Mexico City is a vibrant city with the most delicious food, lively colors, happening nightlife, and the most hospitable people I’ve come across. Even a week in Mexico’s capital will leave you hungry for more and wondering when your next trip back will be! As a friend put it: right now, Mexico City is “The Capital of Cool” of the Americas!
Mexico City has always been a place I’m passing through, which is funny to say as it’s one of the most populated cities in the world. I grew up going to Cuernavaca in Morelos with my family, which is just an hour or so south of the city, and Mexico City was always the place that we flew in and out of. It wasn’t until 2015 that I started exploring Mexico city — and I’ve been hooked ever since!
The culinary scene in Mexico City is somewhat insane. Some of the best food, service, and experiences have been from restaurants in Mexico city! If it’s your first time in Mexico City, right after you book your plane ticket try and find reservations at Enrique Olvera’s Pujol. His restaurant put Mexican fine dining on the map and it’s a mind-blowing experience. It’s great for lunch or dinner, honestly whatever you can get! Be sure to watch Nexflix’s Chef’s Table episode (season 2) on the restaurant. I’ve included quite a bit below for food options, but if you are only in Mexico City for a handful of days, here’s where I’d send you! For breakfast, you’ll definitely have to stop by Panadería Rosetta, for some of the best pastries I’ve ever had – looking at you, Paris. Niddo and Lardo are both fantastic brunch options. My favorite lunch spot is Maximo, followed very closely by Gabriela Cámara’s incredible seafood staple, Contramar. If you’re feeling like a break from Mexican, some of the best Israeli cuisine I’ve come across outside of Tel Aviv was at Merkavá! Dinner is a must at Meroma, Botánico and Rosetta.
Mexico City is so expansive it makes Los Angeles feel like a compact city. The good news is that most of this guide covers about 4 neighborhoods, so I won’t have you bopping around town. They happen to be where the most exciting restaurants, quality shopping, and beautiful history are: Condesa, Roma, Juarez, and Polanco! I’ve put a map below so you can get an idea of where they are in the context of CDMX! Although I love walking between these neighborhoods, Ubers are quite cheap in Mexico City and I’ve found them the best way to bop around town. The Mexico City Metro is also a great way easily navigate through the city, but beware of rush hour in the mornings and late afternoons as it gets pretty congested with foot traffic!
Spring is my favorite time to visit Mexico City – April to be exact! Maybe it’s because I grew up always going for Easter, but the temperature is honestly perfect. It is typically in the 80s and sunny with some rare light afternoon showers that are always welcomed! Plus the beautiful violet & purple jacaranda trees are in full bloom!
My home-away-from-home in Mexico City is the Nima Local House Hotel. It’s a stunningly beautiful 4-bedroom boutique hotel that has been converted from a historic private residence to a b&b. The hotel is situated right on Colima, one of my favorite streets in Roma, it serves a delicious breakfast downstairs that is paired with the hotel’s equally excellent service. They also have an iconic atrium that is filled with plants and topped off with a glass roof, letting in warm natural light all day long. Another option is right around the corner in Roma, at Brick Hotel. I’ve stayed there twice and it’s always a wonderful experience. The rooms are simple but elevated and I also love the modern Mexican touch on this historic building! I’ve also gone the Airbnb route and there are some really excellent properties in Condesa and Roma neighborhoods if you’d prefer that mode of stay! It definitely feels like
Some required watching before you head to CDMX: Roma // Enrique Olevera’s Chef’s Table episode – both on Netflix!
I’ve jammed this city guide with quite a few options, but have a (*) by my favorites!! Also, because Mexico City is so expansive, I’ve included the neighborhood that each recommendation – I hope it helps you while coordinating your own itineraries!
To Eat:
La Condesa:
- Maque – A bright, airy café with a leafy patio on the corner of the park —perfect for pastries, coffee and an easy morning coffee.
- *Lardo – A hip, always-busy spot blending Mexican and European flavors. Go for brunch and order the huevos revueltos and their signature rosemary buns.
- Lalo – A colorful, relaxed café known for great brunch—think granola, eggs, and an easy, laid-back vibe.
- *Contramar – A CDMX must! This seafood-forward restaurant is in an airy dining room with an expansive plant-filled patio. There’s a reason I was here twice (and almost a third time!) on my last trip. The tuna tostadas are a must-get. Also get the carnitas de pescado and pescado a la talla – and enjoy it all with a carajillo!
- *Café Toscano – It’s a great stop for breakfast or coffee as it sits on the edge of Parque Mexico! Their verde chilaquiles are some of my favorites in the city!
- *Botanico – A beautiful, design-forward bistro with a constantly changing menu. The garden patio—anchored by a massive cactus—is one of the best dining settings in the neighborhood.
- Ojo de Agua – Ojo de Agua is an airy, quaint spot with its own little fruit and vegetable stand. You’ll find salads topped with avocado, sandwiches, acai bowls for breakfast, and refreshing smoothies. It’s perfect for a quick & healthy lunch or dinner! They have a few locations in the city!
- Ciena – A versatile café that does everything from coffee and pastries to pasta and cocktails. Great for brunch, but just as good later in the day.
- Basico – A go-to for a clean, healthy start—smoothies, toasts, bowls, and great coffee.
- Azul – A charming restaurant serving more refined, traditional Mexican dishes. Feels elevated but still warm and approachable.
- Yoru Handroll & Sushi Bar–
- El Parnita – Buzzy space known for tacos & cocktails, with sauces mixed at the table & live guitar players. (Paramo is upstairs!)
- Café Milou – A small, under-the-radar sushi spot—simple, fresh, and a bit of a hidden gem.
- *Merkavá – Merkava has quietly become a Condesa institution, and it’s without a doubt my favorite Israeli spot outside of Isreal. If you’re wanting a break from Mexican fare, this is a great option! Everything here is incredibly tasty!
- Merotoro – A rustic-chic restaurant serving creative Baja-inspired dishes—great for seafood and a more relaxed dinner.
- Helena CDMX – A chic, airy spot for brunch, cocktails, and international dishes. Easy, stylish, and always a good vibe.
- *Castizo – The Spanish food here is genuinely incredible. If you’re here with a group or with your family, this place is a crowd-pleaser, has an upscale feel to it, and is still pretty affordable!
- Hotel Casa Awolly – A vibrant hotel restaurant with creative Mexican dishes and playful cocktails. The space is just as fun as the menu.
- Hugo Wine Bar – A beautiful, cozy wine bar with a great selection and fresh, thoughtful bites—perfect for an easy night.
Roma:
- *Rosetta – Set inside a townhouse that feels more like an Italian villa, this is one of the most beautiful restaurants in the city—Italian at its core with a subtle Mexican twist.
- *Máximo Bistro – A must. This farm-to-table spot blends French and Mexican influences with a daily-changing menu built around seasonal ingredients—perfect for a long lunch. The sweet onion cooked in whey is incredible.
- *Meroma – A trendy, design-forward restaurant with a globally inspired menu—creative, refined, and great for dinner with cocktails. I’ve never had a bad dish here!
- Huset – A relaxed, garden-style restaurant with wood-fired cooking and a beautiful outdoor patio. Ask to sit outside and try the off-menu avocado pizza.
- Tres Tonalá – Set in an art deco mansion, this spot is great for seasonal dishes or just drinks in a really beautiful space.
- UMAI – A minimal, design-forward Japanese spot with simple, fresh sushi and a calm, organic feel.
- *Em – With a farm-to-table-focused menu, this Roma spot offers a wide range of interesting and fun dishes, like mole served with beef tongue, a spicy chicken that even has its own Instagram, local wagyu beef, and even Petrossian caviar. Don’t forget to check out the upstairs bar/speakeasy, 686 Bar
- Pigeon – A great casual wine and drink spot with fresh Mediterranean plates—easy, social, and perfect for a lighter night.
- Blanco Colima – A sophisticated, multi-level restaurant in a stunning house with an extensive cocktail and wine list. Great for dinner that turns into a night out.
- Tacos Orinoco – A modern taqueria with a simple, focused menu—al pastor, bistec, or chicharrón, done really well.
- *El Parnita – A buzzy, casual spot for tacos and cocktails with a fun, lively energy—sauces are mixed tableside and there’s often live music.
- Supra– A leafy, bohemian rooftop with DJs, city views, and a more social vibe—great for a fun night out.
- Puerto Prendes – A fun, design-forward restaurant with a great atmosphere—don’t skip the Carajillo Prendes cocktail.
- *Madre Café & Rooftop – A chic café with a lush courtyard and rooftop terrace. Great for coffee, brunch, or drinks—just be sure to book the rooftop.
- Juana Juana – A cute, casual spot serving decadent breakfast bowls and brunch dishes out of a shipping container—easy and fun.
Juarez:
- El Cardenal – A classic Mexico City institution—go for the chilaquiles verdes and a warm, cinnamon-spiced café de olla.
- *Terraza Cha Cha Cha – A lively rooftop with great views and a fun, modern take on Mexican seafood. Perfect for sunset drinks that turn into dinner.
- *Niddo – A relaxed, bohemian spot with an open kitchen and a strong brunch game—great for comfort food, coffee, and grabbing pastries to go.
- Havre 77 – A charming French bistro that’s perfect when you want a break from Mexican food. Easy for a long lunch or a slower, wine-filled dinner.
- Cicatriz – A cozy, all-day hangout for brunch, sandwiches, and coffee—simple, stylish, and easy to settle into.
- Elly’s – Tucked into a 1930s Bauhaus-style building, this spot feels intimate and design-forward—great for a slower, more relaxed meal.
- Taverna – A cozy, courtyard-style Mediterranean spot with a slightly rustic feel—great cocktails and an easy, tucked-away atmosphere.
Polanco:
- *Pujol – One of Mexico City’s finest dining experiences. Chef Enrique Olvera showcases everything about Mexican gastronomy, from its unique techniques and inimitable spices to the country’s rich history. Be sure to watch Pujol’s episode on Netflix’s Chef’s Table before – season 2!
- Tori Tori – A sleek, contemporary Japanese spot with a striking design. Great for sushi, teppanyaki, and a more elevated dinner in Polanco.
- Quintonil – Another one of the city’s top fine-dining destinations—creative tasting menus that highlight local ingredients in a modern, ambitious way.
- Casa Olympia – A colorful, Mediterranean-inspired space with a nostalgic, retro feel. Perfect for brunch with mimosas or a more relaxed evening.
- Colmillo – A fun, high-energy spot that elevates Mexican street food—go for the tacos, tostadas, and a more social, group-style dinner.
- Parole – A romantic, design-forward restaurant with dramatic interiors and a more upscale feel. Great for a date night or a dressed-up dinner.
- Béluga – A seafood-forward restaurant with a beautiful, transportive interior—hanging lemons and coastal Italian energy throughout.
- Carajillo – A lively, colorful restaurant with a strong cocktail program and modern menu. Fun, buzzy, and easy for a night out in Polanco.
- ENO – A casual café from the Pujol team—great for breakfast, coffee, and lighter bites in an easy, polished setting.
- Ticuchi – From Chef Enrique Olvera, this is a darker, more atmospheric spot focused on corn, mezcal, and bold Mexican flavors. It leans more intimate and design-forward—great for dinner that turns into drinks.
- Entremar – A lively seafood spot from the Contramar team—fresh, simple, and always buzzing.
To Drink:
- *Hotel CondesaDF terrace (Condesa) – One of the best rooftops in Condesa—perfect for sunset cocktails with a relaxed, stylish crowd.
- Jardín Chapultepec (Condesa) – Hidden behind an unmarked garage door, this leafy beer garden feels like a secret at the edge of Condesa. Easy, casual, and great for a daytime drink that turns into evening.
- Baltra Bar (Condesa) – A chic, laid-back cocktail bar with creative drinks and a slightly nautical, Galápagos-inspired vibe.
- La Clandestina (Condesa) – A cozy, unassuming mezcalería that’s perfect for a tasting. The staff really know their stuff, so it’s a great place to explore different bottles.
- *Toledo Rooftop (Juarez) – A vibey rooftop with views toward Chapultepec Castle—DM them for a reservation and go around golden hour.
- MN Roy (Roma) – Set in a historic house, this private club is one of the best nightlife spots in the city. Think late nights, great music, and a crowd that knows what it’s doing.
- *Hanky-Panky (Roma) – A world-renowned speakeasy hidden behind a taco shop—creative, mixology-forward cocktails in a truly fun, tucked-away setting.
- Fifty Mils (Juarez) – A swanky bar inside the Four Seasons—perfect for a polished nightcap or starting the night somewhere a bit more elevated.
- Leonor (Condesa) – You’d walk right past it, but inside is a lively bar with great music and strong drinks.
- Xaman bar (Juarez) – Hidden below street level, this moody cocktail bar feels like a jungle-inspired escape. Dark, atmospheric, and a fun change of pace.
- Supra Rooftop (Roma) – A lively rooftop with DJs, city views, and a bohemian feel—great for a more social night (and don’t skip the salmon tostada).
- Escorpio (Juarez) – A stylish natural wine shop that doubles as a great spot to hang and have a glass.
- *Madre Rooftop (Roma) – A trendy rooftop set on top of a historic colonial building—great for sunset drinks and an easy, good-looking crowd.
- Departmento (Roma) – A laid-back bar and restaurant with a sprawling terrace. Live music and a casual vibe make it easy to stay a while.
- Casa Franka (Roma) – A beautiful house-turned-bar with live jazz and excellent cocktails—more intimate and perfect for a slower night.
- Tokyo Music Bar (Juarez)- A speakeasy-style listening bar with an incredible vinyl collection—great cocktails paired with a true music-first atmosphere.
- Salón Rosetta (Roma) – The cocktail bar above Rosetta—calm, refined, and slightly tucked away with a soft, intimate energy.
- Loupe Bar (Roma) – A lively natural wine bar with great food—easy, social, and perfect for a more casual night.
- *Ling Ling (Juarez) – Set atop the Ritz-Carlton, this rooftop bar has some of the best views in the city—great cocktails, sushi, and a more high-energy vibe.
- Blanco Castelar (Polanco) – A beautiful, design-forward spot that blends dining and nightlife—great for a date or a full night out.
- *Amantoli (Condesa) – A tiny, tucked-away taproom behind Casa Ikal—small, intimate, and very much a hidden gem.
- *686 Bar (Roma) – A sleek speakeasy inside Restaurant EM—modern, sexy, and great for a more refined cocktail.
- Casa Prunes (Roma) – Set in a stunning 1916 mansion, this is a more elevated, experience-driven cocktail and dining destination.
- *Zuzu Rooftop (Condesa) – A rooftop at Casa Ikal with views over Parque España—laid-back, outdoorsy, and great for drinks at golden hour.
- Licoreia Limantour (Roma) – One of the most famous cocktail bars in the world—creative drinks, great energy, and always worth a stop.
Coffee & Bakery:
- *Panadería Rosetta (Roma)- This tiny cafe & bakery across the street from the main Rosetta restaurant serves fantastic coffee and pastries (the guava pastry is incredible!). A must – thank me later! They also have a great coffee table book!
- *Saint (Roma) – Another favorite. A chic, design-forward café in Roma with great coffee and a slightly more elevated feel—perfect for a slower morning or an easy, stylish stop between exploring. All their pastries are delicious and the breakfast sandwich is a must!
- *Niddo Café (Juarez)- A buzzy, design-forward brunch spot with a great energy. There’s also a grab-and-go café next door for coffee and pastries if you’re on the move.
- *Café Nin (Roma)- Run by the same team as Rosetta over in Roma Norte, this bakery/cafe is also super cozy and beautiful in a much more rustic and imperfectly perfect way.
- Lolo’s Croissant Bar (Roma) – A croissant-focused spot with dozens of indulgent, over-the-top options—fun, creative, and worth trying a few.
- *El Moro – Renowned & historic churrería open 24 hours for churros & hot chocolate. There’s usually a line wrapped around the block – but it’s worth the wait! Just on the edge of Parque Mexico!
- Buna – Cafe Rico (Roma) – One of the best specialty coffee spots in the city for locally sourced Mexican beans. Sleek, minimal, and great if you care about the coffee.
- Forte Bread & Coffee (Roma) – A small, under-the-radar café that pulls you in with the smell of strong coffee and fresh pastries—simple and really good.
- *Tomasa (Condesa)- A trendy, colorful bakery known for its conchas—great for trying classic Mexican sweet breads in a more modern setting.
- Tierra Garat (Polanco) – This hip coffee and matcha shop has danish pastries, sandwiches & flavored coffee at a streamlined contemporary cafe with a terrace!
- *Quentin Café (Condesa, Roma) – A great grab-and-go coffee spot with a few locations—quick, consistent, and always a good idea.
- Chiquito Café (Condesa) – A tiny neighborhood coffee spot that’s simple, well-done, and perfect for a quick stop.
- Constela Cafe (Roma) – This newer coffee shop has a great location, right on the corner of Colima street! It’s a great spot for meeting up with friends over coffee and an option for an easy lunch!
To Shop:
- *MOONi Gallery (Condesa, Roma) – Spunky and casual gallery for fun prints and wall art – one of my favorites!
- 180° Shop (Roma) – Boutique store with apparel, sneakers, and accessories.
- Concept Racer (Roma) – Men’s boutique store with motorcycle apparel and accessories.
- *Onora (Polanco) – Beautiful Mexican home goods and textiles are carefully curated
- Silver Deer (Planco) – An elegant and modern store dedicated to men’s fashion located in Park Plaza
- Goodbye Folk (Roma) – Warm, brick-walled shop offering stylish vintage clothing & accessories, plus handmade shoes.
- *The Erre Vintage Co (Roma) – Well-curated high-end Americana vintage goods in a beautiful space
- Zapateria El Tigre (Roma) – Men’s & women’s clothing store with a full café and mezcal-tasting bar!
- *Chic by Accident (Roma) – Beautiful gallery and antique store with design-forward pieces
- *Utilitario Mexicano (Juarez) – Home goods from Mexican artists and designers – this space was perfect for my OCD!
- *IKAL (Polanco, Condesa) – Artisan home goods and chic Mexican designer apparel!
- Mercado Portales Antigüedades (San Simón)- Antiques flea market.
- Mercado Ciudadela (Juarez) – An artisan market with silver jewelry from Taxco, Oaxacan rugs & hand-carved gifts
- Xinú Perfumes (Polanco) – A beautifully designed fragrance house rooted in Latin American botanicals—each scent feels transportive, with the store itself doubling as a calm, almost gallery-like space that’s worth stepping into even if you’re just browsing.
To Do:
- Take a walk up to the Chapultepec Castle and soak in the views!
- Stroll through the Chapultepec Botanical Garden
- Visit the Museo Tamayo
- Drive around the El Angel de la Independencia monument
- Check out modern Mexican art at Museo Tamayo Arte Contemporáneo
- Visit the Museum of Anthropology
- Museo Soumaya
- Mexico City Ruins!
- Visit the Pyramids of Teotihuacan (an hour south of the city!)
- Casa Luis Barragan
- Check out some galleries: Galería RGR, Studio IMA, Kurimanzutto, Gallery OMR
- See Diego Rivera’s murals at Palacio de Bellas Artes
- Check out the state of affairs at the Palacio Nacional
- See the Frida Kahlo Museum “Casa Azul” (30-minute drive south)- this is a bit outside of the city in Cuoyacan, but worth seeing and exploring the surrounding area and market!
- Ride down the canals of the “Floating Gardens” of Xochimilco Canals (50 minutes away) – recommend buying beers & tacos/tostadas for the boat ride!
To Stay:
- Brick Hotel (Roma) – A refined boutique stay in Roma with a more classic, European feel—elegant rooms, great service, and a quiet, tucked-away atmosphere.
- Nima Local House (Roma) – A small, beautifully curated boutique that feels more like staying in a stylish home than a hotel. Warm, intimate, and one of the most charming stays in Roma.
- Hotel Dama (Condesa) – One of the coolest, design-forward stays in Condesa—minimal, a little moody, and very fashion-editorial.
- Casa Mali (Condesa)
- Four Seasons (Juarez) – A classic, hacienda-style luxury hotel right on Paseo de la Reforma—lush courtyard, great restaurants, and one of the most iconic stays in the city.
Stay Risky,
– John
