Mexico City Food Tour: Best Eats & Local Markets

Whether you’re a seasoned foodie or just someone looking to indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine, Mexico City offers many culinary experiences. From fine dining to street food, local markets to cocktail bars, the city promises to satisfy all your cravings. Here’s a guide to the best places to eat in Mexico City, perfect for any food lover exploring the city’s diverse food offerings.

As you explore Mexico City and enjoy all the incredible food, it’s important to have a place to store your luggage so you can move freely. Nannybag Mexico City luggage storage offers convenient luggage storage facilities throughout the city, making it easy to store your luggage while you explore. Whether you need to store your luggage in Mexico City for a few hours or a few days, Nannybag offers secure luggage lockers and the ability to book luggage storage online.

1. Pujol – A Modern Take on Traditional Mexican Cuisine

One of the most famous fine dining establishments in Mexico City, Pujol, is a must-visit for anyone wanting to experience Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. Led by Chef Enrique Olvera, Pujol offers a sophisticated and creative approach to traditional Mexican dishes, often using indigenous ingredients in new and exciting ways. The restaurant is known for its tasting menus, with dishes like mole madre and their signature tacos de baby corn taking classic Mexican flavors to new heights.

2. Quintonil – A Tribute to Mexican Food Heritage

Another fine dining destination, Quintonil, brings traditional Mexican food to the forefront, focusing on regional ingredients and the country's rich culinary traditions. With dishes like cactus salad, chile en nogada, and a variety of sustainable seafood options, Quintonil celebrates the diverse flavors of Mexican cuisine. The restaurant’s innovative approach has earned it accolades as one of the top restaurants in Latin America, making it a perfect spot for those looking to experience the sophistication of modern Mexican food.

3. Mercado de la Merced – A Food Lover’s Paradise

Mercado de la Merced is a must-visit if you're seeking an authentic and vibrant food market. This bustling market in the heart of Mexico City is a paradise for food lovers, offering everything from fresh produce to exotic ingredients. The market is also home to numerous food stalls where you can sample traditional Mexican dishes such as tamales, tacos al pastor, and barbacoa. This is a great place to taste some of the city's most beloved street food and learn about the pre-Hispanic ingredients that have shaped Mexican cuisine.

4. Mercado de San Juan – Gourmet Market Experience

For a slightly more upscale market experience, head to Mercado de San Juan. Located in the historic center of Mexico City, this market specializes in gourmet and exotic ingredients, such as fresh truffles, specialty meats, and premium seafood. It's also a great spot to sample high-end Mexican food, with food counters offering everything from ceviche to tacos de langosta (lobster tacos). Mercado de San Juan is the perfect place for foodies looking for rare and unique Mexican culinary delights.

5. El Moro – A Sweet Mexican Tradition

For a sweet treat, El Moro is a must-try. Founded in 1935, this iconic churro stand has become a beloved institution in Mexico City. Located in the historic center, it’s the perfect spot to enjoy hot, fresh churros dipped in rich Mexican chocolate. El Moro’s churros are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, making them the ultimate comfort food. Whether you're stopping by for a quick snack or sitting down to enjoy a leisurely treat, El Moro offers a taste of traditional Mexican sweets that can’t be missed.

6. Tacos El Vilsito – Street Food at Its Finest

For a true taste of Mexico City’s legendary street food, head to Tacos El Vilsito. This unassuming taco stand is known for its mouthwatering al pastor tacos on a corn tortilla, a Mexican favorite made from marinated pork that’s slow-cooked on a vertical rotisserie. El Vilsito is one of the best taco spots in the city, offering delicious tacos with tender, flavorful meat and a variety of salsas to top them off. Open late into the night, it’s the perfect spot for a late-night snack after a long day of exploring.

7. La Casa de las Enchiladas – Traditional Mexican Dishes

Enchiladas are one of Mexico's most beloved dishes, and La Casa de las Enchiladas is the perfect place to try them. This charming restaurant specializes in enchiladas filled with various meats, cheeses, and vegetables, all smothered in rich, flavorful sauces. Whether you prefer your enchiladas with red sauce, green sauce, or mole, La Casa de las Enchiladas offers options to suit every palate. It’s the perfect spot for anyone craving an authentic Mexican dish in a cozy, traditional setting.

8. Nicos – A Modern Mexican Dining Experience

Nicos is a modern Mexican restaurant that combines traditional Mexican flavors with contemporary culinary techniques. The restaurant showcases the flavors of Mexico’s regions with a menu that includes dishes like duck with mole, slow-cooked lamb, and various seafood preparations. The cozy ambiance, excellent service, and inventive menu make Nicos a top choice for those exploring Mexican cuisine beyond the usual street food.

9. Lalo! – Trendy Neighborhood Eatery

Lalo! is a trendy spot in the Roma neighborhood, offering a casual yet vibrant dining experience. The menu features a mix of Mexican and international dishes, with plenty of options for vegetarians and meat lovers alike. The atmosphere is lively and laid-back, with an open kitchen where diners can watch the chefs at work. Lalo! is known for its creative twists on traditional Mexican food, offering unique items like “Mexican-style” burgers, ceviche, and tamales.

10. Maison Belén – An Elegant Cocktail Bar

No food tour in Mexico City would be complete without a visit to a cocktail bar. Maison Belén, located in the trendy Condesa neighborhood, offers a unique mix of French and Mexican influences in its cocktail creations. With a menu that emphasizes fresh, local ingredients, the drinks here truly reflect Mexico's modern cocktail culture. Whether you’re enjoying a mezcal cocktail or sipping on a classic margarita, Maison Belén provides a sophisticated atmosphere to enjoy a drink after a day of eating your way through the city.

11. Torre Latinoamericana – View and Dine

For a memorable dining experience with a view, head to the Torre Latinoamericana. Located in the heart of Mexico City, this iconic skyscraper offers stunning panoramic views of the city skyline. At the top of the tower, you’ll find a revolving restaurant serving traditional Mexican food with a modern twist.

12. Plaza de la Constitución – Explore Local Street Food

The Plaza de la Constitución, or Zócalo, is the main square in Mexico City and a prime location to explore both the city’s history and food scene. Surrounded by landmarks such as the Metropolitan Cathedral and the National Palace, this square is the city. While you take in the historic sites, be sure to visit the street vendors offering everything from tacos to elotes (grilled corn on the cob) and tamales.