Mexico City | From Taquerias To Fine Dining: Where To Eat In Mexico City
Mexico City is best described as a culinary wonderland that should be at the top of every food enthusiast's bucket list. This vibrant metropolis offers an unparalleled gastronomic adventure, blending ancient Aztec traditions with modern innovations. From sizzling street tacos to world-renowned fine dining establishments pushing culinary boundaries, the city caters to every palate and budget.
Wander through bustling markets filled with exotic ingredients, savor mole sauces with depth that rivals any wine, and discover the surprising delights of pre-Hispanic delicacies. Whether you're sampling creative takes on classic dishes in trendy Condesa or diving into the organized chaos of street food in the historic center, each bite tells a story of Mexico's rich cultural heritage.No matter where you turn, there's a seemingly endless array of flavors, each more tantalizing than the last. Take it from someone who has recently visited Mexico City: this culinary journey promises a feast for the senses, leaving you craving more long after you've returned home.
Is it too soon to say I want to go back?
Planning my inaugural trip, I was eye-ball deep in restaurant listicles, restaurant reviews, and blog posts, and, admittedly, watched way too many TikToks on CMDX.
Overwhelmed is an understatement.
To help my fellow type-A planners, I'm sharing all of my Mexico City favorites, from Michelin-starred street tacos to world-renowned restaurants and everything in between.
One restaurant that continued to pop up during my research was Rosetta.
Not only was Rosetta slated as #34 on the 2024 World’s 50 Best List, but they also have been awarded one star from the prestigious Michelin Guide. Helmed by renowned chef Elena Reygadas, winner of Latin America's Best Female Chef award in 2014, guests will have the opportunity to explore her unique fusion of Italian and Mexican cuisine. While I thoroughly enjoyed all the dishes served, I insist you try the Pickled Porcini mushrooms with Jerusalem Artichokes and the Potato Triangoli and Porcini mushrooms. Both dishes left me speechless. And whatever you do, don’t leave without dessert. The Melipona Honey Jelly with Brown Butter Ice Cream and Vanilla dish is out of this world incredible.
Of all the restaurants we visited during the trip, I found Rosetta to have the most relaxed and serene vibe. Fun fact- the restaurant is located in a giant apartment. We popped upstairs to see the kitchen, and I was shocked that they could produce and service the number of patrons they do nightly. It was TINY!
With this critical acclaim that both the restaurant and chef Elena Reygadas have received over the years, you can imagine that getting a reservation is challenging. Try early and often if you don’t see your desired time available.
Taquería El Califa de León
Av. Ribera de San Cosme 56, San Rafael, Cuauhtémoc, 06470 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
When the Michelin Guide awarded its first Michelin star to a taco stand, I knew I had to check it out. I can’t tell you how many of my friends sent me this article when they learned I was traveling to Mexico City.
Located in the San Rafael neighborhood, El Califa de León serves only four tacos, but they are extraordinary. Guests can choose from Bistek (Beef Steak), Costilla (Beef Rib), Gaonera (Filet), and Chuleta (Pork Chop). I don’t remember exactly what I ordered—I feel like I chose the Gaonera, but I totally went with the chef’s recommendations.
El Califa de León is embracing its newfound status and popularity. Not only do they have swag available, but the store next door has assisted in providing seating accommodations for restaurant patrons. Tacos are served quite simply with only the meat and corn tortilla, which is made fresh on-site. Patrons can add red or green sauce to their taco, but that’s it. Admittedly, both sauces lit me up and made me chug water, but the flavors were fantastic.
Quite the food enthusiast bucket list item if you ask me, and one worth checking out.
Pro-Tip | The restaurant only accepts cash, so make sure you have a few pesos available.
If you’ve followed Blonde Voyage Nashville for any amount of time, you know I love a bougie cocktail bar. In fact, when I travel, I often seek out those places because I love the craft behind the cocktail. This trip to Mexico City was no different. I scoured the World’s 50 Best Bar List and noticed that Mexico City had quite a few cocktail bars featured. Coming in at #3 is Handshake Speakeasy. While I did try a few others on the list, this was by far my favorite. There’s a reason that they are so highly rated.
When you arrive, you will likely look around and ask yourself if you are in the right place because it’s definitely a random building with no signage. Luckily, we found a member of the team and checked in. It only took five or ten minutes before we were ushered downstairs and seated.
They have a few seating options available, but if you have a chance, I’d recommend sitting at the bar. Not only are the bartenders filled with advice, but it’s always fun to watch them assemble a cocktail.
The menu is one for the books. Handshake Speakeasy has curated the most incredible cocktail list I’ve seen recently. From a Fig Martini to a Butter Mushroom Old Fashioned, they transport you to a different level. The standout of the evening was the Peanut Butter Jelly cocktail featured above. Perhaps it was the nostalgia or the tiny PBJ sandwich on top of the cocktail, but I loved every minute. If my schedule had allowed, I would have returned for a second visit.
If you are a breakfast enthusiast, I have just the place…Nicos.
Opened in 1957, Nicos is a family-run restaurant that has evolved into a culinary institution known for its commitment to preserving the heritage of Mexican flavors while using the highest quality ingredients. Dining at Nico’s is like stepping into a time capsule where dishes are prepared with time-honored techniques, offering a taste of Mexico’s culinary past in a warm, unpretentious setting.
You all know I love to seek out a Michelin-starred restaurant, but this quickly became one of my top three meals in Mexico City. As soon as we were seated, the pastry cart greeted us, and immediately, I decided I needed a concha. Forget caffeine- who turns down the pastry cart? Not this girl.
Even though I could have ordered half the menu, I landed on the Green Enchiladas featured above. Trust me when I tell you that no other enchiladas come close. In fact, I’d bet money on it.
Many restaurants in Mexico City have English menus available, but that wasn’t the case with Nicos. I was able to muddle my way through with the help of my friend Google Translate and the patience of the server. Nicos not only serves one hell of a breakfast but is open for lunch and dinner as well. Make sure they are added to your CDMX itinerary.
Panadería Rosetta
Colima 179, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
For anyone who appreciates artisanal baked goods, look no further than Panadería Rosetta. Located in the charming Roma neighborhood, this bakery is an offshoot of the acclaimed Rosetta Restaurant, led by renowned chef Elena Reygadas.
Reygadas has transformed what was once considered a humble bakery into a destination for food lovers. From buttery pastries to hearty sourdough loaves, every item at Panadería Rosetta is crafted with attention to detail. The bakery’s signature rol de guayaba (guava roll) has become a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
I’ll be the first to tell you that the vibes at Panadería Rosetta are absolutely divine. It’s a perfect spot to grab brunch or enjoy a coffee and pastry before the day begins. Given its popularity, expect a wait on the weekend. We went during prime brunch time on Saturday and waited roughly an hour. I’d recommend putting your name in and grabbing a coffee from one of the many coffee shops in Roma Norte and start exploring.
Pro-Tip | If you prefer something more savory, I highly recommend the Chilaquiles. 10/10. However, an assortment of savory dishes and sandwiches are available. Happy eating!
If there was one place on repeat throughout my trip, it was Blanco Colima. Located in the Roma Norte neighborhood, it was the perfect place to pop in and have a cocktail before dinner or after a day of shopping. Blanco Colima is located in a beautiful historic mansion- one that makes your jaw drop. The interior and vibes are next level. Weather permitting, this is the most stunning backdrop for al fresco dining. Grab a table and let the people-watching begin.
For my seafood enthusiasts visiting Mexico City, Contramar is one place you should visit. Nestled in the trendy Roma neighborhood, this beloved seafood restaurant has been a local institution for over two decades, drawing in residents and tourists with its fresh, innovative take on coastal Mexican cuisine. As you step into the airy, blue-and-white adorned dining room, you're immediately enveloped by a lively, convivial atmosphere that hums with energy. Famous for its Tuna Tostadas and its Fish a la Talla (featured above), guests can expect exceptional food and service. For someone who typically doesn’t seek out seafood, I thoroughly enjoyed every facet of dinner. In fact, I am still dreaming about the fish tacos! OMG.
Whether you’ve just landed and you’re waiting for the call that your hotel room is available, or you’ve had quite the celebratory night and are looking for some delicious late-night bites, Taqueria Orinoco is just the spot. One might say that this is a simple, no-frills taco joint. Some have even gone as far as calling it the In-N-Out of Mexico City due to its multiple locations.
While wait times can vary, patrons will order at the counter, are given a number, and can seat themselves. Even though the restaurant only offers three different taco variations (al pastor, beef & chicharron), guests can dress their tacos up any way they see fit using some of the various salsas/condiments provided. Be careful because some bring the heat more than others. If you are vegetarian, never fear, as they have options available. I’ve found that once you make that first visit, you keep coming back for more!
So there you have it, friends– a whirlwind tour of some of Mexico City's best restaurants and cocktail bars. From the mouthwatering seafood at Contramar and the cozy Italian-Mexican fusion at Rosetta to the late-night taco heaven of Orinoco, this city's something for every mood and craving. While I didn’t feature it here, don't forget to hit up the street food scene, too – those elotes and tlacoyos aren't going to eat themselves! Whether you're an avid food enthusiast or just someone who likes a good meal (and honestly, who doesn't?), Mexico City will blow not only your mind but also your taste buds. Just remember to pack your stretchiest pants – trust me, you'll need them.
Until Next Time!