Once the capital of the Aztec empire, Mexico City has been a major hub of culture and politics for centuries. Today, Mexico's capital and largest city is known for a culinary scene packed with flavor and heat. The perfect destination if you’re feeling a bit chili.
✉️ You can receive our Bon Vivant selection of fresh reads on international culture, food & travel directly in your inbox. Subscribe here.
Located in the Valley of Mexico within the high Mexican central plateau, Mexico City is one of the most important financial cities in the world, home to vibrant nightlife, world-class museums, breathtaking architecture, and an incredible culinary scene. If you’re a foodie, then Mexico City should be at the top of your bucket list.
Quentin Miscelànea
Located in a trendy area with popular bars, restaurants, barber shops and street vendors on weekdays, Quentin Miscelànea is a popular café created by local coffee growers who made it their goal to bring quality beans to coffee lovers.
In addition to a good cup of coffee, Quentin Miscelànea it is also known for its selection of wines and specialty cocktails. A popular drink is the espressonic, which mixes espresso and tonic. If you're looking for something to eat, Quentin Miscelànea also has a bakery that serves pastries, bagels, and breakfast sandwiches throughout the day.
Chilakiller’s Loungería
Chilakiller’s Loungería is an excellent brunch/lunch location known for great service and huge portions at an affordable price.
The specialty here is chilaquiles, a traditional Mexican breakfast dish made with tortillas, accompanied by beef, chicken, cochinita pibil or scrambled eggs. You can also make your own mix, adding the final touch with cheese, beans, cream and onion. Vegetarian and vegan options include mushrooms, nopales cactus and pumpkin flowers, which are a few of the delicious ingredients that are also typical of Mexico.
Chilakiller’s Loungería also serves traditional desserts like arroz con leche, biscuits, and jelly with rompope.
EL Grand Abancio
Once a butcher shop in the working-class Colonia Tránsito neighborhood, today El Gran Abancio is a taquería specializing in carnitas (pork simmered in lard). Another highly recommended option is the costilla (rib) taco served with or without the bone – and piled on toppings such as nopales, fresh salsa, and whole beans. And locals love crumbling chicharrón (pork rinds) onto tacos to add a unique crispy texture.
El Bajío
When you eat at El Bajío, you're surrounded by Mexican culture both through the excellently prepared authentic dishes and the charming dining room with traditional arts and crafts. Owner Carmen Titita has made it her mission to make everyone feel welcome in her restaurant, creating an atmosphere that makes you feel as though you've been invited to a private dinner in her home. Regulars love specialty dishes like fried crab meat quesadillas and tostadas with chicken, minilla fish or pigs feet.
There are now several locations, but the original El Bajio is located in the northern part of the city in the district of Azcapotzalco.
Balcón del Zocalo
If you are looking for a restaurant and a view, Balcón del Zocalo is the place for you. Overlooking the Zocalo CDMX square, it offers a view of Mexico City’s unique architecture. It's important to show up early if you want a seat at Balcón del Zocalo because this place fills up with people from around the world.
This restaurant serves Mexican, Latin, International and fusion foods. Balcón del Zocalo allows guests to make their own combinations of entrees, main dishes, desserts, and specialty opinions for a unique dining experience.
