8 of Mexico City’s hottest restaurants that are pure Instagram gold
The city’s electric culinary scene spans everything from homey to high-end, with eateries like El Balcón del Zócalo, Lalo! and Contramar counting among the favourite haunts of tourists and locals alike
There are many reasons to love Mexico City: it has been said that its museum count is one of the highest in the world, while the past few years have seen the city dubbed as “the new Berlin”, provoking many passionate debates.
But there is one thing we all can agree on: Mexico City is a phenomenal foodie paradise. The electric culinary scene has it all: quirky, hip-as-hell hotspots; homey joints that serve the modern and the traditional; and high-end eateries serving innovative dishes that are as incredible as their Instagram-perfect design features.
Care to dine on a gigantic balcony that boasts the most cinematic of city views? How about eating inside a majestic mansion? We realise that the options are potentially overwhelming, so we’re here to help. Read on for some of our favourite restaurants in Mexico’s sprawling capital.
El Balcón del Zócalo
If you understand Spanish, you already have an idea of what to expect before entering El Balcón del Zócalo. The restaurant’s name translates to “the balcony of Zócalo”. In other words, the spot – which is a favourite among locals – offers a sublime panorama of Zócalo, the common name for the main square in Centro Histórico. The iconic star of the view, the Metropolitan Cathedral, is pure Instagram gold, but, thankfully, so is the menu.
There’s classic guacamole, artfully created by a server tableside, as well as several beef and seafood dishes. Try each and every tostada – no one’s judging. And then there’s what’s likely compelling for a first-time visitor: fava beans tostada with buttered escamoles. Escamole is what’s known as Mexican caviar. The delicacy, native to Central Mexico, resembles a sea of pine nuts, but in reality, you’re eating ant larvae. Delicious – and pricey.
Don’t write off El Balcón del Zócalo as an intimidatingly upscale-feeling restaurant: it’s fun, fab and friendly. It’s popular among groups of friends catching up over cocktails and the stunning view. Make sure to save room for the dragon fruit and raspberry cardamom ice cream. And stay for the sunset.
Address: Av. 5 de Mayo 61, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, 06000 Mexicali, CDMX, Mexico