Café de Tacuba

A 1912 institution in a former convent — Talavera tiles, brass lamps, waitresses in traditional dress, and estudiantina musicians serenading tables. The enchiladas, tamales, and famous hot chocolate are good, not transcendent; you're paying for one of the most atmospheric dining rooms in Mexico. Open daily 8am-11:30pm. Skip if you want cutting-edge food.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

How expensive is Café de Tacuba?

Mid-range: expect roughly 200-400 pesos per person for a full meal with a drink. Breakfast is cheaper. Given the setting, it's fair — you'd pay far more for far less atmosphere in most capitals.

How do I get to Café de Tacuba?

It's at Tacuba 28, three minutes from Metro Allende (Line 2) and a short walk from Bellas Artes. It slots naturally into a Centro Histórico day between the Zócalo, the post office, and the Palacio de Bellas Artes.

What are Café de Tacuba's hours?

Daily from 8am to 11:30pm, which makes it one of the more reliable full-service options in the Centro for a late dinner or early breakfast. Weekend brunch hours are the busiest.

Do I need a reservation at Café de Tacuba?

Not usually — walk-ins are the norm, though weekend brunch and dinner can mean a short wait. For a group or a special occasion, calling ahead is worth it. Weekday mornings you'll walk right in.

What should I order at Café de Tacuba?

The tamales and enchiladas especiales de Tacuba are the classics, and the hot chocolate with pan dulce is the move at breakfast or merienda. Portions are generous. The mole is solid too. Keep it traditional — that's what the kitchen does best.

Is there live music at Café de Tacuba?

Yes — estudiantina groups in traditional dress play through the dining room most evenings, and it's charming rather than cheesy. If you want quiet conversation, come at breakfast or lunch instead. A small tip for the musicians is customary if they play your table.

Is Café de Tacuba worth it or is it a tourist trap?

It's touristy but it's not a trap — it's been serving chilangos since 1912, and plenty of local families still celebrate there. Set your expectations: you're going for the gorgeous tiled room, the history, and the hot chocolate, not for the city's best food.

Is the band Café Tacvba named after this restaurant?

Yes — the famous Mexican rock band took its name from this restaurant (swapping the 'u' for a 'v' to avoid legal issues). The restaurant came first, by about 77 years.

Nearby in Ask Mexico City

• Museo Nacional de Arte (MUNAL)Museum0.16 km · 2 min walk
• Bar La ÓperaBar0.19 km · 2 min walk
• La OperaRestaurant0.21 km · 3 min walk
• Café La PagodaCafé0.21 km · 3 min walk
• Café La BlancaCafé0.22 km · 3 min walk