5 best restaurants for Good Friday in Mexico City’s Historic Center
Mexico City’s Historic Center isn’t just the cultural heart of the city—it’s also a true paradise for those of us who love great food, especially on special dates like Good Friday. If you’re planning to stay in the city during the holidays, get ready to discover standout dining spots that elevate seasonal traditions with fresh, flavorful, and creative proposals. Along these history-filled streets, you’ll find restaurants that respect Lenten customs while surprising diners with dishes that reinvent the classics. From just-caught seafood to cocktails that instantly transport you to the coast, the Historic Center has something for every craving.
So if this Good Friday you want to enjoy a great meal without leaving the city—or breaking tradition—keep reading. We’ve curated a selection of five restaurants in Mexico City’s Historic Center that will be ready to spoil you with the best of seafood and Mexican cuisine. Whether you’re planning a family meal, a get-together with friends, or even a different kind of date, you’ll find the perfect option to enjoy Holy Week the right way: great company, unforgettable flavors, and an atmosphere that will make you fall in love with the heart of the city all over again.
1. Fisher’s Centro
Right in the vibrant heart of Mexico City’s Historic Center, Fisher’s Centro becomes a must-stop this Holy Week for anyone who truly loves seafood. This iconic restaurant, located in the Centro neighborhood, has been known for its excellence in fish and seafood since 1989, offering a concept that blends tradition with subtle touches of innovation. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a meal in a relaxed yet energetic setting, ideal for those craving fresh, flavorful options during the Lenten season, when seafood takes center stage.
Fisher’s Centro is especially great for gathering with friends and sharing a generous seafood feast while soaking in the lively energy of downtown. From its cold bar filled with ceviches and aguachiles to oven-baked dishes and seafood pastas, the menu is extensive enough to satisfy every craving. During Good Friday and throughout Holy Week, the restaurant shines as a go-to option that respects seasonal traditions without sacrificing bold flavors or creativity in the kitchen. Add to that a fun atmosphere and attentive service, and you have a place that feels welcoming from the first bite to the last.
When it comes to pricing, Fisher’s Centro sits comfortably in a mid-range that feels more than fair for what you get. The average spend per person ranges from $300 to $600 Mexican pesos, making it easy to enjoy a full meal—from starters to refreshing drinks and even dessert. The quality of the ingredients is evident in every dish, with fresh products brought in directly from the coast and prepared with care to deliver a consistently memorable dining experience during these special dates.
One thing to keep in mind is that Fisher’s Centro is not pet-friendly, so if you were planning to bring your furry companion along, they’ll need to stay home this time. That said, the restaurant more than makes up for it with an atmosphere that instantly transports you to the beach without ever leaving the city. If seafood is what you’re craving this holiday season, this spot stands out as one of the best choices in the very heart of CDMX.
2. El Gusto Histórico Centro
Located inside the famous Mercado San Juan Gourmet, El Gusto Histórico Centro is a hidden culinary gem in the Historic Center that’s absolutely worth visiting this Holy Week. This small yet charming restaurant offers a unique dining experience, blending traditional Mexican cuisine with a bold, modern approach. With only six seats available, the space feels intimate and personal, allowing every guest to enjoy close attention to detail—from the plating of each dish to thoughtful pairing recommendations. It’s an ideal spot to explore Mexican flavors during a meaningful date like Good Friday.
If you’re planning a date night, this place is a perfect match. Its cozy atmosphere and focus on sensory-driven experiences make it an excellent setting for a memorable evening as a couple. During Lent, the tasting menu is carefully adapted to the season, featuring dishes that respect tradition while reinterpreting it in creative ways—think reinvented tamales and corn-based preparations with touches of seafood and earthy flavors. The experience is elevated even further by expert guidance on Mexican spirits, turning every bite and sip into a celebration of the country’s culinary heritage.
In terms of budget, El Gusto Histórico Centro falls within a range of $300 to $800 Mexican pesos per person, a price that’s more than justified by the quality of the ingredients, the originality of the concept, and the highly personalized service. Each dish is designed to tell a story and take you on a journey through Mexico’s culinary traditions—something that feels especially meaningful during Holy Week, when many diners are looking to reconnect with their roots in a different, more thoughtful way.
Another great plus is that the restaurant is pet-friendly, so you’re welcome to bring along your well-behaved furry companion. This detail makes the experience even more special, allowing you to fully enjoy the moment without leaving anyone behind. If this Good Friday you’re searching for a truly unique and intimate dining experience in the Historic Center, El Gusto Histórico Centro is a spot that will win you over—one course at a time.
3. Templo Mezcalería Centro
For adventurous palates looking for an authentically Mexican experience this Holy Week, Templo Mezcalería Centro is an absolute must. Located in the heart of the Historic Center, this mezcalería and restaurant blends the richness of traditional Mexican cuisine with innovative proposals that surprise from the very first bite. Ideal for a dinner with a unique twist, this space feels like a true sanctuary of flavor, where respect for pre-Hispanic roots is reflected in every dish. Its rustic setting with contemporary touches creates the perfect atmosphere to disconnect from the city’s hustle and fully immerse yourself in a sensory experience.
Designed for gatherings with friends, Templo Mezcalería is an excellent spot to share good times and explore new flavors during the Lenten season. The menu features standout dishes such as garlic-sautéed chapulines tacos, enchiladas with chicatana ant sauce, and cocopache ceviche—perfect options for honoring the tradition of avoiding red meat without sacrificing excitement at the table. The experience is elevated even further by its signature mixology, showcasing cocktails made with mezcal, sotol, bacanora, and other gems of Mexican distillation that pair beautifully with the food.
In terms of budget, dining at Templo Mezcalería typically ranges from $300 to $500 Mexican pesos per person, offering excellent value considering the originality of the concept and the quality of the ingredients. This is not just a place to eat well, but to dive deep into Mexico’s culinary culture—from milpa to chinampa—through artisanal spirits and ancestral flavors that transport you to the country’s most traditional landscapes. Personalized service adds another layer, making every visit feel intentional and special.
One important thing to note is that Templo Mezcalería Centro is not pet-friendly, so your furry companion will need to stay home this time. Even so, the restaurant more than makes up for it with its unique atmosphere, thoughtful service, and a culinary proposal that truly honors Mexican heritage. If you want to turn your Good Friday into an unforgettable experience and discover some of the best-kept secrets of ancestral Mexican cuisine, this is the place to do it.
4. Centro Castellano Centro
If you’re looking to enjoy a different kind of dining experience this Good Friday, Centro Castellano Centro is a must-stop on your culinary route. Located in the heart of the Historic Center, this restaurant transports you straight to the Iberian Peninsula without ever leaving Mexico City. Ideal for a meal that blends tradition with elegance, this Spanish kitchen truly shines during Holy Week thanks to its selection of fish and seafood prepared in classic Basque and Valencian styles. Surrounded by architecture inspired by medieval Castile, dining here feels like stepping into a small corner of Spain while enjoying an exceptional culinary proposal.
Perfect for a family outing, this restaurant is made for sharing generous, flavor-packed dishes around the table. From traditional Manchego cheese to the standout Basque-style whole sea bass, the menu adapts beautifully to Lenten traditions. The Valencian fideuá is another highlight—a hearty and satisfying option for those avoiding red meat without giving up depth of flavor. Spacious and welcoming dining areas, paired with décor rich in history, make every visit feel like more than just a meal—it’s a full experience.
In terms of budget, Centro Castellano Centro falls within a range of $700 to $1,000 Mexican pesos per person. This is well justified by the quality of the ingredients, generous portions, and the overall experience. From attentive service to the careful presentation of each dish, everything is designed to make your meal memorable—especially when shared with loved ones during a special time like Holy Week. Wine lovers will also appreciate the thoughtfully curated Spanish wine list, which pairs perfectly with the menu.
One thing to keep in mind is that the restaurant is not pet-friendly, so your furry companion will need to stay home this time. Still, the warmth of the space and the authenticity of its flavors make it well worth the visit. If you want to give your Good Friday an international twist while staying true to the season’s culinary traditions, Centro Castellano Centro is ready to welcome you with open arms and a table full of Spanish classics.
5. Mercaderes Centro
Located on Avenida 5 de Mayo, just steps away from the Zócalo, Mercaderes Centro is a restaurant that pays tribute to the fusion of cultures that shaped today’s Mexican gastronomy. Set in the heart of the Historic Center, this spot is ideal for enjoying a thoughtful and flavorful meal during Holy Week. Its menu blends the best of Mexican cuisine with Iberian influences, all served in an elegant yet welcoming setting that invites you to slow down and savor the moment—especially on meaningful dates like Good Friday.
Mercaderes Centro is particularly well suited for family dining, thanks to its spacious and comfortable layout. The menu is broad enough to please every palate, offering everything from gourmet-style fresh fish dishes to light salads and pasta options that fit perfectly with Lenten traditions. To finish on a sweet note, the dessert platter is a must, featuring cakes, tarts, and artisanal ice creams that are a hit with both adults and kids alike.
In terms of budget, Mercaderes Centro falls within an approximate range of $390 to $860 Mexican pesos per person, offering excellent value for the level of quality and experience it provides. High-quality ingredients, beautifully presented dishes, and attentive service make every peso worth it. The carefully curated wine list also deserves a mention, as it pairs seamlessly with the menu and elevates the overall dining experience—perfect for celebrating Holy Week in style.
One thing to keep in mind is that the restaurant is not pet-friendly, so your furry companion will need to stay home this time. That said, the warm atmosphere, impeccable service, and refined cuisine more than make up for it. If you’re looking for an elegant restaurant with character to enjoy the flavors of the season right in the Historic Center, Mercaderes Centro is ready to welcome you with a table set for celebration.
Your Holy Week foodie guide in Mexico City
Now that you know these five must-visit spots to enjoy Good Friday in Mexico City’s Historic Center, it’s time to start planning your foodie route. The city—especially during this season—gives us the perfect opportunity to experience culinary traditions that honor the moment while still surprising us with creative, unforgettable proposals. From classic seafood flavors to unexpected fusions, these restaurants have everything needed to turn a day off into a true sensory experience. Whether you’re going with family, friends, or your significant other, the Historic Center always has a table waiting for you.
And if you’re still hungry for more discoveries, don’t stop here. On our blog you’ll find many more recommendations to keep exploring every corner of the city with an adventurous appetite. From hidden terraces and craft cocktail bars to breakfasts that make you forget about the alarm clock, there’s a whole foodie map waiting to be explored. So save this article, share the list, and keep discovering with us the best gastronomic experiences Mexico City has to offer. Enjoy—and happy exploring!