Coffee Guide: Mexico City

Mexico City, a bustling metropolis rich in history and culture, has seen a remarkable evolution in its coffee scene over recent years. The city has become a hub for specialty coffee, where coffee lovers can discover a wide array of cafés dedicated to the craft of a perfect cup.

Traditionally, coffee in Mexico was a part of everyday life, often enjoyed as Café de Olla - brewed with cinnamon and piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar) and served in traditional clay mugs. This method is deeply rooted in Mexican culture and reflects the warmth and hospitality of the country.

In recent years, a new wave of coffee enthusiasts and entrepreneurs has reshaped the landscape. In neighborhoods like Roma, Condesa, and Polanco, a growing number of specialty coffee shops have emerged, focusing on high-quality beans, precise roasting, and a variety of brewing methods. This development has not only changed the way locals experience coffee - it has also attracted international attention.

Mexico ranks as the world’s 11th largest coffee producer, specializing in Arabica beans. Growing regions stretch from Chiapas to Veracruz and offer a broad spectrum of flavor profiles. Mexican coffee farmers have made significant strides in quality and sustainability in recent years. Many farms now embrace ecological farming methods and fair trade practices to protect the environment and improve livelihoods.

And since we don’t gatekeep - our favorite specialty coffee spots 😏

Blend Station
Located in the heart of Condesa, this café is known for its relaxed vibe and excellent coffee. The baristas pay close attention to bean origin and offer a wide range of brewing methods. Blend Station is also known for its stylish interior, ethically sourced Mexican coffee, and delicious breakfast and lunch options. The original location was so popular that a second opened on Calle Puebla.

Also a favorite co-working spot.
📍 Avenida Tamaulipas 60, Condesa, 06140 Mexico City

Café Avellaneda
A small but beloved gem in Coyoacán, Café Avellaneda has built a reputation for its creative coffee offerings and close relationships with local growers. A staple in the specialty scene since 2011, this cozy 20-square-meter space allows guests to watch baristas up close as they craft espresso drinks, filter brews, and even “Tragos” - coffee-based cocktails.

A must-visit for anyone looking to experience Mexican coffee culture in a truly authentic setting.
📍 Higuera 40-A, La Concepción, Coyoacán, 04000 Mexico City

Boicot Café
Also in Roma Norte, Boicot Café is known for its industrial aesthetic and love for espresso-based drinks. It’s got a cool, unpretentious vibe and draws both locals and travelers alike.

There are several locations, but our favorite is:
📍 Jalapa 99, Roma Norte, 06170 Mexico City

Qūentin Café
Qūentin is a popular coffee chain in Mexico City with four locations, including Avenida Ámsterdam in Condesa and Álvaro Obregón 64 in Roma Norte. The focus here is on showcasing carefully sourced and roasted single-origin coffees.

We recommend the Carajillo and the Espresstonic!

Coffee plays a significant role in Mexican society and is deeply embedded in its traditions. From morning rituals to social gatherings, it’s a constant presence in everyday life.

The rise of specialty coffee hasn’t replaced these traditions - it has expanded them. Many Mexicans now appreciate both their classic preparations and the newer brewing methods. This duality adds richness to the country’s coffee culture and bridges the past with the present.

Carmen was there herself - here are her personal favorites:

Panadería Rosetta Puebla
More than just a café – this is a top-tier bakery. Founded by acclaimed Mexican chef Elena Reygadas, named Latin America’s Best Female Chef in 2014, Rosetta is celebrated for its handcrafted breads and pastries. The selection includes traditional Mexican sweet breads like conchas, pan de muerto, and puerquitos de piloncillo, as well as house specialties like the guava roll (rol de guayaba) and rosemary bun (bollo de romero). You’ll also find French-style classics like croissants and pain au chocolat.

A lovely spot in Roma Norte - perfect for a morning stroll.

Carmen’s tip: Guava roll or the hazelnut-chocolate tart.

📍 Puebla 242, Roma Norte, 06700 Mexico City

Niddo
Carmen’s go-to brunch spot in Mexico City. Tucked just behind Paseo de la Reforma in Juárez, Niddo offers a cozy, stylish setting and a vibrant, varied menu.

Founded by mother-son duo Karen Drijanski and Eduardo Plaschinski, their dishes reflect both family traditions and travel influences - from shakshuka and chilaquiles to grilled cheese sandwiches. Niddo is also known for its house-baked goods, like babka, scones, and brioche.

Carmen’s tip: Pancakes! “Coffee is spot on of course ☕️😉”

📍 Dresde 2, Juárez, 06600 Mexico City

Mendl Delicatessen
“THE PASTRAMI SANDWICH!!!” - That’s Carmen’s very clear verdict.

Mendl Delicatessen opened in 2023 as a New York-style deli in Mexico City, featuring all the classics you’d expect from a spot like Katz’s - from bagels and pastrami to smoked fish. Yes, weekend waits can stretch up to 45 minutes, but with Parque México nearby and food this good, it’s worth every minute. 🤤

Also worth noting: their coffee is excellent - Carmen took a bag of beans home with her.

📍 Citlaltépetl 9, Hipódromo, 06100 Mexico City

So which one would you try first?