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Mexico City wasn't on my travel radar, but let me tell you, it should be on yours! From friendly faces to endless things to eat (and do!), this city will embrace you with open arms. My two days here barely scratched the surface of this massive city, so I focused on the most frequently recommended spots I gained from family, friends, and followers. So let's get into it!
Coming from the US, you'll be delighted by the affordability. Restaurants that would cost a fortune in New York City (where I'm based) are half the price in CDMX. While top-tier spots can still be splurges, Mexico City lets you experience world-class cuisine without breaking the bank. So when speaking of food, budget for some amazing meals – the prices are reasonable and the flavors are incredible.
PRO TIP!! Reservations are crucial in Mexico City, not just for fancy restaurants but for many popular places. Book months in advance if possible. My biggest regret? Missing out on Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera's Casa Azul because reservations are now mandatory and disappear fast.
In this article, browse through some of my personal favorite food places in Mexico City (so far!). From quick street bites to upscale dining experiences, this list offers a taste of my personal favorites!
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Tips for Visiting Mexico City
Getting Around? Mexico City is a walker's paradise, but for longer distances, the metro system is your best friend. Safe, efficient, and easy to navigate, the metro will whisk you around the city like a pro. Grab a metro card and unlock the city's vast network.
Where to Stay? Whether you crave a boutique hotel in the heart of the action or a charming bed and breakfast in a historic neighborhood, there's a place for you in Mexico City. Check out the Mexico City map for all the hotels and accommodations across various budgets and locations! Find your perfect match:
What to NOT Miss? A trip to Mexico City wouldn't be complete without witnessing the awe-inspiring Teotihuacan pyramids. This ancient city offers a glimpse into a powerful civilization and a chance to connect with Mexico's rich history. Hike to the top of the Sun Pyramid for breathtaking views and an unforgettable experience.
EATS
I am going to break this list down by type of experience you're looking for:
Popular Destination: Quintonil
Address: Av. Isaac Newton 55, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
The restaurant focuses on using fresh, local ingredients and traditional Mexican techniques. Quintonil offers a tasting menu that changes daily. The menu includes items like bluefin tuna, grasshoppers, and escamoles (ant eggs). You can find their menu here.
Quintonil's lofty ranking (number 9 on The World's 50 Best Restaurants) certainly sets the stage for an extraordinary experience. I can say it lived up to the magic in many ways.
The service was impeccable, the ambiance enchanting, and most importantly, everyone was incredibly kind and welcoming. Luxury dining can often feel intimidating, but at Quintonil, I felt right at home.
The tasting menu was a true adventure, showcasing a strong expression of Mexican culinary philosophy, though not all ingredients were native. Each course was beautifully presented and bursting with flavor, however, the wine pairings, while well-intentioned, fell short. I found the quality to be relatively low compared to the overall experience, and recommend opting for cocktails instead.
So, the verdict? For me, Quintonil was undeniably a highlight of my Mexico City adventure, perhaps even the best restaurant we experienced in this incredible food city. When compared to the global elite of the World's 50 Best, there might still be a gap to bridge.
Rating?
Food | 5 |
Service | 5 |
Ambiance | 5 |
Delicious Dinner: Páramo
Address: Av. Yucatan 84, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
Sure, we waited about 45 minutes to snag a table at Páramo on a Saturday night – a testament to its popularity! In my opinion, the wait was absolutely worth it. The atmosphere crackled with energy, a perfect backdrop to the delicious food.
The tacos were a standout – fresh, flavorful, and a true taste of Mexican flair. My favorite taco? The poblano pepper! Absolute perfection. A symphony of textures and tastes in every bite. The margaritas, while tasty, were a tad on the weak side for my tequila-loving palate.
Minor quibble aside with the service being a bit slower, Páramo completely charmed me. From the vibrant ambiance to the delightful bites, it's a must-try for anyone seeking a slice of Mexico City's buzzing culinary scene.
Rating?
Food | 4.7 |
Service | 4 |
Ambiance | 5 |
Best Brunch: Catamundi
Address: Alejandro Dumas 97, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
Catamundi charmed me with its simple yet delicious approach to brunch. It's the perfect spot to gather to hang alone or with friends and fuel up for a day of exploring Mexico City. The menu offers a variety of affordable options, each guaranteed to leave you satisfied. Be warned, this place fills up fast! Make a reservation or arrive early to snag a table. Don't worry if your group is just two – the bar area and nearby tables seat couples efficiently. I luckily got a table in the back because I was here on a random weekday that was both rainy and cool. Overall, it's a wonderful place to spend a morning or afternoon.
My favorite dish I had was the french toast it was absolutely delicious and sweet, which is what I was in the mood for that day.
An added bonus? Catamundi boasts a unique little market inside. After your delicious brunch, browse through their selection of unique products, many you won't find in your average supermarket. It's the perfect way to cap off a delightful morning! I was tempted to buy so many things but decided to opt out since I was flying to Guadalajara that night.
Rating?
Food | 4.6 |
Service | 4.4 |
Ambiance | 5 |
Quicker Eat: Pollos Poncho
Address: Av. Álvaro Obregón 118, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
Craving chicken in Mexico City? Look no further than Pollos Poncho! This quirky restaurant isn't your average chicken joint. Sure, they offer classics like tacos al pastor, but with a twist – here, succulent chicken takes the starring role instead of pork.
But Pollos Poncho's menu goes beyond the expected. Feeling adventurous? Try their Middle Eastern-inspired grilled chicken pita slathered with labneh (a yogurt cheese). For a comforting and classic option, their whole roasted chicken with rice, potatoes, guacamole, and fresh tortillas is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
A fun fact I learned was that the team behind Pollo Poncho is the mastermind behind El Moro, Mexico's most famous churro chain.
Rating?
Food | 4.8 |
Service | 4.5 |
Ambiance | 4 |
Sweet Spot: Churrería El Moro
Address: I visited C. Génova 59, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, 06600 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico but they have multiple locations around the city.
Don't let the tourist buzz fool you – Churrería El Moro serves up some of the most delightful churros in Mexico City! These warm, soft delights are made fresh daily (literally watched them make ours fresh!!) and practically beg to be dipped into their rich, house-made Mexican hot chocolate. The line moved at a leisurely pace, and while it wasn't the most efficient system, the wait absolutely melted away with the first sip of that incredible hot chocolate. Depending on your appetite, 2 churros should satisfy most cravings. Be warned though, these sweet treats deliver a flavor punch!
The service at Churrería El Moro is swift and friendly, the bathrooms are spotless, and the charming décor adds to the overall experience. It's the perfect spot to indulge your sweet tooth and soak up a bit of Mexico City's vibrant atmosphere.
Rating?
Food | 4.8 |
Service | 5 |
Ambiance | 4.8 |
Others I Missed: These were on my list but unfortunately didn't have time
Two days in Mexico City simply wasn't enough to conquer the city's incredible food scene! While I managed to hit some amazing spots, there were a few others that remained tantalizingly out of reach. For those seeking an off-the-beaten-path adventure, CDMX's street food scene is legendary, offering a mind-boggling array of budget-friendly bites guaranteed to set your tastebuds on fire. Craving something a little more upscale? Venture into the trendy Roma Norte neighborhood, where hidden gems abound.
Pasillo de Humo in Condesa was another highly-recommended spot that supposedly boasts the best mole in the city (a must-try for any food adventurer!).
However, two restaurants left us with major FOMO (fear of missing out): Pujol and Contramar. These were consistently mentioned by everyone we spoke to, but snagging reservations for these culinary darlings proved to be an impossible feat. Moral of the story? Book well in advance, especially if you have your heart set on a specific restaurant.
To help you plan your own delicious adventure, I've created a Google Map with all the locations mentioned in this blog post + more. Buen provecho! (Enjoy your meal!)
Planning a trip to Mexico City can be overwhelming, but fear not! I offer personalized travel guides and planning services specifically designed to unlock the magic of this vibrant city.
Whether you're a history buff craving ancient ruins, a foodie yearning for the perfect taco, or an art enthusiast seeking hidden galleries, I can craft the ideal itinerary to match your interests and travel style.
Ready to experience Mexico City like a local? Learn more about my personalized travel planning services here and start crafting your dream Mexico City adventure!
Feeling Ready to Go Yet?
Craving even more delicious finds in Mexico City? My insider knowledge doesn't stop here! Head over to my FREE Mexico City Itinerary on Thatch for a treasure trove of additional recommendations. This guide is more than just a list – it's your key to unlocking the city's hidden gems and local favorites.
Until next time, happy wanderings!
(these recommendations I use and love! if you take action (i.e. make a purchase) after clicking on one of the affiliate links, I'll earn some commission that helps run my blog. you do not pay a higher price!)