When you think of Mexican food, three neighborhoods immediately come to mind: Roma, Condesa, and Polanco. But those aren’t the only neighborhoods in Mexico City that offer great restaurants. The best places to eat might be ones you didn’t even know existed.

The dining scene in Mexico City is constantly expanding and evolving, with restaurants popping up everywhere you look. However, many of the city’s best restaurants are hidden gems that aren’t always mentioned in the same breath as the trendy neighborhoods of Roma, Condesa, or Polanco. If you’re looking to enjoy an exceptional meal at an affordable price, check out these three restaurants from the neighborhoods of Picacho Ajusco, Narvarte, and Santa Maria la Ribera—then decide which one you want to go back to again and again.

Xuva in Santa Maria la Ribera

Xuva can be found in Santa Maria la Ribera – an old part of town home to many contemporary art galleries, coffee shops, and nightclubs. The restaurant boasts a simple décor and a casual atmosphere, making it the perfect place to enjoy good food with friends or family after work or on the weekend. Lets don´t fortget to say tha Xuva won the Prix Versailles 2020 for best commercial exterior design in North America.

The menu features a variety of traditional dishes with a modern twist from Oaxacan cuisine

Oaxacan cuisine is renowned for its use of fresh, local ingredients and its focus on simplicity. The menu at Xuva features a variety of traditional dishes with a modern twist, making it the perfect place to enjoy a delicious and authentic meal. From starters to main courses to desserts, there's something for everyone to enjoy at Xuva. So come on down and experience the best of Oaxacan cuisine.

Xuva is one of the 50 best restaurants in the country, according to a new ranking. Juan Aquino is the chef at Xuva, a Santa Maria la Ribera restaurant. He specializes in traditional Mexican cuisine, and his dishes often feature unique ingredients like Chicatana ants.

Asador km 11.8 in Picacho Ajusco

If you're looking for a break from the hustle and bustle of Mexico City, Asador km 11.8 is the perfect spot. This Picacho Ajusco establishment is known for its smoked meat and fish. Asador 11.8 also has an open-air patio that can be rented out for parties, so if you're looking for somewhere different to celebrate your next birthday, it's worth considering.

Pinche Gringo in Narvarte

Pinche Gringo is an excellent option if you're looking for traditional American-style smoked meat in Mexico City. The smoked brisket, ribs, and sausages are cooked for up to 14hrs in their custom-made smokers. The restaurant also has a great selection of beers on tap.  It's a fun place to have drinks with friends and enjoy the American and Mexican love/hate relationship.

Pinche Gringo is an excellent restaurant for those who want to try something new and delicious. The food is fantastic, and the staff is incredibly friendly. The Narvarte location is convenient, and the prices are reasonable. I highly recommend Pinche Gringo to anyone looking for a great meal outside the usual tourist spots. It has become one of my favorite restaurants in the city.

Final Thoughts

If you're looking for the best food in Mexico City, you have to look further than these three neighborhoods. From traditional Mexican fare to international cuisine, you're sure to find something to your taste. And who knows, you may discover a new favorite restaurant.