Mexico City, acclaimed (by me) as the culinary mecca of North America, is a gastronomic paradise that perfectly combines haute cuisine with irresistible street food experiences. During my recent visit to the exclusive Polanco neighborhood, I had the privilege of savoring a wide range of culinary delights, from the exquisite tasting menu at Quintonil to the unforgettable street-style tacos at Orinoco.

Quintonil: Where Tradition Meets Creativity

Quintonil, currently ranked ninth among the world’s 50 best restaurants in 2023, is a true example of the evolution of the culinary scene in Mexico City. Under the direction of the talented chef and owner, Jorge Vallejo, and his wife, Alejandra Flores, this restaurant offers an exceptional dining experience. I warn you, it is not cheap, but the perfect fusion of traditional Mexican ingredients with avant-garde culinary techniques is worth it.

The tasting menu at Quintonil is a journey through 10 seasonal dishes that culminate in a delightful dining experience. One of the standout dishes was the kampachi with “oyster mushrooms” and macha sauce, a harmonious combination of flavors with a subtle smokiness provided by the grasshoppers. Another highlight was the duck pibil tamale, a creative reinterpretation of the traditional tamale, accompanied by ‘criolla sauce’ with habanero, shiso, and confit garlic.

The prickly pear cactus sorbet, topped with corn leaf ash, served as a palate cleanser before the phenomenal dessert: crème fraîche and melipona honey with the “physalis” berry and caviar. I never imagined I would eat a dessert with caviar, but it was an unexpected masterpiece, juxtaposing the smoothness and creaminess of the crème fraîche with the saltiness of the caviar. It was honestly an unforgettable culinary moment.

In addition to culinary excellence, Quintonil offers warm and personalized service. The attentive waiters take the time to explain the story behind each dish, its ingredients, and its cultural significance, which enhances the overall dining experience.

Aúna: A Gastronomic Paradise Beyond Quintonil

Our next culinary adventure in Polanco took us to Aúna, a new concept from the owners of Quintonil. Aúna offers an equally exceptional dining experience at more moderate prices. Its open-air kitchen unfolds before your eyes, and the meticulous service reflects their commitment to excellence. The name “Aúna,” derived from the word “aunar,” meaning to unite or converge, perfectly encapsulates the spirit of this culinary gem. With less than a year of operation, Aúna has already carved out a prominent niche.

The creative starters impressed us, especially the oysters with citrus vinaigrette and green onion oil, topped with delicate marigold petals, adding a spicy touch. The squash blossoms stuffed with local cheese and mushrooms seasoned with epazote, an aromatic culinary herb, served with guava chutney and macha sauce, stole our hearts.

The main courses had highs and lows; the Braised Beef Rib had dry sections and others deliciously fatty, but the seasoning was impeccable. However, the dessert, a caramelized passion fruit flan, was the true star of the night. It is served with a xoconostle cookie, a sour cactus fruit similar to a prickly pear. Crushing the cookie and savoring it with the passion fruit flan was a spectacular experience not to be missed.

Aúna is a culinary gem with creativity in every dish, though some main courses may be inconsistent. Nevertheless, it is an experience not to be missed.

Orinoco: The Ultimate Taco Experience

No visit to Mexico City is complete without indulging in street-style tacos, and Orinoco provides this ultimate experience with style. This northern style taqueria chain offers a modern and lively atmosphere that attracts a young clientele in search of exceptional tacos.

The highlight here is the chicharrón taco, a revelation compared to conventional fried chicharrón. Orinoco’s chicharrón is tender and practically melts in your mouth, accompanied by red onion and avocado. The trompo al pastor, with marinated pork, onion, and pineapple, is equally delicious. The option to add a grilled cheese crust to the outside of the taco elevates the experience even more.

Accompanied by four different salsas with varying levels of spiciness, Orinoco’s tacos burst with flavor. While the smashed potatoes are a decent side, I recommend saving room for one or two more tacos.

Don’t be discouraged by the line that often forms at Orinoco, as the wait is undoubtedly worth it. The prices are incredibly reasonable, making this street-style taco gem accessible to all.

Licorería Limantour

You can’t go wrong with any of these restaurants in Polanco, but you must end the night with a visit to Licorería Limantour, which is among the 50 best bars in the world. Run by Benjamin Padrón and José Luis León, they offer exceptional cocktails in an effervescent atmosphere, attracting many patrons every night. Their cocktails, such as the ‘Fluffy Paloma’ and ‘Margarita Al Pastor,’ are masterpieces. Licorería Limantour is a cultural phenomenon where creativity flows, and the cocktails are delicious works of art. It’s a unique visit for those seeking an innovative cocktail experience.

In conclusion, my culinary journey through the distinctive Polanco neighborhood in Mexico City was a captivating exploration of diverse flavors, from the creative sophistication of Quintonil to the irresistible charm of Orinoco’s street-style tacos. Whether you’re seeking haute cuisine or craving an authentic taco experience, Mexico City has it all. It is a must-visit destination for any discerning food lover.