Mexico City: A Tale of Art, Flavor, and Timeless Inspiration.
"Mexico City is a place of miracles, of a Mexico that has been lost, that wants to recover itself in a desperate way and finds itself in a handful of people who keep the memory alive."
— Carlos Monsiváis
Growing up in Northern California, I hadn’t explored much of the USA or nearby areas, though I’ve always loved to travel. One Thanksgiving, I decided to change that by booking a weeklong escape from San Francisco to vibrant Mexico City. I didn’t know exactly what to expect, but I knew I loved Mexican food from my time in the Mission District—and more than anything, I wanted to visit Casa Azul, the home of Frida Kahlo, who has inspired me for years. Walking through her world was a dream come true. I also visited the gallery of her husband, Diego Rivera, where I bought a painting that has become my most prized possession at home. Beyond Frida and Diego, I discovered the city’s wonders, from the grand Zócalo and Palacio de Bellas Artes to the serene canals of Xochimilco and sprawling Chapultepec Park. Every corner seemed to offer another piece of history, beauty, and vibrant culture, making the city unforgettable.
Here are five unforgettable foodie experiences from my trip:
Lardo 🥐🍳 In the heart of Condesa, Lardo offers a fusion of Mediterranean and Mexican flavors. From fresh pastries to wood-fired pizzas, everything felt special in its open-kitchen setting.
Contramar 🐟🍽️: A Roma favorite, Contramar delivered on its hype with the famous tuna tostadas and whole grilled fish. The relaxed, stylish ambiance was perfect for savoring fresh seafood over a long lunch.
La Casa de Toño 🥣🌮: This local gem was comfort food at its finest. With authentic pozole, tacos, and quesadillas, La Casa de Toño was a welcoming spot where locals and tourists alike bonded over amazing food.
Merotoro 🥩🐠: Merotoro brought Baja California flavors to life with a seasonal menu of perfectly cooked meats and fresh seafood. It was the ultimate spot for a laid-back foodie adventure.
El Moro Churro 🍫☕: And, of course, no trip would have been complete without El Moro’s crispy churros and thick hot chocolate. This sweet treat was the ultimate indulgence and a perfect finish to my Mexico City experience.
Each of these places offered a taste of Mexico City’s vibrant culinary landscape, making my journey unforgettable. Every bite told a story, every flavor left an impression, and I left with memories that were as rich and layered as the city itself.