Best Restaurants in Mexico City

By far one of the world''s most popular, fun and colourful cuisines, fiery Mexican fare is loved by many the world over and is one of the most distinctive styles of food. With plenty of spice and flavours it packs a real punch! What westerners know as ''Mexican food'' includes dishes such as and and but there is plenty more on offer when dining out in Mexico City. Food varies greatly by region in Mexico and this is largely due to the difference in Spanish influence on the indigenous inhabitants. The north of Mexico is known for its beef, goat and ostrich dishes, the Yucatan for its penchant for unique and natural sweetness, the Oaxacan for its savoury tamales, and the west for its dishes like goat (goat in a spicy tomato-based sauce). For an authentic Mexican dining experience, look no further than one of the old converted Haciendas such as Hacienda de los Morales or Antigua Hacienda de Tlalpan on the outskirts of Mexico City, which are actual ranches that have been converted into restaurants. With charming d?©cor, historic architecture and mouth-watering cuisine, these kinds of restaurants attract travellers from far and wide. Street food is perhaps the most ubiquitous type of food in Mexico City where fast food outlets and (street side food vendors) pepper the streets selling all the usual favourites like , and for a very nice price. However, the central market, Merced and the are the best places to go to indulge on really good, really cheap Mexican fare. Being in the capital city there are, of course, hundreds of restaurants to choose from where everything from Indian and French to Japanese and Irish cuisine can be enjoyed. Foodies should head for the districts of Polanco, Condesa, Centro, Zona Rosa and Sante Fe to gorge themselves at some of the country''s finest restaurants on regional cuisines or just a good old taco. Tipping in restaurants is the norm with 10% of the bill being the standard for most restaurants which is, of course, at your discretion. Lunches are generally long and lazy and much cheaper than dinners. Travellers should note that most restaurants offer a (set menu) and this is a great way of getting a good hearty meal at a reasonable price.