Oaxaca markets are not supermarket aisles; sound, smoke, and color stack together. Early mornings bring brighter cheese, chocolate, and herbs. Sampling at stalls is common—ask with a smile first.
Mole wears many colors—black, red, green—each a different spice and toasting story. Small jars travel well and mean more than fridge magnets. Discuss craft prices with respect; aggressive bargaining can shrink someone’s labor.
After the market, pause for juice or a tlayuda. Oaxaca rewards those who follow flavor, not haste.