Panuco 36
The kitchen at Pánuco 36 is inspired by a series of flavor memories adapted to Mexican tastes, while staying true to the essence of their origins. The use of local ingredients, along with traditional and modern techniques, reflects the unique personality of this culinary experience.
Río Pánuco 36, Col. Renacimiento, Cuauhtemoc, Mexico Cityhttps://www.instagram.com/panuco36/?hl=en
Cicatriz
One of my favorite spots in CDMX. Open from 9AM-11PM daily (except Mondays), Cicatriz is an all day cafe that transitions into a hip bar/restaurant in the evenings.
Right next door of Cicatriz, you’ll see MELINA, a place just as nice and beautiful.
https://www.instagram.com/cicatriz.cdmx/
Koku
Casual Japanese foodies and purists alike will agree on the deliciousness of the tempura tacos at Koku and if you’re here, it’s likely that you’re not worried when you spot corn fungus and teriyaki in the same dish as Chef Yakeya Matsumoto expresses his Mexican and Japanese influences fluidly on his menu.
The meticulous detail is evident not just in the menu but in the design of the space. With wood sharing the spotlight with cement and greenery executed in minimalistic perfect harmony evident in many Asian restaurants. Koku is both elegant, borderline formal, and homey depending on your perspective with the highlight being the closed terrace that’s perfectly sun kissed by day and candlelit by night.
https://www.instagram.com/kokumx/
La Casa de Toño
This is amazing street food without the street. La Casa de Toño is a popular restaurant chain located in Mexico City, Mexico. It is known for serving delicious and authentic Mexican cuisine in a casual and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant offers a wide variety of traditional dishes, including tacos, enchiladas, pozole, and mole. La Casa de Toño is a favorite among locals and tourists alike, who flock to the restaurant to indulge in its flavorful and satisfying meals.
https://www.cntraveler.com/restaurants/mexico-city/la-casa-de-tono
El Minutito
By WALLPAPER El Minutito is not just a café and bar; it is a tribute to universal moments of kinship and draws inspiration from the conviviality of Italian standing bars, the communal spirit of sharing tapas, and the warm embrace of old-school Mexican cantinas. Designed by Mexican architect and co-founder of Tezontle studio, Lucas Cantú, the space was envisioned as a sanctuary where locals and travellers could come together to enjoy life’s simple pleasures.
BY THE INFATUATION If you’re looking to have a quick, light bite in a design-y space, the road leads to Minutito. It’s a Spanish-style coffee and tapas bar, serving everything from smooth cortados (Oatly is on hand) to fig kombuchas. For breakfast, zero in on their incredible baked goods like banana bread. At 5pm, the vibe shifts to a lively tapas bar with a menu of things like manchego, jamón, and olives, which you can pair with Hercules beer or an espresso martini. Adding to the charm of it all are ’80s and ’90s hits from Julio Iglesias and Juan Gabriel playing in the background, and a VW van parked outside that doubles as a “terrace seat.”
Don’t expect a fancy place or an instagram moment. La Barrita, a very modest counter-style café, is redefining seafood dining with a menu that surprises and delights at every turn. Known for its fresh ingredients and bold flavors, this hidden gem is quickly earning a reputation as a must-visit spot for seafood lovers.
One standout dish is the Pique Amarillo de Ani Amarillo, a refreshing, citrus-forward cold soup that manages to be both creamy and vibrant. Packed with fish, calamari, and shrimp, this inventive starter is a harmonious blend of textures and flavors that leave a lasting impression. Paired with a Mexican-style shrimp cocktail, it’s a winning combination that sets the tone for the meal.
The Sepia Pappardelle is another highlight, showcasing perfectly al dente pasta paired with tender calamari in a dish that’s equal parts rustic and refined. The balance of flavors and textures is remarkable, elevating a simple concept into a memorable plate.
Don’t miss their Paella Fridays, a weekly event that has become a favorite among regulars. La Barrita may not flaunt its charm, but its commitment to quality and creativity speaks volumes, making it a rising star in the city’s culinary scene.
La Barrita
Colonia Santa María la Ribera, once a tranquil enclave, has transformed into Mexico City's latest haven for artists, chefs, and international residents. Its historic charm, epitomized by the stunning Kiosco Morisco in the central Alameda park, now coexists with a burgeoning creative scene. The neighborhood's picturesque streets are lined with contemporary art galleries, innovative eateries, and vibrant cultural spaces, making it a magnet for those seeking authenticity and inspiration. This fusion of tradition and modernity has positioned Santa María la Ribera as one of the city's most dynamic and sought-after destinations.
Santa Maria La Ribera
Personally, on of the best spaces in CDMX. When you step into Biblioteca Vasconcelos, you'll feel like you've entered a sci-fi universe. This massive, futuristic library, often dubbed the “megalibrary,” is a true architectural wonder. Designed by Alberto Kalach, its scale is awe-inspiring—spanning over 38,000 square meters and housing a collection of more than half a million books.
What makes this library a standout is its striking design. Suspended bookshelves appear to float in midair, creating an intricate maze that soars towards the sky, while glass walls flood the space with natural light, making every corner feel alive with possibility. The structure is supported by exposed steel beams, blending industrial aesthetics with a dreamlike sense of weightlessness.
The library also serves as a cultural hub, featuring gardens filled with native plants that offer a tranquil escape from the bustling city. Whether you're a book lover, an architecture enthusiast, or simply curious, Biblioteca Vasconcelos is a must-visit. It’s not just a library—it’s an experience that leaves you in awe of what the future can look like when imagination meets design.
Biblioteca Vasconcelos: A Futuristic Marvel in Mexico City
The Crown Jewel of CDMX: Palacio de las Bellas Artes
The Palacio de Bellas Artes is more than just a building—it's a masterpiece of art, culture, and architecture. Nestled in the heart of Mexico City, this iconic landmark is a feast for the senses, blending Beaux-Arts, Art Deco, and Art Nouveau styles into a breathtaking visual symphony.
Step inside, and you're greeted by a soaring interior adorned with murals by legendary Mexican artists like Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, and Rufino Tamayo. The shimmering stained-glass curtain, crafted by Tiffany & Co., depicts the Valley of Mexico in radiant color, setting the stage for world-class performances in music, opera, ballet, and theater.
The grandeur of the exterior, with its white Italian marble façade, is rivaled only by the vibrant creativity it holds within. It’s no wonder this cultural treasure is often called the "Cathedral of Art." Whether you're attending a performance, exploring the museum, or simply marveling at its beauty, the Palacio de Bellas Artes is an experience that captures the soul of Mexico's artistic legacy.
