A foodie’s guide to Mexico City: from street tacos to fine dining

1. Street Food: The Heart of Mexico City's Culinary Scene

No trip to Mexico City is complete without sampling its renowned street food. Vendors line the streets with tantalizing smells of tacos, quesadillas, and elotes (corn on the cob). A must-try is the classic taco al pastor – thinly sliced marinated pork served with pineapple, onions, and cilantro on a soft tortilla. For a lighter bite, try tlacoyos, thick corn masa patties stuffed with beans, cheese, or nopales. These snacks offer a true taste of Mexico’s culinary culture at unbeatable prices.

2. Tacos: a Mexico City institution

While tacos are a staple across Mexico, the varieties found in CDMX are like no other. While traditional taco stands continue to serve up unforgettable tacos, Mexico City’s food scene is evolving, with new trendy taquerías gaining popularity among locals and visitors alike. Head to Maizajo for their mouth-watering, inventive takes on tacos al pastor, or check out Orinoco for a taste of the best tacos de trompo, a style similar to al pastor but with a slightly different seasoning. Atarantados offers a great mix of creative toppings, showcasing the modern twist on classic taco flavors. These taco spots offer both a fantastic meal and an inside look at the city’s evolving food scene.

3. Casual dining: local gems and hidden spots

For a more relaxed dining experience, head to Mexico City's vibrant neighborhoods like La Condesa, Roma, and Coyoacán. These areas are filled with cozy cafés, traditional restaurants, and trendy eateries that are perfect for a more laid-back food tour.

Café de Tacuba: A historic restaurant that blends traditional Mexican fare with a charming, rustic ambiance. Try the enchiladas or the famous mole poblano.

El Cardenal: A place where breakfast feels like a celebration – don’t miss their chilaquiles or the freshly baked pan dulce.

4. Fine dining: A Michelin-Star experience

Mexico City’s high-end dining scene rivals that of any major cosmopolitan city in the world. Many renowned chefs have turned the city into a culinary hotspot, blending traditional Mexican ingredients with modern techniques. If you're looking to indulge, these fine-dining restaurants offer elevated experiences:

Pujol: Frequently listed among the best restaurants in the world, chef Enrique Olvera’s Pujol offers modern Mexican cuisine that pushes boundaries while respecting traditional flavors. The mole madre is a signature dish here.

Quintonil: With its innovative approach to Mexican cuisine, Quintonil, led by chef Jorge Vallejo, combines locally sourced ingredients to create contemporary dishes that surprise and delight.

Sud 777: Known for its minimalist yet luxurious approach to Mexican flavors, Sud 777 offers creative dishes with a focus on sustainable and organic ingredients.

5. Sweet treats and desserts

Mexico City offers plenty of sweet indulgences to finish off your meal. For a dessert that is uniquely Mexican, try the creamy tres leches cake or churros dipped in warm chocolate sauce.

Head to El Moro for traditional churros, or visit Pastelería Suiza for an array of baked goods, from flaky empanadas to creamy flan.

6. International flavors: A global melting pot

Mexico City’s diverse population means you can find cuisines from all around the world. Whether you’re craving sushi, Italian pasta, or a taste of Middle Eastern spices, the city has it all. Be sure to check out La Docena for fresh seafood with a contemporary twist, or Maison Belén for French-inspired elegance in the heart of Polanco.

7. Markets and food Halls: a feast for the senses

For an authentic and immersive experience, visit one of the city’s bustling markets. Mercado Roma and Mercado de San Juan are perfect spots to sample a variety of dishes in one location. These food halls offer everything from traditional Mexican staples to gourmet bites, making them a must-visit for anyone seeking the true flavors of CDMX.

8. Vegetarian and vegan delights

If you’re looking for plant-based options, Mexico City is increasingly offering creative and delicious choices. Many restaurants now offer fully vegan menus, like Por Siempre Vegana or Panadería Rosetta for organic pastries. For a more upscale experience, Lalo! offers inventive vegetarian dishes that highlight the best of Mexico's agricultural bounty.

Whether you're strolling through the lively streets of La Condesa or enjoying a quiet dinner in the upscale Polanco district, Mexico City's culinary scene promises to leave you wanting more. The flavors of this vibrant city are as diverse as its culture, so no matter your taste or budget, there’s always something new to discover.

Enjoy your journey through Mexico City’s food culture, where every bite is a celebration of history, tradition, and innovation.