Mexico City has a lot going for it, but its coffee scene might be one of the main things keeps me coming back. I’m always on the hunt for a sultry, velvety flat white, or a perfectly-light and foamy cappucchino.
Whether you're after a quiet corner to journal in, a spot to people-watch over a latte, or simply the best cup you've ever had, CDMX delivers in a big way. From cozy neighborhood gems in Coyoacán to chic café-bookstores in Roma, here are the coffee shops worth building your mornings around.
The Best Cafés in México City
Buna / Roma
Often regarded as one of the finest coffee spots in the city, this snug little spot serves 100% Mexican beans alongside pastries from Abarrotes Delirio. Easy to relax and focus — you'll often find locals here with their laptops. Pro Tip: Order a latte or cappuccino with Macadamia Milk.
Chiquitito Cafe / Various Locations
A city favorite for 10 years, Chiquitito serves superb coffee and the best dirty chai in Mexico City, with practically every milk option available — all enjoyed at a breezy street-side table.
Cafebreria El Pendulo / Roma & Polanco
A "cafebreria", part café, part bookstore, spread across three stories of books, great coffee, and the kind of atmosphere that makes you want to stay all afternoon. An icon in the city, with a few locations to choose from. But the one in La Roma is my absolute favorite.
Cafe Avellaneda / Coyoacán
Tiny but mighty, this is arguably the best coffee in Coyoacán — and the staff actually treat you like a human, not a tourist. If you're staying nearby, it'll become part of your morning routine. Grab a bag of local beans and a cookie for the road.
Lardo / Condesa
European-Mexican fusion cooked in a wood-burning oven, with a countryside feel in the middle of the city. The pastries are from the same bakery as Rosetta in La Roma. Both places are known for their super-hyped guava roll...and yes it is absolutely a must!
Cafe Milou / Condesa-Roma
A must for breakfast or boozy brunch, with perfectly executed croissants, quiche, and avocado toast. The atmosphere feels like a Parisian corner café — which, oddly, fits right in with La Roma's vibe.
La Americana / Condesa
A dreamy café-bookstore one block from Parque México, with shelves of books in English and Spanish, excellent coffee and matcha by day, and cocktails by afternoon. Perfect for settling in with your journal and feeling like the main character.
El Minutito / Juárez
Part café, part bar, and entirely its kind of place. Inspired by European standing bars and Mexican cantinas, El Minutito is where a quick coffee has a way of turning into tapas, wine, and a few hours you won't regret. Sleek, convivial, and low-key perfect for a casual first date.
Mexico City's coffee scene is one of those things that sneaks up on you. You think you're just grabbing a quick cup, and suddenly you've been sitting there for two hours and you don't even feel bad about it. That's the magic of this city.
If this list has you itching to explore, our Mexico City Travel Guide has everything you need to plan your trip — from the best neighborhoods to stay in, to where to eat, drink, and wander. Grab your copy and start planning! ☕
And if you've already been, I want to know...which café stole your heart? Drop it in the comments below. ☕
All photos by @__helloemilia
