Mark T.
Yelp
In Mexican culture, there are many types of place to satisfy your sweet cravings, from Panaderias (focusing on breads and pastries), Pastelerias (specializing in cakes), and Paleterias (featuring an array of popsicles). But what if you want one that doesn't start with a "P"?
Seriously though, La Michoacana (which in fact has several local branches) is a stellar example of yet another Mexican snack shop, the Neveria. Now, you're probably thinking, "Wouldn't a neveria be a place that sells snow?". Indeed, you would be somewhat correct. In this case, the Spanish word "nieve" is a euphemism for ice cream, especially if made with a water base. And La Michoacana certainly has plenty of this quiescently-frozen confection on offer, in flavors such as Guanábana (soursop), Nuez (walnut), and Chicle (blue bubblegum). If you're feeling healthy, treat yourself to a Bionico (yogurt and granola over fresh fruit - sometimes including jicama) or a refreshing drink based on alfalfa, tamarind, or even Rompope (eggnog). Meanhile, big eaters can enjoy a Piña (pineapple) or Sandia (watermelon) stuffed with various goodies. And going back to the first paragraph, you can even buy a Paleta or two - my favorites are probably Zarzamora con Queso (blackberry/cheese) and Chongos (slow-cooked caramel).
But if you thought La Michoacana concentrated only on cold or sweet offerings, worry not - I have no doubt you'll find their hot savory snacks equally appealing. For out-of-hand munching, it's hard to beat a bowl of Rueditas (fried wheel-shaped wafers), or nachos made with a bag of Doritos (LM does also offer the tortilla-chip version for the purists out there). But honestly, why stop there when you can have a a cup of hot cheesy, mayo-y corn, either on the cob (Elote) or in a cup (Esquites)? Aficionados of sweet/spicy combos can partake in a serving of chile-dappled mango or Manzana (apple), generally starring the popular premixed spice known as Tajin. One of the most interesting snacks here though is the Chilindrina or Chicharrón Preparado. Despite its name, it's actually not made with pork rinds but, instead, with a large, flat, fried wheat cracker which is loaded with cabbage, tomato, avocado, pickled pork skin, cheese... and I'm sure I'm forgetting a few things, which you'll learn on your visit.