List of The Best Restaurants in Mexico City
My chef husband Alf and I moved to Mexico City to immerse ourselves in one of the most exciting culinary capitals in the world. With experience in Relais & Châteaux kitchens and fine dining across other parts of Mexico, he came to cook in a place where tradition, innovation, and cultural depth intersect in the most inspiring ways. CDMX was never a trend for us, it was a deliberate step into a living cultural archive. During our year living in the city, we dined across the spectrum: from family-run taquerias to intimate rooftops to globally recognized modern dining experiences. Here are the places we actually ate and a few we saved for next time.
Em Located in the heart of Roma, Em is a fine dining experience that reimagines Mexican ingredients through a modern, meticulous lens. We may be biased because Alf worked here during our time in Mexico City. But truly, the intimate space, chef-led service, and beautifully plated dishes make Em a standout. Now Michelin-acclaimed, Chef Lucho brings a balance of elegance and edge to the table, and it’s one of those meals that stays with you. Expect a tasting menu that’s both artful and soulful.
Aleli This rooftop secret spot brings all the vibes. Located just above the bustle of Roma, the atmosphere feels laid back yet elevated. You can expect fire-grilled dishes, clever cocktails, and music that makes you stay a bit longer than you planned. The tasting menu rotates often and highlights unexpected ingredients with playful twists.
Elly’s (permanently closed) Tucked into a converted house in Roma Norte, Elly’s serves modern, globally-inspired dishes with a Mediterranean twist. Helmed by a rising female chef, the restaurant is fresh and unfussy with bold flavors and a killer wine list. The ingredients are locally sourced with an eye toward sustainability with the menu evolving with the season. The clientele ranges from fashion editors to creatives on lunch break, and the energy is always warm, modern, and a bit irreverent.
Ling Ling The famous Ling Ling by Hakkasan restaurant occupies a privileged space in Mexico City, on the top floor of one of the tallest skyscrapers on Paseo de la Reforma. Some say its not worth the pricetag, but to me you’re paying for views, atmosphere and experience. The vibe is sultry and upscale and is the kind of place you book to feel like you’re in another world for the night.
Asadero María Conesa If you’re looking for a traditional old-school grill that is known for being one of the local tourist attractions (for locals not international tourist!), this family-run barbecue spot is part of the original culture of Mexico City. Next to the Church of San Cosme and San Damian in Colonia San Rafael, this is a unique spot known for their arrachera muy rica!
El Borrego Viudo This is one of those you-have-to-go kind of taco joints. This was recommended to us by a taxi driver when we asked for the best taco spot in the city and has 42k reviews on Google! El Borrego Viudo is a true local taqueria, open late and always packed. Here, customers drive up to the parking lot and order directly from their car window. So you’ll find a mascot directing traffic, waiters running from car to car slinging tacos and chefs seasoning meat in a tiny galley kitchen. The tacos are simple, fast, and packed with flavor. A solid intro to Mexico City's no-frills, flavor-first street food scene if you’re brave enough to venture here.
Panadería Rosetta The iconic bakery in Roma Norte. Known for their guava pastries and rustic breads, Rosetta draws a daily crowd of locals and travelers alike. Come early or prepare to wait—but it’s worth it.
Maque A neighborhood staple on the corner of Parque México with a gorgeous sidewalk patio. The café-style menu is classic and comforting with delicious soups, salads, and even tamales. It wasn’t the most flavorful menu we came across but they definitely bring the quality and the iconic people watching.
Amin Another adorable cafe on the other side of Parque Mexico with minimal, delicious, and low-key ambiance perfect for a coffee and prosciutto croissant when you need something quick and satisfying. They have both indoor and outdoor seating and is a great place to people watch, on the patio with an espresso.
Chilpa If you’re into a chill brunch featuring the best chilaquiles, this is the spot! Chilpa does a modern take on the classic Mexican brunch dish with toppings ranging from classic rojo and verde to more playful takes with asparagus and goat cheese. They have outdoor seating, delicious coffee and you may even be serenaded by talented street musicians who know its a packed place on the weekends!
Taquería Orinoco Craving late-night tacos? Orinoco is a crowd favorite with locations all around the city and typically has a line for good reason. While it’s a bit more polished and trendy than the average street taquería, it’s still a solid choice with fast service and a nostalgic, neon-lit vibe. Not the best tacos in town but a fun and energetic stop when you’re out with friends and need a late-night taco fix!
Street Tacos No list would be complete without a nod to the countless taco carts lining the streets of Mexico City. The rule? Go where the locals go. If there’s a crowd (speaking spanish!), you’re probably in the right spot. We ordered gorditas, quesadillas con papa, and added any additional salsas available. Plastic stools are sometimes available, napkins are usually hanging from the umbrella above and its best to be enjoyed standing up with the agua fresca del día.
Don Porfirio For the absolute best views of Palacio de Bellas Artes, head to Café Don Porfirio on the 8th floor of the Sears building in the cultural center in Mexico City. It’s quite a journey and tough to find with weird hours. But I promise, for one of the most instagrammable spots in Mexico City, you have to go. The obsessed photos are on my Mexico City Art & Design Cultural Blog, don’t miss them!
Goguinara We had to try a few Korean places while in the city and this traditional BBQ in the heart of La Reforma served. From the presentation to the ingredients they hit the mark on authentic Korean BBQ in Mexico as if you were actually in Seoul. Make sure to sit at a table where they grill the meat in front of you and enjoy all the banchan that’s always included with every meal.
While we were in the city for quite a bit, we didn’t get around to trying everything we wanted to. Here’s a list of a few more places I hope you can try on my behalf:
Tigre Silencioso
Máximo
Esplendor de Maíz
Sud 777
Animal Masaryk
Azul Histórico
Lalo
Side note: We consciously chose not to eat at Pujol. And not because we couldn’t get a reservation, but because as a chef family we know how this industry works. The price tags and accolades don’t always reflect the behind-the-scenes reality or the type of food we want to enjoy. I’ll try to give it a go next time but know there are always hidden gems to discover.
Get in Touch
What is your favorite restaurant in Mexico City? Did I miss it? Let me know on IG @alyssaya!
Don’t miss out on my Mexico City Art & Design Blog that explores all my favorite cultural sites to experience while visiting CDMX and My Slow Travel Guide to Where to Stay in Mexico City!
Don’t hesitate to DM me on instagram if you have any other questions about living like a local in Mexico City.
Thanks for reading. And as always . . . Be thoughtful. Stay kind.
♡ Alyssa