It’s been 25 years since my last trip to Mexico City and this summer I was excited to explore this popular and more affordable alternative to the lengthy trip to Barcelona.
The historic and cultural options in Mexico City are endless and with only a few days we chose to mix it up with visits to archeology and art museums coupled with some shopping at authentic marketplaces.
We opted to stay at the Andaz Mexico City hotel in the trendy Condesa neighborhood. Comfortable luxury accommodations are always a must, but especially in a big city that requires lots of energy to navigate and discover. Nothing is better than returning after a long day of urban sightseeing to a warm caring staff and an indulgent spa. The Andaz Condesa has both. We chose a rejuvenating late afternoon couples massage and our tired feet loved every minute. And to wake up every morning to the convenience of a 24-hour gym and a stellar breakfast buffet is the perfect way to begin another day. Our room even came with a working turntable and a few good vinyl records to enjoy, too. What an unexpected treat!
In recent years, Mexico City has climbed to the top of the list for enthusiastic foodies seeking the next great dining location. This vibrant city did not disappoint. During our 4-night stay, we dined at 3 spots listed in the top 50 restaurants of the world. Every night was an extravaganza for the senses.
I recently read about the psychology of eating and the multisensory nature of dining. It’s no surprise to any experienced cook that the enjoyment of a meal comes equally from what surrounds the experience as much as the actual food itself. The smells, the sounds, the visual image of the dishes served all combine to make the food taste better. Did you know that dessert served on white plates is perceived to be sweeter?
The 3 top-rated restaurants we visited offered a completely different vibe and a spectacular dining experience, each completely memorable and delicious. Quintonil was the most formal presentation offering a 12-course chef’s table tasting menu with premier wine tasting. Pujol offered a 9-course tasting menu with an alcohol pairing that included wine, beer, tequila and mezcal options. Rosetta offered an ala carte menu in a cozy indoor garden setting. I decided to be fully present and immerse myself in the evening and not take photos during dinner. It was a great exercise and completely changed the experience of all 3 nights.
The venture into a new city, a new museum, or new restaurant often coincides with a wondrous interior expansion, a growing understanding and appreciation of our inner world – what moves us, what excites us or what delights us. I find this especially true when encountering an exquisitely prepared meal with visually beautiful dishes, unusual and surprising new flavor combinations and spectacular wine pairings. Our time in Mexico City was an indulgent symphony for the senses.
The joy of visiting a new place, often feels like entering a new world, with all its uniqueness, grit and charm. My fascination with travel continues to grow as I experience the beauty and new perspectives that another exceptional place offered. It keeps me in constant wonder of our world as I search for the next extraordinary spot on the planet to explore.
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