Today I am revealing a secret I have been gatekeeping for years: my ultimate guide to Mexico City. I am a Chilanga, whose Mexico City roots go back multiple generations. I grew up in la Colonia San Jerónimo until my family moved to South Florida when I was twelve. My extended family still lives there and I go back to visit several times a year. I have made a habit of weekend trips to CDMX due to its affordability and proximity to Miami.
As a native, I have become the go-to resource for what to eat, see and do in Mexico City. Friends (and friends-of-friends) look to me for a local’s perspective to avoid pesky tourist traps. Over the years, I have compiled a list of my tried-and-true staples, sprinkled with the latest hot spots. The list has made the rounds with my inner circle BUT today is the first time I share it publicly. I figured it was time to share the wealth.
The list below is by no means comprehensive. Rather, it should serve as a jumping-off point for building your itinerary. I focused on highlighting unassuming places I have loved since I was a niña, places you won’t find in a travel guide. While there will be some overlap, you should supplement it with more current resources like Michelin Guide, World’s 50 Best Bars, and TimeOut. Mexico City has A LOT to offer—old and new. In fact, I encourage you to add your own “Mexico City musts” in the comments below. I will certainly keep adding to the list as I recall or discover new places worth your time. Happy travels!
Traditional Mexican Restaurants – Breakfast and Coffee
- Fonda Margarita – casual, traditional Mexican breakfast dishes
- Sanborns Café – casual, traditional Mexican breakfast dishes inside a department store. Several locations
- Delirio Monica Patino – casual, coffee and limited menu of traditional Mexican breakfast dishes
- El Bajío – casual, menu of traditional Mexican breakfast dishes
- Postales de Cafe – casual, coffee house with pastries
- Quentin Café – casual, coffee house with pastries
- Terraza Gran Hotel de Mexico – buffet style brunch with unique views of the Zócalo plaza
Hi, I'm Margarita. 