Visit the José MariaPino Suárez Municipal Market, more commonly known as Mercado Pino Suárez, to discover hundreds of stalls selling colourful fruits and vegetables, herbs, fish, meat, spices and more. Although it’s a major attraction in Mazatlán’s Old Town, the market is just as popular with locals as it is with visitors.
Billed as a non-supermarket because of the freshness of its goods, this market has been operating in Mazatlán since 1900. Before entering, pause to appreciate the wrought-iron market structure, which was fabricated in France and influenced by the style of the Eiffel Tower. Watch as market-goers busily search for fresh produce for their homes and businesses.
Inside, the stalls are organised by food type. Find endless rows of multicolored fruits and vegetables, ranging from instantly recognizable items, such as bananas, to exotic varieties like pitaya (dragon fruit) and saramuyo (sugar apple). Spot displays of beans, chilies, herbs and spices, all meticulously set up by the proud stall owners.
The fish section is a highlight, with chilled counters covered in all kinds of seafood and shellfish. Don’t miss the butchers’ stalls, where almost all parts of slaughtered beasts are displayed. Inspect assorted cuts of beef as well as the likes of chicken feet, offal and pig’s head.
If all of this stirs up your appetite, head to the restaurants on the market’s upper floor and dine on traditional Mexican dishes. Try cheese-smothered quesadillas, grilled meats and spicy fish tacos. Satisfy your sweet tooth with a cocada (coconut candy) or freshly squeezed fruit juice. More drinks and snacks are sold at stands just outside the market.
Besides food, vendors also sell jewellery, clothes and huaraches (leather sandals). Bargain with the traders to get discounted prices.
José MariaPino Suárez Municipal Market is open daily from early in the morning. Located just a couple of blocks north of Plaza República, the market can be easily reached on foot from most parts of Mazatlán’s Old Town. Consider combining your market tour with a trip to the Immaculate Conception Cathedral, Plaza Machado or the Angela Peralta Theatre.
