10 Best Restaurants in Mexico City by Our Local Experts (Updated 2025)

The capital of Mexico, a vibrant hub that pulsates with life, stands as a beacon for food lovers worldwide. Embark on a journey to uncover the best restaurants in Mexico City where the essence of traditional Mexican gastronomy fuses with modern and global influences to offer an unparalleled culinary adventure. Explore the sophisticated restaurants of Polanco, the quaint cafes of Roma and Condesa, and everything in between. Mexico City is a treasure trove of gastronomic delights, ready to satisfy diverse tastes and budgets.

Whether your preference lies in the elegance of fine dining, the innovation of award-winning chefs, or the authenticity of local cuisine, Mexico City delivers. Experience the culinary artistry of Enrique Olvera at Pujol, or enjoy a contemporary twist on Mexican classics at Quintonil. Don't miss the opportunity to dine in historic settings like Café de Tacuba, set within a 17th-century convent, offering a glimpse into the city's rich culinary past.

Our guide, curated by local connoisseurs, invites you on a flavorful expedition to the best restaurants in Mexico City. Discover the iconic, the beloved, and the avant-garde establishments that define the city's food scene. Prepare to immerse yourself in the tastes, atmospheres, and warm welcomes that position Mexico City as a premier global culinary destination.

Iconic High-End Dining

For those seeking an unparalleled dining experience, Mexico City is home to several iconic high-end restaurants that have garnered international acclaim. Here are a few standout establishments that embody the city's culinary excellence.

1. Pujol

Nestled in the upscale Polanco neighborhood, Pujol is a culinary gem owned and headed by the renowned chef Enrique Olvera. Since its inception in 2000, Pujol has evolved from a restaurant with a mixed international menu to a bastion of traditional Mexican cuisine, albeit with a sophisticated twist. The restaurant's signature dish, 'mole madre, mole nuevo,' is a testament to its innovative approach, featuring a black mole sauce that has been continuously reheated and enhanced over the years.

Pujol's commitment to ancestral ingredients and techniques has earned it a consistent spot on the World's 50 Best Restaurants list and the award for the Best Restaurant in North America in 2019.

• Address: Tennyson 133, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11570 Ciudad de México

2. Quintonil

Also located in Polanco, Quintonil is another flagship of contemporary Mexican cuisine, owned by the dynamic couple Jorge Vallejo and Alejandra Flores. This restaurant is celebrated for its use of uncommon herbs and vegetables, sourced locally from places like Milpa Alta and Xochimilco.

Quintonil offers both à la carte options and a nine-course tasting menu that changes seasonally, showcasing dishes such as braised oxtail in black recado and atocpan-style mole. The restaurant's commitment to local produce and minimal carbon footprint has earned it two Michelin stars and a place among the World's 50 Best Restaurants.

• Address: Av. Isaac Newton 55, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560 Ciudad de México

3. Rosetta

In the heart of Roma Norte, Rosetta stands out as a culinary masterpiece under the guidance of chef Elena Reygadas, who was named Latin America’s Best Female Chef in 2014. Housed in a beautiful and eclectic mansion, Rosetta revamps traditional Mexican dishes using seasonal ingredients sourced from small producers. The menu, which can change daily, features favorites such as corn tamale with celeriac and sea bass with samphire and white mole. Rosetta also boasts an on-site bakery specializing in sourdoughs, adding to its charm and culinary diversity. This restaurant is a regular on Latin America's 50 Best Restaurants list and offers an intimate and elegant dining experience.

• Address: Colima 166, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México

Celebrated Local Favorites

Beyond the high-end dining scene, Mexico City is home to a variety of celebrated local favorites that have earned a loyal following among both locals and visitors. These establishments provide a deep dive into the essence of Mexican cuisine and culture.

4. Maximo Bistrot

Located in the lively Roma Norte neighborhood, Maximo Bistrot stands out for its innovative combination of international and Mexican cuisine. Under the leadership of executive chef Eduardo García, the restaurant has been a mainstay in CDMX for more than 11 years.

Transformed from a former auto repair shop and pool hall, it now features a sleek, industrial-chic decor. The menu offers fresh seafood from Baja California, a variety of meats, and game birds, all within a farm-to-table concept inspired by García's childhood experiences. While there have been some mixed reviews regarding service, the quality and freshness of the food, coupled with its stylish and intimate setting, render Maximo Bistrot a favorite among many culinary aficionados.

• Address: Av. Álvaro Obregón 65 Bis, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México

5. Contramar

Situated in the fashionable Condesa district, Contramar is a haven for seafood enthusiasts. It's celebrated for its lively ambiance and outstanding service. The menu showcases the best of Mexico's coastal cuisine, featuring dishes like the renowned 'pescado a la talla' (grilled fish), available in various preparations.

With a comprehensive selection of wines and cocktails, Contramar serves as the perfect venue for both relaxed meals and special events. Its widespread popularity with both locals and tourists alike speaks volumes about its consistent quality and enjoyable dining experience.

• Address: Durango 200, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México

6. Nicos

In the Clavería neighborhood lies Nicos, a family-operated landmark that has been an integral part of Mexican culinary tradition for over 60 years. Established by María Elena Lugo Zermeño in 1957, it is currently managed by her son, chef Gerardo Vázquez Lugo. This restaurant is acclaimed for its authentic Mexican dishes, made from locally sourced ingredients and in alignment with the Slow Food movement.

Highlights include the goat cheese soup and pork marinated in chili, chocolate, and brown sugar. The warm and unassuming ambiance, along with the mother-and-son duo's commitment to preserving Mexican culinary traditions, has secured Nicos a Lifetime Achievement Award at Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants in 2018.

• Address: Av. Cuitláhuac 3102, Claveria, Azcapotzalco, 02080 Ciudad de México

Trendsetting and Contemporary Eats

Mexico City's dining scene is not just about traditional flavors; it is also a hub for innovative and contemporary cuisine. Here are some trendsetting restaurants that are redefining the city's culinary landscape.

7. Meroma

Nestled in the heart of Roma Norte, Meroma is a gem that blends international, Mediterranean, and contemporary Mexican cuisines. Led by executive chefs Mercedes Bernal and Rodney Cusic, Meroma offers a unique dining experience with dishes that are both visually stunning and flavorful. The menu features items like baby fried artichokes, grilled blue shrimp, and orecchiette, all crafted with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

The restaurant's sleek and trendy interior, combined with its rooftop patio, makes it an ideal spot for both casual and special occasions. Meroma is praised for its phenomenal flavors and excellent service, although some patrons have noted that the service can be inconsistent at times.

• Address: Colima 150, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México

8. Masala y Maiz

Masala y Maiz stands out for its bold fusion of Indian, East African, and Mexican cuisines. Run by chefs Norma Listman and Saqib Keval, this restaurant is a result of extensive research into the culinary traditions and migrations of ingredients between these regions.

The menu is a reflection of this cultural blend, with dishes such as samosas de suadero, camarones para pelar, and kuku poussin. Masala y Maiz is committed to sustainability and social justice, making it not only a culinary destination but also a place where food serves as a powerful tool for environmental and social change.

This small but bustling restaurant has earned a Bib Gourmand from the Michelin Guide for its good quality and value cooking.

• Address: Calle Marsella 72, Colonia Juarez, Mexico City

9. Lardo

Located in the trendy Condesa neighborhood, Lardo is a contemporary eatery known for its creative take on global cuisine with a focus on Asian and Latin American flavors. This restaurant, founded by chef Enrique Olvera's protégé, Elena Reygadas, and later taken over by other culinary talents, offers a dynamic menu that changes frequently. Lardo is celebrated for its vibrant atmosphere and innovative dishes, such as its signature pork belly bao and various small plates that showcase a blend of international flavors.

The restaurant's casual yet chic ambiance, along with its extensive cocktail menu, makes it a favorite among locals and visitors looking for a modern dining experience in Mexico City.

• Address: Agustín Melgar 6, Colonia Condesa, Cuauhtémoc, 06140 Ciudad de México

10. Rosa Negra

Nestled in the heart of Mexico City, Rosa Negra offers more than just a dining experience—it's a celebration of Latin American culture and flavors. Known for its fusion of high-end gastronomy and vibrant entertainment, this iconic restaurant has become a hotspot for food enthusiasts and party lovers alike. 

The menu features an exquisite selection of premium seafood and expertly prepared cuts of meat, blending traditional culinary techniques from Mexico, Peru, Argentina, and Brazil with innovative twists. What truly sets Rosa Negra apart, however, are its live shows, including captivating fire performances and Latin beats accompanied by bongos, creating an electric atmosphere that makes every evening unforgettable

• Address: Av. Pdte. Masaryk 298, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11550 Ciudad de México

A Culinary Journey Through Mexico City

Mexico City’s culinary scene is a vibrant showcase of Mexico’s rich flavors and traditions. From renowned fine dining at Pujol, Quintonil, and Rosetta to beloved local spots like Contramar, Maximo Bistrot, and Nicos, every restaurant offers a taste of the country’s unique gastronomic heritage. Trendsetters like Meroma, Rosa Negra, Masala y Maíz, and Lardo further blend global influences with Mexican cuisine, making the city a must-visit destination for food lovers.

Explore Mexico City with a Food Tour

Discover Mexico City through its incredible flavors with a private food tour tailored just for you. Walk through the city’s rich culinary scene, from the exquisite fine dining. Whether you’re craving a taco crawl, a mezcal pairing experience, or a deep dive into contemporary Mexican cuisine, this tour is designed to match your tastes. Customize your itinerary with the Mexico City Private Experience that Sherpa Food Tours offers you! It's perfect for food lovers, because they personalized the journey to ensure an unforgettable taste of Mexico City’s gastronomic wonders.

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