Mexico City

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Contra Mar is a seafood restaurant that offers a unique take on traditional Mexican cuisine. Their ceviche is a must-try, and the ambiance is perfect for a casual dining experience. The best time to visit is during lunch or early dinner. An insider tip is to pair your meal with one of their craft cocktails for a refreshing experience.

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Famous for its churros and hot chocolate, Churrería El Moro is a delightful treat for families. The rich, thick hot chocolate pairs perfectly with their freshly made churros. Ideal for an afternoon snack or dessert, it's best to visit during off-peak hours to enjoy a more relaxed experience.

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This unique cafe-bookstore offers a cozy atmosphere with floor-to-ceiling bookshelves, making it a perfect spot for families to relax and enjoy a good book. They serve delicious coffee and pastries. Ideal for a quiet afternoon, it's best to visit during weekdays when it's less crowded. Consider attending one of their book readings or events for a special experience.

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Homare is a special dining destination known for its exquisite Japanese cuisine. It's a perfect way to end your trip with a memorable dinner.

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Pandora Rooftop offers stunning views of the city and a great dining experience. It's a perfect place to enjoy dinner while taking in the skyline.

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Maizajo is known for its authentic Mexican cuisine and is a great spot for lunch after exploring the Zocalo and Palacio de Bellas Artes.

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Lardo is known for its delicious breakfast options, featuring fresh ingredients and a cozy atmosphere. Popular dishes include their pastries and egg dishes. It's a great spot to start your day before exploring the city.

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Caracol de Mar is a unique restaurant located in a hidden hotel in the historic center of Mexico City, specializing in Mexican and Peruvian cuisine under the direction of renowned chef Gabriela Cámara, known for her work at Contramar. The menu features delicious ceviches, aguachiles, and tostadas, making it a must-visit for food lovers. The ambiance is cozy and beautiful, and the presence of small shops inside adds to its charm. Best time to visit is during lunch or dinner hours to enjoy the full menu. Insider tip: Don't miss the ceviche, and consider visiting during weekdays to avoid crowds.

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Tacos El VilSito is known for its delicious tacos, particularly the al pastor, which is a must-try for any taco lover. The vibrant atmosphere and quick service make it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. Best time to visit is during lunch hours when the place is bustling with energy. Insider tip: arrive early to avoid long lines.

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Los Cocuyos is a traditional taqueria established in 1980, renowned for its suadero and tripita tacos. This casual eatery is perfect for satisfying cravings with family or friends, especially in the historic center of Mexico City. Recommended dishes include the taco de suadero, taco de tripa, and gringa de pastor, with an average cost of around $100 MXN per person. The vibrant atmosphere and authentic flavors make it a must-visit for taco lovers. Best time to visit is during lunch or early dinner to avoid long lines. Insider tip: arrive early to enjoy the freshest tacos and immerse yourself in the local culture.

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Hanky Panky is a renowned speakeasy-style bar in Mexico City, celebrated for its innovative cocktails and exceptional service. The bar offers a unique experience with a cozy atmosphere and a menu that features both classic and contemporary drinks. Signature cocktails often include locally sourced ingredients, making it a must-visit for cocktail enthusiasts. The best time to visit is during the evening when the ambiance is vibrant, and reservations are recommended due to its popularity. Insider tip: Look out for their seasonal specials and don't hesitate to ask the bartenders for personalized recommendations.

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Masala y Maíz is a unique restaurant in Mexico City that blends traditional Mexican flavors with Indian cuisine, creating a fusion that is both innovative and delicious. Must-try dishes include their mole, which is a rich and complex sauce, and various Indian-inspired dishes that incorporate local ingredients. The atmosphere is vibrant and welcoming, making it a great spot for both casual dining and special occasions. The best time to visit is during lunch or dinner hours, especially on weekends when they often have special menus. Insider tip: Be sure to try their seasonal offerings, as they frequently change their menu based on fresh ingredients available.

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Huset is a popular restaurant located in the vibrant Roma Norte neighborhood of Mexico City, known for its beautiful garden-like settings that create a serene dining atmosphere. The restaurant offers a casual yet elegant experience, making it perfect for brunch on sunny days. Guests can enjoy dishes such as burrata with smoked cherry tomatoes, mustard, and corn, as well as homemade pasta with bacon, sour cream, wild mushrooms, and winter truffles. The best time to visit is during the day when you can appreciate the outdoor space. Insider tip: Make a reservation for brunch to secure a good spot, especially on weekends when it gets busy.

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Maximo Bistrot is a renowned farm-to-table restaurant in Mexico City, celebrated for its fresh ingredients and innovative dishes. Notable menu items include their baked onion, ribeye steak, and a delightful French toast. The ambiance is cozy and inviting, making it perfect for both casual meals and special occasions. The best time to visit is during lunch when the menu features seasonal specialties. Insider tip: Make a reservation in advance, as it can get quite busy, especially on weekends.

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Panaderia Rosetta is renowned as the #1 rated bakery in Mexico City, famous for its exquisite pastries and artisanal bread. Visitors should try their croissants and various cookies, which are highly praised. To avoid long lines, it's best to visit the location closer to Condesa during weekdays. The bakery's ambiance is cozy, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely breakfast or afternoon snack. The best time to visit is early in the morning when the pastries are freshly baked. Insider tip: arrive early to enjoy the full selection and consider trying their seasonal offerings.

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Lalo! is a vibrant breakfast spot in Mexico City known for its lively atmosphere and colorful decor. The restaurant offers a diverse menu with standout items like their hot cakes, which are fluffy pancakes topped with fresh fruit, and a rich mocha latte that complements the meal perfectly. The eggs are also a highlight, cooked to perfection whether you prefer them scrambled or sunny-side-up. The best time to visit is during breakfast hours to enjoy the morning vibe. Insider tip: arrive early to avoid the rush and secure a good spot to soak in the ambiance.

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Fugaz is a cozy restaurant located in the Roma Norte neighborhood of Mexico City, known for its delicious avocado tostada and guava panna cotta. This spot is a must-try for foodies visiting CDMX, especially since it has been recognized by the Michelin Guide. When visiting, be sure to try the avocado tostada, which is a fresh and flavorful dish, and the guava panna cotta, a delightful dessert that showcases local flavors. The best time to visit is during lunch or dinner hours when the atmosphere is lively. Insider tip: make a reservation if possible, as this place can get busy due to its popularity.

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Quintonil is a highly acclaimed fine dining restaurant in Mexico City, known for its innovative Mexican cuisine and commitment to local ingredients. The restaurant has been awarded two Michelin stars and is celebrated for its tasting menu, which often features dishes like duck with mole and seasonal vegetables. The ambiance is elegant yet welcoming, making it perfect for special occasions. The best time to visit is during dinner service, and it's advisable to make a reservation well in advance due to its popularity. Insider tip: try the signature dish and pair it with a local wine for a complete experience.

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Tetetlan offers a unique breakfast experience with a focus on traditional Mexican dishes. It's a great way to fuel up for a day of exploring Coyoacán.

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Mercado Medellin is one of the most vibrant fruit markets in Mexico City, known for its wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and local delicacies. Visitors can enjoy sampling exotic fruits like dragon fruit and pitaya, as well as traditional Mexican snacks. The market is bustling with energy, making it a perfect spot for photography and immersing oneself in local culture. The best time to visit is in the morning when the market is lively and the produce is at its freshest. Insider tip: Don't miss trying the fresh juices and smoothies available from various vendors!

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Expendio de Maíz Sin Nombre is a unique Michelin-star restaurant located in the Roma Norte neighborhood of Mexico City. What makes this place special is its unconventional dining experience; there is no menu, and diners are served a series of courses until they decide to stop. This trust-the-chef approach emphasizes fresh, seasonal ingredients, often sourced directly from local farms. The dishes are simple yet expertly prepared, allowing the natural flavors of the produce to shine. It's recommended to visit during lunch or early dinner to fully enjoy the vibrant atmosphere. Insider tip: Arrive early as there are no reservations, and be prepared for a delightful culinary adventure where surprises await at every turn.