If you’re looking for an amazing dining experience, look no further than Criollo in Oaxaca. The restaurant Criollo in Oaxaca city was founded by Enrique Olvera. Enrique Olvera also founded Pujol in Mexico City, which is another highly acclaimed restaurant. Criollo Oaxaca is Enrique Olvera’s first foray into the world of Mexican cuisine beyond Mexico City. Criollo is located in Centro, which is the historical center of Oaxaca city.
The cuisine at Criollo Oaxaca is based on traditional recipes that have been handed down through the generations. Many of these dishes are made with ingredients that can only be found in Oaxaca.
Criollo Oaxaca is one of the most popular restaurants in town, and it’s always busy. The atmosphere is casual and relaxed, and the service is friendly and efficient. The restaurant also has an extensive wine list and beer selection, as well as cocktails made with local spirits like mezcal. The bar features some of the best bartenders in town, and they’re happy to mix up anything you might want.
Criollo has a 6-8 course tasting menu along with a 6 (alcoholic) drink pairing menu (optional) which you can get in addition to the food. The menu at criollo is inspired by what they have available locally and seasonally so it changes every month or two depending on what’s fresh right now!
Drink Pairing Menu
We ordered the drink pairing menu in and received the following:
- Sparkling Fruity wine
- Sparkling House wine – white (tasted a lot like Elderflower water and was delicious)
- Mezcal cocktail
- A shot of Mezcal
- A local IPA beer
- Coffee Liquor Cocktail (our favorite!)
- Water Chocolate Shot
The restaurant also has an outdoor patio that’s perfect for dining in the warmer months. The patio is surrounded by beautiful gardens, and it’s a great place to relax and enjoy a meal.
It is located in a beautiful colonial building with high ceilings and white walls that are decorated with colorful paintings by local artists (some of whom have been commissioned for the restaurant’s interiors).
The restaurant offers a wide variety of dishes including tacos, enchiladas, tamales and soups like pozole (a traditional Mexican soup made with pork and hominy). They also have a delicious dessert menu which includes favorites like churros, flan and tres leches.
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