Mexico City, with its wide variety of flavours and culinary traditions, offers a gastronomic adventure like no other. From street food stalls to fine dining venues, the sprawling metropolis boasts a unique dining scene that mirrors the city´s vibrant culture.
Whether you’re a food enthusiast or a visitor seeking a place to eat, Mexico City offers unequalled gastronomic experiences.
Following is a list of must-eats in Mexico City that should be at the top of your list. Neighbourhoods organize it to include the city areas you´re likely to explore during your next visit to this exciting destination.
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Related reading: Unmissable Hidden Gems in Mexico City
Must Eats in Mexico City: Explore the Rich Flavors of CDMX
Centro Histórico
Centro Histórico, as the name implies, is the cultural and historic heart of Mexico City. Here, ancient ruins coexist side by side with colonial-era buildings and modern shopping and dining venues. Here are some culinary gems to explore while visiting this vibrant capital city area.
Balcón del Zócalo
Overlooking the main square in the heart of Mexico City’s Historic Center, Balcón del Zócalo provides unparalleled views of the Zócalo, the Metropolitan Cathedral, and the National Palace.
Balcón del Zócalo’s sophisticated menu enhances traditional Mexican cuisine with a contemporary twist, blending top-quality seasonal ingredients, expert techniques, and Chef Pepe Salinas’s creativity.
The panoramic views create a spectacular backdrop for the incredible food, well-prepared cocktails, and great wine selection in a chic and stylish setting. Whether you try the seasonal menu for an incredible sensorial experience – highly recommended – or go for à la carte options, Balcón del Zócalo deserves a top spot in your list of must-eats in Mexico City.
Location: Av. 5 de Mayo, Centro Histórico, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City
Reservations: 55 5130 5134
Al Andalus
It started as a small Arab taco stand to accommodate the Lebanese community that settled in the area in the last century but soon became a favourite for tasting Lebanese dishes and breathing in the fascinating Arab culture in a sober yet cosy atmosphere.
Al Andalus is great for savouring the classic hummus, keppe, lamb skewers, cabbage tacos, and other delicacies, which are served in generous portions to share at the centre. They also have an impressive wine cellar that includes their own label and a gourmet store where you can acquire Lebanese products.
The venue is open from 10 am to 6 pm, which makes it convenient for a late breakfast, brunch, or leisurely lunch.
Location: Mesones 171, Centro Histórico, Cuauhtémoc, CDMX
Reservations: 55 5522 2528
Azul Histórico
Located in a beautifully restored 17th-century colonial building, Azul Histórico offers a menu that exalts Mexico’s culinary traditions.
Elaborate dishes like “chiles en nogada” from Puebla, black “mole” from Oaxaca, and “cochinita pibil” tacos from Yucatán, among other specialities, are prepared with care and attention to detail, highlighting Chef Ricardo Muñoz Zurita’s commitment to authentic flavour and ingredients from all over Mexico.
The charming courtyard setting adds to the dining experience, making Azul Histórico a favourite among locals and tourists.
Location: The Shops at Downtown (Isabel La Católica 30, Centro Histórico, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City)
Reservations: 55 5510 1316
Limosneros
Limosneros offers an innovative focus on Mexican cuisine, with dishes that celebrate Indigenous ingredients and culinary traditions. The menu includes contemporary versions of classics like mole and pozole, as well as innovative dishes like cochinita pibil tacos laced with huitlacoche, a seasonal fungus that grows on corn and is considered a delicacy in Mexico.
Limosneros translates into “Beggars”, which contrasts sharply with the sleek, modern decor and warm, attentive service.
Location: Ignacio Allende 3, Centro Histórico, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City
Reservations: 55 5521 5576
Polanco
Polanco, an upscale neighbourhood known for its chic ambience and international flair, is home to some of Mexico City´s most acclaimed restaurants. The following are a few suggestions for must-eat restaurants in Mexico City in this bustling district.
Agua y Sal Cebichería
Agua y Sal Cebichería is a seafood restaurant in Polanco that prioritizes sustainable fishing practices and uses seasonal products in its culinary creations.
Helmed by Chef Rodrigo Estrada, the restaurant’s proposal focuses on Central and South American cuisine, placing emphasis on “cebches”, as they represent a common ground for several cultures due to its simplicity and freshness.
You’ll also find more elaborate fare such as the “Pulpo Enamorado” – a grilled octopus, the Tropical Rib-eye, and corn esquites with shrimp, as well as meat cuts, pasta, and salads.
Location: Campos Eliseos 199-A, Polanco IV Sección, Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City
Reservations: 55 5282 2746
Anatol
Situated within Las Alcobas Boutique Hotel in Polanco, Anatol’s menu features dishes inspired by gastronomy from Mexico´s diverse regions, although you´ll also find some international options and Italian influences.
With a farm-to-table approach incorporating fresh ingredients, attentive service, and a refined atmosphere, Anatol is a lively dining destination with a memorable sensory experience.
Chef Rodrigo del Valle’s menu combines Italian influences with locally and sustainably sourced ingredients, resulting in small dishes served in a casual and relaxed atmosphere. This spot is perfect for enjoying the delicious culinary creations and well-served cocktails for a perfect lunch or dinner.
Location: Las Alcobas Boutique Hotel (Av. Pdte. Masaryk 390, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City)
Reservations: 55 3300 3950
Animal
An exclusive and trendy spot in upscale Polanco that has become a favourite among locals, Animal has an interesting culinary proposal that fuses grilled specialities, Japanese fare, and contemporary urban cuisine in a bustling and relaxed ambience.
The varied culinary offer, amazing cocktail and wine selection, and lively, casually elegant atmosphere have placed Animal as one of the must-eat restaurants in Mexico City for fun, extended lunches or dinners.
The menu frequently changes to include seasonal flavours, but regular items include delicious versions of sashimis and nigiris and astounding meat cuts, tacos, salads, and more.
The establishment’s design is as eclectic and intriguing as the menu. It features industrial elements, lots of plants, a Japanese bar in the centre, and a smoking grill in the background.
Location: C. Calderón de la Barca 108, Polanco, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City
Reservations: 55 7691 3120
Quintonil
Boasting two Michelin stars, Chef Vallejo´s Quintonil is an institution in Mexico City’s gastronomy.
Nestled in a tranquil corner of Polanco, Quintonil takes a sustainable approach to fine dining. Chef Jorge Vallejo’s menu focuses on seasonal ingredients sourced from local producers, highlighting the diversity of Mexican flavours and culinary traditions.
Dishes like the avocado tartare with escamoles (ant larvae) and the suckling pig with “hoja santa” herbs showcase Quintonil’s commitment to innovative yet authentic cuisine.
Location: Av. Isaac Newton 55, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo,
Reservations: exploretock.com
Condesa
Condesa, a trendy neighbourhood with beautiful Art Deco architecture and a contemporary bohemian vibe, attracts food lovers from all over the city looking for its diverse culinary offerings.
Lardo
Lardo is a casually elegant eatery known for its artisan pizzas and Mediterranean-inspired dishes. The wood-fired pizzas, topped with fresh ingredients like burrata and prosciutto, are standout favourites among regular visitors, but there´s more to discover on the menu.
Elaborate dishes include eggplant caponata and grilled octopus, showcasing Lardo´s creative approach to Mediterranean cuisine with Mexican accents.
The place has regular tables, seating at the bar, and open-air dining amidst lush plants in a casually elegant setting.
Location: Agustín melgar 6, Condesa, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City
Reservations: 55 5211 7731
Milo’s Bistrot
One of the best restaurants in hip Condesa if you’re looking for a cosy spot with a nice gastronomic variety, Milo’s Bistrot is situated on a cool street corner. It offers a bistro concept where the food varies according to the seasonal ingredients on hand.
Milo´s menu mainly consists of traditional Mexican cuisine, but it also offers a wide variety of international dishes, including delicious fondues and great meat cuts, among other specialities.
Their physical space is reduced, making it a nice option if you want to accompany your meal with a long, intimate conversation and good wine. Its strategic location makes it a nice option if you want to observe life passing by from the sidewalk seating area.
Location: Amsterdam and Celaya, Hipódromo Condesa, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City
Reservations: 55 5564 8712
Skybar Condesa
Set on the rooftop of Hotel Mondrian Condesa, a boutique hotel famous for its contemporary architecture and artistic design, Condesa Skybar is a pleasant space to enjoy a leisurely breakfast, lunch, drinks, and DJ music in the evening (it’s one of the best rooftops in Mexico City).
The food offering consists of international cuisine with Mexican touches. The splendid city views enhance the exclusive, relaxed ambience and creative cocktail proposal, which was born in Los Angeles.
Skybar Condesa was recently remodelled to make it an urban oasis within the city, making it the perfect option for dining and partying in the Condesa area.
Location: Aguascalientes 156, Condesa, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City
Reservations: 56 1062 3273
Coyoacán
Coyoacán, known for its cobblestone streets and colonial charm, offers a glimpse into Mexico City’s cultural, artistic, and culinary heritage. Here are some dining options available when exploring this iconic district.
Los Danzantes
Situated by the Jardín Centenario main plaza and garden in the picturesque district of Coyoacán, Los Danzantes offers a menu that exalts the flavours of Mexico with dishes like “mole negro” from Oaxaca, beef cuts marinated in mezcal, and other delicacies that are prepared with traditional ingredients using both ancient and contemporary techniques.
Los Danzantes is a fantastic dining option and a must-eat in Mexico City for anyone exploring Coyoacan´s museums, art galleries, and craft markets. The pretty courtyard setting and a nice selection of artisanal mezcal create a relaxing dining experience celebrating Mexico’s culinary diversity.
Location: Parque Centenario 12, Coyoacán TNT, Coyoacán, Mexico City
Reservations: 55 4356 7185
La Coyoacana
La Coyoacana is a vibrant cantina or saloon known for its lively atmosphere and delicious Mexican snacks, including guacamole, “molcajetes,” and some of the best pastor tacos in Mexico City. These consist of tortillas filled with marinated pork, diced coriander and onion, and sliced pineapple.
This iconic spot in Coyoacán is a must-eat in Mexico City if you want to immerse yourself in Mexican culture and gastronomy while listening to mariachis and enjoying well-served drinks in a festive setting.
Location: Higuera 14, La Concepción, Coyoacán, CDMX
Reservations: 55 5658 5337
Roma
A bohemian, artsy neighbourhood is known for its trendy cafes, vibrant street art, and eclectic dining scene, Roma harbours a seemingly endless variety of dining venues and must-eats in Mexico City.
Balmori
One of the many rooftop restaurants that have emerged in Mexico City in recent years, Balmori is a favourite among dining options in the lively Roma area.
Designed as a green escape in the middle of the city, with lush plants, contemporary decor, and nice views as a backdrop for a pleasant meal, Balmori is a great spot if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the sprawling city. Weather is not an issue, as it has an impressive retractable roof that allows for an afternoon or night out, rain or shine.
The open kitchen in this stylish rooftop restaurant in Mexico City offers international cuisine with Mexican accents. The ever-changing seasonal menu highlights dishes made with high-quality, fresh ingredients.
As to the bar, Balmori has an expert team of mixologists who make great cocktails. You’ll also find a good selection of Mexican wines and crafted beer.
Location: Zacatecas 139, Roma Norte, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City
Reservations: 55 4507 9928
Sarde
A relatively new gem in the Roma neighbourhood, Sarde rapidly earned a niche as one of the favourites among seafood and Mediterranean cuisine lovers. Housed in a charming three-story house solemnly decorated with marine accents, Sarde—which means “sardine” in Italian—honours the sea by offering contemporary cuisine that centres on the freshest seasonal produce from the Mexican coast.
Providing an avant-garde gastronomic experience, it is a must-eat in Mexico City´s bohemian Roma neighbourhood, especially if you are into innovation and experimentation. Sarde’s proposal invites guests to try new dishes and new versions of classics.
The menu includes an astounding variety, ranging from London Fish and Chips to Japanese Kampachi and Trout Roe Toast, so it is a great option whether you´re craving exotic fare or simple, tried-and-true good food.
Location: Puebla 109, Roma Norte, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City
Reservations: 55 2854 6561
Maximo Bistrot
Helmed by Chef Eduardo García and his wife Gaby Máximo Bistrot is one of the most popular restaurants and a must-eat in Mexico City.
Maximo’s cosy design and discreet elegance contribute to its welcoming ambience. Its ever-changing farm-to-table offer, which blends French and Mexican flavours, keeps drawing visitors looking for an outstanding meal.
The food is a delightful blend of traditional Mexican, French, and international flavours. Everything is made from scratch using a sustainable and socially responsible approach. The menu constantly evolves based on the availability of seasonal products.
Máximo Bistrot’s cuisine is sustainable. It emphasizes top-quality seasonal local ingredients acquired through socially responsible practices. The couple sources their kitchen from local farms and markets.
Location: Álvaro Obregón 65 bis, Roma Norte, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City
Reservations: 55 5264 4291
Pedregal
Sud777
Situated in the exclusive Pedregal neighbourhood in the southern end of Mexico City, Sud777 is led by Chef Edgar Núñez, who was recently recognized as a Michelin Guide star.
His gastronomic proposal centres on traditional Mexican cuisine, using mainly veggies and fruits seasoned with national flavours and spices. This innovative twist has received a good response.
The well-executed tasting menu changes every month. It can be paired with their nice wine and cocktail selection indoors or on the terrace lounge for a relaxing urban escape from Mexico City’s hustle and bustle.
Location: Blvd. de la Luz 777, Jardines del Pedregal, Álvaro Obregón, Mexico City
Reservations: 55 5568 4777
Lomas
Mochomos Lomas
Mochomos Lomas is renowned for its innovative take on Northern Mexican cuisine from Sonora.
The restaurant’s speciality is its grilled meats, particularly rib-eye steaks cooked to tender, juicy perfection. The menu also features a variety of seafood dishes and traditional Mexican dishes.
The stylish interior with rustic accents, hearty food, and vibrant atmosphere make Mochomos a popular spot for an afternoon or evening out.
Location: Av. Paseo de las Palmas 781, Lomas de Chapultepec, Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City
Reservations: 55 5919 4211
Must Eats in Mexico City: Final Thoughts
Although it would be virtually impossible to list all the restaurants and eateries worth a visit, each offers a unique dining experience that captures the essence of Mexico City’s dynamic food scene.
Whether you’re in the mood for Italian, Lebanese, traditional Mexican, or international cuisine, these must-eats in Mexico City promise to delight your senses and make you want to return for more.
Bio:
Dani is a travel writer and blogger from Mexico City. She has lived worldwide and travelled for four years straight before deciding to return to her hometown. These days, she’s either travelling somewhere new, writing for her blog No Hurry To Get Home, or going around CDMX to discover all the cool things the city offers.
Mexico City Culinary Tours
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Conclusion:
In conclusion, Mexico City is a food lover’s paradise filled with must-eat foods showcasing authentic Mexican cuisine’s heart. From mouthwatering street food like tacos al pastor and tamales to traditional Mexican dishes such as mole and chiles en nogada, the city offers an unforgettable culinary experience. Whether exploring bustling food markets or dining at top restaurants, Mexico City’s vibrant food scene is essential for any foodie’s bucket list. Don’t miss the chance to taste the best foods in Mexico City on your next visit!
What are your favourite traditional Mexican dishes?
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