El Cardenal

There's something reassuring about a restaurant that knows exactly what it does well. In Mexico City's historic centre, El Cardenal has been serving traditional Mexican cooking for generations, earning a loyal following for its hearty breakfasts, warm hospitality and commitment to quality ingredients.

Breakfast is something of a ritual here. Start with a freshly baked concha, best enjoyed with a generous spoonful of nata (rich clotted cream) and a cup of traditional Mexican hot chocolate. It's a simple combination, but one that keeps people coming back. The restaurant sources dairy products from its own farm, a detail that hasn't escaped the attention of celebrated chef Elena Reygadas, who counts El Cardenal among her favourite breakfast spots in the city.

Inside, dark wooden furnishings, crisp white tablecloths and an old-school atmosphere give the place a timeless charm. Mornings bring a lively mix of local families, regulars and visitors, particularly at weekends when a queue is hardly unusual. Arrive early for a more leisurely experience, or stay for lunch to explore the menu of traditional Mexican dishes.

In a city with no shortage of exciting new restaurants, El Cardenal is a lovely reminder that sometimes the classics are classics for a reason.