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Oaxaca

Tika'aya is celebrated for its innovative approach to Oaxacan cuisine, offering a unique tasting menu that showcases local ingredients and traditional flavors. The intimate setting and artistic presentation of dishes contribute to a memorable dining experience. While some patrons have noted service inconsistencies, the overall sentiment remains favorable.

Tika'aya: Oaxaca's Bohemian Culinary Gem Where Tradition Meets Innovation in Every Bite.

Nestled in the charming streets of Oaxaca de Juárez's Centro district, Tika'aya is more than just a restaurant—it's a destination for culinary adventurers craving an authentic and artistic exploration of traditional Oaxacan flavors with a modern twist. This intimate eatery captivates visitors with its bohemian ambiance and a menu that celebrates indigenous ingredients and innovative techniques.

Tika'aya's signature offering is a carefully crafted six-course tasting menu priced at 1500 MXN per guest, showcasing a symphony of flavors that range from earthy indigenous herbs to vibrant fermented fruit concoctions. The chef personally introduces each dish, revealing a deep passion for Oaxacan culinary heritage while inviting guests to embrace bold, new taste experiences. The menu is perfectly complemented by house-made cocktails and a selection of local wines and beers, creating an immersive journey through the region's gastronomic landscape.

Step inside Tika'aya and you'll be embraced by a cozy, bohemian vibe that feels like an inviting artistic hideaway. With a small seating capacity, the restaurant encourages an intimate group dining experience enhanced by outdoor seating options to enjoy Oaxaca's pleasant climate. While the overall sentiment from guests is positive, it's worth noting that some have experienced slower service, particularly when it comes to drink orders and menu explanations. However, the chef’s enthusiasm often overshadows these hiccups, making the culinary journey truly unforgettable.

Tika'aya does not accept credit cards, so be sure to bring sufficient cash. An ATM is conveniently located a few blocks away.

Due to limited seating and the popularity of the tasting menu, booking in advance is highly advised to secure your spot.

Most staff primarily speak Spanish. While dish explanations might be limited, the experience is designed to be enjoyed as a flavorful adventure.

Frequently asked questions about Tika'aya

What is the price of the tasting menu at Tika'aya?

 The six-course tasting menu is priced at 1500 MXN per person.

 No, Tika'aya operates on a cash-only basis.

Is it necessary to make a reservation at Tika'aya?

 Yes, due to limited seating, reservations are recommended.

North America

Mexico

Nestled in the heart of Oaxaca de Juárez, Tika'aya is a culinary gem that invites you to experience the vibrant flavors and rich traditions of Oaxacan cuisine. The moment you step inside, the bohemian ambiance envelops you, adorned with local art and rustic decor that reflects the region's cultural heritage. This charming restaurant not only serves food but tells a story through each dish, making it a must-visit for food enthusiasts and travelers alike.

At Tika'aya, every meal is a celebration of local ingredients and traditional recipes. One standout dish is the **Mole Negro**, a rich and complex sauce made with over 30 ingredients, served over tender chicken. Each bite is a symphony of flavors that transports you to the heart of Oaxaca. Another must-try is the **Tlayuda**, a large, crispy tortilla topped with a medley of beans, cheese, and fresh vegetables, offering a delightful crunch with every mouthful. Pair your meal with one of their handcrafted cocktails, such as the refreshing mezcal-based drink infused with local herbs, and you have a dining experience that is both authentic and unforgettable.

What sets Tika'aya apart is not just the food, but the passion behind it. The chef, known for his innovative approach to traditional Oaxacan dishes, often shares stories about the ingredients and their origins, creating a deeper connection between the diner and the meal. This personal touch enhances the dining experience, making it feel like a warm gathering rather than just a meal.

Conveniently located at Independencia 12 in the Centro district, Tika'aya is surrounded by vibrant markets, art galleries, and historical sites. After your meal, take a stroll through the nearby Santo Domingo Church or explore the bustling markets filled with local crafts and textiles. This area is rich in culture, making it the perfect backdrop for your culinary adventure.

Tika'aya is celebrated for its innovative take on traditional Oaxacan cuisine, showcasing local ingredients and flavors.

Visiting Tika'aya offers a unique culinary experience that combines delicious food with a rich cultural atmosphere, perfect for food lovers.

Nearby attractions include the stunning Santo Domingo Church and vibrant local markets, perfect for exploring after your meal.

Whether you're a local or a traveler, Tika'aya promises an unforgettable dining experience that captures the essence of Oaxaca. Don't miss out on this culinary adventure—come and savor the flavors that await you!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmenVTYnFnRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJW337ADsjx4URidjVpS_bn_c/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNmenVTYnFnRRAB

We had our Christmas dinner here, and it was a real treat! The food and ingredients were amazing, and some of the dishes we had tried in Oaxaca were even better. The place has a really cool bohemian vibe that makes you feel right at home. But unfortunately, the service was terrible. It took us an hour get out of the “welcome drink” and our waitress, who was also explaining the dishes, didn’t seem to care as much as the chef did. I hope the service improves soon because it really ruined the experience.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNMejl2Ynh3RRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJW337ADsjx4URidjVpS_bn_c/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNMejl2Ynh3RRAB

The food is excellent with very interesting flavors from all over Oaxaca.  Specifically the Indigenous food and herbs. If you are willing to try new flavors outside if the norm, this will be the place. From the handmade drink concoctions of fermented fruits to the gin and vermouth you see fermenting in front of you, to the smells and flavors of the eclectic food brought before you. This is truly an amazing experience. The chef personally introduces the dishes to you and from his banter you can tell he truly love what he does. Thank you for an amazing evening. Highly recommended.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfc1lIamJBEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJW337ADsjx4URidjVpS_bn_c/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURfc1lIamJBEAE

Wow wow wow! Best meal of my life!

The reservations seemed to be messed up but the whole experience was amazing and I think they opened just for us to fix the mistake. Unbelievable!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQcS1PeVp3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJW337ADsjx4URidjVpS_bn_c/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQcS1PeVp3EAE

We just had a lovely dinner here. The food was inventive and interesting, and we especially loved the housemaid drinks. The portions aren’t huge but we left satisfied. Staff are largely Spanish speaking and there wasn’t a lot of explanation of what was coming, but we were happy just to be on the adventure.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURidW8yVTVRRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJW337ADsjx4URidjVpS_bn_c/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURidW8yVTVRRRAB

The best meal we had in oaxaca hands down. Totally worth the trek a bit further from the more touristic part of the centro, every bite was insane. Whoever said this is a Michelin star waiting to be discovered is right; the quality of ingredients, the flavors, and the chef’s clear care and passion as he presented each dish to us made this an incredible culinary experience. Also the drinks were delicious as well. Very friendly staff and cute little atmospheric space. Do not miss this place!

* keep in mind they only accept cash but there is an ATM a couple blocks away

Tika'aya: Unique Culinary Experience in Oaxaca Centro

Tika'aya, formerly known as Teocintle Cocina Indígena, has evolved from a modest eatery to a renowned establishment in Oaxaca, Mexico. The restaurant has been recognized in the Michelin Guide 2024 for its innovative approach to traditional Oaxacan cuisine.

Tika'aya's journey from humble beginnings to culinary acclaim in Oaxaca's vibrant food scene.

Located in the heart of Oaxaca de Juárez, Tika'aya has captivated food lovers with its creative reinvention of traditional indigenous Oaxacan cuisine. Originally established in 2019 under the name Teocintle Cocina Indígena, this intimate eatery began as a modest culinary venture focused on authentic local flavors and indigenous herbs.

Over the years, the passionate chef and team refined their approach, embracing innovation while honoring Oaxaca's rich culinary heritage. This evolution culminated in 2024 when the restaurant rebranded as Tika'aya and earned the prestigious recognition of being featured in the Michelin Guide. This accolade highlights Tika'aya's commitment to quality ingredients, inventive preparations, and a unique dining experience that stands out in Mexico's competitive gastronomic landscape.

 Teocintle Cocina Indígena opens as a small eatery in Oaxaca, focusing on indigenous flavors.

 The restaurant is renamed Tika'aya and earns a coveted spot in the Michelin Guide 2024.

This journey from a small indigenous kitchen to Michelin recognition illustrates Tika'aya's dedication to crafting exceptional dining adventures, blending tradition with contemporary culinary artistry. Visitors today enjoy inventive dishes that celebrate Oaxaca’s diverse food culture in a welcoming, bohemian atmosphere.

In the heart of Oaxaca de Juárez lies Tika'aya, a culinary gem that invites both locals and adventurous travelers to experience the rich tapestry of Mexican cuisine. This vibrant restaurant on Primera Privada de Independencia is a feast for the senses, where traditional flavors meet contemporary artistry. The menu showcases the best of Oaxaca's culinary heritage, featuring locally sourced ingredients and time-honored recipes that highlight the region’s diverse flavors. Tika'aya not only serves as a culinary destination but also as a cultural experience, where every bite tells a story of Oaxaca's rich heritage.

Tika'aya

A curated selection of Oaxacan-inspired dishes highlighting local ingredients and traditional flavors.

Avocado Croquette with Nopales

Fish Mole Amarillo with Hoja Santa

Beet Salad

Three-Color Corn Taco with Tender Tongue, Roasted Pineapple, and Pickled Red Onions

Sample Tasting Menu

Nestled in the heart of Oaxaca, Tika'aya offers a sublime culinary journey through the region’s indigenous flavors and artisanal ingredients. This carefully curated tasting menu invites food enthusiasts and adventurous palates alike to savor inventive dishes that celebrate local heritage with a modern twist. Each plate is a testament to the chef’s passion for authentic Oaxacan cuisine, promising an unforgettable dining experience in a charming bohemian atmosphere.

Begin your meal with vibrant starters that highlight fresh, local produce and innovative flavor pairings. The Avocado Croquette with Nopales features creamy avocado blended with tender cactus, offering a delightful texture and earthy undertones. Alternatively, the Beet Salad combines sweet beets with crisp mixed greens, balancing freshness and natural sweetness in a refreshing bite.

For the main course, guests are treated to exquisite traditional dishes elevated with contemporary flair. The Fish Mole Amarillo with Hoja Santa combines fresh fish bathed in a fragrant yellow mole sauce, infused with the aromatic hoja santa leaf, delivering layers of complex flavors emblematic of Oaxacan culinary artistry. The Three-Color Corn Taco bursts with character, filled with tender beef tongue, sweet roasted pineapple, and tangy pickled red onions, all wrapped in a colorful corn tortilla that pays homage to regional agriculture.

Complement your meal with handcrafted beverages that showcase local ingredients and fermentation techniques. From unique homemade fermented fruit concoctions to expertly mixed gin and vermouth cocktails, every sip embodies the spirit of Oaxaca. Though the menu features seasonal specials inspired by indigenous herbs and flavors, the chef’s personal introductions and stories bring each dish and drink to life, creating a deeply engaging dining adventure.

A crispy delicacy merging creamy avocado and tender cactus for a fresh start.

Fresh fish enveloped in a fragrant yellow mole with aromatic hoja santa leaf.

Three-Color Corn Taco with Tender Tongue: 

A colorful corn tortilla filled with savory beef tongue, roasted pineapple, and pickled onions delivering bold contrasts.

Unique, refreshing beverages crafted with traditional fermentation methods for a taste of Oaxaca’s heritage.

Savor authentic flavors at Tika'aya in the heart of Oaxaca! Experience vibrant cuisine in a cozy ambiance. Reserve your table now!

Tika'aya: Authentic Dining in Oaxaca Centro, Mexico

Oaxaca Municipality

A six-course tasting menu featuring innovative interpretations of traditional Oaxacan cuisine.

Tasting Menu

Tika'aya: A Culinary Journey in Oaxaca's Heartland 

Nestled away in the vibrant Centro of Oaxaca de Juárez, Tika'aya offers an unforgettable dining experience that draws food lovers and adventurous travelers alike. This intimate restaurant brings a fresh, bohemian vibe to the city’s culinary scene, combining the rich heritage of Oaxacan flavors with innovative twists crafted by a passionate chef.

Innovative tasting menu showcasing indigenous flavors

Tika'aya is renowned for its exclusive six-course tasting menu, priced at 1500 MXN, which is a true celebration of Oaxacan culinary traditions reimagined with creativity and authenticity. Each dish introduces diners to indigenous ingredients and herbs, carefully selected to deliver complex and intriguing flavors. The chef personally presents each plate, sharing the story behind the ingredients and his unique approach — a testament to his deep love for Oaxacan cuisine.

 is enhanced by its bohemian charm and intimate setting, making you feel right at home while exploring new taste horizons. Guests can enjoy handcrafted cocktails, including inventive fermented fruit drinks, alongside wines and beers that complement the menu perfectly. Outdoor seating is available for those who want to soak in the lively Oaxaca atmosphere while savoring their meal.

 presented with innovation and care, elevating traditional Oaxacan cuisine.

 with dish presentations and storytelling that deepen the dining experience.

Handmade cocktails and fermented fruit drinks

 that pair beautifully with the menu's flavors.

 that feels like a hidden gem in Oaxaca’s Centro district.

Tika'aya accepts reservations and is perfect for groups looking to embark on a unique culinary adventure. While the portions are thoughtfully sized to showcase a variety of flavors, diners often leave feeling satisfied and inspired. The staff primarily speak Spanish, adding an authentic local touch, so brushing up on basic phrases can enhance your experience. Note that the restaurant only accepts cash payments, but an ATM is conveniently located just a few blocks away. Whether you're a foodie seeking new tastes or a traveler eager to indulge in authentic Oaxacan cuisine, Tika'aya is a must-visit destination that promises a memorable dining experience.

Experience Tika'aya, a Michelin-recognized restaurant in Oaxaca! Indulge in innovative Oaxacan cuisine with a unique tasting menu. Reserve your table today!

Tika'aya: Culinary Gem in Oaxaca

Savor the six-course tasting menu at Tika'aya, featuring fresh local ingredients and creative dishes from Oaxacan culture. Book your experience now!

Tasting Menu at Tika'aya in Oaxaca

Learn about Tika'aya's evolution from a small eatery to a Michelin-recognized culinary destination in Oaxaca. Discover our story and menu!

Tika'aya Menu Overview

Starters

Mains

Drinks and Specials

Highlights of the tasting menu include