic Mexican food experiences? Discover the cruise that's perfect for you.