Mexico City’s food scene combines tradition and innovation with a naturalness that few cities can match. From street tacos to internationally recognized restaurants — everything coexists in the same city, sometimes on the same block.
During the World Cup, reserve in advance
The most sought-after restaurants will be busier than usual in June and July. If you have a special place in mind, book before arriving — not when you are already hungry facing a two-hour waitlist.
OpenTable
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Recommendations by area
Polanco
Guzina Oaxaca
No reservation
Authentic Oaxacan cuisine in a relaxed atmosphere. Order the tlayudas and black mole.
Chapulín
Reservation recommended
Signature Mexican cuisine. Great option for a special meal without going full fine dining.
Rosa Negra Polanco
Reservation recommended
Premium Latin American cuisine with a vibrant atmosphere. Terrace, live music and signature cocktails. Masaryk 298.
Quintonil
Book weeks ahead
One of the most recognized restaurants in Latin America. Contemporary Mexican cuisine with high precision.
Pujol
Book weeks ahead
From chef Enrique Olvera, a global reference for Mexican cuisine. Tasting menu. Tennyson 133.
Condesa
Esquina Común
No reservation
Breakfast and lunch in a relaxed local atmosphere. Seasonal ingredients and accessible prices.
Merkavá
Weekend reservation
Middle Eastern cuisine with local ingredients. Warm atmosphere, ideal for dinner. Amsterdam 53.
Pargot
Reservation recommended
Contemporary Mexican cuisine by chef Alexis Ayala. Michelin Bib Gourmand 2024 and 2025. Tasting menu available.
Baldío
Reservation required
The only restaurant in Mexico City with a Michelin Star. Market-driven cuisine with a constantly changing menu.
La Cocina del Bizco
Reservation recommended
One of OpenTable’s favorites in the area for special occasions. Mexican cuisine in an intimate atmosphere.
Roma Norte
Campobaja
Lively atmosphere
Baja California cuisine. Pacific seafood and Valle de Guadalupe wines. Ideal for groups.
Contramar
Arrive early
Mexico City’s iconic seafood restaurant. Tuna tostadas and pescado a la talla. Always busy.
Filigrana
Reservation recommended
Seasonal and innovative cuisine. Menu for all meals including Sunday brunch and signature cocktails.
Máximo
Reserve ahead
Reference point for the city’s contemporary cuisine. Menu blending Mexican and international influences.
Rayo Cocktail Bar
Reservation recommended
Avant-garde Mexican cuisine and premium cocktails inside a historic mansion. Top 50 Best Bars in North America 2023.
Street food and markets
Some of the best flavors in Mexico City are found at a street stand on the corner.
How it works
Look for the stands with the most local customers — that is the best sign of quality. Point to what you want from the grill or the pots.
Reference prices
Stew or basket taco
$15–25 MXN
Pastor or steak taco
$20–35 MXN
Quesadilla order
$30–50 MXN
Markets near ULIV areas
Mercado Medellín(Condesa) — seafood, fruit, snacks and more under one roof.
Mercado de Artesanías Insurgentes(Reforma) — traditional home-style food stalls inside.
Mercado de Artesanías Insurgentes(Reforma) — traditional home-style food stalls inside.
Water tip
At established market stands with regular customers, water and juices are safe. Ice from street stands is better avoided — order your drink without ice if you have doubts.
5 things you cannot leave without trying
Tacos al pastor
Pork marinated in achiote and spices, sliced from the trompo with pineapple. The city’s most iconic taco. Order it with cilantro, onion and green salsa. If the taquero slices the pineapple directly from the trompo into the taco, you are in the right place.
Chilaquiles
Fried tortillas covered in red or green salsa, topped with cream, cheese and beans. Mexico City’s most beloved breakfast. Every fonda makes them differently — try them in more than one place.
Pozole
Hominy soup with pork or chicken, served with tostadas, oregano, chili and radish. Hearty, comforting and completely different from anything you have eaten before.
Contramar tuna tostada
Crispy tostada with fresh marinated tuna, mayonnaise and serrano chili. The city’s most replicated bite — and for good reason. If you go to Contramar, this should be your first order.
Corn in a cup
Cooked corn kernels with mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder and lime. Sold at street stands and markets. Simple, addictive and completely Mexican.
