The Best Spots For Dining Al Fresco In Mexico City
Those of us hailing from cooler, rainier climates perhaps don’t take easily to the idea of dining al fresco, but in tropical Mexico, there’s no better way to enjoy a meal. From street vendors to upscale restaurant-goers, everyone enjoys eating in the open air once in a while, whether it be curbside or rooftop. Read on for our guide to the top al fresco dining options in Mexico City.
1. Tori Tori
Tori Tori
Incredibly flavorful Japanese cuisine in a contemporary location, Tori Tori cannot be missed. Founder of Tori Tori Dr. Katsumi Kumoto Kawasaki has five branches across Mexico City, but the Temistocles Polanco branch really has the standout alfresco dining options. Enjoy king crab cakes and yakimeshi on low-to-the-floor seating in the garden terrace, dominated by a white, mesh-like sculpture. Spread over several levels and terraces, Tori Tori has received much attention for its architectural achievements, not to mention its food and extensive range of sake.
Temistocles 61, Polanco, Ciudad de México, México, +52 55 5281 4226
3. El Mayor
El Mayor
Another incredibly central al fresco dining option in this buzzing city, El Mayor offers something truly special – bird’s eye views of the Templo Mayor, the Aztec ruins that are just off the edge of the Zócalo. On the top floor of Librería Porrúa, El Mayor is also just behind the stunning Mexico City cathedral, meaning if a view is what you’re looking for, this is the place to be. As far as the food goes, stop by for breakfast or lunch on the way to the Templo and take your pick of dishes from the international menu.
Republica de Argentina 15, corner of Justo Sierra, Centro, Ciudad de México, México, +52 55 5704 7580
4. Brooklyn Rooftop
Bar, Restaurant, Beer, American
5. Contramar
Contramar
A long standing Mexico City favourite, Contramar is one of the best restaurants in the capital. Since 1998 they’ve been dishing up exquisite takes on coastal delicacies, seafood and ceviches, and the quality has never dropped. Grab a table on the atmospheric patio to take proper advantage of this spot and absolutely make sure to try the red snapper or the iconic fresh tuna tostadas, accompanied with chipotle mayonnaise.
Contramar, Durango 200, Cuauhtémoc, C. U. Benito Juárez, Ciudad de México, México, +52 55 5514 9217
6. Corazón de Maguey
Corazón de Maguey
Head to Coyoacán and dine al fresco at one of the area’s most frequented and long running restaurants. Corazón de Maguey is owned by the same people who run Los Danzantes (another great Coyoacán option, if you’re interested), and this informal spot is always plenty busy. Choose from any one of the excellent Oaxacan dishes, and make sure you knock back a mezcal or two with your meal for the true Oaxacan experience.
Corazón de Maguey, Jardín del Centenario No.9A, Coyoacán, Ciudad de México, México, +52 55 5659 3165
7. Hotel Condesa DF
Hotel
8. Central Central
Bar, Charcuterie, Diner, Restaurant, Tapas, Spanish, French, Continental
9. San Ángel Inn
San Ángel Inn
Formerly Haciendo Goicoechea, what is now the San Ángel Inn is a renowned dining option that has been serving up classics of Mexican and international cuisine for decades. A favourite of the local elite and travellers alike, you can dine al fresco in the quaint courtyard, with its lovely, central, colonial fountain and atmospheric lighting. The perfect option for a relaxing and romantic meal, we recommend trying out the chiles rellenos or chiles en nogada, if you’re there in the right season.
San Ángel Inn, Diego Rivera 50, Álvaro Obregón, San Ángel Inn, Ciudad de México, México, +52 55 5616 1402
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