They say it’s the most important meal of the day and here in Mexico City, we consider ourselves experts at it. Here is our guide to 10 restaurants for breakfast that include the traditional and beyond.
From new takes on Mexican classics – chilaquiles al pastor or “huevos mexidictinos” – to French breakfasts or a handmade pastry accompanied by a hot chocolate. You have to try them all!
El Cardenal San Ángel
El Cardenal has been sharing family traditions since 1969. Among their multiple locations, we recommend the one in San Ángel where you can order a luxurious conchas with cream, Hidalgo-style gorditas, or Michoacán-style eggs “aporreado” all while you savor a hot chocolate from Doña Oliva.
Av. de la Paz 32, San Ángel, Álvaro Obregón
T. 55 5550 0293
Balta
At the Sofitel Mexico City Reforma’s restaurant you can enjoy a luxurious breakfast and the view. Balta offers dishes such as a French omelet, chilaquiles al pastor, or the unmissable Mexican shakshuka, made with two poached eggs, tomato, peppers, and Oaxacan chorizo.
Paseo de la Reforma 297, Cuauhtémoc, Cuauhtémoc
T. 55 8660 0500
IG. @baltamexico
Café Nin
Café Nin occupies a beautiful space in the relaxed environs of Colonia Juárez. To start your day, we suggest an affogato coffee (espresso and cardamom ice cream) or the coconut milk, banana, and mango drink. The sandwiches are all delicious, with our recommendations being the smoked sausage on rustic bread with tomato and arugula or the spinach and ricotta croissant.
Havre 73, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc
T. 55 9155 4805
IG. @cafe_nin
Cúa Culinary Artisans
Located in the heart of the exclusive JW Marriott Santa Fe hotel, at Cúa Culinary Artisans you’ll find an array of traditional breakfasts and a buffet offering excellent options like chicharrón quesadillas, classic pancakes with bacon, fried eggs, or homemade pastry. All with top notch service.
Santa Fe 160, Santa Fe, Cuajimalpa
T. 55 5292 7272
Saks San Ángel
Before or after visiting the famous Saturday bazaar in San Ángel, fuel up with a delicious breakfast from this classic restaurant. They are known for their omelets, the croque-madame, and Veracruz-style enfrijoladas. Relax and enjoy your weekend with a mimosa.
Pl. San Jacinto 9, San Ángel, Álvaro Obregón
T. 55 5616 1601
El Balcón del Zócalo
¿Qué tal un desayuno con una maravillosa vista de la Catedral, el Sagrario Metropolitano y el Palacio Nacional? El Balcón del Zócalo,
Another breakfast option with an impressive view, you’ll enjoy overlooking Constitution Square with its famous Metropolitan Cathedral and National Palace right in the heart of Mexico City. Chef José Antonio Salinas’ menu includes eggs with machaca and a fun two-color pastry “ear” with cocoa nibs.
5 de Mayo 61, Centro Histórico, Cuauhtémoc
T. 55 5130 5134
IG. @balcondelzocalo
Testal
Testal is a favorite spot not just for the food, but also the beautiful murals that adorn the walls and the crafts on display. This is Mexican haute cuisine made from traditional ingredients. Try the tamales poblanos with turkey or purslane, or the famous “huevos mexidictinos” made with poached eggs on sopes served with refried beans, beef tasajo, and bathed in ranchera sauce.
Dolores 16, Centro Histórico, Cuauhtémoc
T. 55 5510 1358
Maison Belén
French breakfast is on the menu at Maison Belén. This petit bistrot and pâtisserie offers the classic croque monsieur, croque madame, and croque Helsinki (with salmon) alongside a fusion with its Mexican counterpart so those craving chilaquiles won’t miss out. The bakery has a nice selection of artisan bread to eat with cheese, or there’s a chocolate scone for those who prefer something on the sweeter side.
Emilio Castelar 31, Polanco, Miguel Hidalgo
T. 55 5280 3715
IG. @maisonbelen
Madre Café
Madre Café’s whole concept is to have a good time any time of the day. Located in an early 20th century mansion in Roma, the garden is home to a lively breakfast and brunch scene with a menu that includes pancakes topped with berries and mascarpone butter, French toast, ricotta and pumpkin seed enmoladas, or healthy bowls of oatmeal, coconut, cherry, honey, and hemp seeds.
Orizaba 131, Roma Norte, Cuauhtémoc
T. 55 6141 2847
IG. @madre_cafe
Filigrana
Chef Martha Ortiz’s restaurant, located in the Cauduro Building, has one of the most sought-after architectural designs in the city – a beveled glass façade, copper ceiling, a fragment of the mural by painter Rafael Cauduro and a tree growing through the middle of the dining room. This exquisite space offers a pleasing variety of breakfast options, from a mamey smoothie with rice milk and a psychedelic shortbread cookie to the “solar” chilaquiles with yellow tomato sauce, chile güero, fresh cream, and cheese or tasty tongue gorditas.
Veracruz 62, Roma Norte, Cuauhtémoc
T. 55 4398 3137
IG. @filigranacdmx
