Mexico City: The City of Unforgettable Food (Thanksgiving 2025)

Our Thanksgiving trip to Mexico City began around 5:00 a.m., exhausted from the flight. We were immediately reminded that Mexico City sits high above sea level. The altitude hit us quickly, causing a few minor medical issues and forcing us to slow down even further. Still, after some much needed rest, we pushed forward.
Once ready, we headed out to a nearby local market. It was our first real snapshot of the city, and it couldn’t have been a better introduction. The small businesses were thriving: vendors selling handmade jewelry, souvenirs, and everyday goods with their own touches to them. We made a point to support them, picking up a few rings. Something was grounding about starting the trip this way. It provided us with a local welcoming, commerce, and community.
Lunch that day introduced us to what became the central theme of the trip: simplicity. We tried traditional tacos that were just the essentials: tortillas, meat, salsa, and nothing else. At first, it felt almost underwhelming, but by the end of the trip, we realized that this simplicity was intentional. When ingredients are fresh, complexity is unnecessary.
That night confirmed what we would soon accept as fact: the food was the highlight of the entire trip. We went to a well-rated Mexican restaurant serving Sinaloan-style dishes for dinner. The guacamole was a hit–fresh, simple, and perfectly balanced. It set the tone for most of the meals that followed.
The next morning began with a simple yet hearty hotel breakfast before we headed to the center of Polanco, one of Mexico City’s most upscale neighborhoods. The streets were full of luxury brands, local startups, and more traditional restaurants. We spent hours wandering, embracing the blend of polished storefronts and vibrant street life. Throughout the area, small murals appeared, reflecting the rich culture of Mexico had to present.
Later that day, we visited an archaeological site near the Presidential Palace, where a guide walked us through the history of the ancient pyramids located there. Standing in the middle of a modern capital while learning about civilizations built centuries earlier taught us loads of history we would have never known.
That evening brought the best meal of the trip: dinner at Raiza. Small, quiet, and Michelin-recommended, the restaurant served contemporary Mexican cuisine that felt repetitive, but still had our expectations high. The tacos were exceptional, confirming a claim we had been slowly forming—this is a city built around tacos. Burritos, surprisingly, were almost nonexistent. In Mexico City, tacos are the heart and soul of food.
Dessert was equally memorable: a fig cake with cottage cheese that balanced sweetness with savory. It was one-of-a-kind, flavorful, and perfectly executed.
The third day was less “perfect”. We planned to visit the Anthropology Museum, but struggled to find an English-speaking guide due to it being a Sunday. The tour we eventually joined had a guide who was difficult to understand, which made the experience disappointing. Lunch that day—a very small, ultra-traditional taco shop—was also underwhelming. When served stacked tortillas with grilled chicken and nothing else, we understood that sometimes a touch of complexity is necessary to elevate a dish.
After four days, we left Mexico City with mixed feelings about the city itself. It wasn’t our favorite urban environment, primarily due to the high levels of pollution. However, the history, food, and culture were the richest we’ve experienced, hands down. Mexico City may not impress at first glance, but if you pay attention, especially at the table, the words don’t lie.