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Mexico City, Mexico Restaurants
Parents! Never fear--México City has a wide variety of international eateries, including take-out pizza, in almost every neighborhood. If you're a real foodie, you'll have a lot of fun with the comprehensive guidebook, "The Hungry Traveler --México" by Marita Adair (Andrew McMeel). However, when it comes to family restaurants, our recommendation follows the "When in Rome..." model. So we lean toward favorite Mexican ones, si como no? Listings for clean, friendly places (where you can eat salads and even drink the water) are by neighborhood.
Zócalo - Centro Histórico
Sanborns
Various Locations
Begun in the early 1900s by the American Sanborn Brothers as a soda fountain and drug store, this has evolved into a chain of spotless, air-conditioned restaurants tucked into local department stores. The smallest ones sell a variety of knick knacks and travel essentials, ranging from sunglasses to toothpaste; larger ones sell everything from DVDs to computers to perfume, at dozens of locations throughout the city. Any of these ubiquitous coffeeshops are sure to serve up something the kids will appreciate when they're homesick. The flagship (at least in decor) of the chain is the beautiful and historic Casa de los Azulejos.
Casa de los Azulejos
Calle Madero 4
(52 55/5518-6676)
The famous House of Tiles is quite close to the Zócalo and, as mentioned, is the first of the Sanborns group. The history of this attractive colonial building traces back to the 18th century, and the chandeliers, fountain and hand-painted walls dress up what is otherwise a diner serving a Continental menu of American comfort foods. Go inside, if only for a look at its decorated cake displays! The food and desserts are quite good and well-priced, and the early 20th-century peacock mural by Orozco adorning the dining room walls is an interesting highlight.
Café Tacuba
Calle Tacuba 28
(52 55/5518-4950)
Another favorite for traditional specials (and we mean the rich mole sauces, grilled meats, fish, tamales, chili rellenos and black beans of authentic Mexican cuisine, not refried beans, nachos, chips and guacamole) is in the Centro Histórico. Its 18th century-style interior, with high ceilings, brass lamps, hand-painted tiles and artwork -- and its strolling musicians -- have entertained families since 1912. Their daily comida corrida or luncheon special is a very good value.
Cafe del Palacio
Palacio de Bellas Artes
(52 55/5512-0807)
This casual cafe is in the stunning fine arts museum and is well worth a stop for families who may never walk through the entire collection. It's tucked into an Art Deco-style corner of the museum and serves a variety of wines and simple snack foods; best is the terrace facing Alameda Park at lunch time.
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