Market 23 — Local services in Cancún

This market offers an authentic local shopping experience, with a vibrant selection of well-priced, delicious food and unique finds. It’s the kind of place where locals shop, and it’s a refreshing alternative to the more tourist-driven spots in town. Be prepared to bargain a bit, as some vendors might try to raise prices if they recognize you as a foreigner, but generally, the food is fairly priced and wonderfully authentic.

One word of caution: be mindful when interacting with strangers. My sister and I had an uncomfortable encounter with a man who initially seemed friendly, offering to do portrait sketches. However, he quickly became intrusive, asking personal questions and even repeatedly returning to our area, which felt increasingly odd. When he eventually asked for a selfie, we declined, and he finally left us alone. Locals nearby didn’t seem pleased with his behavior, and when we spoke to a few afterward, it became clear that he may have had questionable intentions.

All in all, this market is worth a visit for an authentic taste of local life, but it’s best to stay alert and trust your instincts if anyone seems too interested in...

We stopped here because we did not want to go to tourist market 28. Granted we speak Spanish, and didn't look like tourist at the time. This isn't for the faint of heart or complete non Spanish speakers. We saw some tourists but they came and went quickly. Some of the venders and spots can be pushy with you don't speak Spanish, and/or look out of place. Just a fair warning. Otherwise it isn't that bad.

I will say the food was amazing, as we got food from a small corner spot. However, everything is cash only and I had swapped to Pesos the day before.

The food was incredibly good, incredibly cheap and enjoyable, they were quick to make it and didn't skimp on quantity of meat. Everything was made to order and came decently quick. The tables are shared so you may be asked to sit with a random party due to limited space.

We also got chicharrones to eat with guac at the hotel lol it was around $3 usd in pesos for 1/2lb lol

Also around the corner from the market we got a coco frio (fresh cut open coconut) for like $2.50 for a decent sized and filled to brim with water. It...

This is not to be confused with market 28 which is where tourists go to get T-shirts and trinkets. This is market 23 where the locals go shopping and eat. It is a walk through market with vegetables, fruits, and meats. there is clothing and jewelry and other household items to shop for as well. There are lots of local small street food areas and mini restaurants. I did not see many tourists here as it is not a typical tourist attraction. You should be aware that there is no air condition any of the buildings and no public restrooms that I could find. However, there is a pay bathroom that you can use for five pesos. They give you about 10 to 12 squares of toilet paper when you pay to get in. You will need to ask directions to be able to find this, so knowing the word banos (bathroom in Spanish)is very helpful. 😄 It was certainly an adventure to tour...