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MEXICO CITY SHORTLIST: CURRENT FAVORITES IN CDMX

Since last year I have visited CDMX at least 6-7 times. As of recently I have been living in Mexico City more permanently which I discuss in my newsletter, ‘ I TOLD YOU SO’ here. I spent the last year experiencing different pockets of the city and found it an amazing exercise to create a FULL MEXICO CITY GUIDE as a way to stay curious and satiated my constant desire to seek. I really loved getting to know more of my surroundings while supporting local businesses. The full CDMX GUIDE for those of you looking for an entire lifestyle experience in: Design, Galleries, Shops, Bookstores, Wine bars is available for purchase here. It is truly a magical city and I hope you get as swept as I have.

FRIDAY

C- LARDO

Hip Mexican-European fusion joint serving brunch. I like sitting at the bar and having a tea to start the morning before the crowd when the sun is creeping in. I also enjoy the baked goods from the famous Panadería Rosetta that are also served here, minus the wait. [Cardamom or guava pastry] (CONDESA)

B- MALCRIADO

Cute for relaxed vibes. We like going here for a very chill breakfast. It’s nice to sit outside and enjoy the simple vibes.[Chilaquiles or salmon+ eggs if you go for lunch, beet salad](CONDESA)

L- FUGAZ

Hip joint in Roma Norte, Juarez adjacent. Incredible tostados, r&b music and perfect casual CDMX lunch experience. Menu changes along with the fresh ingredients. Feels contemporary, cool, relaxed. Small place and are only open Thursday- Sat 2-10PM + Sunday 2-6PM [Shrimp tostado, avocado tostada, tuna + winter tomatoes](ROMA NORTE)

D- MARMOTA

PNW USA Vibes.Open fire cooking,  Elevated + Rustic. [Cornish hen, steak ,green salad, hamachi](ROMA NORTE)

SATURDAY

C- PANADERIA ROSETTA

Croissants, coffee, & pastries in a beautiful-chic space filled with plants, plus a terrace. Rustic and a cult classic for good reason. There is also a second location Panaderia Rosetta Puebla which I’d suggest after the first visit if you want to skip the longer line[Guava pastry or cardamom pastry](ROMA NORTE)

B- TRUCHA

THE cutest cafe in Roma Norte. Their food is so fresh, delicious, and their homemade baguettes are unparalleled. The owner is adorable and so sweet! Breads & baked goods are handmade and spectacular. [Eggs w/ sage or olive oil cake with guava is INSANE :)] (ROMA NORTE)

L- MADONNA

Clean, bright and open kitchen dining concept. Delicious pizzas- traditional versions, different combos, also vegan options. The pasta and salads were lovely to share around the table[Pizza, salad, pistachio ice cream] (ROMA NORTE)

D- CHOZA

Easily one of our favorite restaurants in the entire city. We go almost every week :) It’s an absolute vibe, eclectic, and delicious food. You can’t make reservations so go early around 5pm. It’s a wouldn’t miss spot [Smash burger, grilled pork, grilled chicken, salted chocolate chip cookie] (ROMA NORTE- CUAHTEMOC)


SUNDAY

C- QUENTIN

It’s a staple for a reason. One of the better matches in town and also lovely pastry and coffee selection. It’s a feel good spot especially if you sit on Amsterdam in Condesa. I have also always met cool people from around the world here. [matcha, banana bread](CONDESA)

B- COMAL OCULTO

Authentic Mexican food. Quaint spot in San Miguel Chapultepec which is a charming neighborhood to gallery hop. [Enmolada with chicken, jicama quesadilla, flauta, taco de chumorro, jugo del dia] (SAN MIGUEL CHAPULTEPEC)

or MENDL

Also owned by the owners of Quentin. They do a good breakfast. Retro diner feels inspired by NY and European deli culture. Thoughtful curation and casual comfort done right. Also convent location in the heart of Hipodromo Condesa one of my favorite areas. [Pastrami, Bagels, Traditional Breakfast, Burger] (CONDESA)

L- EXPENDIO DE MAIZ

Located in Roma Norte, this place totally flips the script on traditional restaurants. Only 10 tables, no reservations, and forget about a menu! Straight from Jesús Tornés family traditions, they dish up Oaxacan and Guerrero treats like rare bananas, exotic fruits, agave spirits, and special heirloom beans. Think banana moles, bean quesadillas, and hoja santa tacos, giving you a taste of unique regional flavors every time you visit. A very special and unique experience. [if asked about dietary restrictions mention that you don’t eat pear, trust me on this one] (ROMA NORTE-CUAUHTEMOC)

D- MAIZAJO

Taco love. Amazing blue corn tortillas. Elevated street taco vendors in CDMX. Cool standing counter option (looking into the kitchen) in addition to a more formal dining room.The garnish bar is fantastic — pickled veggies, cactus, guac etc. [suadero+ brisket tacos]( COLONIA CONDESA- CUAUHTEMOC)

ALT - MARI GOLD or MASALA Y MAIZ

Only reason this isn’t at the top is because location is in San Miguel Chapultepec (which I love) but typically is off the beaten path for those making a short trip. I love the area for gallery hopping and think this is worth a visit if you have the time. Incredible Indian Mexican menu from the proprietor’s second restaurant (Masala y Maiz - 1st) in CDMX. It’s a tight spot and you sit at a communal table so if you’re not comfortable with either, keep that in mind. The food is expertly prepared and delicious, using a mix of techniques, ingredients, and preparation from both Indian and Mexican cooking. [Sabudana vada, doubles, pancakes, grilled cheese gughra, and molote tikki] (SAN MIGUEL CHAPULTEPEC OR JUAREZ )

My CDMX favorites eb and flow as the city does. There are so many robust places to visit. I like to keep you up to date on noteworthy experiences that leave us wanting more whether it be shops, vintage, galleries, parks, farmers markets, wine bars, workout classes etc. I keep the updated list within our full Mexico City Guide here.