Moving to Mexico City means diving into one of the world’s most exciting food scenes. From street tacos that will revolutionize your understanding of Mexican cuisine to Michelin-worthy fine dining establishments, the city’s culinary landscape offers an extraordinary range of experiences. Here’s your comprehensive guide to navigating Mexico City’s food scene as an expat.

Street Food Culture

The Universe of Tacos

Mexico City’s taco scene is vast and varied. Unlike the Tex-Mex versions you might be familiar with, authentic Mexican tacos come in countless varieties:

• Tacos al Pastor: The city’s signature taco, featuring marinated pork shaved from a vertical spit, topped with pineapple
• Tacos de Suadero: Tender beef brisket tacos, a lunchtime favorite
• Tacos de Guisado: Stewed meat or vegetable fillings, perfect for breakfast
• Tacos de Pescado: Fish tacos, especially popular during Lent

Safety tip: Look for busy stands with high turnover and where locals are eating. This ensures both food safety and quality.

Beyond Tacos

Street food extends far beyond tacos:

• Tlacoyos: Blue corn patties stuffed with beans, cheese, or fava beans
• Esquites: Corn kernels served in cups with mayo, cheese, chile, and lime
• Tamales: Steamed corn dough filled with various ingredients, perfect for breakfast
• Quesadillas: Unlike their international counterparts, Mexico City quesadillas don’t automatically come with cheese – you need to ask for it!

Markets and Food Halls

Traditional Markets

• Mercado de la Merced: The city’s largest traditional market
• Mercado de San Juan: Known for gourmet and exotic ingredients
• Mercado de Medellín: Famous for Latin American ingredients and prepared foods

Modern Food Halls

• Mercado Roma: Upscale food hall in Roma Norte
• Mercado Independencia: Contemporary market in Condesa
• La Comer: High-end supermarket chain with excellent prepared foods

Restaurant Scene

Fine Dining

Mexico City hosts several of the world’s top restaurants:

• Pujol: Enrique Olvera’s famous restaurant, consistently ranked among the world’s best
• Quintonil: Jorge Vallejo’s celebrated venue featuring indigenous ingredients
• Máximo Bistrot: Eduardo García’s farm-to-table establishment

Tip: Make reservations weeks or months in advance for fine dining establishments.

Mid-Range Gems

• Contramar: The city’s premier seafood restaurant
• El Cardenal: Traditional Mexican breakfast and lunch
• Lardo: Mediterranean-influenced all-day dining
• Rosetta: Italian-Mexican fusion in a beautiful setting

Casual Dining

• El Califa: Reliable taco chain open late
• El Pescadito: Popular fish taco chain
• La Casa de Toño: Affordable Mexican comfort food

International Cuisine

As an expat, you’ll be pleased to find excellent international options:

• Japanese: Extensive options in Polanco and Roma
• Korean: Growing scene in Zona Rosa
• Italian: Strong presence throughout Condesa and Roma
• Middle Eastern: Increasing options, especially in Roma Norte

Coffee Culture

Mexico City’s coffee scene has exploded in recent years:

• Blend Station: Third-wave coffee with multiple locations
• Almanegra: Specialty coffee and excellent pastries
• Chiquitito Café: Tiny but mighty coffee spot
• Quentin Café: French-style café with excellent croissants

Practical Tips for Expats

Food Safety

• Drink bottled water and avoid ice in street stands
• Choose busy street food vendors with high turnover
• Look for the “Distintivo H” certification in restaurants
• Start slowly with street food to let your stomach adjust

Dining Customs

• Lunch (comida) is the main meal, typically between 2-4 PM
• Dinner is usually lighter and later, around 8-10 PM
• Tipping is typically 10-15%
• Splitting bills is becoming more common but not universal

Grocery Shopping

• Superama/Walmart: Western-style supermarkets
• City Market: High-end grocery stores
• Local markets: Best for fresh produce and meat
• Specialty stores: La Europea for wine, cheese, and imported goods

Food Delivery

• Rappi: The region’s main delivery app
• Uber Eats: Extensive restaurant options
• DiDi Food: Often has good promotions
• Local restaurant delivery: Many restaurants have their own delivery services

Special Dietary Requirements

Vegetarian/Vegan

The city has embraced plant-based dining:

• Por Siempre Vegana: Famous vegan taco stand
• Forever Vegano: Upscale vegan dining
• Pan Comido: Excellent vegetarian options

Gluten-Free

• Zero Gluten: Dedicated gluten-free bakery
• Restaurante Lucía: Many gluten-free options
• Most taquerias naturally offer corn (gluten-free) tortillas

Seasonal Specialties

• January: Rosca de Reyes (Three Kings bread)
• February: Tamales for Candlemas
• September: Chiles en Nogada (patriotic dish)
• October-November: Pan de Muerto (Day of the Dead bread)
• December: Ponche (traditional Christmas punch)

Building Your Food Community

• Join food-focused Facebook groups for expats
• Follow local food bloggers and Instagram accounts
• Take cooking classes to learn about ingredients
• Visit weekly markets in your neighborhood
• Participate in food festivals and events

Final Thoughts

Mexico City’s food scene is a major draw for expats, offering an unparalleled combination of traditional Mexican cuisine, street food, fine dining, and international options. While the sheer variety can be overwhelming at first, take time to explore different neighborhoods and styles of eating. Start with familiar options and gradually venture into more adventurous territory.

Remember that food is central to Mexican culture and social life. Embracing the local food scene isn’t just about eating well – it’s about understanding and participating in the city’s cultural life. Whether you’re sharing tacos at a street stand or enjoying a long Sunday comida at a traditional restaurant, food will be an essential part of your Mexico City experience.