Well, it’s official! I finally got the chance to visit Mexico City and it has now become one of my favorite cities in the world. I was blown away by its incredible food scene, vibrant atmosphere, and the warmth of its people. Every restaurant I visited offered a unique culinary experience, from traditional Mexican dishes with a modern twist to creative surprises that reflected the city’s innovative spirit. The lively energy of the city and the welcoming nature of its locals made each meal even more memorable, creating the perfect blend of flavor and hospitality. Check out these amazing restaurants during your next visit!
Máximo
Máximo is a true farm-to-table restaurant serving French plates made with Mexican-grown ingredients. The menu changes frequently to reflect seasonal shifts and local produce, with chef Eduardo García sourcing fruits and vegetables from the nearby chinampas of Xochimilco and the surrounding areas. This restaurant is not to be missed!
Must Try: Octopus Ceviche, Lamb Birria “Sincronizada”, Rock Snapper “Aguachile”, Caesar Salad
Address: Av. Álvaro Obregón 65 Bis, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
Expendio de Maiz
This was one of the most unique dining experiences I’ve ever had. Expendio de Maíz welcomes diners to sit at one of four long tables set up under a covered sidewalk. Although there are no reservations, guests can put their name on a list for the next seating. This dining experience doesn’t feature a traditional menu; instead, each dish is presented as a surprise, one by one, until you say stop. Every bite is excellent. Reminder, it’s cash only!
Address: Av. Yucatán 84, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
Ticuchi
Backed by renowned Mexican chef Enrique Olvera, the food at Ticuchi is exceptional, prepared by chefs in an open kitchen within a cave-like setting. The vibe leans more toward a bar than a restaurant, and the drinks are equally impressive. These pair perfectly with the food, which offers vegetarian and pescatarian interpretations of Oaxacan cuisine.
Must Try: Quesillo y Cacao, Tuna Taco, Pescadillo, Mushroom Tamale
Address: Petrarca 254, Polanco, Polanco V Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
Contramar
Contramar is a Mexico City staple. With its charming terrace and its huge windows framing views of the outside, this restaurant by Chef Gabriela Cámara specializes in seafood, and the signature dish—the tuna tostada—is a must-try for every visitor. The service was also top notch.
Must Try: Contramar Ceviche, Tuna Tostada, Al Pastor Taco, Pescado a la talla
Address: Calle de Durango 200, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
Taquería Orinoco
Taqueria Orinoco has some of the best tacos in town, and you should make sure to have at least one late-night visit during your trip. Orinoco is exactly what you’re looking for after a few rounds of tequila, especially since they’re open until 3:30am during the week and even later on the weekend.
Must Try: Tacos al Pastor
Address: Multiple locations. Av. Álvaro Obregón 100, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
Restaurante Rosetta
Located in a beautiful and eclectic mansion, Rosetta showcases the culinary talents of Chef Elena Reygadas, named Latin America’s Best Female Chef in 2014. Reygadas reimagines traditional Mexican dishes, with a strong emphasis on seasonal ingredients sourced from small local producers. The menu changes daily.
Must Try: Corn Tamale, Sea Bass, White Mole
Address: Colima 166, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
Panadería Rosetta
Panadería Rosetta is the sister bakery to Restaurante Rosetta from Chef Elena Reygadas. Walking down Colima Street, you’ll know you’ve arrived at the bakery once you see the line of customers. A trip to Mexico City wouldn’t be complete without Panadería Rosetta’s legendary guava rolls.
Must Try: Guava Roll, Any pastry!
Address: Colima 179, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
Choza
Choza is a Thai-influenced restaurant and listening bar. The vibe is for drinking cold beer, eating with your hands and sharing spicy food. When you arrive, there’s no sign on the door and you have to ring the bell outside to enter. They’re only open from Saturday to Monday for dinner so plan accordingly.
Must Try: Khao Soi Tacos, Snapper, Chile Cookies
Address: Monterrey 194, Cuauhtemoc, MX 6700
Jenni’s Quesadillas
Jenni, the famed quesadilla lady of Roma Norte, is located on the corner of Colima and Merida every day around noon serving up quesadillas with your choice of fillings. Everything is delicious and it’s the blue jean-colored corn tortilla that brings everything together. Cash only!
Address: Corner of Colima and Merida, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
Limantour
Limantour is an upscale, trendy spot serving up some of the best cocktails in Mexico City. Located in a two-story, art deco-inspired space, this bar is considered Mexico’s premier cocktail destination and has consistently appeared on The World’s 50 Best Bars list since 2014.
Address: Av. Álvaro Obregón 106, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
THE WATERS EDIT 