PAUSE Eats: Top Restaurant Picks – Mexico City

PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy of Expandio De Maiz Instagram 

PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy of LOREA Instagram 

Mexico City- One of the world’s most electrifying culinary destinations, a city where the depth and diversity of the food scene prove to be hard to compete with, and tradition, flair and artistry complete every meal. From the smokey aromas from street-side taco stands to the bold flavours of innovative Michlin-star meals that push the boundaries of Mexican cuisine, this vibrant metropolis offers flavours for every palate. With influences from across Mexico’s diverse regions—and a growing wave of global fusion—CDMX’s food scene is as layered and colourful as the city itself. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned local looking for new flavours as potential new favourites, we explored the city’s culinary scene to bring you some of our top-rated restaurant picks.

Expendio de Maíz Sin Nombre is undoubtedly one of, if not CDMX’s most unique and quietly revolutionary dining experiences. Located in the bustling Roma neighbourhood, this blacked-out, intimate, open-kitchen, no-menu, no signage and no-reservation restaurant focuses solely on the food, serving innovative dishes that pay homage to Mexican cuisine and its ancestral culinary traditions. Daily dishes are created spontaneously based on seasonal fresh ingredients sourced directly from local farmers, so guests can expect a new dining experience with each visit. Imagine being welcomed into a Mexican family home for dinner, that’s the kind of “feels” that can be experienced at Expadio, food is served family-style at a communal table, with a lineup of delicious courses that can be served to diners until they tap out. It’s less about formal dining and more about the storytelling and awakening of senses through food, the passion and commitment in creating an excellent culinary experience make it easy to see how they earned their spot on the Michelin Guide.

CUISINE: Mexican      PRICE: $$

PAUSE RATES: 

5/5 ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑

“Unforgettable! No gimmicks, no marketing ploys just exceptional food, passion and a brilliant dining concept. It’s no suprise at all that Expandio received a Michelin guide mention, by far my favourite dining experience in CMDX. You’ll need to queue but I promise it will be work the wait! ” – Taija-Leorelle (Head of Travel & Hospitality)

Food: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑

Service: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑

Ambience: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑

PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy of Expandio De Maiz Instagram 

Located in the lively Roma Norte neighbourhood, Lorea offers a distinctive immersive dining experience that celebrates the richness of Mexican cuisine through a contemporary lens. Led by Chef Oswaldo Oliva, who has implemented his Spanish culinary expertise, the restaurant presents a seasonal tasting menu, highlighting the rich diversity of Mexico’s regional ingredients. The open kitchen invites guests to engage in the cooking process and witness the meticulous preparation of dishes. The restaurant’s pairing menu makes for the perfect dinner, with each course thoroughly explained taking diners on a impressive gastronomic journey.

PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy LOREA instagram

CUISINE: Mexican, Contemporary      PRICE: $$$

PAUSE RATES:

5/5 ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑

“Incredible dining experience! The attention to detail is not only super impressive but informative and educational. This was a true fine dining experience and everything from the flavours to the service are truly amazing! ” – Taija-Leorelle (Head of Travel & Hospitality)

Food: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑

Service: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑

Ambience: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑

Limosneros is an authentic gem nestled in the heart of Mexico City’s historic centre, delivering traditional Mexican flavours and classic cultural dishes. Set within a beautifully restored Spanish colonial building, the restaurant exudes charm with its entrance hall wine store, volcanic stone walls, arched brick ceilings, and artisanal decor.

Under the guidance of Chef Atzin Santos, Limosneros presents a menu that pays homage to Mexico’s rich gastronomic heritage, offering signature dishes, tasting and pairing menus as well as a unique taco-tasting menu. Complementing the food is an impressive selection of artisanal agave spirits and craft cocktails that highlight native ingredients.

CUISINE: Traditional Mexican      PRICE: $$

PAUSE RATES: 4/5 ⭑⭑⭑⭑

“If you want to indulge in authentic Mexican cuisine and cultural staples, Limosneros is the perfect place to explore deliciousness dishes. From the beautiful restaurant, the amazing service and tasty menus, it makes a great dining option, i’d highly recommend visiting.” – Taija-Leorelle (Head of Travel & Hospitality)

Food: ⭑⭑⭑⭑

Service: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑

Ambience: ⭑⭑⭑⭑⭑

PHOTO CREDIT: Courtesy of Limosneros Instagram

PHOTO CREDIT: Interiors of LOREA, Courtesy of AVCORZO