7 restaurants to enjoy during Lent in Polanco
When Lent arrives, many people look for delicious options that honor tradition without sacrificing flavor or the overall experience. If you’re someone who follows this custom, Polanco has the perfect menu for you. Known for its diverse food scene and sophisticated vibe, this neighborhood is packed with spots offering fish, seafood, and creative recipes that fit the season perfectly. Whether you’re craving a bold aguachile, oven-baked fish, or a seafood pasta that makes you swoon, you’ll find plenty of options that truly deliver.
In this guide, we’re taking you through seven restaurants that not only stay open during Lent, but also stand out with special menus or dishes ideal for the season. From laid-back spots for a family meal to rooftops for dinner with friends, or even pet-friendly terraces where you can enjoy at your own pace, this list brings together the best flavors without breaking tradition. So keep reading, make a plan, and let your cravings lead the way. Eating well during Lent is easier—and more delicious—than you might think.
1. El Japonez Polanco
Right in the heart of Polanco, El Japonez becomes one of the best options for enjoying Lent without sacrificing flavor, variety, or style. This restaurant has mastered the art of blending traditional Japanese cuisine with a contemporary, fresh approach that wins you over from the very first bite. Its concept is designed for those looking to stay mindful during the season while still indulging, with a menu focused on seafood and light preparations packed with flavor. Here, the experience goes far beyond sushi—it’s a complete journey of textures, presentation, and creativity.
The atmosphere is a full sensory experience. Modern décor with oriental accents, ambient music, live DJ sets, and teppanyaki tables make every visit feel special. During Lent, the restaurant shines even more with seafood-forward dishes like the Hanami Bowl, Rock Shrimp, and the iconic Tuna Dodo. Its cocktail program also stands out, with options such as the Geisha Cocktail, perfect for pairing your meal with something refreshing and unexpected.
El Japonez Polanco is ideal for enjoying a different kind of meal, whether with friends or as a couple. Its lively yet sophisticated vibe creates the perfect setting for a midweek escape or a special weekend outing. The staff is always attentive and well-versed in the menu, so don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations.
The average price per person ranges from $350 to $800 Mexican pesos, offering excellent value for the quality and experience. While it’s not pet-friendly, its prime location, consistently high-quality dishes, and standout atmosphere make it a must-visit this Lent—perfect for those who want to honor tradition with plenty of flavor and style.
2. Teppan Grill Polanco
For those seeking a sophisticated dining experience perfectly aligned with Lent traditions, Teppan Grill Polanco is a hidden gem located inside the Hyatt Regency hotel. Its concept focuses on high-end contemporary Japanese cuisine, with a strong emphasis on seafood and carefully curated tasting menus. The atmosphere is elegant, featuring soft lighting, a sake bar, and an extensive wine cellar—ideal for disconnecting from the city’s buzz and immersing yourself in surprising flavors.
During this season, Teppan Grill becomes a true haven. Standout options include black cod with mushrooms and teriyaki sauce, Chilean sea bass, Pacific salmon, and fresh sashimi. You can also choose from three tasting menus, such as “Mar y Tierra” or “Kiba,” which feature multiple courses highlighting fish and seafood prepared teppanyaki-style. Each dish is crafted to showcase the freshness and quality of the ingredients.
Teppan Grill Polanco is perfect for an elegant, relaxed dinner with your partner or family. The restaurant offers private dining rooms, a terrace, ambient music, and impeccable service. It’s an excellent choice for special celebrations or simply for enjoying a unique culinary experience during this reflective season.
The average price per person ranges from $900 to $1,500 Mexican pesos, in line with the quality of the ingredients, presentation, and service. While it is not pet-friendly, its exclusive ambiance and seasonal-focused menu make it absolutely worth it. If you’re looking for a place where Lent is experienced with elegance, flavor, and Japanese tradition, Teppan Grill is a must-visit in Polanco.
3. Matsuba Polanco
For those seeking an elegant, intimate dining experience perfectly aligned with the Lent season, Matsuba Polanco is a culinary gem you can’t miss. Located on Molière Street, this Japanese restaurant blends traditional Japanese techniques with a subtle French influence, resulting in sophisticated, light, and deeply flavorful dishes. The atmosphere is calm, refined, and exclusive—ideal for stepping away from the city’s fast pace and immersing yourself in a high-end gastronomic experience.
During Lent, Matsuba offers several options that honor tradition without compromising enjoyment. Dishes such as yuanyaki salmon, gindara miso yaki, and seafood sunomono are perfect for the season. Highlights also include tuna tataki, salmon toast, and ikura oysters. Every plate is prepared with top-quality ingredients, specialized aging techniques, and impeccable presentation.
Matsuba Polanco is ideal for an intimate dinner or a relaxed meal with your partner or family. Its quiet, understated ambiance makes it the perfect setting for romantic dates, important meetings, or discreet celebrations. With only 25 seats and private rooms available at no additional cost, privacy is guaranteed. Every detail is carefully designed to deliver a truly unique sensory experience.
The average price per person ranges from $85 to $900 Mexican pesos, reflecting the quality of the concept. While it is not pet-friendly, its sophisticated atmosphere, personalized service, and chef-driven cuisine more than make up for it. If you’re looking for a special place to enjoy Lent with elegance and flavor, Matsuba is one of the best options you’ll find in Polanco.
4. Tori Tori Temístocles
In the heart of Polanco, Tori Tori Temístocles stands as a benchmark for high-end Japanese cuisine in Mexico. Founded by Dr. Katsumi Kumoto Kawasaki, this restaurant is recognized not only for its culinary proposal, but also for its avant-garde architecture, which turns every visit into a visual and sensory experience from the very first moment. During Lent, it’s an excellent choice for those seeking fish- and seafood-based dishes presented with the elegance and precision that define Japanese cuisine.
The menu is packed with options perfect for the season. From ultra-fresh nigiri and sashimi to creative maki rolls and warm preparations like fish robatayaki or seafood-based soups, there’s plenty to explore. Its wine and sake list is carefully curated to complement each dish harmoniously, allowing you to enjoy unique flavors during Lent without breaking tradition.
Tori Tori Temístocles is ideal for a relaxed dinner or an elegant meal with your partner, family, or friends. Its intimate atmosphere, striking design, and top-tier service make it perfect for special dates or celebrations. The restaurant also features a terrace, private dining room, kids’ area, babysitting service, and ambient music, creating a well-rounded dining experience.
The average price per person ranges from $300 to $500 Mexican pesos, making it an accessible option considering its quality and prestige. Plus, it is pet-friendly, which adds even more appeal for those who like to dine out with their furry companion. If you’re looking for a place in Polanco to experience Lent with style and great flavor, Tori Tori is a sure bet.
5. Animal Masaryk
If you’re looking for a dining experience that honors Lent traditions while adding a modern, flavor-packed twist, Animal Masaryk is the perfect spot. Located on one of Polanco’s most exclusive streets, this restaurant blends the best of grill-driven cuisine with Japanese and Mexican techniques, creating dishes that impress from presentation to the very last bite. Its contemporary, laid-back atmosphere makes it a top choice for both weekday plans and weekend outings.
During Lent, Animal’s menu shines with options like charcoal-grilled octopus, crispy oysters, grilled avocado, and a variety of nigiri that follow fasting traditions without sacrificing indulgence. The mixology bar is also a highlight, offering signature margaritas, sake, and whisky to perfectly pair with your meal. And if you like ending on a high note, the Fosfo Cake is an absolute must.
Animal Masaryk is ideal for a lively dinner with friends, a date night, or even a family gathering. With a terrace, live music, comfortable indoor spaces, and highly attentive service, it easily adapts to any occasion—from romantic dinners to business meetings or special celebrations. Its chic yet welcoming vibe makes you want to stay longer than planned.
The average price per person ranges from $1,000 to $1,500 Mexican pesos, and trust us—it’s worth every peso for the quality, creativity, and atmosphere. While it’s not pet-friendly, the overall experience more than makes up for it. This Lent, if you’re craving something out of the ordinary, Animal Masaryk is sure to leave you wanting to come back again and again.
6. Estiatorio Mythos Polanco
If this Lent you’re craving fresh seafood flavors with a unique twist, Estiatorio Mythos Polanco is the perfect place. This Greek restaurant, located on Isaac Newton Street, brings the best of Eastern Mediterranean cuisine to Polanco. Inspired by traditional Greek recipes, the menu stands out for its honest approach to cooking: fresh ingredients, rustic techniques, and deep respect for the flavors of the sea—exactly what the season calls for.
During Lent, Mythos’ menu is ideal for honoring tradition without falling into routine. You’ll find options like charcoal-grilled octopus with capers and lemon, Paros-style shrimp with ouzo and fennel sauce, and grape leaves stuffed with rice and herbs. Everything is served with extra virgin olive oil, artisan pita bread, and a curated selection of Greek and Mediterranean wines that elevate every dish.
Estiatorio Mythos Polanco is perfect for a weekday lunch or a weekend plan with family, your partner, or friends. Its terrace is ideal for enjoying a sunny day, while the interior offers a more intimate and elegant atmosphere. Service is warm and attentive, always ready to explain each dish or recommend the perfect pairing.
The average price per person ranges from $400 to $600 Mexican pesos, making it an accessible option without losing its gourmet touch. While it’s not pet-friendly, its calm ambiance, authentic culinary proposal, and Mediterranean vibe make it an excellent choice for enjoying Lent in the city—a little corner of Greece right in the heart of Polanco that’s well worth discovering.
7. Fisher’s Polanco
When Lent arrives and seafood cravings kick in, Fisher’s Polanco becomes a go-to option for enjoying fresh, creative, and flavor-packed dishes. With more than three decades of experience, this restaurant is a true classic of seafood cuisine in Mexico City. Located on Avenida Horacio, its relaxed atmosphere, spacious terrace, and menu focused on fish and seafood make it perfect for a casual yet delicious dining experience.
During Lent, Fisher’s menu truly shines with options that honor tradition without sacrificing indulgence. You’ll find everything from classic ceviches and shrimp tostadas to grilled octopus, fresh fish salads, lobster, seafood rice dishes, and pastas. The raw bar is ideal for those seeking fresh flavors, while baked dishes and a variety of soups round out a menu that’s both extensive and satisfying.
Fisher’s Polanco is ideal for meals with family or friends, offering comfortable spaces and a laid-back vibe that invites you to unwind. There are screens for sports fans, background music, covered dining areas, and terraces to enjoy the good weather. It’s the perfect place to eat well without too much formality, but always with the guarantee of quality in every dish.
The average price per person ranges from $400 to $700 Mexican pesos, making it an accessible option considering the quality of the ingredients and generous portion sizes. While it’s not pet-friendly, its relaxed environment, attentive service, and varied menu make it a great choice for the season. If you want to experience Lent with a distinctly Mexican touch and plenty of seafood flavor, Fisher’s Polanco never disappoints.
7 delicious ways to enjoy Lent
As you can see, Lent in Polanco doesn’t have to be boring or limit your dining options at all. On the contrary, it’s the perfect excuse to explore new flavors, be surprised by fresh seafood, and discover creative concepts that honor tradition while reinventing it with style. From classic favorites to unexpected twists, these restaurants don’t just meet the season’s guidelines—they do it with so much flavor that you’ll want to come back even when you’re not fasting.
And if you’re left wanting to discover even more spots for a great breakfast, an unforgettable dinner, or your next foodie plan, our blog has plenty more waiting for you. Food routes, must-try recommendations, standout brunches, and hidden gems worth exploring around Mexico City. Whether it’s Lent, vacation time, or just an ordinary day, there’s always something new to taste here. Keep reading and find your next craving.