Mexico City |Why Máximo Belongs On Your Itinerary
Every city has that one restaurant that people whisper about with a mix of reverence and urgency. It’s on every listicle and when brought up in conversation, “You have to go” is usually the general response. In Mexico City, that place is Máximo Bistrot. Tucked into a leafy corner of Roma Norte, it’s equal parts refined dining room and neighborhood favorite, and somehow manages to feel both important and unpretentious simultaneously.
Naturally, I had to go and see if it lived up to the hype.
First Impressions:
Roma Norte itself sets the stage: colorful facades, tree-lined streets, and enough chic coffee shops and cafes to make you question whether you’re in Mexico City or Paris. Walking into Máximo, I didn’t know what to expect. Would I see intimidating servers in tuxedos and hushed tones throughout the restaurant?
Quite the contrary.
Instead, I found a bright, lively space where guests could preview the artistry in the kitchen, wine was flowing, tables were toasting, and the low him of conversations felt instantly welcoming.
Maximo Bistrot
The Most Important Detail | The Food
I know I am not alone when I say I thoroughly research a restaurant’s menu and plan out my meal way before my reservation. I don’t mean hours, we are talking about days, even weeks in some cases. But here’s the thing about Máximo, you won’t know exactly what you’ll be eating until you arrive. The menu changes daily and depends on what Chef Eduardo Garcia finds at the local markets that morning.
It’s like being on a culinary blind date. You have no idea what you are in for, but you know it will be delicious.
Guests can choose from a tasting menu or order à la carte, depending on their hunger level. We opted for the à la carte menu since we wanted to try so many dishes.
Tips and Tariffs
Reservations are a must. This isn’t a walk-in and see what happens kind of place. In fact, as soon as you have your dates, I’d start checking availability.
If you aren’t able to secure one of the highly coveted dinner reservations, lunch is a fantastic option. You’ll get the airy, sunlit vibe and still have time to wander the neighborhood afterwards.
Seize the moment | If there’s a dish that speaks to you or has piqued your curiosity, ORDER IT. While it could likely show up on future menus, don’t miss out.
While this meal may be considered a splurge by Mexico City standards, if you’ve ever paid for dinner in New York or London, you’ll leave here feeling like you got away with something. The Tasting Menu is $3500/per person, and with a wine pairing, it’s $5350/person.
Maximo | Kampachi Sashimi | Soy + Ginger Vinaigrette + Salsa Macha
Why It’s Worth The Hype
Aside from the incredible, mouthwatering dishes that could silence even the pickiest eater, Máximo has that magic balance of special occasion energy without the stiff and stuffy formality. It’s the kind of place where locals celebrate momentous occasions and where visitors like me get a taste of modern Mexico City cuisine at its finest.
Maximo | Organic Mixed Green Salad + Blue Cheese Vinaigrette + Parmesan
As always, I do my restaurant reconnaissance well in advance and had a chance to learn about some of the beloved classics, including the Roasted Baby Corn with Hollandaise and Parmesan, and Lamb Birria.
Maximo | Lamb Birria “ Sincronizada” | Pickled Onion + Organic Beans
When it came time to order, I found myself in quite a quandary. Between the dishes I chose from the menu and those recommended by the server, I basically needed to order one of everything (don’t put it past me, I will!). Our server helped guide the way, and we ended up with the perfect amount of food.
I’ll be the first to admit that every single dish hit, including the mixed green salad. The dishes that continue to replay in my mind well after the trip are the Lamb Birria, the Tempura Soft Shell Crab “ Tlayuda”, and the Lasagna. Heed my advice when I say, order these if you are lucky enough to have them on the menu. Particularly, the Tempura Soft Shell Crab “ Tlayuda”. Have you seen a prettier dish?
Speechless.
Maximo | Tempura Soft Shell Crab “ Tlayuda” | Heritage Beans + Avocado
Dining at Máximo feels like being let in on a very delicious secret. It’s one of those meals that lingers, not just on your palate but in your memory. It’s a restaurant that once you go, it will forever be on your CDMX itinerary.
Maximo | Lasagna | Oxtail + Burrata
Until Next Time!
