Vegetarian Mexico City: A Plant-Based Visitor’s Guide
Vegan street food, boho natural wine bars, and more
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The largest city in North America, Mexico City has an abundance of plant-based and vegetarian-friendly delicacies that will suit any palate and travel style. The capital city of Mexico is brimming with everything from funky natural wine bars with sweeping city views and top-rated restaurants to colorful local markets and enough street food stalls to merit tacking on an extra few days in the city just to eat — and don’t get us started on the abundance of art galleries, museums and natural splendor to explore. Whether you’re looking to climb to some of the highest points in North America or you just want to find some really satisfying vegetarian Mexico City street food and a generous pour of mezcal to wash it all down—here’s what you’ll want to eat, see, and explore.
Vegetarian Mexico City Guide: Where to Stay
El Patio 77
Tucked into the eclectic San Rafael neighborhood, El Patio 77 was one of the first hotels in the city to make a serious commitment to the environment. The sustainable-minded bed and breakfast is housed in a 1890 mansion and features eight independent guest rooms, most with their own private bathroom and shower. The rooms themselves are as unique as the storied mansion, with repurposed antique furniture and Mexican art throughout. El Patio 77 also provides a complimentary breakfast each morning—with fresh pressed juice, fresh fruit platters, and a rotating menu of seasonal Mexican dishes. J. García Icazbalceta 77, Colonia San Rafael; elpatio77.com
Vegetarian Mexico City Guide: Eat & Drink
Loup Bar
Looking to spend the evening sipping funky natural wine and small bites? Loup Bar has become a well-loved spot since its inception in 2017. The Roma Norte mainstay serves up a comprehensive selection of low-intervention wine from across Mexico and beyond, as well as a seasonal list of tasty organic and locally sourced sharing plates that range from grilled avocado to classic risotto. Tonalá 23, Roma Norte; loupbar.mx
Por Siempre Vegana
Strictly vegan steet food in Mexico City can, admittedly, be a bit difficult to find (especially if you’re sensitive about cross-contamination with meat products). Por Siempre Vegana will be your best street food option; the strictly vegan street food restaurant serves plant-based alternatives to Mexican classics including vegan tacos al pastor, faux chorizo tortas, and a huge selection of traditional Mexican breakfast dishes made vegan as well. Manzanillo Esquina Chiapas, Roma Norte; facebook.com/porsiempreveganataqueria/
Amaya
Bohemian vibes and an excellent regional wine list are just some of the reasons omnivores and plant-based eaters flock to Amaya. The decadent menu is not strictly vegetarian but the locally-sourced and organic restaurant will cater to all dietary requirements and is well-worth checking out. General Prim 95, Colonia Juárez; amayamexico.com
Pujol
Likewise, Pujol isn’t a strictly vegetarian haunt but rather an omnivorous restaurant with a serious focus on locally sourced and sustainable indigenous ingredients. The high-end restaurant ranked number 12 on The World’s 50 Best Restaurants list in 2019 — and for good reason. Chef Enrique Olvera’s refined menu pays homage to Mexico’s cultural and culinary heritage with every plate. Pujol is happy to accommodate dietary requirements, but it’s best to call ahead to request a vegetarian menu. Tennyson 133, Polanco; pujol.com.mx
Veguísima
Veguísima — as the name suggests — is a totally vegetarian Mexico City restaurant, so those looking for a contamination-free spot can seek solace here. The brunch and breakfast spot is best known for its decadent plant-based burritos and refreshing cold brew but we also happen to love the Beyond burger with fresh pineapple. Pachuca 59, Condesa; facebook.com/Veguisima
La Clandestina
Looking for a casual nighttime haunt to taste test the city’s best mezcal and tequila? Look no further than La Clandestina. This dimly-lit hole in the wall stocks regional spirits in oversized carboy containers that line the walls, offering up some of the best natural mezcal in Mexico. Small snacks are also available, but we recommend grabbing a veggie torta at one of the many late night sandwich shops that neighbor the bar and surrounding area. Avenue Álvaro Obregón 298, Hipódromo; cdmxtravel.com
Vegetarian Mexico City Guide: Things to Do
The Pyramids of Teotihuacan
History buffs and fitness enthusiasts should seek out a day trip to the Pyramids of Teotihuacan. The ancient ruins are about an hour outside of the city but feel like taking a trip back in time. The Pyramid of the Sun is one of the largest pyramids in Mesoamerica and is believed to have been built in 200 AD. Those looking to stretch their legs are permitted to attempt to climb to the top of the pyramid – but note that the 365 uneven steps and unobstructed sun make for a pretty intense workout. inch.gob.mx
Frida Kahlo Museum
The Frida Kahlo Museum is somewhat out of the way from the heart of Mexico City but it’s well-worth taking the 15-minute taxi to the Mexican artists’ former neighborhood. The striking azul-hued home has been carefully preserved to look as though Kahlo had just stepped out for the day and allows visitors to get an inside look into her kitchen, bedroom, studio, and outdoor courtyard. museofridakahlo.org.mx
Coyoacán Market
The Coyoacán Market is only a few blocks away from Frida Kahlo’s bright blue home – and it’s well-worth making a detour for a quick snack or shopping session. The bustling market stocks everything from souvenirs and clothes to snacks and drinks. We recommend seeking out a savory huitlacoche tostada. The smoky and slightly sweet spread is made from a fungus that grows on corn; think of it as another form of mushroom. cdmxtravel.com
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