The culinary tradition of the people from Morelos traces back to its first inhabitants, who, during their travels across the land, left evidence that they lived in a "corn culture". Today corn forms an important part of traditional cooking gin Morelos, where the kitchens are a mixture of old and new, combining the traditional flat grinding stone (molcajete) with the microwave oven, in order to produce exquisite dishes such as:

• tsompantle tortillas
• black tamales with beans or a sauce made from insects with blue corn tortillas
• rabbit cooked with garlic and peppers
• smoked meat in a cream and cheese sauce
• pork with peppers
• tlayacapan-style "mole"
• baked fruit
• unsurpassable ice-creams

You can try Morelos typical food at restaurant Fonda Tlahuica. Av. Domingo Diez  S/N Col. del Empleado Tel:(017) 3 17 40  30.

Otherwise, a sumptuous,  relaxed meal in a semitropical-garden setting can be the sole reason for a trip  to Cuernavaca. Places to do not miss at all:

Las  Mañanitas.  Ricardo Linares 107. One of Mexico's most famous restaurants features alfresco  dining in a colonial setting overlooking a lush garden, where cranes, peacocks and flamingos wander amid elegant Zuñiga sculptures. The lovely surroundings,  fine cuisine and gracious service (on chilly nights portable "fireplaces" are arranged around the tables so diners can enjoy the beautiful outdoors in comfort) make for a memorable meal. Las Mañanitas was selected by the Franklin Mint for its "Demitasse Collection" of the 25 most famous restaurants in the  world, and is a member of the prestigious Relais & Chateaux. Tel. 314-1466.

Las Finas Hierbas Calle del Canal, corner of Real de Tetela, in the Tetela residential area.  International and Mexican specialities served in an attractive terrace setting  with a view. Try the huachinango (red snapper) in fine herbs or mixed shrimp, chicken and beef brochette. Their crisp oregano-flavored bread is baked on the  premises. Open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Tel. 328-1348.

Maximiliano  y Carlota. Galeana 29, in Colonia Acapantzingo. Located in one of Cuernavaca's oldest, quietest and most picturesque neighborhoods, this lovely  hotel features 72 deluxe suites, each with a terrace overlooking the lush  gardens or one of the two large swimming pools. The terrace restaurant, nicely decorated and with a relaxed, informal ambiance, serves excellent Mexican and  international cuisine, including good steaks, accompanied by classical music or  live piano. Tel. 318-2004.

Carlos N'Charlies. Housed in a former mansion that has been  converted into a fun house, this restaurant is one of the liveliest and most  popular places in town. Great food, terrace dining. Domingo Diez 711, near the Zapata statue. Tel. 313-0626.

Other restaurants like El Gallinero, La Gaia, La Strada are very nice one as well, don't miss them!