Looking for the coolest restaurants in Mexico City? I’ve got you covered!
Even though you’ll find all sorts of eateries in pretty much every corner of the Mexican capital, some spots stand high above the crowds.
Mexico City’s restaurant scene is recognized for its exceptional diversity and vibrancy, reflecting the rich culinary heritage of Mexico as well as international influences.
From traditional Mexican street food to high-end dining experiences, Mexico City offers an extensive range of culinary options. You can find everything from tacos and tamales to avant-garde fusion cuisine.
If you’re interested in experiencing the city’s food culture first-hand, here’s a list of some of the coolest restaurants in Mexico City that you can’t miss.
The Coolest Restaurants in Mexico City
1. Balcon del Zocalo
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Located right in the heart of downtown Mexico, Balcon de Zocalo is one of the best restaurants in Mexico City not only for its privileged location but also for its incredibly creative and exquisite cuisine.
Perched on the sixth floor of the Zócalo Central Hotel, Balcón del Zócalo commands an unparalleled location. It overlooks the Metropolitan Cathedral and offers panoramic views of the bustling Zócalo, the city’s main square, all from the comfort of its stunning glass-ceiling terrace.
At the helm of the kitchen, Chef Pepe Salinas crafts a menu that is a testament to his deep reverence for Mexican gastronomy and his flair for innovation.
Complementing the culinary experience is a curated selection of wines and inventive cocktails. Here, you’ll be able to indulge in both traditional and contemporary beverages with super creative concoctions.
Where? Av. 5 de Mayo 61, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
2. Contramar
Contramar is one of the coolest restaurants in Mexico City and a staple in the culinary scene of the city, both for its classic fresh seafood and its more unusual creations. The place is very relaxed and has a very welcoming atmosphere.
Whether you’re looking for the typical aguachile or something more elaborate like their tuna a la talla, fish meatballs, shrimp in tequila, or grilled octopus, you’ll find it at Contramar. Moreover, you’ll also fall in love with their beach-style tacos
Something that distinguishes Contramar is the sustainable way they obtain their high-quality ingredients, many of which are brought from the coasts of Sonora or harvested in their garden.
Where? Calle de Durango 200, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
3. Funky Lee
Funky Lee is one of Mexico City’s coolest restaurants if you’re a fan of good food and speakeasies.
Hidden behind a bookshelf in the restaurant Diego y Yo, this Japanese restaurant bar is a must-visit if you love trendy spots with an excellent atmosphere, mouth-watering dishes, good music, and delicious cocktails.
Among the favorite dishes, my recommendation is that you don’t miss out on trying the Rock Shrimp and the Kanji Roll with clarified butter.
Where? Av. Pdte. Masaryk 123, Polanco, Polanco V Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
4. Isola Polanco
Located in the beautiful area of Polanco, Isola is another gem to visit, especially if you love Italian food and restaurants with an outdoorsy atmosphere.
At Isola, the focus is on “No Shortcuts,” with preparation methods that focus on artisanal techniques and the finest ingredients, all meticulously overseen by Chef José Mendín. Each bite of pasta is made from scratch to provide an unforgettable experience.
Moreover, this restaurant is housed inside a period mansion that will make you feel as though you traveled back in time to Polanco’s peak. Its beautiful facade and interior preserve its historical essence, which is perfectly blended with modern elements to create an irresistibly casual elegance.
Where? Av. Emilio Castelar 149, Polanco, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11550 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
5. Bella Aurora
Whether you’re looking for a cozy brunch spot or you’re into grand dinners, this rooftop in Roma Norte is guaranteed to please.
As soon as you enter, you’ll forget you’re in Mexico City altogether as their decor mixes classic styles with lush greenery, resulting in a space that is both cozy and fresh.
The menu is dominated by Italian cuisine, but it also includes diverse dishes such as chilaquiles and eggs benedict accompanied by exquisite sweet bread for breakfast. For lunch or dinner, you’ll love their starters made out of Prosciutto with figs, high-end pasta, and seafood.
Where? Puebla 242, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
6. Entremar
For seafood lovers, Entremar is a must-visit in Polanco. This seafood restaurant is part of the Contramar-Itacate del Mar group from the Roma neighborhood, so quality, freshness, and flavor are guaranteed.
Entremar combines the freshness of seafood with the creativity of contemporary Mexican cuisine in an atmosphere of relaxed architectural harmony.
Among the favorites, we recommend the “pescado a la talla” (grilled fish), the fish “salpicón” with shrimp, and the marinated octopus with “salsa meca” on the grill.
Where? Hegel 307, Polanco, Polanco V Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
7. Pujol
Pujol is one of the most popular and coolest restaurants in Mexico City. it’s consistently celebrated for its innovative approach to traditional Mexican cuisine and is globally considered a standard-bearer for the modern Mexican gastronomic movement.
Pujol offers a tasting menu known as “Omakase Mexicano,” (Mexican omakase), which takes you on a curated journey through a variety of flavors and textures. One of the signature dishes is the “Mole Madre, Mole Nuevo,” which features a complex and layered mole sauce that has been aged for an extended period, reflecting the depth of Mexican cuisine.
Where? Tennyson 133, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11570 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
8. Quintonil
Set in the chic Polanco neighborhood, Quitonil is another restaurant in Mexico City that you shouldn’t miss.
Opened in 2012 by Chef Jorge Vallejo and his wife Alejandra Flores, Quintonil has quickly become a staple in the city. It’s known for its fresh, sustainable, and locally sourced ingredients and for celebrating Mexico’s rich biodiversity and gastronomic heritage.
The food at Quintinil reinterprets many traditional recipes with innovative techniques and a modern twist. The menu is constantly evolving and usually changes depending on seasonality.
Where? Av. Isaac Newton 55, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
9. Masala y Maiz
Masala y Maíz is one of the lesser-known yet coolest restaurants in Mexico City for its fusion of flavors from South Asia, East Africa, and Mexico.
The name itself reflects this blend, combining “masala,” indicative of South Asian spice mixes, with “maíz,” the Spanish word for corn, which is a staple ingredient in Mexican cuisine.
This culinary venture is the brainchild of chefs Norma Listman and Saqib Keval, who draw upon their respective Mexican and Indian-East African heritages to create a menu that marries these rich food traditions.
Here, you can expect to taste bold and complex flavors and completely new blends that are perfect if you’re in the mood for something completely new to your taste buds!
Where? Calle Marsella 72, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, 06600 Juárez, CDMX, Mexico
10. Nicos
A little further afield, you’ll find Nicos. This restaurant has constantly won international awards despite being outside the usual tourist route, which makes it ideal if you want to explore Mexico City off the beaten path.
Nicos is not only a place to eat; it is a destination for those who wish to experience the soul of Mexican cuisine.
Opened in 1957, Nicos offers a menu that respects and preserves the classic flavors and techniques of the country’s rich culinary heritage.
The ambiance at Nicos is one of understated elegance and warmth, combining the comfort of a family-run establishment with a fine dining experience.
Moreover, the restaurant offers an extensive selection of tequilas and mezcals, as well as a carefully curated wine list.
Where? Av. Cuitláhuac 3102, Claveria, Azcapotzalco, 02080 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
11. La Docena
La Docena is one of the most classic and coolest restaurants in Mexico City.
La Docena offers a menu that emphasizes fresh seafood and high-quality ingredients, with a particular focus on oysters and other shellfish, making it one of the most popular Oyster bars in the city.
The restaurant’s culinary offerings showcase a mix of traditional and contemporary seafood dishes, ranging from raw bar selections like ceviches, aguachiles, and tartares, to cooked specialties such as grilled octopus, fish tacos, and a variety of tostadas.
Of course, its oyster selection is a central feature, with options to enjoy them raw on the half shell or prepared in unique styles that highlight their freshness and flavor.
Where? Av. Álvaro Obregón 31, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico and Av. Homero 135, Chapultepec Morales, Polanco V Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, 11560 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
12. Maximo Bistrot
Located in the Roma Norte neighborhood, Máximo Bistrot is a popular eatery renowned for its daily-changing menu that showcases super fresh local and sustainable ingredients.
Under the leadership of Chef Eduardo García, the restaurant merges Mexican and European culinary traditions, creating refined and flavorful dishes that have garnered widespread acclaim. The best way to describe the food here is “farm-to-table”, and combined with its cozy atmosphere, it’s definitely one of the coolest restaurants in Mexico City.
Where? Av. Álvaro Obregón 65 Bis, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
13. Sud 777
Sud 777, located in the upscale neighborhood of Jardines del Pedregal in Mexico City, is a contemporary restaurant known for its innovative approach to cuisine and its stylish, modern ambiance and open spaces decorated with lush greenery.
The restaurant is led by Chef Edgar Núñez, who is recognized for his dedication to fresh, local ingredients and his creative culinary techniques.
The menu at Sud 777 is known for its contemporary Mexican cuisine with global influences. Here, you’ll be able to taste dishes that are artfully presented and flavors crafts using different culinary techniques.
Sud 777 offers a variety of dining experiences, including a la carte options, tasting menus, and a casual lounge area where you can enjoy smaller plates and cocktails. Make sure to also stop by the bar, which serves an array of innovative cocktails and a selection of fine wines.
Where? Blvrd de la Luz 777, Jardines del Pedregal, Álvaro Obregón, 01900 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
14. El Cardenal
If a classic is what you’re after, El Cardenal is one of your best options in the city.
El Cardenal is celebrated for its breakfasts, which are considered by many to be among the best in the city. You’ll find a variety of traditional Mexican breakfast dishes, including freshly baked bread, pastries, and a range of egg dishes, such as huevos rancheros and huevos a la Mexicana.
If you’re looking for lunch or dinner, its menus feature a wide selection of classic Mexican dishes such as mole, a complex and flavorful sauce served over meat; escamoles, which are ant larvae considered a delicacy; and nopal dishes made from the indigenous cactus plant.
Where? C. de la Palma 23, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico, Av. Juarez 70, Colonia Centro, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06050 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico, Av. de la Paz 32, San Ángel, Álvaro Obregón, 01000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico, and other locations all over the city
15. Rosetta
Set in a stunning early 20th-century mansion in the Roma neighborhood, Rosetta is one of the coolest restaurants in Mexico City thanks to its innovative approach to Italian cuisine with a distinct Mexican influence and its striking interior design.
The interior is adorned with lush greenery, including hanging plants and indoor trees, which create a gorgeous environment.
The cuisine at Rosetta is rooted in Italian tradition but is thoughtfully infused with local Mexican elements, resulting in unique and flavorful dishes.
The pasta is made in-house and is often a highlight, alongside a variety of antipasti, main courses, and artisanal bread.
Where? Colima 166, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
With this guide to Mexico City’s coolest restaurants, you’re set to embark on a memorable culinary tour. Enjoy the rich tapestry of flavors that these top dining spots have to offer, and dive into the heart of the city’s gastronomic excellence. Happy dining!
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