Mexico City

Mexico City is an incredible destination that’s vibrant, walkable, and full of life. From world-class food and breathtaking views to rich history and warm, welcoming people, it’s a place I keep coming back to.

Here are a few helpful tips to keep in mind:

• Lodging: I didn’t bother to give any hotel recommendations because I’ve found it all depends on how long you’re going to be there and how many people are going. If it’s a big group or you’re staying for more than 4 nights, get an Airbnb in Condesa, Roma, or Polanco. Less than that, hotels in those same neighborhoods that match your budget and travel style will likely be there. We like to stay as close to Chapultapec park as possible for morning walks, so we have ended up in Polanco.

• Getting Around: Traffic can be intense, so plan accordingly. Uber is reliable, safe, and very affordable; it’s your best bet for getting around efficiently. EcoBici - we rented bikes and rode around the park a few times. Be sure you have the app locked and loaded before you go.  Also, on Sundays they close the Reforma and it's all bikes. Super worth it to do. They also have kiosks for bike rentals on these days which is honestly a bit easier than EcoBici if you’re not used to bike share.

• Altitude & Air Quality: CDMX sits at over 7,000 feet above sea level, and the air can be smoggy. Don’t overdo it on your first day; pace yourself and stay hydrated. Also, wear sunglasses if you have sensitive eyes (like me) and carry eyedrops.

• Language: While you’ll find some English speakers, Spanish is the norm. Even a few basic phrases go a long way, and starting in Spanish is always appreciated.

• Safety: My approach? Things are as safe as you want them to be. Stick to the main neighborhoods, trust your instincts, and don’t get involved in sketchy situations… unless you want to.

Now, let’s dive into the good stuff. What to eat, see, and do!

Food

Pujol - A must-visit for a truly special dining experience. I’ve heard great things about the taco omakase (still on my list!), and if you can, ask for a kitchen tour it is really special.

Rosetta - One of the best meals we’ve ever had. Don’t sleep on the butter with ants! The wines by the glass from Mexico are really interesting and fun. The highlight was the fish with a guava mole-type sauce. The setting is also stunning: an old colonial building with indoor greenery and dramatically high ceilings.

Lardo - We loved this spot for a change of pace from Mexican food. The Italian-Mediterranean menu is delicious, the wine list is solid, and the space is beautiful: warm reclaimed wood, lots of greenery, and a cozy vibe. Perfect for a leisurely lunch.

Cafe de Tubaca - A perfect lunch stop before or after visiting Bellas Artes. This historic spot serves up authentic, flavorful Mexican dishes in a stunning setting with beautiful stained glass windows, colorful tilework, and waitstaff in traditional dress. The enchiladas are great.

Balcon del Zocalo - We thought this was going to be a tourist trap, but it turned out to be a delightful experience, and the food was impressive. Also, the view of the plaza is fantastic from up here and it is probably the best way to look at the historic square.

Tacos de Canasta (basket tacos) - The best tacos we've ever had were here. So great. Pop into the bodega to get a Fanta to pair with them.

El Moro - Great churros. It's a super cute chain. The original one is near Zócolo, but the newer ones have better branding and are in more convenient locations.

La Gruta - In a cave outside of the pyramids at Teotihuacan. It’s super cool (literally), and the food is pre-Hispanic with great homemade tortillas and juicy meats. The atmosphere is unbeatable.

Tetetlán - housed in the former stables of a Barragán home and suspended over a glass floor that looks onto the natural lava rock beneath, it’s a lovely restaurant and a perfectly selected choice of contemporary homeware and clothing. Kind of pretentious, but stunning interior. Super far outside of everything else, but if you’re looking for something off the beaten path and cool, do it!