Where to Eat in Mexico City Right Now: 9 Elevated, Under-the-Radar Restaurants We Love
Mexico City’s culinary scene is a living, breathing force evolving constantly, effortlessly fusing heritage with reinvention. While the waitlists at headline spots stretch endlessly, the real insiders are slipping into lesser-known rooms, where the flavors are bold, the energy is magnetic, and the reservations are still within reach - if you know who to ask.
At Rare Aura, we move beyond the obvious. We’re drawn to the tables that don’t just feed you, they leave a mark. Below, you’ll find ten of our favorite restaurants in Mexico City right now. Some are new, some are just finally getting the attention they deserve, all are deeply worth discovering.
1. Sarde
For the city’s best fish & chips
Nestled in Roma Norte, this unassuming spot is quietly redefining seafood in the capital. The star? Their perfectly golden fish and chips—light, flaky, and served with just the right touch of British nostalgia. Sarde is the kind of place you stumble upon, then return to every week.
2. Gia
Modern Italian with CDMX soul
Chic, refined, and impossibly delicious, Gia offers fresh pastas, minimal interiors, and the kind of wine list that invites long, lingering meals. A favorite for design-forward diners who crave simplicity executed perfectly.
3. Tonchin
Your new ramen obsession
Originated in Tokyo and has locations all over, but don’t let that fool you. Tonchin’s Mexico City location delivers some of the best ramen in town. Order the Spicy Tan Tan and thank us later. Savory, rich, and addictive in the best way. A go-to during this rainy season - simple, special, and easy to love.
4. Patagonia
Argentinian comfort, done right
For the evenings when only steak and empanadas will do. Patagonia is a classic Argentinian spot that feels both elevated and unfussy. Think grilled meats, crisp Malbecs, and just the right amount of warmth.
5. Abrasamar
Seafood lovers, this is your moment
Tired of waiting for a table at Contramar? We are too. Abrasamar gives you the same high-quality seafood, without the scene. Fresh oysters, grilled octopus, and impeccable service in a chic, grown-up space.
6. Chui
Vegan, even for the non-vegans
Even the most committed carnivores will fall for Chui. This plant-based haven in Roma serves some of the most creative, satisfying vegan dishes we’ve had - no substitutes, no afterthoughts. Just beautifully made food that happens to be vegan.
7. Olaf Osteria
A cozy Italian dinner worth lingering over
Warm lighting, handmade pastas, and natural wines make Olaf feel like a secret you want to share but only with your favorite people. Tucked away and effortlessly cool, this is where we send our clients looking for romance, subtle luxury, and a flawless plate of cacio e pepe.
8. Cuina
Brunch, beautifully done
Located in Roma, Cuina is the definition of a weekend ritual. Fresh pastries, seasonal eggs, excellent coffee. It’s the kind of place where the food tastes like it was made just for you and honestly, it probably was.
9. FERAL
For late nights and unexpected flavors
FERAL feels like walking into someone’s stylish, chaotic dinner party only better. A mix of global ingredients, inventive cocktails, and a moody, magnetic atmosphere makes this one of our favorite after-dark dining spots in the city.
Whether you’re planning your first trip to Mexico City or your fifth, these are the restaurants we’re sending our travelers to right now. Unpretentious, elevated, and always worth the table.
Want us to handle the bookings? Rare Aura provides full-service concierge travel planning from last-minute reservations to curated itineraries tailored entirely to your taste. DM us or head to the link in bio to begin planning your next culinary escape.