Photo credit: www.eater.com
After spending an exhilarating three days in Mexico City, I return filled with memories of its vibrant culinary scene. Although I could have easily extended my stay for weeks, exploring countless restaurants, bakeries, taco stands, and bars, I made the most of my time by following recommendations from friends and engaging with locals eager to share their dining favorites. Below, I highlight five remarkable establishments that truly left a mark on my palate.
A taco that haunts my cravings: Our taco adventure was intense, sampling various spots each day to share a diverse array of flavors. Over the course of three days, I savored at least 20 distinct tacos, each unique and delicious. The one that lingers in my mind is the chile relleno taco from Taqueria La Hortaliza, a charming eatery near Chapultepec Park. Famous for its tacos guisado and even featured in a taco-themed documentary, this place came highly recommended. The star of the show was the vegetarian option, which featured a crispy poblano pepper stuffed with cheese and tomato sauce, enhanced by a spicy red salsa. This combination created a flavor profile that was both savory and sweet, offering a taco experience unlike any I had before.
A leisurely lunch extravaganza: Navigating the Spanish-only menu at Mi Compa Chava proved challenging, compounded by technical issues with a QR code menu. Nevertheless, we were able to indulge in a generous selection of both raw and cooked seafood. The ambiance was lively, accentuated by the Clamatos we enjoyed. I was particularly taken by the vibrant design of the restaurant, which prompted me to purchase a colorful tote as a keepsake. Reflecting on the experience, I wish we had a larger group to take on the impressive seafood tower that many others were relishing.
A splurge-worthy dining experience: While visiting Mexico City doesn’t necessitate splurging on an extravagant meal, indulging in a tasting menu at a Michelin-starred restaurant like Pujol showcases the deep appreciation for Mexican culinary techniques and ingredients. The dining experience here was exceptional, marked by stunning decor and exquisite service. The menu balanced beloved classics, such as baby corn with mole, alongside innovative dishes. This was my second visit to Pujol, reaffirming its status as a must-visit spot for food enthusiasts.
The cocktail destination: My interest piqued by the concept of Las Brujas, a women-run cocktail bar featuring a comic book-style menu inspired by historical female figures. This bar provided not only a unique theme but also my favorite cocktail from the trip — La Matlazihua. Combining mezcal, grasshopper brine, and chamomile liqueur, topped with a sprinkle of dried chapulines, this drink was a revelation with its earthy and herbaceous flavors, all within a cozy and inviting atmosphere.
A culinary souvenir: Renowned for its exceptional tortillas, Maizajo prepares each tortilla in-house using a traditional nixtamalization process. Watching the skilled staff craft these tortillas from my vantage point at the standing counter was captivating. We sampled various tacos, including a beloved cheese and longaniza option. However, the highlight was purchasing several packs of their handmade tortillas to take home, allowing me to share a taste of Mexico City with my friends and family.
For those seeking further culinary inspiration, I recommend exploring the recent compilation of our top dining recommendations this spring, which features everything from Caribbean restaurants celebrating Carnival to the best restaurants in Orlando. This list undoubtedly ignites a desire for future adventures in food.
Source
www.eater.com