The Best Mexican Mezes to Try in Cancun

Cancun, a vibrant hub of culture and cuisine, offers an array of delicious Mexican mezés that are a must-try for any food enthusiast. These small plates are perfect for sharing and reflect the rich culinary traditions of Mexico. Below, we explore some of the best Mexican mezés to savor during your visit to Cancun.

1. Guacamole
Guacamole is a classic Mexican appetizer that combines ripe avocados, lime juice, onions, tomatoes, and cilantro. In Cancun, enjoy it with freshly made corn tortilla chips for the perfect start to your meal. Some restaurants even offer unique variations with ingredients like pomegranate or mango, adding an exciting twist to this traditional dip.

2. Ceviche
Ceviche is a refreshing dish made with fresh fish or seafood marinated in lime juice and mixed with onions, tomatoes, cilantro, and chili. Cancun is renowned for its fresh seafood, making ceviche a staple mezé. Try variations made with shrimp, octopus, or even a mix of the sea’s bounty for an unforgettable taste of the ocean.

3. Tacos de Pescado
Fish tacos are a must-try when in Cancun. Typically made with battered or grilled fish, they are served in soft corn tortillas and topped with spicy sauce, cabbage, and pico de gallo. This dish perfectly encapsulates the coastal flavors of the region and is often paired with a side of tangy salsa for added zest.

4. Elote (Grilled Corn)
Elote, or Mexican street corn, is a popular snack enjoyed by locals and tourists alike. This delightful mezé consists of grilled corn on the cob, slathered in creamy mayonnaise, sprinkled with cheese, chili powder, and lime juice. The combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors makes elote an irresistible choice.

5. Quesadillas
Simple yet satisfying, quesadillas are made by filling a warm tortilla with cheese and your choice of ingredients such as mushrooms, chicken, or chicharrón (fried pork). They are then grilled until the cheese is melted and served with salsa or guacamole. These cheesy delights are perfect for sharing and are a popular choice among both locals and visitors.

6. Sopes
Sopes are small, thick corn tortillas topped with refried beans, meat (like beef or chicken), lettuce, salsa, and cheese. They offer a delicious way to experience traditional Mexican flavors and are often enjoyed as a filling snack. Sopes are a great choice if you're looking for something hearty yet easy to share.

7. Chiles en Nogada
This patriotic dish celebrates the colors of the Mexican flag with its green, white, and red ingredients. It features poblano peppers filled with a savory mix of meat, nuts, and spices, then topped with a creamy walnut sauce and pomegranate seeds. Although larger than typical mezés, sharing a plate of chiles en nogada makes for a festive experience.

8. Nachos
While nachos might be popularized in American cuisine, they originated in Mexico and are a fantastic mezé to enjoy. Crispy tortilla chips are layered with melted cheese, beans, jalapeños, guacamole, and sour cream, making them a crowd-pleaser. Add different toppings to customize your nacho experience!

Cancun's vibrant food scene provides a wonderful opportunity to indulge in these delicious Mexican mezés. Whether you're dining at a local taqueria or a high-end restaurant, these small plates allow you to experience the diverse flavors of Mexico. Don’t miss out on the chance to savor these culinary delights on your next visit to Cancun!