5 restaurants to enjoy during Lent on Insurgentes Sur
When Lent arrives, many of us think it’s time to put flavor on hold—but the reality is quite different, especially if you’re around Insurgentes Sur. This area, which blends the city’s constant energy with quieter, flavor-packed spots, is perfect for discovering delicious options that fit the season. From seafood restaurants that make you feel like you’re by the coast to international kitchens serving surprisingly good vegetarian dishes, there’s no shortage of ways to enjoy meat-free meals without sacrificing cravings. Eating lighter doesn’t have to be boring—especially when you have so many great options within reach.
In this article, we’ll take you through five restaurants you should definitely visit if you’re in the area and want to honor the tradition without giving up great food. Whether it’s a work lunch, a family meal, or a romantic escape, these spots offer tempting menus, welcoming atmospheres, and accessible prices. Best of all, they’re all located on or very close to this iconic avenue, so there’s no excuse not to stop by. Get ready to enjoy Lent with style, flavor, and plenty of variety on Insurgentes Sur.
1. El Japonez Manacar
Located inside the Manacar shopping center on Insurgentes Sur, El Japonez Manacar is a restaurant that blends the best of Japanese cuisine with a modern Mexican twist. Perfect for a special occasion, this spot is ideal for a romantic dinner thanks to its sophisticated, intimate atmosphere. From the moment you walk in, the enveloping ambiance, dim lighting, and elegant décor transport you somewhere else entirely. The average price ranges from 700 to 900 Mexican pesos per person, making it a great choice for a more elevated evening. It’s not pet-friendly, so it’s better suited for a calm, distraction-free plan.
During Lent, this restaurant becomes a standout option for enjoying bold, refined flavors without red meat. Favorites include the Black Cod, cooked to perfection with a sweet-and-savory glaze that melts in your mouth, and the Kuro Serrano Sashimi, which blends traditional sashimi with a spicy Mexican kick. There are also vegetarian options like Broccolis Otro Mundo, which surprises with both flavor and presentation. Every dish is designed to please sushi lovers as well as diners looking for something creative and unexpected.
The atmosphere is one of its biggest highlights. Whether you choose a table on the terrace overlooking the city at sunset or prefer the minimalist, softly lit interior, the restaurant offers a sense of calm that feels especially welcome amid the city’s hustle. It’s perfect for unplugging, having an intimate conversation, and taking your time with each dish. The background music is carefully curated to enhance the experience without overpowering it, and the table layout allows for comfort and privacy. The service truly makes a difference—attentive, knowledgeable, and always ready with spot-on recommendations.
If you’re looking for an elegant culinary experience during Holy Week, with dishes that respect Lent traditions without sacrificing flavor or creativity, El Japonez Manacar is a safe bet. This isn’t just about skipping meat—it’s about elevating every bite through technique, fresh ingredients, and a clear concept. Each plate looks like it belongs in a gourmet magazine, but the flavor delivers even more. Whether you stick with a classic like sashimi or venture into creations like the Hamachi Truffle Tiradito, everything here is meant to be enjoyed with all five senses. It’s the kind of place that turns a Lent dinner into a memorable experience you’ll want to repeat long after the season is over.
2. Rooftop Grupo Jama Insurgentes
Perched atop the Elements by Marquis hotel on Insurgentes Sur, you’ll find one of the south side of the city’s best-kept secrets: Rooftop Grupo Jama Insurgentes. This elegant space is ideal for a relaxed dinner for two, especially during Lent, when lighter dishes are calling but without giving up flavor or the overall experience. The terrace offers an exclusive, intimate atmosphere with an enviable view, making it the perfect setting for a special evening. The average price ranges from 500 to 600 Mexican pesos per person, and while some areas feel pet-friendly, the venue officially does not allow pets.
During Holy Week, its international menu adapts beautifully to the season, featuring fresh, well-presented dishes with options for every taste. Grilled salmon, roasted cauliflower, and vegetarian tapas are just a few of the standout choices. Each dish is designed to leave you satisfied without relying on red meat, all prepared with careful attention to detail and a well-balanced flavor profile that sets it apart from other rooftops.
The atmosphere here is elegant yet relaxed. Contemporary décor, soft music, and warm, attentive service make every visit feel like a mini escape. If you book around sunset, the golden light washing over the terrace and the city skyline creates a romantic mood that’s well worth it. It’s the kind of place where time seems to slow down and enjoying the moment becomes the main focus.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet spot for an intimate dinner or a special place to watch the sunset during Lent, Rooftop Grupo Jama checks all the boxes: great food, a private ambiance, and that extra something that makes each visit memorable. This is a place where you don’t just eat well—you truly disconnect from the city’s fast pace. From the moment you arrive, the staff makes sure you feel welcome and comfortable, and every detail—from the presentation of the dishes to the wine and cocktail selection—is thoughtfully curated to deliver a complete experience.
3. El Maviri Insurgentes
If northern Mexican cuisine is your thing, El Maviri Insurgentes is a must-visit during the Lent season. This Sinaloa-style restaurant, located on Insurgentes Sur, stands out for its fresh, laid-back atmosphere—perfect for a great meal with family or friends. Its spacious terrace and tropical details transport you straight to Mexico’s Pacific coast without leaving the city. Prices range from 300 to 500 Mexican pesos per person, and a big plus is that it’s pet-friendly, so even your pup can enjoy the beachy vibe.
During Holy Week, its seafood-focused menu is ideal for honoring tradition without giving up flavor. From grilled octopus to the Sinaloa-style molcajete or the famous fire-roasted ceviche, everything here is prepared with fresh ingredients and that coastal seasoning that wins you over from the first bite. If you’re dining with a group, the catch-of-the-day platter is perfect for sharing—a true seafood feast. Drinks are just as tempting: try their mezcalitas, house mixology, or an Aperol Spritz to round out the experience.
The vibe at El Maviri works for any kind of plan. On the terrace, you can enjoy live music—from saxophone performances to vocalists—which adds an extra special touch. There are also screens for those who don’t want to miss a game, and the service is consistently warm and attentive. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed weekend plan or a meal that feels like a mini vacation, this place has it all. The energy is so good, you’ll want to stay for hours.
El Maviri Insurgentes has become a local favorite thanks to its authenticity, ocean-inspired cuisine, and easygoing atmosphere. During Lent, it truly shines by offering exactly what many people are looking for: generous, red-meat-free dishes packed with flavor, creativity, and satisfying portions. There’s nothing boring or bland here—everything that hits the table carries that unmistakable northern touch you can taste in every bite. And with its relaxed, family-friendly vibe, it’s the perfect spot for those days when you just want to eat well without worrying about formality.
4. Restaurante La Famiglia Insurgentes
If you enjoy classic Italian flavors with a sophisticated touch, Restaurante La Famiglia Insurgentes is the perfect place for you. Located on Insurgentes Sur, this restaurant is ideal for a romantic dinner, though it also offers a warm and elegant atmosphere for dining with friends or celebrating a special occasion. Its design and décor evoke a cinematic version of Italy, with dim lighting, elegant furnishings, and an intimate ambiance that draws you in from the moment you arrive. The average price ranges from 600 to 800 Mexican pesos per person, and fortunately, it is pet-friendly—making it a great option if you don’t want to leave your furry companion at home.
During Lent, La Famiglia offers dishes that honor tradition, all done the Italian way—with bold flavors and impeccable presentation. Highlights from the menu include fried calamari, classic vegetable lasagna, the well-known wheel-served pasta, and a wide selection of pizzas made with fresh, meat-free ingredients. There’s also a solid wine list and cocktails like the Aperol Spritz or clericot, which pair beautifully with the restaurant’s relaxed yet refined vibe.
Service is another strong point. The staff provides personalized attention and is always happy to recommend the best options based on your preferences. The location is also a big plus, as it’s close to the Teatro de los Insurgentes, making it a great choice for a meal before or after a show. The restaurant offers valet parking and comfortable seating both indoors and on the terrace. It’s the kind of place meant to be enjoyed without rushing, savoring every dish and every moment.
La Famiglia is more than just a restaurant—it’s an experience that blends Italian tradition with urban charm. During Lent, it becomes an excellent choice for those who want to observe the season while still enjoying well-crafted, flavorful dishes with a comforting, homemade feel. Every detail adds to the experience, from the soft background music to the warm lighting that makes everything look and feel just right. It’s the kind of place that turns any night out into a special occasion.
5. Restaurante Carnal Insurgentes
Although its specialty is premium cuts, Restaurante Carnal Insurgentes, located on Insurgentes Sur, offers a dining experience that goes far beyond meat. During Lent, this spot showcases its versatility with a thoughtfully adapted menu full of fish, seafood, and vegetable-based dishes that still carry the house signature: bold flavors, impeccable technique, and eye-catching presentation. It’s ideal for an elegant dinner for two, set in an intimate, modern atmosphere filled with carefully curated details. The average price ranges from 500 to 800 Mexican pesos per person, and while the vibe is more refined, the restaurant is not pet-friendly.
During Holy Week, the menu shifts its focus without losing its character. You can enjoy dishes like sesame-crusted seared tuna, shrimp tacos with chipotle aioli, octopus carpaccio, or gourmet salads made with seasonal ingredients. Every plate is prepared with the same level of attention and quality that defines Carnal. Even the sides and starters are designed to highlight the main flavors, turning any Lent dinner into a memorable experience. If you enjoy being surprised by unexpected combinations, you’ll definitely find something here that catches you off guard—in the best way.
The space is designed for those who truly appreciate good food and a complete dining experience. It features a terrace, great music, and an elegant interior with industrial touches. Low lighting, dark walls, and wood accents create an immersive atmosphere that invites you to stay longer. Whether you’re there for an intimate meal or a low-key celebration, the setting delivers everything you need to leave already planning your next visit. The service is attentive and professional without being intrusive, which adds even more to the overall experience.
Carnal isn’t your typical Lent restaurant—and that’s exactly why it’s worth trying. Here, seafood and garden-fresh ingredients are elevated to a whole new level without losing the bold style the restaurant is known for. If you’re on Insurgentes Sur and want to give your meat-free Friday a sophisticated twist, this is the place to do it. You won’t just leave satisfied—you’ll leave inspired by what’s possible when cooking is driven by passion.
Lent, done right
Lent doesn’t have to mean holding back on flavor—especially if you’re around Insurgentes Sur. This iconic avenue in Mexico City is more than just traffic, offices, and constant movement; it’s also home to a great lineup of restaurants that know how to give the season an interesting twist. From elegant Asian cuisine and Sinaloa-style seafood to flavorful Italian pastas, this list proves you can honor tradition without giving up on great food. So if you’re tired of canned tuna and boring salads, you now have plenty of new options to enjoy.
And if this list left you craving more or eager to keep exploring the city’s food scene, our blog has plenty more waiting for you. We want every season, craving, and neighborhood to have its own flavor route—so all you have to do is decide where to go first. Whether you’re sticking with Lent-friendly options, looking for a laid-back Sunday brunch, pet-friendly spots, or restaurants with terraces for a sunny afternoon, you’ll find fresh ideas and places truly worth visiting. Plus, we always share the details that make a difference: the must-try dish, how much to expect to spend, and even whether your pup is welcome.