3 Best Restaurants in Puebla, Side Trips from Mexico City

This eatery does a welcome, contemporary take on the cemita, Puebla's version of the classic Mexican torta sandwich. The smoked brisket comes with a plantain puree and flavorful pepper sauce while the chilaquiles are garnished with watercress in avocado oil. The usually basic milanesa (breaded pork loin) has a Parmesan-garlic breading and artisanal cheese from the nearby town of Chipilo. Terrific soups and salads round out the menu. The stylish decor and hip crowd is a rarity in conservative Puebla.

Break up your explorations of Pueblo's Centro Histórico with perfectly crafted single-origin coffee or cold brew featuring locally roasted beans from acclaimed Subversivo Roasters at this hip little café around the corner from the colorful Sapos Alley. There are a few tasty food items, too, including flatbread with cheese and ham.

A few blocks south of the Zócalo, there's often a line outside at this beloved ice-cream parlor known for rich and creamy frozen treats. Favorite flavors include avocado, cajeta, and hibiscus.