A Foodie’s Guide to Mexico City

Mexico City

Welcome To Mexico City

Mexico City is the largest city in Mexico, which is why it comes as no surprise that all of the best cosmopolitan and regional cuisines can be found throughout the city. As the capital of Mexico, Mexico City has everything from street food to high-end restaurants and bars, known for mixing global flavors and techniques crowning the city as the ultimate culinary destination.

I’m here to give you the inside scoop on the best places to eat at while you’re in Mexico City so that you’ll be prepared for your upcoming or future trip. To kick things off, in Mexico cash is king so my first pro tip to navigating through the food scene is to make sure that you have plenty of pesos.

The Zócalo or Plaza del Zócalo is the common name of the main square in central Mexico City. Think of this as the Time Square and beating heart of Mexico City. Pictured above is Balcón del Zocalo which is a trendy rooftop restaurant perfect for drinks.

I’ve linked the website to every restaurant listed, along with the address, so you don’t have to do any additional research. I even included some additional restaurants and bars that I didn’t get a chance to visit, butI plan on visiting on my next trip to Mexico City.

Ojo de Agua

Where To Eat In- La Condesa

Condesa has become a very popular name in Mexico City primarily known for its bohemian flair and chill vibes. Part of Condesa is called Hipódrom, a neighborhood full of unique restaurants and natural charm with a lot to see and do. 

Taqueria El Greco– Tiny from the outside, but big flavors on the inside. Taqueria El Greco t has been around since the ’70s and still carries the traditional recipe for Arabic meats with Oaxacan cheese. There’s always a long line of locals here. 

Address | Av Michoacán 54-Local B, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc, 06100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Ojo De Agua– If you’re looking to start your day with a freshly squeezed fruit juice, Ojo de Agua is the perfect spot. This cafe is health-focused and has many organic items that you can order off of the menu. The portion sizes are pretty big, and a medium comes in a quart-sized mason jar. The prices to me were above average and it caters more to tourists, so I recommend this as a quick bite. 

Address | CONDESA HIPODROME 23C, Hipódromo, 06100 Ciudad de México, Mexico

Koku Condesa – Craving sushi? Try Koku, a Japanese restaurant with chic interiors, offering sushi and other Japanese specialties such as sake.

Address | Iztaccihuatl 54, Colonia Condesa, Cuauhtémoc, 06100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Frëims Brunch anyone? Frëims has a large artistic garden in the back and has a very relaxed and chill vibe to it. They have a great selection of fresh juices as well. 

Address | Amsterdam 62B, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc, 06100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Azul Condesa– Azul sits in the middle of the Downtown Hotel and is known for its authentic Mexican cuisine. It has a beautiful lush outdoor space and the food presentation is remarkable. 

Address | Av Nuevo León 68, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc, 06100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Qūentin Café– This is one of the best Cafes in Mexico City, located in the Roma neighborhood. Coffee-lovers will love the carajillo or the esspressonic which is a mix of espresso and tonic. Quentin has the best pastries, and if you head to the back of the cafe you’ll be shocked when you see the co-working space. 

Address | Amsterdam 67a, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc, 06100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

On my list to visit next time-

Patagonia | El Pescadito | LardoTacos Don Juan | Pasillo de HumoLa Clandestina | Comedor de los Milagros | Café Toscano

Madre Cafe

Where To Eat In- Colonia Roma

Colonia Roma is one of Mexico City’s most popular areas if not the most popular area. It’s divided into two separate colonias referred to as Roma Norte and Roma Sur but is most commonly known as “Roma”.

Madre CaféThe location, scenery, and cocktails at Madre Café are amazing! They have a lovely terrace which is the perfect place to be on a beautiful day. Everything tastes amazing and the plates are well portioned. 

Address | Orizaba 131, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Churrería El Moro – El Moro has the best Mexican hot chocolate and over 7 types of hot chocolates on the menu. It’s the best spot for a late-night snack but to be honest, you can find better churros somewhere else but the hot chocolate is unmatched!

Address | Frontera 122, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Balmori Rooftopbar – If you’re looking for dinner, drinks, and a night out, this is a perfect choice. The rooftop terrace is intimate and secluded, and the menu has a lot of variety. The drinks are savory, and not too expensive for what you get. 

Address |  Zacatecas, Segundo Piso 139, Cuauhtémoc, 06700 CDMX, Mexico
 
Mercado Roma “Roma market” is a public market designed as a gourmet food hall. The market offers everything from organic food to spicy margaritas and stands where visitors can find a variety of unique entrees.

Address | Calle Querétaro 225, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Panaderia Rosetta – This tiny hole-in-the-wall Panadería is an extension of Rosetta and has incredible pastries and snacks available to-go. It’s the perfect spot to stop by after roaming through the Roma neighborhood. 

Address | Colima 179, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Galanga Thai House– Galanga Thai House is actually a hotel that just so happens to have the best Thai food in Mexico City. It’s been Awarded the Thai restaurant of excellent quality, meaning that the Thai foods offered has the standard taste of authentic Thai Cuisine with considerably good service. The atmosphere is stunning and they have the best drinks! 

Address | Monterrey 204, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

Taqueria Orinoco – The best tacos al pastor and gringas in Mexico City hands down (well… so far) that I’ve had. The tacos come with fried potatoes which is an interesting combo (FYI they don’t have ketchup). Also, this was the best agua fresca I’ve ever had, and I’m a huge agua fresca fan! Orinoco gives you the option to mix the hibiscus flavor and guanabana and oh my gosh it’s amazing 10/10. Oh, and don’t get me started on all of the different  sauces.

Address | Av. Insurgentes Sur 253, Roma Norte, Mexico City 06700 Mexico

Fishers Roma – I found this place last minute and decided to check it out. To my surprise, I hit the jackpot (literally) since this place serves mostly seafood. Fisher’s has a fun atmosphere and has a cool happy hour, where if you buy a specialty drink, you receive a coin to the vending machine where you can potentially win a free drink! The churro’s here are also 10/10. 

Address | Calle de Durango 197, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

On my list to visit next time-

Restaurante Sonia | Meroma | Sud 777 | Huset | La Corriente Cevichería Nais | Lalo! | Contramar | Toledo Rooftop

Carajillomx

Where To Eat In- Polanco

Known for world-famous brands and upscale international restaurants that line Avenida Presidente Masaryk, Polanco is the premier shopping avenue where all of the posh, sleek, and fabulous, people go to be seen. They have the coolest nightlife and lounges and is considered one of the safest neighborhoods.

Carajillo Masaryk – Carajillo has nothing but good vibes only and was one of my favorite restaurants that I visited while staying in Mexico City. It’s a super fun environment and the food is amazing plus the decor is super colorful giving the restaurant curb appeal. If you’re looking for excellent service and specialty craft cocktails make a reservation here. There’s also another location in Roma Norte as well! 
 
Address | Av. Pdte. Masaryk 20, Polanco, Polanco V Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11580 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
 
Taboo Polanco Taboo Restaurant adopts Mediterranean food as a lifestyle, creating a unique gathering place. Taboo has three locations, each one with a different character and personality, staying true to a sophisticated concept and glamourous minimalism that invites all to celebrate and enjoy music in an incredible atmosphere. This is a great place to celebrate birthdays or special occasions.
 
Address | Av. Pdte. Masaryk 294, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11550 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
 

Tlacoteotl – Tlacoteotl is located in the heart of Polanquito, where you will find the best flautas, quality Mexican food, craft beers, and spirits. This is where I had my first Mezcal, like my first-ever. It was bold and strong, and at that moment I fell in love with Mezcal. This place is cool for a quick grab-and-go lunch.

Address | Virgilio 18, Polanco, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11550 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

On my list to visit next time-

Gin Gin | Tori Tori | Pujol | La Docena | Cancino | KYU México | Animal Masaryk Polanco

Coyoacan market

Where To Eat In- Coyoacán

Coyoacán is knows as the place of coyotes, and is Mexico City’s oldest neighborhood. It’s a relatively quiet neighborhood but don’t let that fool you. It has the most vibrant artisan markets, cafés, parks, and ice cream parlors.

Mi Mercado Coyoacán – Coyoacán Market is one of the most iconic mercados in Mexico City. You can find everything from vegetables, meat, groceries, assorted spices, and nuts, to juices, smoothies, and costumes for any occasions. Pictured above is a handmade chicken sope which is a traditional Mexican dish consisting of a fried masa base with savory toppings originated in the central and southern parts of Mexico. Pictured above is Quesadillas Lucha which was super tasty! You can also check out Tostadas Coyoacán inside the market as well.

Address | Ignacio Allende s/n, Del Carmen, Coyoacán, 04100 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

I didn’t get to explore all of the wonderful restaurants and cafes that Coyoacán had to offer due to Covid-19 restrictions and time, but I’m looking forward to going back and exploring this colorful town. 

On my list to visit next time-

Los DanzantesEl Japonez – Oasis CoyoacánCentenario 107El Beneficio Cafe | Café El Jarocho

Ready to Travel?

Join the Nonstop Nifty Community and get exclusive travel tips, trend reports, plus more!