This insider's city guide has been a long time in the making. We've eaten in countless Mexico City restaurants, dined in the best local eateries and visited the latest hotspots. We've also asked the most discerning locals we know to share their favourite hangouts – whether brand new or classic institutions. We bring you our hand-picked selection of our favourite places in Mexico City right now.

Whether you're looking for the ultimate luxury hotel, a cosy boutique hotel, or an ultra-cool design hotel, here is our pick of the best places to stay in Mexico City.

This sophisticated luxury boutique hotel is known for its highly personalised service ...

Acclaimed New York design firm, Yabu Pushelberg, has created a sleek, urban sanctuary at Las Alcobas, where traditional Mexican design is infused with a sense of Manhattan glamour and European elegance. For a heavenly escape, visit the Aurora Spa and indulge in a signature botanical facial before experiencing chef Martha Ortiz’ modern Mexican cuisine at Dulce Patria. $$

Presidente Masaryk 390A Col. Polanco, 11560 Mexico D.F.
lasalcobas.com  |  +52 1 55 3300 3900

One of Mexico City’s hippest boutique hotels ...

Housed in an elegant 1920’s townhouse in the trendy Roma neighbourhood, La Valise Hotel is a unique urban retreat in Mexico City. Celebrated designer Emmanuel Picault designed La Valise’s three stylish suites – we love Terraza, where the king-sized bed rolls out onto the hardwood terrace, where you can enjoy a movie beneath the stars courtesy of your own film projector. Another bonus is the 24-hour room service from award-winning chef, Elena Reygadas. $$

Tonal 53, Cuauhtémoc, Roma NTE, 06700, CDMX
lavalise.com.mx  |  +52 55 5286 9560

A haven of classic luxury and impeccable service ...

Towering over the historic Paseo de la Reforma, the St. Regis is one of the city’s most prestigious hotel addresses. Designed by New York firm, Yabu Pushelberg, interiors are swathed in tones of cream and violet, accented by stunning original works of art. Rooms, suites and even the indoor pool showcase spectacular views of Popocatépetl volcano and Chapultepec Park. Retreat to the clubby King Cole Bar for cocktails, followed by dinner at the elegant Diana restaurant. 

Paseo de la Reforma 439, Colonia Cuauhtemoc, Mexico City
starwoodhotels.com/stregis/mexicocity  |  +52 55 5228 1818

An ultra-stylish hotel by trailblazing Mexican hospitality group, Grupo Habita ...

Situated within a magnificent 17th-century palace only moments from the Plaza de la Constitución, Hotel Downtown immerses guests in a romantic world of cloistered terraces, vast studded doors and sweeping staircases. The hotel’s 17 modern, minimalist guest rooms feature beautiful cast-iron balconettes and rough-hewn stone paired with sleek lines and deep charcoal tones. After a day spent by the sun-drenched pool, mingle with the creative crowd on the rooftop terrace or discover the selection of restaurants centred around the hotel’s romantic courtyard. $$

Isabel la Católica 30  Colonia Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Mexico City
downtownmexico.com  |  +52 55 5130 6830

W Mexico City flaunts cutting-edge interiors and a happening social scene ...

Located in Mexico City’s chic Polanco district, the W Mexico City is surrounded by leafy streets, stylish boutiques and edgy art galleries. Enjoy sweeping views over Polanco and Chapultepec Park from the designer guest rooms, which feature an eye-popping palette of tamale red, lime and sapphire. Make sure to relax in the sweat lodge, swim in the jet stream pool then enjoy drinks in the glamorous Living Room Bar. $$$

Campos Eliseos 252,Chapultepec, Polanco, Mexico City
wmexicocity.com  |  +52 55 9138 1800

One of Mexico City’s hottest design hotels, set within a converted 1928 Neo-Classical building ...

Nestled on a tree-lined avenue in the bohemian Condesa neighbourhood, the hip Condesa DF pairs elegantly refined living spaces with a trendy afterhours scene. Discover the subtly playful, light-filled interiors and custom-made furnishings of acclaimed Paris-based designer, India Mahdavi, whose has decorated the hotel’s 40 rooms in native woods and handmade tiles. After sunset, join the city’s beautiful people on the hotel’s stylish rooftop terrace, where cocktails and sushi are served in a Miami Beach-inspired atmosphere.

Avenue Veracruz 102, Col. Condesa, Mexico City
condesadf.com  |  + 52 55 5282 2199

Whether you're looking for a fabulous foodie dining spot, the city's best casual eatery, or a see-and-be-seen dining spot, here is our pick of the best places to eat in Mexico City right now.

This world-famous restaurant now has a stunning new home ...

While chef Enrique Olvera was redefining Mexican cuisine at his groundbreaking restaurant, Pujol, he was meticulously designing its new home in a bungalow 11 blocks away with architect Javier Sánchez and interior designer Micaela de Bernardi. In 2017, Olvera closed the doors of the original Pujol to invite diners within his stunning new home. Oozing the serenity of a Zen garden, Pujol’s minimalist, cosy interiors reveal a luminous world of granite, wood and clean modern lines, an intimate setting where the chef presents his daily-changing, six-course menu – throughout which Pujol’s wood-fire grill, central hearth and outdoor brick oven play a key role. From the playful array of Street Snacks, to Olvera’s famous mole madre and sensational Wagyu, fennel seeds and herb guacamole, Olvera has elevated modern Mexican gastronomy to new heights - and has created a wow-factor setting to match. $$$

Petrarca 254, Polanco V Secc, 1156 Mexico City
pujol.com  |  +52 55 5545 4111

Enjoy the freshest Mexican flavours by world-renowned chef Jorge Vallejo ...

Currently ranked 12th of the World’s 50 Best Restaurants, Quintonil is home to one of the city’s most exciting young chefs, Jorge Vallejo. Refreshingly unassuming and relaxed, Quintonil’s lofty spaces are warmed by wood-panelling and lush greenery, hinting at Vallejo’s passion for the freshest produce. Embark on a voyage into contemporary Mexican cuisine that starts with the signature Quintonil Cocktail, moving on to a sensational tasting menu that champions seasonal vegetables hand-picked from the restaurant’s local garden nearby. $$$

Newton No. 55, Miguel Hidalgo, Polanco, 11560 Mexico City
quintonil.com  |  +52 55 5280 1660

Perfect for a long lunch, El Contramar is the place to discover regional Mexican fare and superb seafood ...

Vivacious slow food queen Gabriela Camara and partner Pablo Bueno opened this charming, low key venue with the simple vision of offering flavoursome cuisine in a cosy environment. Once settled beneath the hand-made straw lanterns and immersed in the vibrant buzz of conversation, try the signature grilled marinated snapper, a whole fish delicately flavored with red chilies and parsley, perfectly accompanied by a ‘Michelada’ - beer served over ice with splashes of lemon and Worcestershire sauce. Nb. Closes at 6.30pm. $$

Durango 200, Colonia Roma, Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Mexico City
contramar.com.mx  |  +52 55 5514 9217

Discover award-winning Basque-Mexican Fusion by a trio of playful chefs ...

High above the bustle of Avenue Presidente Masaryk, Spain and Mexico collide in the Biko kitchen, where chefs Gerard Bellver, Mikel Alonso and Bruno Oteiza can be found riffing on a Basque theme. Choose from two distinct menus - the first inspired by the Spanish foodie enclave of Saint Sebastian, the second full of contemporary twists driven by Alonso’s time at El Bulli. Interiors in pale suede and slate lay all emphasis on the art on the plate: think Mexican pork jowl with tomato emulsion, and quail with clarified gazpacho. 

Presidente Masaryk 407, Miguel Hidalgo, Zentro La Plaza, Polanco, 11550 Mexico City
biko.com.mx  |  +52 55 5282 2064

Ranked 11th on Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants 2017 list, this seductive restaurant is well worth the trip to Mexico City’s south side ...

Having honed his skills at two of the world’s best restaurants (elBulli and Noma), chef Edgar Nuñez then became a pioneer of Mexico’s food truck scene before taking up residence at Sud777, where he shares his unique take on traditional Mexican cuisine. Applauded for his dedication to sourcing the freshest Mexican produce, Nuñez has crafted a superb menu of flavours such as crispy suckling pig, rock cod in corn sauce, and beef tongue on black beans. A sultry haven of wood and stone, Sud777’s chic dining room spills out onto a romantic, plant-filled courtyard. $$

Blvd. de la Luz 777, Jardines del Pedregal, 01900 Alvaro Obregon, Mexico City
sud777.com.mx  |  +52 55 5568 4777

Enjoy fresh, Italian fare in a beautifully restored mansion ...

While the freshly baked breads of chef Elena Reygadas are a thing of local legend, the chefs simple yet sophisticated Italian creations have earned Rosetta a reputation as one of the best Italian restaurants in the city. A seasonal menu showcases homemade pastas, risottos and fluffy gnocchi alongside new creations like succulent braised short rib with baked marrow and polenta. The beautifully conceived interiors were designed by the chef’s architect husband, who coupled rustic wooden furnishings with moulded ceilings, grand fireplaces and delicate frescoes. $$$

Calle Colima, 166, Delegación Cuauhtémoc, Col. Roma Norte, 06700 Mexico City
rosetta.com.mx  |  +52 55 5533 7804

Heart-warming organic, slow-food Mexican cuisine in a relaxed and rustic dining space ...

Attracting the city’s discerning foodie crowd, Nicos delivers deeply flavoursome, authentic Mexican cuisine by one of Mexico’s favourite slow food chefs, Gerardo Vazquez Lugo. As a bowl of guacamole is freshly prepared at your table, peruse a menu of historic recipes ingeniously reinterpreted by Lugo using only the freshest, organic, locally sourced ingredients. We love the inspired savoury mille feuille with tomato, cream and chicken, but don’t miss Nicos’ expert mezcal pairings for the complete Mexican dining experience. $$

Avenue Cuitláhuac 3102  Clavería, Azcapotzalco, 02080 Mexico City
nicosmexico.mx  |  +52 55 5396 7090

Reviving historic, pre-Spanish Mexican flavours at four stylish venues ...

One of the city’s top dining spots for authentic Mexican cuisine, the bustling El Cardenal is famous for its Mexican breakfasts and homemade chocolate, fresh breads and tacos. The menu changes monthly and showcases seasonal dishes, ranging from Oaxacan moles and spicy stuffed chilies, to the tortilla con escamoles (ant egg omelets). El Cardenal boasts four venues located across the city – we love the picturesque Centro Histórico outpost with its lofty ceilings, stained glass windows and mahogany staircase. $$

23 Palma Street, Centro Histórico, 06000 Mexico City
restauranteelcardenal.com  |  +52 55 5521 8815

Taste authentic Mexican street food at two of Mexico City’s favourite taco addresses ...

With a constellation of locations across Mexico City, El Farolito draws a loyal local crowd, thanks to its signature coal-roasted meats and crowd-pleasing menu of hearty chorizo and bean soup, ribeye tacos and chicken with manchego cheese. Another local favourite, the original El Tizoncito lies in the Condesa neighbourhood, where the famous Al Pastor - a taco filled with marinated spit-grilled meat - is said to have been invented. With multiple outposts across Mexico City, don’t miss Tizoncito’s chicken Al Pastor, served with a medley of salsas that are a drawcard in their own right.

Taqueria el Farolito - Tacambaro 4, Cuauhtémoc, Condesa, 06140 Mexico City
taqueriaselfarolito.com.mx  |  +52 55 5276 5116

Tizoncito - Campeche 362, A Col, Condesa 06100 Mexico City
eltizoncito.com.mx  |  +52 55 5211 5139   

Experience a local buzz and savour Mexican flavours at the city’s markets ...

Selling everything from avocados and novelty chocolate skulls to toasted grasshoppers, the colourful stalls of the bustling Coyoacan Market give way to a huddle of tostada stalls at the centre, where hungry locals enjoy fresh seafood and meat specialities. Market shopping gets a hipster spin at Mercado Roma, a foodie destination packed with over 60 vendors, where a lush vertical garden towers above visitors savouring grilled squid, chicken tostadas or moreish churro sprinkled with sugar. La Morera Centro Culinario is Mexico City’s gourmet destination, an urban hotspot where you’ll find everything from rice bowls and succulent chicken wings to artisanal ice cream. 

Coyoacan Market - Centro de Coyoacan, Hidalgo and Malintzin, 04100 Mexico City   +52 55 4072 1596

Mercado Roma -  225 Queretaro, Colonia Roma Norte, 06700 Mexico City
mercadoroma.com  |  +52 55 5564 1396

La Morera Centro Culinario -  Juan Vázquez de Mella Polanco, 11550 Mexico City   cclamorera.com/  |  +52 55 6303 0384

Whether you're looking for the perfect cocktail, the city's best alfresco bar, or a late-night club, here is our pick of the best places to drink and party in Mexico City right now.

Museums & Galleries...

Built in volcanic rock and marble by architect Ramirez Vazquez, the National Museum of Anthropology is a fitting home for one of the world’s finest archaeological collections. Set within a stately neoclassical building, the National Museum of Art spans the history of Mexican fine art since the 16th century, providing a fascinating insight into Mexico’s artistic history. Immerse yourself in the daily life of the legendary artist couple at Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera’s Houses and Studios, or marvel at the extravagant Art Nouveau exteriors of the Palace of Fine Arts. Inside, spectacular Art Deco interiors are home to the National Museum of Fine Arts and the Museum of Books.

Iconic Landmarks...

At the heart of Mexico City, the Plaza de la Constitutión is one of the world’s largest squares. Commonly known as El Zócalo, the square is flanked for 200 metres by the imposing Palacio Nacional, official residence of the President of Mexico. Nearby, the Templo Mayor was built using stone taken from the ruins of Tenochtitlan. Today the square is home to the largest cathedral in the Americas, Metropolitan Cathedral, a superb mixture of baroque, neoclassical and Mexican architecture. To the north of the city lies the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe, where over 12 million visitors each year come to see a cloak bearing the image of the Virgin Mary. Considered the ‘lungs’ of Mexico City, the Bosque de Chapultepec Park is an ecological area of over 2,100 acres, home to the famous Museum of Anthropology, the City Zoo, the Modern Art Museum and the Baths of Montezuma.