While margaritas and beers often steal the spotlight, the vibrant, fizzy world of Mexican sodas brings a refreshing balance to every tortilla-filled bite. From iconic global favorites to uniquely Mexican creations, these drinks have become staples at family tables, taquerías, and street food stalls across the country.
Let’s pop the top on Mexico’s most beloved sodas and explore which tacos they pair with best.
It’s no secret that Coca-Cola is the reigning champion in Mexico. In fact, Mexico leads the world in per capita Coke consumption, and the soda has become woven into the cultural fabric. Whether at a taco stand or a family gathering, you’ll almost always find glass bottles of “Mexican Coke” made with cane sugar instead of high-fructose corn syrup, giving it a crisp, clean sweetness that fans swear by.
Taco Pairing: Coca-Cola is a natural match for al pastor tacos the soda’s caramel notes cut through the savory, spicy pork while refreshing your palate for the next bite.
When it comes to Mexican soda brands, Jarritos is king. Famous for its colorful glass bottles and wide variety of fruit flavors, Jarritos is beloved both in Mexico and abroad. From tamarind and guava to pineapple and mandarin, each sip tastes like sunshine. The flavors are authentic, never overpowering, and pair beautifully with tacos of all kinds.
Taco Pairing: Pineapple Jarritos with carnitas tacos the fruity tang balances the richness of slow-cooked pork. Tamarind Jarritos? Try it with spicy shrimp tacos for a sweet-and-sour punch.
Though its name hints at wine, Sangría Señorial is a non-alcoholic soda crafted from wine grapes. Its bold, slightly tannic grape flavor makes it stand out from typical fruit sodas. This one has been around since the 1960s and remains a nostalgic favorite for many Mexicans who grew up with its deep, juicy taste.
Taco Pairing: Pair Sangría Señorial with grilled steak tacos (carne asada) the grape soda’s complexity holds up against smoky, charred beef.
A true classic, Sidral Mundet is one of Mexico’s most iconic sodas, particularly known for its crisp apple flavor. Available in both red and green apple varieties, Sidral offers a natural, refreshing sweetness that feels different from standard sodas. Its flavor comes from real apple juice, making it especially popular with families.
Taco Pairing: Try Sidral Mundet with quesabirria tacos the apple soda provides a fruity counterbalance to the rich, cheesy birria dipped in consommé.
While not technically a soda, Tepache is worth mentioning because of its popularity and heritage. Made by fermenting pineapples with brown sugar (piloncillo) and spices, Tepache has a lightly bubbly, naturally sweet taste. It’s refreshing, slightly tangy, and often homemade. Best of all, it contains no high-fructose corn syrup and feels like a true taste of tradition.
Taco Pairing: Tepache pairs beautifully with fish tacos its tropical tang mirrors the brightness of the seafood while cleansing your palate.
From Coca-Cola’s global dominance to the fruity joy of Jarritos and the traditional refreshment of Tepache, Mexico’s sodas bring fizz, flavor, and nostalgia to the table. Pair them with tacos, and you’ve got a match made in culinary heaven. Next Taco Tuesday, skip the beer and grab a bottle of your favorite Mexican soda you just might find a new favorite pairing.
