Fun places to eat in Mexico City - Digital Nomad Guide

Looking for the best food spots in Mexico City? Here's a quick guide to unique places that combine local flavors, work-friendly vibes, and group dining options:

• Work-Friendly Cafes: Blend Station, Boicot Cafe, and Café Escandón offer great coffee, Wi-Fi, and a productive atmosphere.
• Group Dining Spots: Blanco Colima and Ling Ling provide stunning settings for social meals.
• Street Food Gems: Try tacos at El Huequito or huitlacoche quesadillas at Mercado de Coyoacán.
• Local Favorites: Don’t miss barbacoa at El Hidalguense or late-night tacos at El Califa.
• Specialty Picks: Sōōp Noodle Bar for fusion dishes and El Moro for churros and hot chocolate.

Whether you're a digital nomad or a foodie, Mexico City’s dining scene blends vibrant markets, innovative restaurants, and cozy cafes. Scroll down for detailed recommendations and insider tips.

Best Restaurants in Mexico City | The places you must try in CDMX

Work-Friendly Cafes

Here are five spots that mix great coffee, local vibes, and a productive atmosphere:

Blend Station in Roma Norte is a bright, open space with a minimalist-industrial vibe. It features communal work tables equipped with charging stations and high-speed Wi-Fi. Their menu includes specialty coffee from Chiapas, healthy breakfast bowls, and artisanal sandwiches^[5].

Boicot Cafe, located in both Roma and Condesa, offers a lively yet focused environment. Highlights include:

Café Escandón feels like a gallery, thanks to rotating local art exhibits. It’s a comfortable spot with ergonomic seating, great lighting, and an all-day breakfast menu - perfect for sparking creativity^[5].

Oveja Negra Café is a wallet-friendly option, serving Chiapas coffee for 30-60 MXN and light bites for 80-150 MXN^[2].

Cardinal pairs window-side outlets with a menu that blends Mexican classics and vegan options, like their popular chilaquiles^[2][5].

Group Dining Spots

When it's time to unwind after productive work sessions, these dining spots offer the perfect mix of great food and social vibes:

Blanco Colima in Roma Norte is located in a gorgeous historic mansion. It features both indoor and outdoor seating, making it a versatile choice for any group setting^[4].

Ling Ling, perched on the 56th floor of Chapultepec Uno, combines Asian-inspired sharing plates with breathtaking 360° city views. It's a fantastic option for teams looking to enjoy a meal with a view. As the evening progresses, it transitions into a lively nightlife spot, offering a dynamic experience for groups^[9].

MUX highlights the richness of Mexico's culinary traditions with rotating regional menus. It's an excellent pick for teams wanting a true taste of Mexico's diverse food culture^[1].

"The group dining experience in Mexico City has evolved significantly, with 78% of tourists now dining out in groups of 4 or more at least once during their visit. The average group meal lasting 2.5 hours provides ample time for socializing and enjoying multiple courses."^[10]

Tips for a Smooth Group Dining Experience:

• Ask about group set menus for a more streamlined dining experience^[10].

For teams that appreciate stylish spaces, Botanico is a standout choice, combining eye-catching design with inventive dishes^[1].

Must-Try Street Food Locations

Mexico City is a haven for street food lovers, offering an incredible mix of flavors at wallet-friendly prices. The city's street food hubs are the perfect blend of mouthwatering dishes and the lively energy of urban life.

If you're a digital nomad looking for quick, flavorful meals between work sessions, these spots pack local charm into every bite:

Mercado de la Merced is a must-visit. As one of the largest markets in the city, it’s a paradise for foodies. Vendors here serve everything from classic tacos al pastor to regional delights like sopes de médula and fava bean-stuffed tlacoyos.

In Colonia Roma, street vendors are a favorite among professionals and travelers alike. Blue corn tlacoyos grilled on seasoned comals are a highlight, perfect for a quick, satisfying bite between coworking sessions.

"Street food is deeply woven into Mexico City's cultural fabric, with 75% of residents eating street food at least once a week. The combination of affordability and authentic flavors makes it an essential part of the city's culinary identity." ^[3]

For a taste of history, head to El Huequito in Centro Histórico. This spot has been serving locals since 1959 and now feeds around 1,500 people daily without compromising quality ^[13].

Feeling adventurous? Mercado de Coyoacán is where you’ll find specialties like huitlacoche quesadillas and escamoles (ant larvae). The vibrant market atmosphere and diverse food options make it a standout destination.

Here’s a quick look at what you’ll spend at these spots:

Pro Tip: Look for stalls with a steady stream of customers. This ensures the food is fresh and the service is quick - perfect for busy professionals.

For regional flavors, check out Polanco’s El Turix, known for its Yucatecan cochinita pibil tacos. And for late-night cravings, Los Cocuyos is open 24/7 and serves beef tongue tacos that are worth staying up for ^[13].

These street food gems only scratch the surface of what Mexico City has to offer. Next up, we dive into the neighborhood favorites that locals treasure…

Local Favorites

Mexico City's food scene thrives in its neighborhood spots, where locals gather for authentic dishes and affordable meals packed with flavor.

El Hidalguense, located in Doctores, is famous for its barbacoa. With over 2,000 reviews and a 4.5/5 rating, it's a must-try for meat lovers^[2].

Over in Roma Norte, Expendio de Maíz offers a creative spin on corn-based dishes, with Chef Jesús Salas Tornés crafting a new menu daily^[2].

Fonda Margarita in Del Valle is the go-to spot for a classic Mexico City breakfast. Opening at 5:30 AM, it serves hearty guisados that keep both early risers and remote workers coming back for more^[14].

For coffee enthusiasts, Buna in Roma Norte is the place to be. Known for its dedication to Mexican beans and expert brewing, it's a favorite among caffeine lovers.

And then there's El Califa, a late-night favorite open until 4 AM. This spot is celebrated for its tacos al pastor, a staple in the city's taco scene^[6].

These beloved neighborhood gems provide just a glimpse into Mexico City's vibrant dining culture.

1. Café 123

Café 123, located at Calle Jalapa 123 in Roma Norte, is housed in a beautifully restored 1920s building. It’s a top choice for those looking to combine work and leisure, boasting a 4.5/5 rating from over 500 Google reviews^[15]. This café stands out as a space where dining meets creativity, making it a favorite among remote workers and locals alike.

The building’s industrial-rustic design, complete with large windows and rotating murals from local artists, sets the tone for a productive yet vibrant atmosphere^[2]. With plenty of outlets and an abundance of natural light, it’s perfect for getting work done.

Café 123’s menu is just as inviting, featuring highlights like lavender lattes, chorizo eggs, and classic Mexican dishes such as salsa verde chilaquiles. Their baked goods, sourced from nearby artisans, are also worth a mention^[3]. This thoughtful mix of workspace-friendly features and delicious food makes it a go-to spot for those seeking both comfort and inspiration.

The café also hosts events like coffee tastings and latte art workshops, fostering a sense of community^[2]. If you prefer some fresh air, the small outdoor seating area - with its lush living wall of plants - is a great place to savor their seasonal fruit agua frescas^[3].

2. Mimo Café Bueno

If you're looking to escape Roma Norte's busier tourist areas, Mimo Café Bueno offers a cozy neighborhood vibe at Amores 1403 ^[2]. This industrial-style café greets visitors with the hum of friendly conversations and the rich aroma of freshly brewed coffee.

Inside, the café combines practicality with a welcoming touch. Cushioned bench seating invites you to settle in, while the outdoor tables, surrounded by greenery, provide a tranquil spot to enjoy your coffee ^[2].

The menu features expertly made espresso drinks and a crowd-favorite avocado and egg toast. Both are known for their excellent quality and wallet-friendly prices ^[2][3].

With extended weekday hours until 9 PM, the café attracts a mix of local professionals and remote workers. This laid-back, community-focused atmosphere highlights how neighborhood cafés can be more than just workspaces - they're also hubs for connecting with the local culture ^[2].

3. Rosetta

Located in a stunning early 20th-century mansion in Roma Norte, Rosetta blends Italian and Mexican cuisines effortlessly. Led by Elena Reygadas, who was named Latin America's Best Female Chef in 2014^[3], it's a standout choice for team dinners or client meetings.

The restaurant features multiple dining rooms, each offering an intimate atmosphere with high ceilings, original tilework, and lush greenery. The preserved architectural details create a sophisticated yet welcoming vibe, while the courtyard provides an inviting outdoor dining option^[7].

Rosetta's menu changes with the seasons, spotlighting local ingredients like Oaxacan cheese and Puebla herbs. Highlights include the ricotta and egg yolk ravioli with brown butter and sage^[11], as well as the roasted bone marrow served with herbs and toast^[4]. Mexican flavors are woven into Italian classics, with native herbs such as epazote and hoja santa enhancing pasta dishes^[6].

Rosetta's house-made bread became so popular that it led to the creation of Panadería Rosetta, a standalone bakery^[2][7]. While the price point is higher than many casual dining spots, the experience is well worth it for special occasions or team gatherings.

"Rosetta consistently ranks among the top restaurants in Latin America, making it a valuable experience for food enthusiasts. The restaurant's commitment to using local, seasonal ingredients aligns with current trends in sustainable dining."^[7]

Smart casual attire is recommended to match the elegant setting.

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4. Pasillo de Humo

After enjoying the refined fusion dishes at Rosetta, dive into Oaxaca's street food traditions at Pasillo de Humo.

Located in Hipódromo's Mercado Parian, Pasillo de Humo (which translates to "Smoke Alley") brings Oaxaca's street food culture to life using traditional smoking techniques^[2]. Chef Alam Méndez Florián leads the open kitchen, crafting dishes surrounded by vibrant textiles and the lively market atmosphere. It's a great spot for shared meals and an ideal choice for digital nomads looking to experience authentic flavors during a work break^[14].

The menu celebrates Oaxaca's rich culinary history with standouts like tlayudas - crispy tortillas layered with refried beans and meats - and mole negro, a rich, complex sauce made with chocolate and spices^[2][3].

Pair your tlayudas with a refreshing horchata, enjoy mole negro with a glass of mezcal, or savor tasajo alongside a craft beer^[16]. The ingredients are sourced weekly from Oaxacan producers, ensuring fresh and authentic flavors^[3].

This energetic market spot is the perfect lead-in to our next destination: Taquería Orinoco, where northern-style tacos get a modern twist.

5. Taquería Orinoco

Switching gears to Northern-style tacos, Taquería Orinoco delivers a lively Mexico City taco experience. Known for its simple menu and loyal fanbase, this spot is a favorite among taco enthusiasts^[4].

The menu focuses on the essentials: al pastor tacos with pork shaved fresh from the trompo, along with beef and crispy chicharrón options. Diners can watch the taqueros in action in the open kitchen and customize their tacos at the self-serve salsa bar^[4].

The quick counter service and communal seating make this spot perfect for both solo diners and groups. It’s also a convenient choice for remote workers looking for a fast, satisfying meal^[4].

Try to avoid the lunch rush between 12-2 PM. Once you're fueled up, you’ll be ready to explore the next stop: La Esquina Del Chilaquil, where breakfast gets a tasty Mexican twist.

6. La Esquina Del Chilaquil

After Orinoco's tacos, La Esquina Del Chilaquil is the go-to breakfast stop for busy professionals and remote workers. Famous for its chilaquiles torta, this spot offers a portable take on a Mexico City classic - perfect for fueling up before a packed morning^[3].

The concept is simple yet brilliant: traditional chilaquiles packed into a sandwich. You can choose between red or green salsa and add extras like chicken, eggs, or cecina (dried beef)^[4][11].

The lively morning crowd adds to the charm, creating a classic street food vibe^[5]. To beat the rush, get there before 9:00 AM - this spot often sells out early^[12]. Keep in mind, it’s cash only^[13].

Though seating is limited, the affordable prices and clever twist on a beloved dish make La Esquina Del Chilaquil a must-visit. It’s a shining example of how Mexico City’s street food scene continues to impress, even for digital nomads looking to dive into local flavors.

7. El Moro

After enjoying savory breakfast tortas at La Esquina Del Chilaquil, head over to El Moro to indulge your sweet tooth. This legendary spot has been serving up churros in Mexico City since 1935. The original Centro Histórico location is known for its charming blue-and-white tiled interior and round-the-clock service, while newer branches cater to modern lifestyles. Its 24/7 hours make it a favorite for digital nomads with unconventional schedules^[1][2].

El Moro stands out for its dedication to quality. Churros are always made fresh to order, and visitors can watch the process in the open kitchen^[3][11]. Pair them with their famous thick and rich Mexican hot chocolate, available in styles like Spanish, French, or traditional Mexican^[3].

Some locations even provide Wi-Fi, making them ideal for getting work done while enjoying a treat^[3]. For a quieter experience, visit on a weekday afternoon^[2]. Don’t miss their modern takes on classics, like churro ice cream sandwiches or churros stuffed with cajeta (caramel) or chocolate^[3][11].

The combination of an open kitchen and historic charm creates a unique atmosphere that highlights Mexico City's reputation as a culinary hub for all hours of the day^[2][11]. El Moro perfectly blends the city’s street food traditions with contemporary café culture - a theme that continues at our next stop, Sōōp Noodle Bar.

8. Sōōp Noodle Bar

For a modern twist on Mexico City's culinary offerings, Sōōp Noodle Bar in Condesa delivers an exciting midday dining experience. Located at Av. Tamaulipas 66, this trendy spot has earned a strong 4.5/5 rating from more than 250 Google reviews^[5].

The restaurant's industrial vibe is elevated by hanging noodle-inspired art and an open kitchen where chefs whip up bold fusion dishes like:

Highlights include the Ramen de Cochinita Pibil, which marries Japanese broth with Yucatecan-style pork, and vegetarian mushroom dumplings crafted with local hongos^[5]. With its creative menu, this spot is ideal for groups looking to share and explore flavors rooted in local ingredients^[4].

From this fusion-forward experience, we head back to tradition at Barbacoa Renatos, where classic Mexican cooking takes the spotlight.

9. Barbacoa Renatos

Hidden in the heart of Cuauhtémoc, Barbacoa Renatos has been perfecting the art of weekend barbacoa for over 50 years, using traditional underground pit ovens^[2]. Unlike the modern fusion style of Sōōp, this spot highlights the deep culinary traditions of Mexico City.

Their standout dish is tender lamb, slow-cooked for hours in underground ovens. It’s served with warm, handmade corn tortillas and a rich consommé crafted from the meat's drippings^[2][3]. A typical meal includes:

The setting is simple and rustic, with communal tables that create a lively, social vibe^[3].

This walk-in-only spot draws crowds quickly after opening, so timing is everything^[3]. While it’s not designed for remote work, it’s a great place to soak in Mexico City’s communal dining traditions and enjoy a taste of local culture^[5].

Next, we leave the underground pits behind and head to Salón Palomilla for a look at cantina culture.

10. Salón Palomilla

Located in Roma Norte, just two blocks from WeWork Reforma, Salón Palomilla brings a fresh spin to cantina culture with its modern take on seafood dishes. Inspired by Barbacoa Renatos' pit cooking traditions, this vibrant spot combines retro charm - think colorful tiles and vintage posters - with a lively, contemporary vibe.

Menu Highlights

The menu blends traditional Mexican flavors with modern culinary techniques, and the bar offers creative mezcal-based cocktails to complement the food.

Key Details

The rooftop terrace is a standout feature, offering stunning views and a seamless transition from relaxed daytime lunches to lively evenings with DJ sets under twinkling string lights. Long marble counters encourage mingling, making it a great spot for both casual gatherings and spontaneous connections.

For those working remotely, the 1 PM opening makes it an ideal spot for a late lunch, while evening visitors can enjoy the nightlife vibe.

"Accommodates dietary needs with gluten-free options and dish modifications"^[4]

Salón Palomilla is a perfect example of how Mexico City embraces its culinary heritage while adding a modern twist, making it a must-visit destination.

Conclusion

Mexico City has firmly established itself as a top-tier food destination, offering dining experiences that seamlessly blend work and leisure. With a 25% rise in food tourism since 2020^[7], it’s clear the city continues to attract both passionate food lovers and casual diners.

From the work-friendly vibe of Café 123 to the lively atmosphere of Salón Palomilla, these 10 spots show how the city caters to digital nomads with diverse needs - whether it’s a quiet café for focused mornings, quick street eats, or vibrant evening hangouts. The city thrives on its ability to balance tradition with fresh ideas, featuring chef-driven menus that highlight local ingredients^[3] and inventive fusion dishes^[2], all while remaining accessible for remote workers.

Whether you’re visiting a taquería, café, or cantina, you’ll find consistent quality across every price range. These spaces offer more than just meals - they create opportunities to fuel your workday or make new connections in a city that embraces remote workers with open arms.