Below, you’ll find a curated, but not exhaustive, list of some of our favorite spots, mostly located in the neighborhoods where you’ll be staying: Roma, Condesa, and Juárez.
Three disclaimers:
This guide admittedly leans gringo. Go to Guillermo’s Master List for a more comprehensive list, including some more adventurous dining options. Please wait until AFTER the wedding to try delicious street food at risk of getting Montezuma’s revenge.
This list focuses mainly on our favorite things—food and shopping! While Mexico City boasts incredible museums and cultural landmarks, we’ve only included a handful of those at the bottom of the page. Those classic landmarks are easy to find in any CDMX guide with a quick Google search, so we’ve chosen to curate recommendations that feel a little more personal.
Speaking of restaurants, we’re skipping many of the heavy-hitters and opting to share our personal favorites, regardless of public acclaim. While Enrique Olivera / Pujol is responsible for the globalization of high-end Mexican food, and Contramar put Mexican seafood (see: tuna tostadas) on the map, there are plenty of other options worth your attention.
PLEASE reach out if you’d like an opinion for reservations or prioritizing a day. In a past life, Guillermo was a full-time tour guide. It would make his day to help. And if you are staying longer, we also highly recommend stretching your legs and sights to other parts of this incredible city not prioritized here. For now, here are some of our favorites!
To our favorite people,
Besitos,
📌 GOOGLE MAPS TO SAVE
Guillermo’s Wedding Guide Map: Includes all places featured in this guide
Guillermo’s Master Mexico City Map: Includes over 300 of G’s favorite places 😅
How do I get around CDMX?
Mexico City is super walkable! Most of our recommendations are within the same general area and can be reached by foot. If not, we recommend booking Ubers. They are very affordable in CDMX and safe.
Is Mexico City safe?
Mexico City is very safe, especially the locations recommended in this guide. Just like traveling to Europe or Latin American countries, be attentive to your belongings.
Do I need to speak Spanish to get around?
No, definitely not! Most people speak English, and if not, use Google Translate to bridge the gap.
What shouldn’t I eat or drink?
Drink bottled or filtered water rather than tap water. To be extra careful, we recommend using bottled water to brush your teeth, but this is not a major concern. Don’t panic if you forget! Our bottle water brand preference is Ciel over En Pura.
Street food is delicious, but PLEASE stick to brick-and-mortar restaurants, especially popular spots with a high turnover of customers, as they’re generally fresher. After the wedding, you can do whatever you want.
If you have a sensitive stomach, take Pepto Bismol as a precaution. Medications like Cipro are your best bet if you start feeling sick. You can get them over the counter at any Mexican pharmacy (they are very helpful!)
Is Mexico City high altitude?
Yes it is! Mexico City is at 7,349′, which is technically considered high altitude. It’s not super high, and most people don’t experience altitude sickness, but some may experience headaches or just feel “off.” Try to stay hydrated and rest if you need it!
How do I make reservations?
Most restaurants use Open Table, so you can book ahead online. We’ve had luck walking into restaurants without a reservation, so don’t be afraid to try, especially if you’re a group of 2! Worst case you stop somewhere else and get a taco or glass of wine while you wait.
How does tipping work?
For bars & restaurants, 10-15% is standard (although we often tip 20%). For Uber or other rideshares, a small tip via the app is appreciated but optional.
Can restaurants accommodate allergies?
Most restaurants should be able to! Servers typically ask if you have allergies, like they do in the US, meaning kitchens are likely able to work with you. It might be harder at some smaller, hole-in-the-wall spots. Generally, service in Mexico is outstanding.
Mexico city is the largest city is North America, and the largest Spanish-speaking city in the world. You can’t see it all in one trip, but here are some neighborhoods you might want to explore.
We think of Roma as the Brooklyn of Mexico City, but we might like it even more. A little bohemian, we love its leafy street, hip coffee shops, and some of the city’s absolute best restaurants. Tied with Condesa for our favorite area to stay in CDMX, Roma always has a special place in our hearts.
Condesa is right next to Roma and the two spill into each other. Full of art deco buildings, tree-lined streets, and some of our favorite parks (always full of dogs). Ever-so-slightly more refined than Roma, we love the galleries, laid-back pace, and gorgeous bars & cafes.
Just north of Roma, Juarez is another one of our favorites. It’s the home of Zona Rosa (an area known for its nightlife, bars, clubs & restaurants) and some of our favorite spots to shop. Our wedding venue is also in Juárez!
The city’s historic core, packed with iconic landmarks like the Zócalo and Palacio de Bellas Artes, offers a glimpse into Mexico’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. It’s not a destination for our favorite meals, but a great cultural experience and worth making the time for if you have it. Easiest to Uber.
A peaceful, artsy enclave with cobblestone streets, vibrant markets, and the iconic Casa Azul (Frida Kahlo’s former home, now a museum). Easily accessible by Uber, Coyoacan is a perfect day or half-day trip. We love the colorful homes.
Polanco is the Upper East Side or Beverly Hills of CDMX. It’s posh. While that’s not totally our vibe, it is home to some incredible museums, designer boutiques, and famous restaurants.
Morning sunshine! Put on those chancletas and get that booty outside. It’s time to enjoy some of the best coffee and pastries the world has to offer (this is coming from two people who spent 10 days in Paris this summer). We like to get our morning coffee with a pastry (or two), followed by a proper breakfast after a nice walk.
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Panaderia Rosetta
Roma Norte (2 locations, we recommend the one on Colima)
You’ll find this on every recommendation list. It just belongs. We like to come to their bakery early in the morning and, at minimum, order their guava pastry, the cardamom bun, and the chocolate-vanilla concha. Their restaurant was also ranked 49th best in the world last year, so a good elevated dinner option, though we prioritize their bakery. -
IDDI'S
Condesa
Our friend Andrea runs this insanely delicious bakery/coffee shop! Owned by supremely talent ex-Marea chef Michelle. Give them hugs from us when you stop in and tell them we sent you. Iddis is part of a restaurant group that also includes Galea, another amazing restaurant. Iddis has lost of pastries that aren’t “breakfasty,” so this is a great stop for an afternoon snack, too. -
PASTELERIA IDEAL
Centro
CDMX’s OG and most famous bakery. A frenetic cultural experience that is worth witnessing. Grab a silver tray, tongs, and stack. Or just get the sweet bread (the rest is OK). Stop by here if you’re heading over to see the Historic District and make a morning/afternoon of it. If you’re prioritizing the best pastries or aren’t interested in the Historic District, this is OK to skip, but it’s a fun cultural experience.
MORE COFFEE WE LOVE
Kiyo (Juarez)
Cardinal (Roma/Condesa)
Quiasmo (Condesa)
Blend Station (multiple, Condesa location is great for work and worth seeing)
Café Avellaneda (Coyoacán)
MORE PASTERIES WE LOVE
Bou (specifically cinnamon rolls & kouign amon) (Roma)
Café Trucha (Roma)
Odette (Condesa)
Café Nin (a sit-down breakfast place, often with a line but very good) (Juarez)
We’re separating espresso + pastry from breakfast. It’s worth doing so in Mexico City to make sure you don’t miss anything, though many places on this list will offer pastries too, and they’ll be very well done. The most popular Mexican breakfast is chilaquiles. Think saucy, fried tortillas with eggs and other accouterments. Not a bad way to start the day. Many places on this list will double as great lunch options as well.
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Malcriado
Condesa
Jane and Bill (Alexandra’s parents)’s favorite breakfast in Mexico City! Lots of outdoor seating, a great spot for chilaquiles and egg sandwiches. -
Hule
Condesa
Screams Guillermo. Small and unassuming, great coffee, plays records, and has an unbelievable breakfast burrito (you rarely find burritos in Mexico). -
MAQUE CAFE
Condesa (a couple locations, the one linked here is the original)
Classic institution. Pastry baskets are brought around to start. Get the corn muffin. Fantastic entry point to chilaquiles as well. It's not our absolute favorite spot for a full meal/breakfast, but the CORN MUFFIN is worth popping in for. -
LARDO
Condesa
Executes everything well. Stunning space with indoor/outdoor seating. Can risk getting lucky during the week, but book ahead of time on weekends. -
CAFE TRUCHA
Roma
Come for a light meal including fantastic pastries and vibes next to Plaza Rio de Janeiro. -
CAFE NIN
Juarez
Guava pastry, pan dulce, berliners. Beautiful space that is ALWAYS poppin. Great breakfast before exploring Juarez. Go early or be prepared to wait, no reservations!
other Breakfast Spots by neighborhood
CONDESA: Frëims (for the pancakes outside), El Calmancito
ROMA: Bou (great pastries), Lalo! (a bit basic but very tasty crowd-pleasers), Madre Café (for a group)
JUAREZ: Cicatriz (Sit outside before a late morning of Juarez shopping. Also great for a snack and wine.)
CENTRO: El Cardenal (OG enchiladas/chilaquiles & hot chocolate).
A late and extended lunch tends to be the most popular meal for locals in Mexico City after a morning filled with pastries and hearty chilaquiles. The city has so much to offer, so we tend to opt for quick bites throughout the day and dig in for a longer dinner instead. This is where I’m including most of my favorite tacos recs, which can become an endless debate of personal preference. All in all, you can’t really go wrong.
That said, all guests should consider it required to go to Taqueria Orinoco. We recommend going there when you first arrive, so you’ll have time to sneak in another visit before your trip ends.
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MASALA Y MAIZ
Juarez
Dining at Norma & Saqib’s is an unforgettable experience that goes beyond the menu. Influenced by Indian, East African, and Mexican traditions, this is a gastronomic party with a touch of education on environmental and social justice themes. Norma & Saqib are labor condition advocates. Their dedication translates to their employees’ happiness and, thus, your plate. It’s a memorable dining experience, with eclectic and delicious dishes that will leave a lasting impression.
Note: they end service early, so you’ll have to go for lunch or a very early dinner. -
TAVERNA
Juarez
Take a break from shopping in Juarez and sit for some small dishes like dátiles rellenos de chorizo in a stunning multi-room restaurant reminiscent of an antique old house in the countryside that you wish you owned. It’s owned by the same people that own our wedding venue! -
Taqueria Orinoco
Multiple locations
Loved by tourists and locals alike, Orinoco pivots from the traditional corn tortilla (can still order) to produce the best flour tortillas you’ve ever had. Our favorite is the gringa especiales (large taco with smashed potatoes and sauces) with jamaica (hibiscus) agua fresca to drink. There are multiple locations, though we frequent the one on Av. Yucatán. Also open late night! Expert hack - sneak in some mezcal and pour it in your jamaica for an extra buzzy treat. -
Cariñito Tacos
Condesa
Executes everything well. Stunning space with indoor/outdoor seating. Can risk getting lucky during the week, but book ahead of time on weekends. -
El Pescadito
Condesa
Laid back, cafeteria-style fish and shrimp tacos feast paired with cold beer. A perfect for a casual group stop. Grab a handful of tacos, and don’t forget to load them up with a variety of salsas, tangy coleslaw & pickled red onions from their toppings bar.
other Lunch Spots By neighborhood
ROMA: Expendio de Maiz Sin Nombre (longer lunch with no menu), El Hidalguense (barbacoa Fri - Sun), Taco Santo Vegano (veg/vg), Por Siempre Vegana (vg)
CONDESA: Taqueria El Greco, Tacos Don Juan, Tacos Hola el Güero (inc veg/vg)
POLANCO: El Turix, Taquería La Onda
The paradox of choice continues. Mexico City delights on all variations of dinner - cheap and quick, casual and trendy, or elevated fine dining. Part of the beauty of eating here is that Mexican ingredients are a template of creativity - there is so much you can do with corn, beans, and peppers. What you’ll find eating here is an abundance of options that may be foundationally Mexican, but beautifully disrupted by foreign influences of flavor and cooking techniques.
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ESQUINA COMUN
Condesa
What began as a secret apartment restaurant in 2021 earned our favorite Mexican couple Carlos Perez-Puelles y Ana Dolores a Michelin star in 2024. It was an unexpected but well-deserved honor in the guide’s first-ever review of Mexico City. We first visited in 2021 and have stayed friends ever since. Their warmth, tenacity, and inspiring spirit amaze us each time we return. We’re incredibly lucky to share that they are providing the wine program for our wedding dinner! -
EM
Roma
Named after the chef’s daughter, this elevated dining option leans slightly more casual than its fine dining counterparts and has one of our favorite secret bars in 686 upstairs. Chef Lucho Martinez blends his Veracruz roots with Japanese influences to deliver a fun omakase-style meal (though they have an à la carte menu). This is one of those work of art meals against a minimal backdrop. You’ll enjoy this if you have time, want to splurge a little, and appreciate creative, exquisitely prepared small plates. -
LINA
Roma
We stumbled upon this gem during our last trip to CDMX. It was brand new and we were able to sneak seats at the bar (our favorite way to eat). Lina has a frequently rotating menu that exemplifies creative Mexican cooking at its finest. Think salad, crudo and steak/fish of the day kind of dinner. Can’t go wrong here.
other Dinner Spots by neighborhood
ROMA: Kill Bill Sushi, Huset (great for groups), Meroma, Máximo Bistrot, Galanga Thai House, Páramo
CONDESA: Hugo, Lardo, Canopia
REFORMA: MO+F
JUAREZ: Taverna, Masala y Maiz (read more about both of these spots under “Lunch & Quicker Meals” above!
Whether you're craving a mezcal negroni, a glass of natural wine, or a classic cocktail, CDMX delivers on every front. It’s easy to stumble upon gems on your own, but here are a few of our favorites. For our non-drinkers: most restaurants and bars will have N/A options. ¡Salud!
P.S. If you like an espresso martini, make sure to try a carajillo, a Mexican classic.
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HANDSHAKE SPEAKEASY
Juarez
Slightly hidden on the ground floor of a rather inconspicuous hotel in Juarez, this cocktail bar was just ranked as the best bar in the world. It’s our favorite as well. That’s it. -
LOUP BAR
Roma
Dimly lit and cozy wine and mezcal bar in Roma. One of our go-tos after dinner (they also serve great food). There’s also a very cute dog that works here. -
CAFE DE NADIE
Roma
Situated at the end of the beautiful El Parián in Roma, this is a great small group or bar seating spot with a DJ consistently spinning great vinyl records. We like coming as a precursor to dinner, but great vibe really anytime after 5pm. Also a solid end-of-the-night snack option.
Other cocktail & wine Bars by neighborhood
ROMA: Bar 686, Bar Las Brujas, Licoreria Limantour (another top rated bar), La Clandestina, Felix, Vigneron (wine), Local 1 (wine)
CONDESA: Canopia (we’ll be here Thursday night - great bites, natural wine), NIV, Bar Hugo (wine bar that primarily highlights wines from Valle de Guadalupe. Small plates are very good.), Shhh (hi-fi), Caiman
JUAREZ: Cicatriz (wine)
Mercados are core to the Mexican experience, whether you’re shopping for local foods for the week, handmade goods, or just cheap tchotchkes! They can be indoor/outdoor and many are worth carving time to experience. Do a little bit of research and prioritize based on where and how long you’re staying. (personally we like the mercados in Coyoacán) Otherwise, here is a list of actual storefronts we love, organized by neighborhood:
Condesa
Mooni - Our favorite art gallery planted in the middle of some great clothing stores. We always bring something home from here. There are two locations, go to the one in Condesa.
Rufina - Womenswear, home goods
For all Folks - Cosmetics
Hermanos Koumori - One of Guillermo’s favorite running brands
ROMA NORTE
Hussar - Our friend Osiris spent months designing this upcycled vintage clothing store that transports you to a past century somewhere we can’t fittingly describe. A must see. We’ll be hanging out here starting around 1pm on Friday (1/31). Our guests get 10% off from the store <3.
Womens/Menswear: 180 Shop, ZII Ropa, Aurelia, El Parián (beautiful shopping space)
Originario - Colorful artisanal pottery
JUAREZ
We always spend an afternoon walking Calle Havre and Marsella, where there are plenty of stores worth checking out.
Womens/Menswear: CHIHUAH, LERET LERET, Carla Fernández, Gramo (sunglasses), IKAL Men, Loose Blues
Home goods: Esperanza
Perfume: Xinú Perfumes (AB’s favorite perfume! Beautiful perfumery. There’s a better location in Polanco that’s worth exploring, but this one in Juarez is the next best option, and a little more convenient).
Avenida Ámsterdam - Our favorite walking path that loops around Parque México (also must go, especially for dog watching). Ideally you wake up, get a pastry and coffee, and take a lap before 9am without your phone if you can manage. Experience the sounds of the birds waking up, the sun striking through the lush trees, hitting the facades of the surrounding architecture. Blissful. Also a great stroll midday for multiple shopping stops!
Museums & Sites - Frida Kahlo Museum, Modern Art Museum (our favorite), Chapultepec Castle, Palacio de Bellas Artes, Museo Soumaya (this building is incredible), Anthropology Museum, Casa Estudio Luis Barragán
Coyoacán (neighborhood) - A fun half-day trip: visit the Frida Kahlo museum, colorful streets, and the Coyoacan market (especially on Saturday)
Bosque de Chapultepec - Guillermo’s favorite running destination, although it’s perfectly fine to just walk around. Think Central Park, just bigger (otherwise, running/biking is not great in CDMX besides Muévete en Bici on Sundays). Many of the museums mentioned above are in this park!