how to eat a perfect late-night street taco crawl in mexico city without getting sick

I learned long ago that the best Mexico City nights end with a stack of tortillas, a squeeze of lime, and the smell of chiles frying in a comal. But after years of roaming alleys and market corners, I’ve also learned how fragile that pleasure can be if you don’t pay attention to the small hygiene and timing details. Below I share my exact approach to a late-night taco crawl in CDMX that maximizes flavor and minimizes the risk of getting sick — practical things I use when I’m photographing neon-lit stalls or scribbling notes in the margins of my neighborhood maps.

Pick the right neighborhoods and stalls

Not all late-night taco spots are equal. Some neighborhoods are full of safe, busy stands; others are quieter and more hit-or-miss. I usually stick to places where locals gather — Condesa, Roma, Centro Histórico near Calle de Tacuba or Correo Mayor, Colonia Doctores (for tacos al pastor and suadero), and the area around Mercado Medellín and La Merced for variety.

When you’re choosing a stall, look for these simple signals:

What to order and how to behave

I like to start with something greasy and warming: a small plate of tacos al pastor or suadero, maybe a quesadilla (not the folded cheesy tortilla you get in the U.S., but the one folded and grilled at a comal). Ask for “una orden” or “dos tacos, por favor” and watch the vendor warm your tortillas on the comal — that’s a sign they’re making them fresh for you.

How to act:

Hydration, drinks, and what to avoid

My rule of thumb is: if the drink is bottled or freshly made in front of you, it's usually fine. I drink bottled water brands like BONAFONT or reach for a Topo Chico (sparkling mineral water) if I want bubbles. If I order a fresh juice from a stall that’s cutting fruit and blending it right there, I scan to see if their water source and ice look clean.

What to avoid:

How to steer clear of food-borne illness

The fear of getting sick should never stop you from enjoying street food, but it does merit a few disciplined habits:

Best late-night taco orders by type

Here are favorites I return to again and again, with notes on why they’re good late-night choices:

Money, tipping and practical items to carry

I almost always carry small bills and coins. Many small stalls don’t have change for large notes. Helpful items in my pockets or bag:

Signs a stall is worth trusting (and signs to walk away)

Trustworthy stalls tend to have the following traits:

Walk away if:

When to seek medical help (and when to ride it out)

Most mild stomach upsets clear in 24–48 hours with rest, hydration, and light foods (bananas, rice, toast). However, seek medical care if you have:

In Mexico City you’ll find clinics (clínicas) and private hospitals; many local pharmacies also sell over-the-counter rehydration salts (suero oral) and anti-diarrheal meds. I always have oral rehydration sachets in my travel kit — a tiny, useful item that often prevents trips to a clinic.

A few personal rituals that help me enjoy the night

I like to keep my taco crawl light and social: one or two tacos per stop, share salsas and toppings with friends, and always order a small side like frijoles or a warm consomé if it’s offered — it helps settle the stomach and proves the stall is cooking broth fresh. I photograph details quickly, tip what feels fair, and leave room for dessert: a pillowy buñuelo or a slice of grilled pineapple from the al pastor stand can round the night out beautifully.

Eating late in Mexico City is one of those urban rituals that rewards curiosity, patience and a little common sense. Keep an eye on heat and turnover, carry small bills and sanitizer, choose the stalls locals trust, and savor the messy, loud, delicious experience. If you want a quick neighborhood crawl route or a photo-led walking plan for a specific colonia, drop me a note on the contact page at Acidadventure and I’ll sketch one out.