Everyone who knows me can confirm that I have been obsessed with Mexico since I first visited in 2018. Through its unique and diverse gastronomy, architecture, rich history and traditions, and warm and welcoming people, I understood why many people were charmed by the country and its vibrant capital.
On my first visit, my friend and I visited the most famous landmarks, stuffed our faces with luscious meals every couple of hours, and drank all the margaritas we could get our hands on. I have never gained weight more happily.
This time around, my trip (my birthday present, by the way) was as spontaneous as possible, so my only plan was to enjoy myself without any agenda. In Mexico City, I got to eat my way around and revisit some of my favorite spots. My boyfriend and I also reconnected with friends, tried new delicious restaurants, wandered around some neighborhoods, and disconnected at a new destination: Tepoztlán.
If you are thinking about visiting any of these cities, you cannot miss out on these spots:
- Mexico City -
Dinner at Filigrana: Filigrana is a restaurant in Colonia Norte owned by chef Martha Ortiz, who once owned Dulce Patria. I visited the latter on my first visit (it is now permanently closed), and what stuck with me was the phenomenal presentation (Twitter evidence).
But Filigrana was something else. I cannot speak more highly about the whimsical location (especially at night), the impeccable service, and most importantly, the plates. I will not go on about the creative presentation of the food, as I will let the pictures speak for themselves. But I will advocate the flavor, which was excellent. I could have had endless portions of the guacamole, the cheese tlayuda, the lengua de res, and the pastel de elote. The mezcal we were offered as an aperitivo, and the margaritas were fantastic as well. So was the complimentary dessert, a pair of marshmallows you could toast at your will, a simple but thoughtful way to close off the experience.
Other places dinner alternatives:
Dessert at Churreria el Moro: It was my second trip to Churreria el Moro, and I almost missed my flight for it. It was worth it. The little churritos with an arequipe/caramel/cajeta/whatever you want to call it topping is a little pleasure that goes a long way.
Casual lunch at Taqueria el Califa: Many friends raved about El Califa, and I regretted not trying it during my first trip. There are multiple locations around the city, but I went to the one in Polanco, located on the corner of a small shopping mall. I tried the guacamole and the tacos al pastor. The flavor was so unbelievably rich and fresh that I could eat the duo every day for my entire life. The price was the best part.
Or weekend brunch at Lalo!: Lalo! has apparently been very popular for a while, so it was no surprise that they did not take reservations and people lined outside. It is a fun place to have breakfast/brunch (try sitting outdoors). The chilaquiles and the eggs with escamole were delicious, and the coffee was also excellent.
Other lunch and brunch places:
Visit the Chapultepec Castle: If you only had time to visit one landmark in Mexico City, I would recommend the Castle. The walk up the hill is pleasing, as the park is nestled between leafy trees. The Castle is mindblowing, in my opinion. The architecture, the art, the views, the checkerboard floor, the roof garden. It is the perfect place to visit calmly, take pictures, and learn some history.
Other places to visit:
Frida Kahlo’s House and Coyoacán
Teotihuacan Pyramids
El Zócalo
- Tepoztlan -
Drinks at Margarita Concept: This is one of my favorite finds on a trip so far. I found Margarita Concept in a Conde Nast article and, for a minute, I doubted its existence since its Instagram is very hermetic, you cannot show up without reservations, and there is not a sign outside of its seemingly unpretentious location. However, once you are inside, you are transported to a chic garden with unique views of the mountains and stylish decor. The drinks are absolutely delicious, and while the food menu is entirely vegetarian, the guacamole is the perfect companion for the main act, the signature cocktails.
Dinner at Mesa de Origen: Mesa de Origen is a couple minutes outside Tepoztlan, but the drive up there is worth it. The restaurant is very inviting, with minimalistic but well-thought-out decor and glass windows overlooking the outdoor terrace and the neighboring hotel. The view makes it relaxing yet magical. We were completely stuffed from cocktails and bites at Margarita Concept. However, we still ordered the caldo tepozteco and the spectacular Arroz meloso del Estado de Morelos.
Breakfast at Los Colorines: Los Colorines is one of the most popular places in Tepoztlan, and it is your typical Mexican fonda. Nonetheless, it is decorated with typical colorful decoration. We enjoyed our meal there, as the plates were flavorful and big. Highly recommend the café de olla and the cecina sope.
Dessert at El Corazon de Mexico: I discovered recently that this spot used to be an actual restaurant. However, it is now a great place to visit if you are craving something sweet, like thick, flavorful, and the right amount of sweet Oaxacan hot chocolate.
Visit the market and shop around: The Tepoztlan market is the main activity during the weekends. If you are looking to buy souvenirs or little tchotchkes (I found the most beautiful handmade hats) while trying out bites and sipping cocktails in the street, you cannot miss out!
I hope you enjoyed these recommendations :) Save them for your upcoming trip!
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