Food Itinerary for 3 Days in CDMX

Mexico City, or CDMX, is a paradise for food lovers. With its rich culinary heritage, vibrant street food culture, and innovative restaurants, the city offers an unforgettable experience for anyone eager to explore authentic Mexican flavors. If you only have three days to savor the best dishes, this Food Itinerary for 3 Days in CDMX will guide you through a delicious journey, from traditional markets to trendy eateries.

Tacos al pastor in Mexico City, a must-try street food

Day 1: Classic Flavors and Street Food Delights

Start your culinary adventure with the heart of Mexico City’s street food scene. The first day focuses on iconic dishes that define Mexican cuisine.

Breakfast at El Cardenal

Begin with a traditional Mexican breakfast at El Cardenal, a beloved restaurant known for its fresh pastries, rich hot chocolate, and chilaquiles. Try the chilaquiles verdes topped with crema and queso fresco, paired with a cup of Mexican coffee.

Mid-Morning Snack at Mercado de San Juan

Walk to Mercado de San Juan, a market famous for exotic ingredients and gourmet products. Sample queso de tuna (cactus cheese) or fresh tropical fruits like mamey and guanabana. Don’t miss the chance to try tlayudas, a crispy Oaxacan tortilla topped with beans, cheese, and meat.

Lunch with Tacos al Pastor

No visit to CDMX is complete without tasting tacos al pastor. Head to El Vilsito, a popular taqueria where you can watch the spit-roasted pork turn golden. Order your tacos with pineapple, onions, and cilantro for an authentic experience.

Afternoon Coffee Break at Café de Tacuba

Take a break at Café de Tacuba, a historic café with beautiful colonial decor. Enjoy a cup of café de olla, a traditional Mexican coffee brewed with cinnamon and piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar).

Dinner at Pujol

For dinner, reserve a table at Pujol, one of Mexico City’s top restaurants. Chef Enrique Olvera reinterprets Mexican classics with modern techniques. Try the tasting menu to experience dishes like mole madre and baby corn with chicatana ants.

Day 2: Markets, Museums, and Modern Mexican Cuisine

Explore more of CDMX’s food culture by combining visits to markets and museums with meals that highlight regional Mexican flavors.

Breakfast at Lalo!

Start your day at Lalo!, a casual spot loved by locals. Their molletes (toasted bread with beans and cheese) and fresh fruit juices are perfect to fuel your day.

Visit La Merced Market

Head to La Merced, one of the largest traditional markets in Mexico City. Wander through stalls selling chilies, spices, and fresh produce. Grab a snack of elote (grilled corn with mayo, cheese, and chili powder) from a street vendor.

Lunch at Contramar

Contramar is famous for its seafood dishes. Order the tostadas de atún (tuna tostadas) and the grilled fish with a side of fresh salad. The vibrant atmosphere and fresh flavors make it a favorite for both locals and tourists.

Afternoon at Museo Frida Kahlo and Coyoacán

After lunch, visit the Frida Kahlo Museum in Coyoacán. The neighborhood is also great for trying churros with hot chocolate at a local café.

Dinner at Rosetta

End the day at Rosetta, a restaurant in a beautiful old mansion. Their menu blends Italian and Mexican influences. Don’t miss the guava-flavored pastries and the homemade pasta.

Fresh seafood tostadas served at Contramar restaurant in Mexico City

Day 3: Hidden Gems and Sweet Treats

Use your last day to discover lesser-known spots and indulge in Mexico City’s sweet side.

Breakfast at Panadería Rosetta

Start with pastries from Panadería Rosetta, known for its guava and cheese rolls. Pair your pastry with a café americano.

Explore Roma Norte Food Scene

Roma Norte is a trendy neighborhood with many small eateries. Try quesadillas de flor de calabaza (squash blossom quesadillas) at a local stand or enjoy a fresh juice from a street vendor.

Lunch at El Hidalguense

For a hearty meal, visit El Hidalguense, a restaurant specializing in dishes from Hidalgo state. Order barbacoa de borrego, slow-cooked lamb served with handmade tortillas.

Afternoon Sweet Treats at Churrería El Moro

No food itinerary in CDMX is complete without churros. Churrería El Moro has been serving crispy churros with thick hot chocolate since 1935. It’s the perfect spot to recharge before your evening.

Dinner at Maximo Bistrot

Finish your trip with dinner at Maximo Bistrot, a farm-to-table restaurant that changes its menu daily based on fresh ingredients. The dishes are creative, seasonal, and beautifully presented.

This Food Itinerary for 3 Days in CDMX offers a balanced mix of street food, traditional dishes, and fine dining. You’ll experience the city’s culinary diversity and rich flavors in just a few days. Whether you crave tacos on the street or innovative tasting menus, CDMX delivers unforgettable meals at every turn.