Condé Nast Traveler in Mexico City: 5 Spots

Researched by Varedelo

Planning notes for Mexico City

Must-try foods in Mexico City

• Tuna Tostadas
  Tuna TostadasIconic to the CDMX seafood scene, specifically popularized by Contramar. These feature fresh, raw tuna slices atop a crispy tortilla with chipotle mayo, avocado, and crispy leeks. They represent the city's sophisticated 'mariscos' culture that continues to trend into 2026.
• Mole Madre, Mole Sofisticado
  Mole Madre, Mole SofisticadoA hallmark of the city's fine-dining evolution, particularly at Pujol. This dish features a circle of 'Mole Madre' (aged for thousands of days) surrounding a center of fresh 'Mole Nuevo.' It is a deep, complex exploration of Mexican heritage that remains a top global culinary draw.
• Chilaquiles Rellenos
  Chilaquiles RellenosA trending 2026 evolution of the classic breakfast, where the tortilla chips themselves are stuffed with ingredients like beans, cheese, or meat before being bathed in salsa. Places like Madre Cocina in Coyoacán have made these a 'must-try' for those seeking a modern twist on tradition.
• Rol de Guayaba
  Rol de GuayabaThe most famous pastry in the city from Panadería Rosetta. This guava and cheese roll has achieved legendary status among locals and tourists alike. In 2026, the bakery's influence continues to grow, making this sweet treat a non-negotiable morning ritual.
• Suadero Tacos
  Suadero TacosA true Mexico City specialty, suadero is a thin cut of beef from between the skin and the ribs, slow-confit in a circular metal vat (comal). Tacos Los Cocuyos in the Centro Histórico remains the gold standard for this tender, crispy, and fatty local favorite.
• Pambazos
  PambazosA heavy, satisfying street sandwich where the bread is dipped in a guajillo chili sauce and fried, then stuffed with potatoes and chorizo, lettuce, cream, and cheese. It is a textural marvel that is currently trending in elevated 'cantina' settings like Barra Lupe.

Trip guide

• About Mexico City
  About Mexico CityMexico City, situated in the high-altitude Valley of Mexico, occupies the historical site of Tenochtitlán, founded by the Mexica in 1325. Following the 16th-century Spanish arrival, the city was redesigned as the capital of the Viceroyalty of New Spain.
• When to go
  When to goThe best time to visit Mexico City is between March and May, when the weather is pleasantly warm and the city’s jacarandas are in full bloom. While the winter months (December–February) offer dry skies and peak cultural events like Dia de los Muertos in late October, be prepared for chilly mornings and higher tourist crowds. For food lovers, visiting in September aligns with Mexican Independence Day and the peak season for *Chiles en Nogada*.
• Getting around
  Getting around Mexico City

  • International Air Travel (AICM) Most travelers arrive via Benito Juárez International Airport (MEX), which is well-connected to major global hubs and located within the city limits for easy access to central neighborhoods.
  • Metro and Metrobus System The extensive subway and rapid transit bus network is the most efficient way to bypass heavy traffic, requiring a rechargeable CDMX mobility card for low-cost transit across the entire metropolitan area.
  • Rideshare and Licensed Taxis Uber and Didi are widely available and provide a safe, GPS-tracked alternative to street taxis, offering door-to-door service that is particularly useful during late-night hours or when carrying luggage.
• Local tips
  Local tips

  • Always carry small denominations of Mexican Pesos as many local markets and street food stalls do not accept credit cards.
  • Use app-based transportation like Uber or Didi instead of hailing street taxis to ensure fixed pricing and GPS tracking.
  • Add a tip of 10% to 15% at restaurants, as it is the standard social expectation for service staff.
• What’s new
  What’s new in Mexico City

  • FIFA Fan Festival at the Zócalo: A massive public viewing and cultural hub for the 2026 World Cup featuring a 510-square-meter screen and local gastronomy.
  • Lotti: A viral new opening in Roma Norte by Swiss chef Luc Liebster, blending European technique with Mexican ingredients in a restored 1915 mansion.
• Mexico City Tourism↗
  Mexico City TourismThe official visitor guide for Mexico City, managed by the local government to provide information on attractions, culture, and mobility.