Savoring CDMX: A Foodie and Explorer's Guide to Mexico City

Explore the different neighborhoods. Since Mexico City is spread out, you will need to take an Uber to reach a neighborhood before exploring on foot. The city is wonderfully flat, with wide boulevards featuring parkways down the middle — perfect for strolling. The sidewalks offer excellent window shopping and opportunities to discover local cafes, shops and businesses.

• Roma Norte: A stunning mix of architectural styles, tree-lined streets and art. This charming neighborhood invites you to wander, soak in the atmosphere and grab delicious street food from local taco carts.

• La Condesa: Known for its tree-lined, wide streets and vibrant culture. You'll find sidewalk cafes, casual taquerías, trendy bistros, bars, nightclubs and stylish boutiques. The neighborhood showcases a beautiful blend of modern and Art Deco architecture.

• Polanco: An upscale district with high-end shopping malls and stores. Don't miss Pasaje Polanco, a Spanish-style open-air shopping area filled with boutiques.

• Coyoacan: A residential gem that's slightly removed from other neighborhoods but absolutely worth visiting. If I were staying in Mexico City for a month or longer, I'd make this my home base. The area charms with its jacaranda trees, cobblestone roads, colorful buildings and artisan markets. It's also home to Casa Azul.

• Visit the Frida Kahlo Museum (Casa Azul): Book your tickets in advance for this must-see attraction. The distinct bright blue building on the corner houses an inspiring tribute to Frida Kahlo's life and legacy.

• Explore the local markets for food and craft: Visit the Mercado de San Juan in the Historic Center, or explore Artesanías Coyoacán and Mercado de Coyoacán in the Coyoacán neighborhood (don't miss the Chocolate y Cacao Mexicano "Dulce Oliva").

• Take a food tour! It's one of the best ways to explore a neighborhood and experience local cuisine from an insider's perspective. Have dietary restrictions? Don't worry — most tours can accommodate them. Since these tours are conducted on foot and last anywhere from a half-day to a full day, remember to wear comfortable shoes!

1. Pujol: Michelin star (two stars to be exact) restaurant in the Polanco neighborhood. Beautiful atmosphere with the most delicious tasting menu. Make sure you snag reservations way in advance, as it can be hard to get in.

2. Masala y Maiz is a favorite of mine. A blend of Indian, Mexican and East African flavors, the menu never disappoints. The waterman salad and papadum ceviche were delish and the mango martini just hit the spot! The new location in the Centro neighborhood is larger and carries a very hip vibe.

3. La Pause is the local breakfast spot in Coyoacán. It will make you feel all warm and fuzzy from the fresh ingredients and their fresh bread & pastry selection. Add champinones al ajillo to the omelette de huitlacoche and I promise you will not be disappointed.

4. Supra Roma is a rooftop bar with panoramic views, especially as the sun is setting. Stay late and enjoy the DJ, cocktails and lively atmosphere.

5. For late-night fun, head over to Gin Gin Restaurant & Bar. A trendy cocktail bar that boasts an energetic vibe- great for those who want to dance the night away (or just people watch)

6. Plan your speakeasy experience in advance! Set an alarm on your phone if you have to…your senses will thank you. Several that made the World’s Best Bars list and most definitely worth it. Handshake Speakeasy in the Juarez neighborhood might be difficult to find at first (that’s the point of a speakeasy, huh?). Just look for the black door with the number “13” on it. You might be able to snag a walk-in table if it’s just a few in your group. But for groups up to 6 people, definitely make reservations in advance. Reservations open up three weeks or so in advance.

7. Don’t leave without going to a Panaderia! “Panaderias” are bakeries and one of the things I love most when I visit Mexico City. The most well-known one is Panaderia Rosetta (don’t leave without as many cardamom rolls as they have left). There is always a long line, but it moves fast. But there are many more across Mexico City. Depending on which neighborhood you are in when that sweet tooth kicks in, just pull up whatever is closest to you on your phone.