Mexico City’s food scene keeps moving fast. Every week it feels like a new opening pops up, European (mostly Italian) spots cohabitating the space with a few classic kitchens that have somehow stood the test of time. Then there are those newer, smaller, experimental spots playing with local, seasonal produce in creative dishes or cocktails that feel completely new. At the same time Mexican wine is finally making a stellar appearance on menus everywhere. Overall, the mix of old favorites, fresh ideas, and a few surprises here and there is exactly what makes eating here so exciting right now.
-Anaïs Martinez, a Mexico City–based culinary guide, food writer, and professional eater.
Breakfast / Bakeries / Café
Buendia Panycafe
A hidden patio in a busy street in the Narvarte neighborhood. The smell of freshly baked goods will trap you from a few doors down. Both sweet and savory are unmissable but the puff pastry square with ricotta, cherry tomatoes and pesto is a true gem.
Marne
A cozy corner in the city’s most art-filled neighborhood, serving all the brunch classics: mimosas, chilaquiles, French toast, croque madame, bagels, sourdough, you name it, they’ve got it.
Arrrco
This ultra-sleek spot in trendy Juárez doubles as an art gallery showcasing standout Mexican artists and a solid breakfast destination. Think French toast with mango and passion fruit, a cold brew tonic, and eggs with labneh and cascabel chile to start your day right.
Lunch
Tacos Hola
Tacos de guisados are different stews that are served on a warm tortilla and commonly topped with rice, beans, guacamole or crumbled fresh cheese. Tacos Hola El Güero has been serving some of the heartiest, most comforting selections like beefsteak with pasilla chile, stuffed manzano pepper, poblano rajas and even hotdog tacos since 1968.
Fugaz
A modern, fuss-free spot with a simple yet solid menu that celebrates the best of vegetables and seafood, paired with a thoughtful selection of natural wines from around the world. The menu shifts with the seasons, but the avocado tostada remains a timeless favorite.
Cantina El Sella
An old-school cantina and a true Mexico City institution. Classic dishes take the spotlight here, especially their monumental, perfectly cooked pork shank and the signature Cuba libres. Finish strong with the flambeed ate con queso, an absolute must.
Dinner
La Pingüica
The massive 55kilo Al Pastor spit makes this an unmistakable spot right outside Normal subway station. Here the classic pastor taco skips the pineapple and adds chopped caramelized onions instead. Their suadero taco and its complementary salsa are worth the trip to the almost unexplored area.
Esquina Común
Out of all the Michelin stars, recommendations, and bib gourmands, this is still my top pick. Run by Ana Dolores, it combines homey hospitality with top-rated dining, and the ever-changing menu keeps every visit fresh. Only a few sittings a day and open three days a week and in a hidden location, so stay alert via their social media.
Voraz
Opened just a year ago, this spot has already become a new classic in the city’s ever-changing culinary scene. Every dish uses flavors and ingredients that nod to traditional Mexico while offering fresh, unique interpretations. Cocktails are always on point, with the Melipona sour standing out. Don’t miss the savory churro with cheese dip, deep-fried pig’s ears with annatto vinaigrette, and their take on a tuna tostada.
Drinks
Tlecan
If there’s one bar in the city that makes you unmistakably feel in Mexico, this is it. The head bartender has earned international praise for turning traditional Mexican drinks and fermented ingredients into world-class cocktails, and their mezcal selection ranks among the city’s best.
Vignieron
A place where wine is taken seriously, especially when it comes to bubbles. The list features bottles from France and other European regions, all poured with care. The menu offers small but powerful dishes that perfectly complement each glass. Come for the wine, stay for the warm hospitality and thoughtful food.
La Americana
Who knew reading and cocktails could go so well together? This corner on one of Condesa’s most famous streets lets you read or work while enjoying pre-batched cocktails or a good coffee and a cookie. It’s incredibly easy to spend the whole day here without even noticing.
