El Cardenal

Mexican restaurant · Centro

El Cardenal

Mexican restaurant · Centro

3

C. de la Palma 23, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico

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El Cardenal by Google
El Cardenal by
El Cardenal by Google
El Cardenal by Google
El Cardenal by Google
El Cardenal by Google
El Cardenal by Google
El Cardenal by Google
El Cardenal by Google
El Cardenal by Google
El Cardenal by Google
El Cardenal by Google
El Cardenal by Google
El Cardenal by Google
El Cardenal by Google
El Cardenal by Google
El Cardenal by Google
El Cardenal by Google
El Cardenal by Google
El Cardenal by Google
El Cardenal by Google
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp
El Cardenal by Yelp

Highlights

Nestled in a stunning mansion in the heart of Mexico City, El Cardenal serves up exquisite traditional Mexican breakfasts and lunches, perfectly complemented by an elegant atmosphere and attentive service.  

Featured in Conde Nast Traveler
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C. de la Palma 23, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico Get directions

restauranteelcardenal.com

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Information

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C. de la Palma 23, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, 06000 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico Get directions

+1 555 521 8815
restauranteelcardenal.com

$$

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dine in
takeout
delivery
wifi
payment credit card
reservations
outdoor seating

Last updated

Dec 22, 2024

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@cntraveler

"El Cardenal is a buttoned-up and beautiful traditional Mexican breakfast spot with multiple locations. The Centro one is particulaly alluring because it has an elevator to the second floor and delightful stained glass windows of the restaurant's namesake, bright red cardinals. Many people come here for its egg, tortilla, and black bean-heavy breakfasts, but we like it best for spiced hot chocolate and concha con nata  (sweet, shell-shaped pastries sandwiched with cream) before exploring the neighborhood." - Naomi Tomky, Scarlett Lindeman

The 36 Best Restaurants in Mexico City, From the Splurge-Worthy to Streetside Tamale Stands | Condé Nast Traveler
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@goop

"Don't let its location in the Centro's Hilton fool you into thinking this is a tourist trap: El Cardenal has been around in several incarnations since the 80's and is one of the more formal restaurants for Mexican food, where high-fliers take their business clients and families do Sunday lunch. The menu is extensive and for newcomers, a perfect introduction to regional cuisine, from their traditional Chiles en Nogada to Enchiladas, to whole roasted fish and tacos de Arrachera (steak)—the best in town. Beyond lunch, though, breakfast is where it's at with a selection of freshly baked pastries, authentic hot chocolate, freshly squeezed juices, and traditional egg dishes—the ultimate mix of sweet and savory."

The Mexico City Guide
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@cntraveler

"El Cardenal is a buttoned-up and beautiful traditional Mexican breakfast spot with multiple locations. The Centro one is particulaly alluring because it has an elevator to the second floor and delightful stained glass windows of the restaurant's namesake, bright red cardinals. Many people come here for its egg, tortilla, and black bean-heavy breakfasts, but we like it best for spiced hot chocolate and concha con nata  (sweet, shell-shaped pastries sandwiched with cream) before exploring the neighborhood." - Scarlett Lindeman

14 Best Things to Do in Zócalo, Mexico City | Condé Nast Traveler
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Mari Aguilar

Google
We received a recommendation for this place, and it exceeded my expectations. Although there was a 30-minute wait, it was well worth it. Everything we tried was delicious. The hot chocolate and fresh bread were especially tasty. The enchiladas were flavorful, not too spicy, and the chicken added a nice touch.

K *

Google
My husband and I had high hopes for this place, but our visit turned out to be quite disappointing. When we arrived on a weekday, the lady at the front door directed us to sit on the first floor, which we later realized was the worst spot. We ended up outside with no view and no atmosphere worth the price we paid. Here's a heads-up: do not settle for the first floor! The other floors are significantly better, and we regret not knowing this sooner. The food was okay, though we felt it could use a bit more seasoning—just a touch more salt would have gone a long way. One thing we really enjoyed was the bread, but unfortunately, the waiter took it away without asking us, and we hadn’t even finished it yet. That felt really inconsiderate. What bothered us most was that the waiter brought two bottles of water without clarifying they weren’t complimentary. We didn’t find out until we got the bill that each 500ml bottle was 45 pesos—ridiculously overpriced for water. A heads-up would have been appreciated. On top of that, the tipping options start at 15%, which feels a bit much considering the experience we had. What really left a bad taste in our mouths was noticing that other Asian-looking customers, like us, also seemed to be seated on the first floor. Coincidence? Maybe. But it didn’t feel great and made us wonder if there’s some bias at play. All in all, the experience didn’t live up to the hype or the cost. If you plan to visit, make sure to insist on better seating—or skip altogether.

Lo George

Google
It was our first time here. They greeted us and sat immediately on the second floor. We were there for breakfast and right away they offered us hot coco or fresh coffee with freshly baked pan dulce. We ordered the red chilaquiles and mushroom omelette and both were super savory. The wait time was very reasonably but the service is what makes this restaurant a must visit destination. The total for two people was $36 USD and it was worth the price. Definitely coming back. Well done!

Gaurav Aggarwal

Google
Great experience. There was a 30 minutes of wait but the service was quick after getting a table and polite. The menu is in English and they have lots of options. The hot chocolate was rich creamy and a total delight. Highly recommended.

Richard Hinkson

Google
Walked by this restaurant a few times as the outside waiting area, though pleasant enough, was a bit chaotic. My hotel concierge recommended this place as one of the best restaurants in the area. So I could walk by it no more. After the chaotic 20 minute wait... The pleasant hostess led me to an elevator. Once inside it just took me to the second floor. Upon exiting... I had a slight lost feeling... Maybe I was on the wrong floor? But my waiter found me and brought me to an average table for this restaurant. It was warm and cozy considering it was very busy (Saturday night). I was alone and did not want to be rushed... The professional server picked up on this and was exceptional. I love that. The bread came after I ordered some wine. Yup... The bread was totally amazing. You can tell it is in house baked. The crust was perfect. This was foretelling for the rest of my meal. An excellent experience all around. Good portions and great flavors. Respectful servers and hostess. For a few minutes a pianist plays relaxing and quiet background music. It was perfect. I will be back. Thank you.

S.Pierre Wilson

Google
Got here around 12pm. Wait time was around 35 minutes. Excellent service, very kind staff. Amazing pan dulce, hot chocolate, and fresh carrot juice. Food was okay. Nice atmosphere, feels like you’re in someone’s home. Overall, nice place but the main course was subpar. I personally wouldn’t go back for it.

V

Google
Simply one of the best restaurants I've been to in Mexico and even the US quite frankly. The food is home cooked traditional style, the baked goods were excellent. You can sense the pride of ownership and if you go on their website, you can read more in detail about this restaurant. Pricing that can accommodate most budgets. As someone else, if I only had one restaurant choice, this would be it.

Juan Camilo

Google
I recently had breakfast at El Cardenal, and it was an outstanding experience. The meal started with fresh, table-side bread and a delightful selection of fresh fruit topped with Nata. The hot chocolate and café de olla were exceptional, setting the stage for an incredible breakfast. The main dishes were equally impressive, perfectly prepared and bursting with flavor. The service was both attentive and efficient, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable dining experience. El Cardenal is a must-try for anyone looking for an exceptional breakfast. The quality of the food and the attentive service make it a standout choice.

Mari Aguilar

Google
We received a recommendation for this place, and it exceeded my expectations. Although there was a 30-minute wait, it was well worth it. Everything we tried was delicious. The hot chocolate and fresh bread were especially tasty. The enchiladas were flavorful, not too spicy, and the chicken added a nice touch.

K *

Google
My husband and I had high hopes for this place, but our visit turned out to be quite disappointing. When we arrived on a weekday, the lady at the front door directed us to sit on the first floor, which we later realized was the worst spot. We ended up outside with no view and no atmosphere worth the price we paid. Here's a heads-up: do not settle for the first floor! The other floors are significantly better, and we regret not knowing this sooner. The food was okay, though we felt it could use a bit more seasoning—just a touch more salt would have gone a long way. One thing we really enjoyed was the bread, but unfortunately, the waiter took it away without asking us, and we hadn’t even finished it yet. That felt really inconsiderate. What bothered us most was that the waiter brought two bottles of water without clarifying they weren’t complimentary. We didn’t find out until we got the bill that each 500ml bottle was 45 pesos—ridiculously overpriced for water. A heads-up would have been appreciated. On top of that, the tipping options start at 15%, which feels a bit much considering the experience we had. What really left a bad taste in our mouths was noticing that other Asian-looking customers, like us, also seemed to be seated on the first floor. Coincidence? Maybe. But it didn’t feel great and made us wonder if there’s some bias at play. All in all, the experience didn’t live up to the hype or the cost. If you plan to visit, make sure to insist on better seating—or skip altogether.

Lo George

Google
It was our first time here. They greeted us and sat immediately on the second floor. We were there for breakfast and right away they offered us hot coco or fresh coffee with freshly baked pan dulce. We ordered the red chilaquiles and mushroom omelette and both were super savory. The wait time was very reasonably but the service is what makes this restaurant a must visit destination. The total for two people was $36 USD and it was worth the price. Definitely coming back. Well done!

Gaurav Aggarwal

Google
Great experience. There was a 30 minutes of wait but the service was quick after getting a table and polite. The menu is in English and they have lots of options. The hot chocolate was rich creamy and a total delight. Highly recommended.

Richard Hinkson

Google
Walked by this restaurant a few times as the outside waiting area, though pleasant enough, was a bit chaotic. My hotel concierge recommended this place as one of the best restaurants in the area. So I could walk by it no more. After the chaotic 20 minute wait... The pleasant hostess led me to an elevator. Once inside it just took me to the second floor. Upon exiting... I had a slight lost feeling... Maybe I was on the wrong floor? But my waiter found me and brought me to an average table for this restaurant. It was warm and cozy considering it was very busy (Saturday night). I was alone and did not want to be rushed... The professional server picked up on this and was exceptional. I love that. The bread came after I ordered some wine. Yup... The bread was totally amazing. You can tell it is in house baked. The crust was perfect. This was foretelling for the rest of my meal. An excellent experience all around. Good portions and great flavors. Respectful servers and hostess. For a few minutes a pianist plays relaxing and quiet background music. It was perfect. I will be back. Thank you.

S.Pierre Wilson

Google
Got here around 12pm. Wait time was around 35 minutes. Excellent service, very kind staff. Amazing pan dulce, hot chocolate, and fresh carrot juice. Food was okay. Nice atmosphere, feels like you’re in someone’s home. Overall, nice place but the main course was subpar. I personally wouldn’t go back for it.

V

Google
Simply one of the best restaurants I've been to in Mexico and even the US quite frankly. The food is home cooked traditional style, the baked goods were excellent. You can sense the pride of ownership and if you go on their website, you can read more in detail about this restaurant. Pricing that can accommodate most budgets. As someone else, if I only had one restaurant choice, this would be it.

Juan Camilo

Google
I recently had breakfast at El Cardenal, and it was an outstanding experience. The meal started with fresh, table-side bread and a delightful selection of fresh fruit topped with Nata. The hot chocolate and café de olla were exceptional, setting the stage for an incredible breakfast. The main dishes were equally impressive, perfectly prepared and bursting with flavor. The service was both attentive and efficient, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable dining experience. El Cardenal is a must-try for anyone looking for an exceptional breakfast. The quality of the food and the attentive service make it a standout choice.

Jasmine R.

Yelp
This was the best pan dulce I had on my whole trip to CDMX. The hot chocolate was so delicious, not too sweet, and made traditionally. I didn't get many pictures because I wasn't feeling well that day but the staff was very accommodating. I ordered scrambled eggs and beans. So simple but so delicious. The restaurant definitely gives a traditional feel. I think this is a staple for any traveler.

Dulse Natalie M.

Yelp
Was my first time going to this place. I found it through a video I saw on tik tok. The overall look is gorgeous! Looks very fancy a bit bougie. The service they provide was amazing! We got hot chocolate and pan dulce, to start off with. Food tasted great, but the portions did seem small. Prices were a bit on the higher end but not too bad. I definitely say go check this place out!

Brianna R.

Yelp
They may have the best pan dulce of any restaurant in Centro. This location has 4 levels. We sat up top because the other levels seemed packed, even on a weekday. Order the hot chocolate! They brought us fresh bread and fresh tortillas as well. My meal was just fine, I may be should have got something different. But overall it was a good meal. Staff is great as well. Lots of locals here, not super touristy despite the location. This place was pricey though. About $800 pesos. We had an equally good meal at another place nearby for half the price.

Hannah M.

Yelp
Came here for breakfast this morning as was able to be seated immediately. The place is beautiful and very spacious, spread across multiple floors. Immediately I was asked if I wanted cafe or chocolate (opted for the former) and was offered a pastel from a tray that they were bringing out. I've heard the conchas are amazing but I was in the mood for more of a savory breakfast. They brought over a piece of free bread which looked better than it tasted. Some butter would have been nice with it. Maybe I could have asked for it idk. I ordered some fruit to start and the Enfrioladas huastecas as my main. They didn't specify the types of fruit on the menu and it was papaya and cantaloupe. Both tasted fresh and juicy. The enfrioladas huastecas were very good. It's a huge menu and I was overwhelmed. It would have been nice to be able to try a second dish but alas my stomach is only so large. Service was excellent with the exception of the end of the meal when it took FOREVER to get the check. Also, I thought the tip options were very unusual for Mexico. The LOWEST option was 15% which is what I usually pay, but I think it went up to 30%? Just something to be aware of because I almost mindlessly selected it as most places will have 15 as the max. Price was about $350 after tip. There are sooo many excellent places in the area so I'd hesitate to rush back but would I? Sure absolutely.

Tim C.

Yelp
A bit pricey but you get the reputation and the good service and location. Food was also good and very large portions so be careful how much you order!

Sasha M.

Yelp
The location is simply gorgeous. Food was extremely delicious. Definitely perfect spot, I will definitely dine here again when I'm in CDMX. The service was amazing as well, the waiters speak English and they have a menu in English as well.

Mari A.

Yelp
We received a recommendation for this place, and it exceeded my expectations. Although there was a 30-minute wait, it was well worth it. Everything we tried was delicious. The hot chocolate and fresh bread were especially tasty. The enchiladas were flavorful, not too spicy, and the chicken added a nice touch.

Alberta A.

Yelp
The location was right by where we were staying so a small walk. Looked so pretty in side. The employees were very friendly and welcoming. The food was delicious. Try their breads too. Not at all expensive. We went twice for breakfast.

Najwa G.

Yelp
El Cardenal had some amazing food in a great setting all at a reasonable price. I went with my mom who doesn't eat meat but albeit the choices being limited, we still had a great meal. First and foremost, you're doing yourself a disservice if you don't get a concha and Mexican hot chocolate. Dip the former into the latter and you might be sent to heaven. For our main, my mom and I shared a zucchini omelette that was quite delicious with the salsa verde. All in all, yes this place is touristy but for all the right reasons.

Stella G.

Yelp
I came here for breakfast on a weekday morning and was able to be seated immediately. Pretty soon after seating, a waiter came around with a tray of pastries. By the time he got to our table, the only thing that was left was one concha. I got the concha and the chocolate Doña Oliva, and my boyfriend ordered the chicken enchiladas. This concha was the best one we had in Mexico City! I wish they had more because I definitely could've eaten another one. The hot chocolate was a perfect pairing - it was sweet but not too sweet. It was really cool to watch them make it in front of you too! The enchiladas were also delicious. The chicken was very tender, and the sauce on top was so good. There's a reason why this place pops up everywhere on Mexico City food guides. I would definitely go back and get the same thing again - it was that good!

Sue W.

Yelp
Very nice restaurant, good service, very good upscale food with moderately higher prices. Overall a good choice and onkyba few blocks from Cathedral. I had aguachiles whuch was marked SPICY but asked for a little less heat - it came with almost no souce so I poured on the salsa at the table. I also ordered the chile poblano which was very good. My son had the tampiwuena whic cam with a mole (excellent). I revommend this restaurant. I am still trying to buld courage to try the escamoles - next time

Eric S.

Yelp
Came here with a reservation and had the best time. Absolutely great food and the service was great. I ordered the ant egg omelette and it was really tasty. Don't forget to order the hot chocolate. It was delicious and not too sweet. Their espresso was pretty good too.

Eric F.

Yelp
'El Cardenal' is a well known restaurant in the "Centro Historico" (Historical City Center) and near the Bella Artes. Building the first Capital City of "New Spain" in Mexico was a very important task for the Imperial Architects of the expanding Spanish Empire. Especially when Hernando Cortez told them to build New Spain's first Capital not only in the middle of a Volcano filled Valley in the Mountains, but also on the Island in a Lake there, constructing the city of Hernando Cortez, a new legend, over the rubble of ancient pyramids & palaces, now only ruins of the former Aztec capital of "Tenochtitlan, making this city-to-be constructed at an elevation of nearly 7,400 ft, just below the line where trees stopped growing. And they designed it in a European style that incorporated Baroque, Gothic, and Renaissance influences and facades. Home to numerous landmarks dating as far back as long before the Aztec era, "Centro Historico" is the city's beating heart. Circling around the massive "Zócalo Plaza", this area draws tourists to it's museums and it's iconic buildings, like the Art-Nouveau wonders of the "Palacio de Bellas Artes" and the "Metropolitan Cathedral". Street vendors and basic "Taquería stalls" exist in harmony with high-end restaurants, all alongside the bustling, pedestrian-only street "Calle Madero". 'El Cardenal' is housed in a beautiful French-style 'Porfirian' building, with high ceilings and wide stone columns, which we can still admire thanks to restorations of the meticulous work so professionally carried out by Architect José Helue Mina. Daily service at 'El Cardenal' is offered on two floors.

Fernando J.

Yelp
On my recent trip to Mexico City with my wife, we wanted to try some places she had heard of from other people on line... this one was right by our hotel...it was super convenient. The restaurant itself was really elegant! The staff was amazing and the food was out of this world!highly recommended this place! The hot chocolate and Mexican sweet bread was unlike anything I've had here in the United States. The bread was as soft as if they had just pulled it out of the oven, they prepared the hot chocolate infront of us.. the Spanish omelette with escamoles (ant roe) and cactus was incredible and the enchiladas were absolutely perfect. Long as story short...this restaurant is incredible and I could eat there regularly.

Adra P.

Yelp
Great food and customer service The bread was so good and fresh too Enjoyed my time here, if you are visiting be sure to stop by for a bite

Alvin M.

Yelp
Came here for breakfast. Come here early, lines get very long. Their hot chocolate is delicious and fresh. Bread is crusty on the outside but warm and doughy on the inside, pairs well with natale. Arrachera (skirt steak) was tender and delicious and can easily be shared for two.

Ed L.

Yelp
I heard that El Cardenal served an Escamole (ant eggs) omelet I had to try it. Then I found out that they served traditional Mexican hot chocolate whipped up with a molonillo, I had to make this my first stop. Located on the first level of a posh hotel, it's definitely an upscale scene. I was a little grungy in my backpack traveler gear so you may want to wash up before coming. I arrived as soon as they opened and was seated quickly. I ordered my escamoles and dug right in. There wasn't much of a flavor and tasted pretty much like a regular omelet, but I guess there was that additional protein. The hot chocolate was nice and frothy and they serve it in front of you with the traditional molonillo whisk. Excellente! I finished the meal off with a Pan Dulce and left a happy camper. Definitely worth a stop for an adventurous eater, but even if you're not they had plenty of regular brunch fare.

Ty C.

Yelp
Started with the pumpkin and mushroom soup. Amazing! Then, on to the barbacoa appetizer, which we both benjoed. For the mauns, she had quesadillas, and i went with the verracruz sandwich. All amazing!

Ed R.

Yelp
This is no millennial YouTuber influencer joint. This place is old school class. When those that ate out were treated like they were appreciated and respected. There is a menu but they take your chooses and plate them as if they were expecting you all along. Table service is extremely good and the food is great as are the prices. Please don't come here if you're an annoying person who just loves to complain, stay away please. The staff is exceptional and we loved all the attention and quick delivery of the tasty food.

Shelly S.

Yelp
One of my favorite spots we ate here almost everyday the food was delicious. The tamale was delicious. The bread excellent the service and ambience. Highly recommend.

Cesar V.

Yelp
My 2nd time around my first time was in San Angel and this place in the centro histórico de Mexico did not disappoint! The service was great from the moment you enter the restaurant you're greeted by the host, taken up to the floor you will be eating, as soon as your seated your server introduces himself then offers you freshly bake Mexican bread, and fresh hot chocolate! After you're presented with your menu in which you choose different options of eggs or meals. I had chilaquiles with arrachera very spicy I might add and I'm not one to like chilaquiles but this dish was delicious. The ambiance is much different from the San Angel location however this one is the original and loved it.

Carlos R.

Yelp
Great food great service great chocolate and great bread a must to visit when you in Mexico City near the zocalo literally next door to the zocalo.

Stina Marie A.

Yelp
Delicious food! Great ambiance and the staff was super friendly. Set up is a little odd but it's a nice place. Definitely try the Escamoles, you will be happily surprised. The mole was delicious as was the ceviche.

Amina Y.

Yelp
Go to the one on Calle de la Palma- everything was so much tastier. We enjoyed several dishes and their sesame cookies were out of this world.

Tiana F.

Yelp
El Cardinal was great! This place is located on a street walking distance from the center where the White House is. It has a vintage look and feel to the building inside. It is very clean. We had the pan dulce, Mexican hot chocolate and the Chilequiles. The pan was so good. It had an almond taste. The Chilequiles had good flavor and were not spicy. Just the right amount of crunch and the meat was cooked well. The service was great. They were very attentive and spoke English as well since we didn't know much Spanish.

Yesenia V.

Yelp
Super quaint building and the staff is equally charming. Ordered the famous hot chocolate and bolillos (baguettes) with fresh nata (fresh cream). The hot chocolate is not your typical sweet, more bitter cacao but you can definitely ask for some sugar to sweeten. The chilaquiles must be popular as every other table had an order. A must try if you are visiting the city.

Andrea S.

Yelp
We had the mole pollo which had a hint of chocolate taste. I enjoyed the pulpo with tostadas and the creamy elote soup. The hot chocolate was freshly made and was delicious and not too sweet. We also had the Jamaica agua Fresca which was great as well.

Beatriz C.

Yelp
Amazing food and service. We arrived on a Saturday and were seated right away. We were greeted with a basket of fresh bread and some dessert cookies. I ordered a lemonade and my husband ordered a coke. Furthermore, their menu had so much to choose from. We started off with panoches with cochinita pibil and mole poblano. My husband and I shared the dish that came with freshly made corn tortillas. Our full bill was about $37. It was all well worth it.

Gina G.

Yelp
This place in consistently good. Service excellent, food fresh and delicious. I come here every time. The best food I've had is in the Centro (La Palma) location.

Lauren C.

Yelp
Delightful breakfast at a well known restaurant in the Centro Historico and near the Bella Artes. Very popular but we were able to get a table outside on a beautiful sunny day. A basket of pastries is presented, which was a surprise. The chocolate concha melts in your mouth - so delicate and light. After struggling to decipher the menu, they presented one in English - thank you! The salmon omelet and the huevos rancheros dishes both had a depth of flavor that cannot be seen in the photos, and made them so much more than any equivalent dish we have had in the past in the US. This is why we travel! Service is very friendly and professional. Freshly baked crusty rolls were delivered. The baked goods are amazing. Highly recommend if you are in the area.

Suzie L.

Yelp
Light lunch We had a light soup lunch at this branch of El Cardenal. We arrived late for lunch and were seated on the ground floor which is not as nice as the other floors. We thought it was a little pricey and the service a little offhand!

Jose L.

Yelp
To start off service was amazing. We had three waiters taken care of us. The food was very delicious. Proximity to downtown was perfect. I would definitely recommend this place. My wife had the zucchini flower omelette on a green sauce. I had the spinach and mushroom omelette. I cleaned out the plate. Everything here was just amazing.

Sophia C.

Yelp
** Taste of Grandmas Kitchen ** When taking trip I always research places to visit and have an itinerary / list of must visit places to eat. This one was so good, I came twice during my stay! So first let me say, there are no fancy frills. It's just basic Mexican food, it reminds me of something my grandmother or aunt would make (that's a great feeling). I absolutely loved their breakfast menu, and the Mexican hot chocolate and freshly baked pan dulce to start were incredible. I honestly found no comparable pan dulce to theirs the remainder of my short trip. Our last dinner was here and the food was tasty and hit the spot. Potions are on the larger side, cost is very reasonable, and service is impeccable. As for the restaurant itself, it's a great location and very nicely lit / decorated. I'd definitely return, and highly recommend anyone who go to Mexico City give it a try!

Celina S.

Yelp
An establishment! Three stories of restaurant, it's fun to watch the hustle and bustle. They're known for their hot chocolate. It's thick and we split a cup bc it was so rich (in a nice way, but you don't need your own) The standout dish for me was the Chile ancho relleno with pork, raisins, and nuts inside. They have a lot of dishes on the menu that are hard to find so this was a nice find for us.

Joan S.

Yelp
Delicious food, excellent service. The tortillas are wonderful. The bread basket with the rolls and cookie-like sesame bar is an added treat. Had two different soups and the stuffed poblano. Recommend if you are in Centro Histórico.

Claudia H.

Yelp
Desayunamos aquí y estuvo muy bueno, comenzó con pan dolces muy frescos, mi hermana comió excelentes chilaquiles con dos huevos perfectamente cocidos. Comí una tortilla con rajas poblanas en una salsa verde muy rica. Ambos platos principales figuraban como ligeramente picantes y tenían un poco de picante que no era abrumador. Creo que nuestro único error no fue arriba. Briefly in English: excellent breakfast with fresh pan dulces, chilaquiles with eggs, and an omelette with rajas poblanas. Eat upstairs if you can!

Stacie F.

Yelp
My husband and I were exploring el Centro for the 5th day, and we came. This restaurant is definitely popular here in the city, and there was a short line for customers waiting to be seated. I noticed the interesting layout when we walked in, and the restaurant consists of several levels, with the main dining area on the third level. They have an elevator that brings people to the various levels. This building has sone old history associated with it, and it used to be a factory in the early 1900's. Their menu is extensive, and they also have another menu that features 100+ alcohol options from their full bar. I ordered the quesadillas placeras olatter that included three tortillas filled with au grattin cheese, zucchini, a special epazote chili, and guacamole. He ordered the steak arrancherra that is marrinated. It also included napoles and guacamole on the side. We both decided against ordering alcohol as it was still early afternoon. Instead for drinks I ordered an orange Fanta and he got a can Coke. Our food was delicious and everything tasted authentic. Our Server was also very attentive to us throughout the time that we were here.

Anthony Q.

Yelp
Everything was excellent. Kind welcoming service, delicious well made food from the fresh mango Agua Fresca to the succulent Barbacoa and amazing cochinita. Wow. Go here.

Carmen S.

Yelp
The food and the service in this place were excellent . The chiles en bogada were delicious, a bit different from what we expected, less sweet and the meet was like " in adobo" personal will do everything possible to please your palate!

Luis M.

Yelp
I went to El Cardenal in the south of the city in a beautiful area called San Angel...over La Paz avenue. It is located in a very beautiful colonial style house and the menu is great basically full with all the mexicans "musts" bust also some international dishes...quality of the food is premium and is more popular for breakfast or brunch time. Do not miss the Conchas con Nata...you will thanks me later!...

Ken G.

Yelp
Overall, I thought this place was pretty good. This is an iconic restaurant in Mexico City and it was nice to experience it. We were promptly seated and enjoyed some breakfast pastries - mine was pretty good - it was a buttery, slightly sweet roll with raisins. I ordered the chilaquiles with skirt steak and that was tasty...the steak was salty and well-seasoned and the salsa covering the tortilla chips was mild in flavor. I'd heard the hot chocolate was very good, but I thought it really lacked good chocolate flavor. The service was attentive and pretty friendly. We arrived around 9:00am and by 9:30am, a queue was already starting outside. I'm not sure if they take reservations, but you have to arrive early if you don't want to wait. This place is worth a visit for the experience at a well-known establishment.

Paula E.

Yelp
This place was good, but nothing special. The other reviews made it seem like I would be blown away by this restaurant, but not so much. The ambience was nice, the service good, the food average.

Jade M.

Yelp
Um YES! I absolutely recommend this place. I came here for lunch while on my layover and the food was truly second to none. My coworkers and I were all satisfied. I ordered the Lomo de robalo tallado a la brasas (which is just grilled fish marinated in lime juice and dry chili. It was cooked perfectly, seasoned perfectly, and tasted amazing! It's also located in this gorgeous area, by the Cathedral. Phenomenal place to grab a bite to eat. 5/5 stars!

Randy A.

Yelp
There's a brief waiting list if it gets crowded. After my name was called they told me the lift (or elevator to some of you) will take me to the 2nd floor & a hostess seated me. It was a good ambiance with waiters pushing table carts to serve. I can't remember entirely.But I got the boneless chicken thigh with rice & cactus (or nopal) normally I don't like cactus but he talked me into it & I liked it a lot. Plus they give you a side of european style bread in a basket & the traditional corn tortillas to accompany it & I got a sprite as well. It lives up to the high star rating. The only reason why I gave it four stars instead of five was because I think they could have given me a little more chicken

Young C.

Yelp
Went here for brunch. What a lovely place. Very friendly and attentive staff.. Ordered a dish I didn't even know what it was.. Sounded good.. Ended up being like menudo which I love.. The soup was very tasty and flavorful. Ordered chilaquile and that was also yummy.. With extra meat which was very tender and good seasoned. Ordered the traditional hot chocolate.. It was bit on the bitter side but it was good. You can't beat the price you pay for the food and service you get. I would definitely recommend this place and I would come back again. Well. I came back and tried more dish. Ordered huarache con costilla and omellete de flor de calabaza. They were both very plain. My meat was tender but lacked in flavor. The omellete was very blend and felt like I was eating bowl full of greens... Gave this place 5 stars initially but bumped it down to 4 since their dishes are not consistent.

Ricardo H.

Yelp
Great food, attentive service, clean and elegant ambience, very competitive prices. If you like Mexican breakfasts and or lunch. This is a place you should try. Always full and waiting line, but worth it. If possible do a reservation. They have several locations, I know 2 in Mexico city downtown and 1 in Palmas in the Polanco Lomas área.

Kathya S.

Yelp
Amazing food & great service they load you in on the carbs but the tortillas and the homemade bread and stuff sooo good. Cocktails also didn't disappoint

Glenn J.

Yelp
We ate here a few weeks ago while staying in Mexico City. This restaurant is awesome. We came around 0900 for breakfast, good thing we did, there was a good crowd waiting to be seated when we left. This location had multi levels. As we walked up the stairs we walked right by the baker doing his magic. The waitstaff is very attentive. As soon as we were seated we ordered coffee and hot chocolate. A young man then came around with fresh baked pastries and conchas. My wife was satisfied with just Pan Dulce, I had eggs that were cooked to perfection. Great breakfast spot!

Julie C.

Yelp
Great service, excellent traditional Mexican food that is very exquisitely prepared! Definitely worth a stop at their many locations! Ambiance: We were seated outside at 8am. Very relaxing atmosphere. Inside, there was World Cup playing in the background with a slightly higher energy atmosphere. Very homey vibe, not at all modern or eclectic. Food: I had the squash blossom omelette and it is one of the best and unique omelettes I've ever had. I will come get this very every time I visit CDMX. The coffee was strong and bold- exactly what I needed after a red eye. Service: Everything was on point. They didn't speak much English but it was no barrier. Overall- this is definitely a must visit if you are in CDMX. They have several locations and I went to the one in historic center as that is where I was staying.