Street Tacos Meet Fancy Dining – The Michelin Magic of Mexico City

In 2024, Mexico City officially joined the Michelin map. But anyone who’s explored its taquerías, markets, and dining rooms knew it was already a global culinary capital. What’s remarkable isn’t just the arrival of Michelin stars — it’s where they landed: from polished tasting menus to street-side grills.

If you’re searching for the best Michelin star restaurants in Mexico City, and how to enjoy a taco that carries the same level of culinary respect, you’re in the right place.

Here’s how to eat like a local and a gourmand in one of the world’s most exciting food cities.

Pujol and Quintonil Turn Mexican Food Into Art

Let’s start with the heavyweights: Pujol and Quintonil. These two restaurants didn’t just earn stars; they redefined what modern Mexican food can be.

As a regular at Pujol since 2019, I can confirm that Chef Enrique Olvera’s tasting menu isn’t a meal — it’s a slow-burning symphony. His now-iconic Mole Madre, Mole Nuevo isn’t just plated; it’s presented. The aged mole, some over 2,500 days old, is served beside a fresh, fiery batch, both folded with handmade blue corn tortillas still warm from the comal.

Just across town, At Quintonil, Chef Jorge Vallejo uses ingredients based on the season. One week you might try cactus ceviche from local farms, and another week you’ll get avocado with grasshopper salt. Yes, grasshoppers — and it’s delicious.

These aren’t just restaurants. They’re living, breathing testaments to what happens when Mexican heritage meets meticulous technique.

Pro Tip: Want to know how to book Pujol reservations without losing your mind? Our Webway concierge team tracks their quiet last-minute drop — usually Tuesdays around 2 PM CST. We can hold your spot.

El Califa de León Proves a Taco Stand Can Earn a Michelin Star

A taco stand with a Michelin star? In Mexico City, sí, claro.

El Califa de León is a small taco stand that earned a Michelin star — and didn’t change a thing. They still serve four kinds of tacos from a space smaller than most kitchens.

The most famous taco? The Taco Gaonera — thin slices of beef cooked fast over a super-hot fire and placed in a fresh tortilla. That’s it. No salsa. No toppings. Just meat, salt, and fire. It’s simple but amazing.

Watching the taquero (taco chef) work is like watching a master artist. Every move is smooth and fast, like second nature.

Pro Tip: Go during the day, bring about $3 per taco, and bring cash. It’s safe, delicious, and totally worth it.

Rosetta and Em Serve Upscale Dining Without the Fuss

Want amazing food without dressing up? Rosetta and Em are great picks.

Rosetta feels like eating in a cozy, beautiful home. Chef Elena Reygadas makes surprising dishes like wild green tamales with butter and cheese or fig-leaf ice cream with strawberries. Her bread is so good it could win awards.

At Em, Chef Lucho Martínez keeps things fun and different. The menu changes often, but don’t miss the smoked corn with miso or grilled duck with plum mole. It’s cool, creative, and full of Mexican flavor.

Pro Tip: Both offer lunch deals that cost less — perfect if you’re on a budget but still want that Michelin magic.

My Advice for Friends Visiting Mexico City

You haven’t really experienced Mexico until you’ve eaten a $200 fancy meal and a 50-cent taco on the same day.

That’s what makes Mexico City special. You could be drinking a local drink called pulque in a market one minute, and sipping wine in a fine dining restaurant the next.

Food here isn’t just sustenance — it’s identity, history, rebellion, and art, all wrapped in a tortilla.

Want Help Planning? We’ve Got You.

At Webway Travels, we don’t just book hotels and flights. We help you dive into Mexico City’s food scene like a local.

Want a fun taco tour in Roma or Condesa? A seat at Em’s chef’s table? A safe, guided night tour of the best taco spots?

We can make it happen.

Bonus: Michelin vs Local Favorites Cheat Sheet