Mexico City is home to countless restaurants and was named the #1 food destination of 2025 by National Geographic. While the city offers endless culinary options, some restaurants stand out more than others. These six eateries are among the most popular in town. For all of them, it’s highly recommended to make a reservation several weeks in advance—except for Mi Chompa Chava, which operates on a no-reservations basis.

1. Contramar

🏅 Recognitions
• OAD Top 2024 #52
• Taste Atlas: Most iconic Tostada
• 50 Best: Discovery
• Michelin Guide: Bib Gourmand

It’s safe to say that Contramar is the most popular seafood restaurant in Mexico City. I made my reservation weeks in advance—and I highly recommend you do the same if you’re planning a visit.

Contramar is especially known for its tuna tostadas, the fig tart dessert, and the whole grilled fish. While many people rave about the grilled fish, we heard mixed reviews, describing it as good but a bit average—so we decided to explore other options on the menu.

We started with the famous tuna tostadas (380 pesos), which were honestly the best I’ve ever had. For comparison: the ones at Mi Compa Chava were good, but felt slightly overloaded with tuna. At Contramar, the balance was perfect—the flavor was delicate and the sauce complemented the tuna beautifully.

We also tried the Tiradito de Pescado (315 pesos) and the Pasta con Almejas (265 pesos). The pasta stood out more than the tiradito, though both could have used a touch more salt to enhance the flavors.

To end our meal, we had the fig tart (195 pesos)—and it was absolutely incredible. The cream was incredibly fresh, and the almond and whole-grain base gave the dessert a unique and memorable texture.

2.Maximó Bistrot

🏅 Recognitions
• OAD Casual 2024 #28
• Chef/Owner featured on Anthony Bourdain’s Part’s Unknown
• San Pellegrino World’s 50 Best: No.43 Latin America’s 50 Best Restaurants 2024
• Michelin Guide: ★ 1 Star

Another reservation I made well in advance was for Máximo Bistrot, one of Mexico City’s few Michelin Star restaurants. This spot definitely has a more upscale feel compared to the other restaurants on the list—something that became clear when I was notified of their dress code ahead of my visit.

Unfortunately, I wasn’t feeling particularly hungry that day, so I opted for two lighter dishes. I started with the Celery root soup with parmesan croutons and chermoula (320 pesos), followed by the Ricotta and parmesan cheese ravioli with basil and zucchini pesto (590 pesos).

Surprisingly, it was the soup that completely stole the show. As the saying goes: you can judge a chef by their soup—and in this case, it truly showcased the kitchen’s skill. It was rich, balanced, and deeply flavorful. While the ravioli was well-prepared, it was the soup that made the strongest impression.

3. Mi Compa Chava Marisqueria

Of all the restaurants I visited, Mi Compa Chava was the one most frequented by locals—a true neighborhood favorite. Unlike many other popular spots in Mexico City, you can’t make a reservation here, so expect to queue during peak hours. I waited around 20 minutes when I arrived at 5:30 PM on a Friday, which wasn’t too bad considering the usual crowds.

I ordered the Tuna Tostada (295 pesos), made with 90 grams of yellowfin tuna, soy vinaigrette, wakame seaweed, and salsa macha. I also tried the Costra de Camarón taco (145 pesos), which came with grilled cheese, shrimp, beans, chipotle, red onion, avocado, coriander, and a house-made flour tortilla.

To drink, I had a Michelada with Clamato, which paired perfectly with the bold, spicy flavors. I had my eye on the Camarones Zarandeados (450g for 650 pesos), but unfortunately, they didn’t offer half portions—something to keep in mind if you’re dining solo or want to sample multiple dishes.

One of my favorite aspects of Mi Compa Chava was the variety of house-made sauces, including hot sauces, which you’ll find served alongside the tuna tostadas. It’s the kind of place where every detail adds to the experience.

4. Rosetta

🏅 Recognitions
• OAD Casual 2024: #6
• Featured on Netflix’s Somebody Feed Phil
• San Pellegrino World’s 50 Best: #46 (2025)
• Michelin Guide: ★ 1 Star

Rosetta is another must-visit spot in Mexico City where making an advance chose it to celebrate the end of eight months of travel, and it turned out to be the perfect setting. I was seated indoors, which I found to be much more atmospheric and intimate than the outdoor tables.

To start, I went with the savoy cabbage tacos, served with pistachio pipián and romeritos. They came highly recommended by the waiter, and they definitely lived up to the praise—surprisingly rich and layered for a vegetarian dish. I followed that with the stone crab, which was paired beautifully with grapefruit and avocado, creating a refreshing contrast of flavors.

Next came the potato gnocchi, luxuriously creamy with Taleggio cheese and slightly bitter radicchio—comforting and elegant. I also tried the tagliatelle with Italian sausage and chile de árbol, which brought a bold, spicy depth and was cooked perfectly al dente.

To finish, I had the classic Tres Leches cake, soft, airy, and delicately sweet. Altogether, Rosetta delivered a memorable fine dining experience with thoughtful flavors, refined service, and a setting that feels both special and relaxed—ideal for marking any meaningful moment in Mexico City.

5. LINA

🏅 Recognitions
• Michelin Guide: Nomination

I went to LINA based on a fellow food lover’s recommendation, and honestly—it ended up being one of the best meals I had during my time in Mexico City. The ambiance was cozy and warm, and the service struck the right balance between professional and personal.

My meal began with a Tuna crudo featuring thin slices of yellowfin tuna paired with apple, mandarin kosho, and granadilla. It was bright, fresh, and beautifully balanced. The next dish completely surprised me—in the best way. It was Bok choi, served over a smooth parsnip purée, with turmeric curry and macadamia nuts. The flavor combination was unlike anything I’d tasted before—creative, comforting, and unforgettable.

After that, I had the Fresh corzetti pasta with stone crab. Interestingly, it arrived with peas and spinach instead of the tomatoes and Brussels sprouts listed on the menu, but the result was still incredibly flavorful and satisfying. Alongside, I enjoyed their house-made naan, soft and lightly charred—perfect for scooping up leftover sauce.

For dessert, I went with the Mango pie, topped with fresh Manchego cheese and ginger. It was a brilliant end to the meal—sweet, tangy, and just adventurous enough to stand out.

If you’re looking for a spot that combines inventive cooking with a welcoming atmosphere, LINA is a must-visit in Mexico City.

6. La Docena

🏅 Recognitions
• OAD Casual 2024 #339
• 50 Best: Discovery

I stopped by La Docena just for a glass of wine and to try another one of Mexico City’s most famous tuna tostadas. Known as one of the city’s top seafood spots, La Docena combines a casual, lively atmosphere with high-quality ingredients.

I went for their bluefin tuna tostada, which is topped with jalapeños, cream, and dill (185 pesos). The combination was simple but bold—fresh tuna, just the right amount of heat, and a creamy herbaceous finish. It was definitely worth the detour.

Although I didn’t try more this time, La Docena is also known for its oyster selection and variety of other tostadas, which come highly recommended for a fuller meal. Whether you’re in for a quick bite or a full seafood spread, La Docena is a reliable choice for fresh flavors and a vibrant dining experience.