Mexico City Magic: 17 Days of Culinary Wonders and Vibrant Living

Two and a Half Weeks in Mexico City

The Food Scene in Mexico City

I arrived in Mexico City, the overwhelming, loud, exciting, massive city that I’d had on my list for at least fifteen years.

I practically stumbled off the plane and into the incredible food scene. I had dinner at Mexa Cocina Del Alma on Avenida Álvaro Obregón.

My initial foray into the vibrant heart of Mexico City was nothing short of a culinary roller coaster, marked by a spectrum of flavors that danced on my palate. Starting with a fiery introduction at Mexa Cucina del Alma via a grayish salsa that tested my spice tolerance, my taste buds were soon soothed by an array of Mexican delicacies. There was a textural delight in the fresh, crispy tortillas served with a trio of salsas, (including the aforementioned spicy one) perfectly complemented by a smoky Mezcal cocktail. The Mahi Mahi ceviche, requested without onion, was a refreshing seafood first course, while the duck confit tamal draped in garlic cream was a decadent revelation.

My culinary adventure in Mexico City was not without its hurdles. A bout of altitude sickness, likely exacerbated by lack of hydration and that mezcal cocktail, made for a challenging first morning. But I couldn’t resist the city’s food scene; I managed an espresso and a croissant before hitting up some amazing Al pastor tacos for a late lunch. And that night, the pollo pozole at La Casa de Tono in Zona Rosa in the Juarez neighborhood was worth the short wait for a table.

Exploring More of Mexico City’s Food

For more than two weeks, my culinary exploration expanded to encompass the simple yet delicious joy of street food, including the delectably steamed plantains drizzled with sweetened condensed milk and sprinkled with cinnamon. This journey further unfolded within the elegant ambiance of Blanco Colima, where a multi-course dinner awaited. No venture into Mexico City’s vibrant food scene would be complete without indulging in the iconic churros from the renowned El Moro located in the upscale Polanco neighborhood, a tradition in itself. A sweet highlight of the stay included the discovery of artisanal gelato at Joe Gelato, a beloved spot nestled in the bustling Juarez neighborhood. And finally, my two visits to Aleli Rooftop on the same day: first for a quick lunch of a pork belly taco with molé and a few hours later to enjoy the burnt cheesecake served with tejocote, a fruit native to the mountains surrounding the city.

See my recommendations below!

Mexico City’s History, Art and Architecture

My time in Mexico City was about much more than just eating fantastic food. I enjoyed taking photos of the architecture and the vibrant street life. I spent my days wandering around those busy historic places and finding calm little spots in the middle of all the noise. The whole vibe of the city, marked by spontaneous street acts in its historical heart, explorations of museums, and the ruins of ancient civilizations, added an incomparable layer of magic to the experience. Each new encounter or discovery transformed into a small expedition, filling my visit with a collage of memorable moments that epitomize the city’s unparalleled character.

A visit to Chapultepec Park is a must-do in Mexico City. The castle, with it’s panoramic views of the city is well worth the visit and the small entrance fee. 

See my recommendations below!

Recommendations for Mexico City

Below are a few recommendations of things to see and do as well as places to eat based on the time that I spent in Mexico City. 

Restaurants, cafes, and food spots in Mexico City

Things to Do and See In and Around Mexico City