The 7 michelin starred restaurants in Mexico City in 2024
Mexico City is internationally famous for the wide variety of food it has to offer, and is always in the focus of the highest critics of the guild, one of them the michelin guide, in which today there are 62 Restaurants, of which 35 are “selected restaurants” which means that it is a “good cuisine”, 2O restaurants are catalogued as “Bib Gourmand” which means “the best value for money”, 5 restaurants with “1 star” for being “high level cuisine” and only 2 restaurants with “2 stars” for having “exceptional cuisine”.
Within the 7 places that have a Michelin star we can find a wide variety of options, from street tacos like “El califa de León” or the most sophisticated places in terms of modern Mexican cuisine, such as “Pujol”. Here is a list of Michelin-starred restaurants in Mexico City.
Quintonil: Mexico City’s Two Michelin-Star Gem
In a city known for its world-class dining, Quintonil stands out not just for its two Michelin stars but for its unique approach to Mexican cuisine. Co-led by Chef Jorge Vallejo and Chef Alejandra Flores, Quintonil goes beyond traditional flavors by focusing on sustainability and locally sourced ingredients. What truly sets Quintonil apart is its dedication to showcasing Mexican biodiversity, with an emphasis on plant-based dishes and regional ingredients often overlooked by other fine-dining establishments. At Quintonil, you won’t just taste familiar Mexican staples—you’ll discover rare flavors, from indigenous herbs to underutilized vegetables, all elevated with modern culinary techniques. Dishes like chilacayote squash with black recado or escamoles sautéed with epazote offer a fresh perspective on Mexican cuisine, emphasizing nature’s role in the dining experience.
The intimate ambiance, designed to reflect a connection with the land through earthy tones and greenery, mirrors the restaurant’s farm-to-table ethos. This attention to detail, both in the food and the setting, makes Quintonil a distinct destination for those seeking an innovative, eco-conscious twist on Mexican fine dining.
Nestled in a historic mansion in the heart of Mexico City’s Roma neighborhood, Rosetta offers a dining experience that blends artistry, elegance, and Mexican flavors. Recently awarded one Michelin star, Rosetta, led by Chef Elena Reygadas, has become a global culinary destination for its unique fusion of Mexican and Mediterranean cuisine. What sets Rosetta apart is its seasonal, farm-to-table menu, which highlights local ingredients sourced from small Mexican farms. Chef Reygadas artfully combines traditional Mexican flavors with European techniques, creating dishes like pasta with hoja santa and mole-filled bread, which reflect her inventive approach.
Rosetta’s charming, floral-inspired interior adds to the experience, with lush greenery and an intimate atmosphere that make dining here feel like a romantic escape into a secret garden. The restaurant’s commitment to artisanal techniques and its enchanting ambiance make it a must-visit for those seeking a creative, elevated take on Mexican cuisine. With its Michelin star and innovative culinary approach, Rosetta offers a truly unique experience in Mexico City’s vibrant dining scene.
Em: A Contemporary Mexican Masterpiece in Mexico City
At the forefront of Mexico City’s dynamic culinary landscape, Em has quickly made a name for itself as a destination for those seeking innovative Mexican cuisine. Recently awarded one Michelin star, Em is the brainchild of Chef Lucho Martínez, who brings a fresh, contemporary approach to traditional Mexican flavors. What sets Em apart is its minimalist tasting menu, which changes frequently to highlight the best of Mexico’s seasonal ingredients. Chef Martínez’s dishes are beautifully composed, blending local produce with modern techniques to create bold, flavor-driven experiences. Each dish, like the smoked trout with native herbs or sweet corn tamale with truffle, showcases the chef’s mastery of balancing familiar flavors with unexpected elements. The plates are often simple yet packed with complexity, allowing the ingredients to shine.
Em’s Michelin star is a testament to Chef Martínez’s dedication to elevating Mexican cuisine with a modern twist. For those looking to explore Mexico’s culinary future while savoring its rich traditions, Em offers an unforgettable dining journey in the heart of Mexico City.
Pujol: Iconic Two Michelin-Starred Culinary Experience
Renowned as one of the most celebrated restaurants in the world, Pujol offers a Michelin-starred dining experience that redefines Mexican cuisine. Located in the upscale Polanco district of Mexico City, Chef Enrique Olvera‘s flagship restaurant combines centuries-old culinary traditions with modern, avant-garde techniques, creating a truly unique journey through Mexico’s rich gastronomic heritage.
At the heart of Pujol’s innovation is its iconic tasting menu, where dishes like the legendary mole madre, aged for over 2,500 days, and the contemporary street-style taco of the day exemplify Olvera’s genius. The omakase-inspired taco bar experience, available as an alternative to the main dining room, elevates the simple taco into an art form, pairing it with carefully selected local ingredients and bold, unexpected flavors. The restaurant’s elegant, understated ambiance perfectly complements its culinary artistry. Earthy tones and natural wood accents reflect Mexico’s landscapes, while the open kitchen offers guests a glimpse of the artistry and precision behind each plate. Every detail, from the ceramics to the tableware, is carefully curated to create a holistic, immersive dining experience.
Chef Olvera’s visionary approach continues to inspire both locals and international food lovers, making Pujol a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the future of Mexican cuisine, while honoring its deep-rooted past.
El Califa de León: Favorite Taquería for Tradition and Flavor
For both locals and visitors, El Califa de León is a top destination in Mexico City’s vibrant taquería scene, offering a perfect blend of traditional Mexican street food with exceptional quality. Known for its grilled meats and freshly made tortillas, El Califa serves up classics like gaonera, bisteck. What sets El Califa apart is its focus on high-quality ingredients and meticulous preparation. The gaonera meat, slow-cooked, is sliced to order and paired with fresh salsas, cilantro, and onions, delivering a burst of authentic flavor.
The restaurant’s bright, modern design creates a casual, inviting atmosphere. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite or enjoying a meal with friends, El Califa is one of the best street food places in Mexico City, but there is thousands of them, thats why we recomendo to hire a Street Food Tour as a must for mexico City.
Sud 777: A Michelin-Starred Culinary Oasis in CDMX.
Situated in the lush greenery of Mexico City’s Pedregal district, Sud 777 offers a Michelin-starred dining experience that marries contemporary Mexican cuisine with an elegant, serene atmosphere. Under the expert guidance of Chef Édgar Núñez, Sud 777 has become a haven for food enthusiasts seeking innovative dishes crafted from the freshest local ingredients.
The restaurant’s tasting menu is a standout, featuring seasonal creations like seared duck with local fruits and squid ink risotto, all prepared with a modern twist on traditional flavors. Sud 777’s ambiance is equally noteworthy. Set amidst lush gardens, the restaurant features an open, airy design with natural materials that create a tranquil dining experience. The interior’s minimalist elegance complements the chef’s innovative cuisine, making each meal feel like a special occasion.
For those looking to explore the forefront of Mexican fine dining, Sud 777’s Michelin star and dedication to creative, seasonal cuisine make it a must-visit destination. The restaurant offers a refined escape into the world of contemporary Mexican gastronomy, where every dish is a testament to Chef Núñez’s culinary vision.
Esquina Común: Mexico City’s Hidden Gem of Gastronomic Innovation
The address of this trendy locale may no longer be a secret, but reservations are still trickling in (and can only be made by direct message on Instagram). Its covered rooftop terrace, with abundant vegetation, exudes a pleasant and relaxed atmosphere. A perfect setting, then, for the highly personal cuisine of chef Ana Dolores González and her young and talented team, characterized by its solid technical base and the quality of its ingredients. The proposals, in the form of tasting menu and portions for two, are impressive. Highlights include the fish of the day, which can be grilled cod in a voluptuous green mole with crushed plantain, beans and pumpkin seeds. In keeping with the theme, the masa and plantain fish tamale is filled with red chile-tinged fish in a tasty macha sauce.
Mexico City’s vibrant food scene is a testament to its rich culinary heritage and innovative spirit. From the sophisticated elegance of Quintonil and Rosetta, both Michelin-starred havens where contemporary Mexican cuisine meets artistic flair, to the bustling, authentic flavors of El Califa de León and the modern sophistication of Sud 777, each restaurant offers a unique dining experience.
Pujol stands out as an iconic destination, redefining Mexican fine dining with its avant-garde approach and timeless flavors. Meanwhile, Esquina Común adds to the city’s culinary allure with its inventive take on traditional dishes, blending local ingredients with modern techniques.
Each of these establishments, from the high-end elegance of Michelin-starred venues to the beloved street food gems, showcases the depth and diversity of Mexico City’s gastronomic landscape. Whether you’re seeking a refined tasting menu, a classic taco, or a fresh twist on traditional flavors, Mexico City’s restaurants promise an unforgettable journey through the heart of Mexican cuisine.
