Poblano Street Food
One of the many reasons we chose to live in Puebla is simple: we are foodies, and Poblano food is exceptionally exquisite. While we were scouting out neighbourhoods and exploring in our first few weeks here, we roamed the historic downtown streets for hours every day, and tasted various street foods— or Antojitos— as often as we could eat.
We have heard from locals that Puebla and Oaxaca are in competition over which state boasts the best gastronomy.
The city’s cuisine is a reflection of its long history, blending indigenous, Spanish, Italian, French, and even Lebanese influences into a culinary tapestry that’s as diverse as it is flavorful. For travellers eager to experience Puebla’s authentic tastes, the traditional Antojitos or "little cravings" — is a must.
Antojitos have a close relationship with religious celebrations in Mexico, including those in Puebla. This connection stems from Mexico’s deep-rooted Catholic traditions and indigenous customs, where food often plays an essential role in communal gatherings, especially during festivals and religious events.
In our early relocation days of February we walked the streets during Ash Wednesday, Miércoles de Ceniza, as many streets opened up to become fully pedestrian. They were lined with locals serving antojitos as far as the eye could see.
It was foodie heaven.
Here are four iconic Poblano Antojitos that we love— and that you must try when visiting:
1. Chalupas: A Crispy, flavourful Classic
One of Puebla’s most iconic street foods is the chalupa, a tiny, crispy corn tortilla topped with shredded chicken or pork, salsa, and onions. The simplicity of this dish is what makes it so scrumptious. The tortillas are fried until they’re slightly crisp, giving them a light texture that contrasts perfectly with the savory toppings. Red or green (rojo o verde) salsa adds a burst of flavor, balancing the richness of the meat and the sharpness of the onions.
Chalupas are often served at festivals and family gatherings, but you’ll also find them at street stands and restaurants throughout the city. They’re a perfect snack to enjoy while walking through Puebla’s charming streets or as a starter before a bigger meal. To truly immerse yourself in Poblano culture, order a plate of chalupas from a local vendor and savor this crunchy, flavorful antojito that has been enjoyed for generations.
Where to eat it: Comal, in the heart of Puebla’s historic Zocalo (city center), with a front row view of the iconic Catedral de Puebla.
2. Picaditas: Simple Yet Satisfying
For a simpler but equally delicious antojito, picaditas are a great option. These small, thick corn tortillas are pinched around the edges to hold toppings like salsa, cheese, and onions. Unlike some of the richer, fried antojitos, picaditas offer a more straightforward, homey flavor that highlights the freshness of Pueblan ingredients. The red or green salsa provides a tangy punch, while the soft masa base absorbs the flavors beautifully.
Picaditas are often enjoyed as a breakfast or a light snack, but their satisfying balance of flavors makes them a hit at any time of day. While wandering the cobblestone streets of Puebla, stop at a street vendor and enjoy a plate of picaditas with a cup of freshly brewed Mexican coffee or atole (a traditional corn-based drink).
Where to eat it: Casa Pepe Puebla, downtown Puebla (also an amazing hostel with private hotel rooms)
3. Tacos Árabes: A Fusion of Cultures
One of the most fascinating dishes in Puebla’s culinary repertoire is the taco árabe, a testament to the city’s multicultural history. Brought to Puebla by Lebanese immigrants in the early 20th century, tacos árabes feature spit-roasted pork served in a pita-like bread or flour tortilla, rather than the typical corn tortilla. Unlike traditional Mexican tacos, these have a Middle Eastern influence, with the meat being marinated in a blend of spices that gives it a distinctive flavor.
Tacos árabes are a perfect example of how Puebla has embraced and adapted foreign influences to create something truly unique. The smoky, spiced pork is often accompanied by a garlic yogurt sauce or salsa, adding a rich, creamy contrast to the savory meat. Whether enjoyed in a bustling marketplace or at a sit-down restaurant, tacos árabes offer travelers a delicious fusion of Mexican and Middle Eastern flavors in every bite.
Where to eat it: EL Sultan, downtown Puebla
4. Cemitas: The King of Pueblan Street Food
No visit to Puebla is complete without trying a cemita, the city’s signature sandwich and arguably the most famous of all its antojitos. A cemita is made with a large sesame-seed-topped roll that’s crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, filled with ingredients that create a perfect balance of textures and flavors. The most traditional version features breaded and fried pork cutlet (milanesa), quesillo (a stringy Oaxacan cheese), avocado, chipotle, and a local herb called papalo. There are many other variations of meat & toppings to choose from.
The cemita is a meal in itself, combining the richness of the fried meat with the creaminess of the cheese and avocado, the tangy heat of the chipotle, and the fresh, peppery flavor of papalo. Each bite offers a complex layering of flavors, making it one of the most satisfying street foods in all of Mexico. Whether you’re enjoying it at a street stand or a casual eatery, a cemita is an essential part of any culinary journey through Puebla.
Where to eat it: Cemitas Conchita, shown above & below, downtown Puebla
Exploring Puebla Through Its Antojitos
These four antojitos—chalupas, picaditas, tacos árabes, and cemitas—are more than just street foods; they are a gateway to understanding Puebla’s rich culinary heritage and cultural diversity. Each dish reflects a different aspect of Puebla’s history, from its indigenous roots, through its Aztec and colonial past, combined with immigrant influences.
There are many other antojitos worth trying in Puebla, that are worth trying, and that will be cover in a forthcoming article.
Sampling these antojitos will give you an authentic taste of the city’s street food scene, where centuries of tradition come together with modern flavors in every bite.
Whether you’re wandering through the historic center of Puebla, admiring the colorful tiles of its colonial architecture, or exploring the nearby ruins of Cholula, make sure to indulge in the city’s incredible array of antojitos. They are, without a doubt, one of the most delicious ways to experience the heart and soul of Puebla.
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