Mar 21, 2024 • 6 min read
It is no secret that Mexico City’s culinary fare is among the best in the world. From curb-side taco joints to high-end restaurants and bars, Chilangolandia (as we locals call CDMX) is a Pandora’s box filled with delicious bites on every corner. It’s all too easy to get overwhelmed with choices. Therefore, my top recommendation for first-timers in Mexico City is to walk around each neighborhood to get a sense of the pace and flavor of each district.
My second recommendation is to plan ahead if you want to secure a sought-after reservation. It’s not unusual to see a two- or three-month waiting list for some in-demand places. Consequently, if you’re staying for just a long weekend, I would make room in your itinerary for at least one nice sit-down dinner and leave the rest to casual restaurants and eateries.
Breakfast
Devote one day to exploring Centro Histórico and have a delicious breakfast at El Cardenal, a Mexico City all-time classic. The restaurant specializes in traditional Mexican cooking. Order the huevos a la cazuela—scrambled eggs covered with red sauce and served in a clay pot—and hot chocolate with conchas, a popular Mexican pastry sprinkled with sugar. If you are feeling adventurous and wish to try one of Mexico’s staple dishes, El Cardenal is the best place to order escamoles (ant larvae), perfectly seasoned with butter and epazote (a flavorful local herb) and paired with freshly made tortillas.
If you are in Mexico City on a Saturday or Sunday, you must try barbacoa (lamb cooked in a pit oven), a weekend-only late breakfast option. Take a short Uber ride to Los Tres Reyes in the Mixcoac neighborhood. This casual eatery cooks the best barbacoa in the city.
Coffee
Mexico City boasts a solid coffee culture. Unlike the grab-and-go coffee culture in the U.S., Mexicans enjoy social occasions centered around sitting down with friends and family for coffee and pastries. My favorite spot is Quentin Miscelanea in Juarez. This café is known for its excellent espresso and drip coffee quality, thanks to the local coffee roasters behind it. Plus, its menu features freshly baked bagels, breakfast sandwiches, and pastries.
I also discovered Post Café in Roma Sur, which offers a minimalistic aesthetic and serves elegantly brewed americanos, espresso, and cortados.
Lunch
Fondas are mom-and-pop-run diners serving freshly prepared menus—soup, pasta or rice, and a veggie or protein-based stew—at affordable prices. You can find fondas all over the city, especially in local markets. Every chilango (Mexico City inhabitant) has a favorite fonda close by. One of mine is Cocina Margarita, known for its mole de olla—a spicy beef and veggie soup.
For a more casual lunch experience, consider Esquina Común, where Chef Ana González creatively blends Mexican and South American flavors into a unique six-course lunch menu with seasonal dishes. Additionally, if you find yourself in Polanco, La Ventana de Ticuchi offers delicious, Oaxacan-inspired corn-based antojitos served through a quaint window—perfect for a light lunch —including must-try items like esquites tamal.
Aperitivo
Oropel specializes in aperitif hour with a selection of vermouth and natural wine. The laid-back atmosphere is lively, primarily seated outdoors. For trendy people-watching over cocktails, Cicatriz is an excellent choice. Known for its fresh ingredients and comforting small plates, it has become a cherished spot for locals.
Dinner
When asked about my favorite restaurant, it always depends on the occasion. Mexico City boasts some of the best dining experiences in North America. For special occasions, I recommend Maximo Bistrot, known for its local, seasonal ingredients and tasting menu. Plan in advance to secure a reservation for this culinary jewel.
If you’re looking for a more relaxed evening, Loup Bar is my go-to spot for exploring Mexico City’s natural wine scene, offering dishes like fish ceviche and beef tartar that highlight the city’s vibrant flavors.
Bar (and late-night snacks)
Mexico City’s nightlife and drinking culture are vibrant. For local spirits, Bosforo, a mezcal bar, is legendary for its ambiance and music selection, serving the best agave spirits from various regions. Additionally, Bar 686 is perfect for enjoying cocktails in a cozy atmosphere. Lastly, no night in Mexico City is complete without tacos, and El Vilsito in the Narvarte neighborhood is famed for its delicious pastor tacos and spicy salsas.
