Celebrating Our First Anniversary in Puebla: Color, Culture, and Cemitas
To celebrate our first anniversary, Joe and I decided to take a quick getaway to Puebla, Mexico—a city known for its colorful streets, incredible cuisine, and deep cultural heritage. Puebla’s historic center is incredibly walkable which is perfect for a quick weekend away.
We booked a few nights at the Casona de la China Poblana, a charming boutique hotel located in the heart of Puebla’s historic center. The building itself is steeped in legend—it’s said to be the former home of Catarina de San Juan, the “China Poblana,” whose story inspired the city’s traditional dress. The rooms are spacious and full of character, blending colonial architecture with modern comfort.
Exploring Puebla’s Colorful Streets
We loved wandering around the Zócalo, Puebla’s lively main square. There, we spotted our first Catrina of the season, a sure sign that Día de los Muertos is near.
At night, we loved strolling through the Alley of the Frogs (Callejón de los Sapos)—especially when it was lit up. Nearby, the Artist Quarter (Barrio del Artista) was full of painters at work, surrounded by cozy cafes and galleries.
Sunday Markets and Local Treasures
Sunday brought a whirlwind of market hopping. We visited at least six, including Mercado de Analco, Parián Market, and our favorite—one tucked right in the Alley of the Frogs. Each had its own specialty, from antiques and toys to handmade crafts and folk art.
Puebla Food Highlights
No trip to Puebla would be complete without sampling its legendary food scene:
Cemitas y Tortas La Poblanita – We split one cemita, and it was more than enough! The bread was light yet crispy, piled high with cheese, avocado, and perfectly seasoned meat. It’s easy to see why this sandwich is a local favorite.
Taquería Don Pastor – Their tacos were fantastic—especially the taco arbabe, tender and flavorful with just the right char.
Augurio – For a special anniversary dinner, we splurged on a meal at Augurio, one of Puebla’s top restaurants specializing in traditional moles. My filet with mole sauce was outstanding—rich, balanced, and beautifully plated.
A Night of Music, Boxing, and Magic
Our most unexpected experience was at Beat 803, a local venue hosting a show featuring three bands—with boxing matches in between sets (video below)! It was my first boxing match ever (and definitely the first time I’ve seen one in a bar). We also caught a magician performing mind-blowing tricks in a cozy cocktail bar.
Our anniversary trip to Puebla was quick but full of delicious food, rich culture, and a few delightful surprises. Exploring Mexico continues to delight!
