$$Regional Cuisine, Mexican
Set on a street lined with luxury shops in the Polanco neighborhood, Guzina Oaxaca shines a spotlight on the gastronomy of this southern Mexican region. The cuisine, based on corn and chile, is known for its moles and its inclusion of insects, including grasshoppers. Chef Álex Ruiz, who designed the menu, and Chef Carlos Galán, who executes the dishes, hail from Oaxaca, and Chef Galán credits his grandmothers for sharing their passion for the cuisine. Arrive in the morning for a full breakfast menu or come later in the day to savor classic dishes such as memelitas tradicionales, tlayuda, tamal
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.3/5 · 80 reviews
Guzina Oaxaca offers authentic Oaxacan cuisine with an average rating of 4.3/5. Food quality is the standout feature, praised for complex moles, duck taquitos, and fresh ceviche. Service is generally friendly but inconsistent; some guests experienced slow pacing, incorrect orders, and poor management oversight. The atmosphere is welcoming and suitable for casual dining. Value perceptions vary, with some finding it worth the trip while others feel the price does not match the experience. While the culinary heritage is impressive, diners should be prepared for potential service lapses.
Ideal for diners seeking authentic Oaxacan flavors who can tolerate occasional service inconsistencies.
$$Spanish
Just in case you're unsure of the offerings inside La Barra de Fran, a bull's head is posted right at the entrance as a good reminder that the soul of this place, and its flavors, are decidedly Spanish. It's fashioned after Spain's famed tapas bars, and it's a perfect place to go for a fun night out. Taste the likes of patatas bravas, anchovies on lightly toasted bread with a little oil and tomato, gambas al ajillo, flan, and other classic Spanish food that is all sized for sharing, so be sure to bring a friend—or make a new one.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.1/5 · 80 reviews
La Barra de Fran offers authentic Spanish cuisine in Mexico City, holding an average rating of 4.1/5. Food quality is generally praised, with fresh ingredients and well-prepared dishes like rice, meats, and ham, though some note small portions or greasy items. Service is polarizing; while many appreciate the friendly and efficient staff, others report poor reception or rude management. The ambiance is cozy and romantic, featuring a terrace and bar, despite limited indoor space. Value is debated, with some finding prices high and wine costs unclear, suggesting moderate cost-effectiveness.
Suitable for diners seeking authentic Spanish flavors who can accept moderate pricing, with a suggestion to verify service experiences.
$$Mexican
Carmela y Sal is Chef Gabriela Ruiz Lugo's love letter to her Tabasco roots. She shares so much of her personality in this welcoming, modern restaurant where a kind staff ensures an enjoyable experience. This isn't food that you'll find on every corner. Its distinct personality is memorable, and you'll be back in no time for another terrific meal. Don't miss dishes like the broccoli with spicy sauces, cheese and black piquin chili. Short rib con chirmol is packed with flavor, thanks to the generous sauce, and is a hearty dish intended for big appetites. Mostachón is a simple dessert to round t
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Mexico City's Polanco district, Carmela y Sal offers innovative Mexican cuisine in an elegant setting. Reviews highlight high food quality, creative presentations, and standout dishes like corn off the cob, roast pig, and plantains. Service is generally praised as welcoming and attentive, though some guests note inconsistent pacing or occasional lapses. The ambiance is described as beautiful and culturally rich. While most experiences are positive, a minority report issues such as overly salty dishes, bland sauces, or indifferent service. Overall, it suits travelers seeking refined, contemporary Mexican flavors with a focus on detail and atmosphere, provided they allow flexibility for service variations.
Ideal for diners seeking refined, innovative Mexican cuisine in a cultural setting; reservations recommended.
$$Mexican, International
This Polanco spot offers sidewalk tables, a bar area with a U-shaped counter, and seating at tables in a rear dining room where the kitchen is on display. Throughout, the room boasts a creamy color palette with latte lacquered tables, beige leather banquettes, and light wood- accented concrete walls.Malix's free-roaming menu incorporates Mexican cuisine as well as global influences in items like pâté with madeleines and pickles; a selection of local cheeses; and house-made Lao-style sausage. There is a respect for sustainable gastronomy, as the menu highlights a long list of local producers. T
$$Seafood, Mexican
There are plenty of enviable seats at Entremar, though certainly those on the terrace under the awnings and surrounded by plants are first on the list. Inside, try to book on the first floor, with the best tables resting in a row at the back overlooking the Plaza Uruguay.Of course, Entremar is about so much more than a good seat, and some of the best dishes to order include fresh tuna tostadas with chipotle sauce, a little avocado and fried leek, giving them a crunchy touch. Choose wisely when it comes to the aguachile, as the red is spicy, while pescado a la talla is the restaurant's signatur
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.3/5 · 80 reviews
Entremar in Mexico City specializes in seafood and Mexican cuisine, holding an average rating of 4.3/5. Reviews frequently praise the high quality and freshness of dishes like tuna tostadas and signature grilled fish, alongside excellent desserts. Service is generally described as efficient and friendly, with a lively, energetic atmosphere where some guests spot celebrities. However, criticisms focus on perceived poor value for money, with several noting high prices relative to portion sizes. A small number of negative reviews report severe gastrointestinal illness requiring hospitalization, while others cite uncomfortable seating arrangements and rushed service. While food quality is widely acclaimed, potential diners should be aware of isolated health concerns and mixed opinions on pricing.
Suitable for diners seeking high-quality seafood who can accept higher prices, with advice to reserve early and consider personal digestive sensitivity.
$$International, Contemporary
Paying a visit to the National Museum of Anthropology? Plan ahead so you can stop in for a meal at this welcoming spot that enjoys close proximity to the museum. It's small, so reservations are recommended if you want to snag a seat in this classic bistro. It's ideal for a night out with friends, while the bar is always a good choice for those who enjoy watching the chefs at work.The menu is as small as the setting, offering a roster of internationally influenced dishes. Grilled sardines have a Mediterranean flair; Italian influences prevail in pasta dishes; and crêpes suzette shows off a Fren
$Traditional Cuisine, Mexican
Nicos was once a humble stand selling sodas and snacks until one day a customer saw employees eating something delicious and the restaurant was born. The son of the founder now serves as chef, overseeing a tasting menu of classic Mexican cuisine features such standouts as taco de cecina crujiente on a corn tortilla that delivers characteristic intensity. and a flavor-packed, bright dish of camarones al tamarindo. An enchilada stuffed with tasado and beans and bathed in a pixtle sauce from Oaxaca is an aromatic, tasty crowd-pleasing dish, while the aguachile comes with a feisty kick thanks to f
TripAdvisor review sample · 3.4/5 · 80 reviews
Nicos offers traditional Mexican cuisine with a Michelin star reputation. Food quality is polarized: some praise its modern twists and chef's attention to detail, while others find it mediocre relative to expectations. Service is described as both impeccable and slow, with notable complaints regarding billing delays. The ambiance is elegant and retro, though the remote location and lack of parking are drawbacks. While some enjoy the formal atmosphere and specific dishes like cream soup, others cite poor value and administrative issues. Visitors should consider the distance and potential service inconsistencies before dining.
Suitable for diners seeking refined Mexican cuisine who can tolerate the remote location and verify service details in advance.