The food scene in Ciudad de México keeps moving, and this spring it added two places that feel like they belong in a neighborhood that loves to try something different. Both spots opened in well‑known districts, so the locals already know the streets, but the concepts are new enough to spark curiosity. I walked into each on a quiet weekday, took note of the first impressions, and listened to the handful of early reviewers who have already left their marks.
Chubbies Polanco sits on Lago Andromaco 17 in the Granada area of Miguel Hidalgo. The storefront sports a bright neon sign that catches the eye from the sidewalk, and a set of benches outside invites a quick bite. The menu lives in the $100–200 range, which feels premium for a burger place, and the kitchen stays open from 12:30 pm to 9:30 pm on weekdays, extending to 11:30 pm on weekends. Reviewers who have tried the spot (1196 of them) repeatedly point to the taste of the patty, a noticeable heat that comes from a pepper‑infused sauce, and a surprising drizzle of marmalade that cuts through the richness. Speed of service also gets a nod, with comments about the staff moving like a well‑practiced crew. The rating sits at 4.8, so the early buzz is strong, even if the location is still finding its regular crowd.
A few blocks away, Vegan Ramen Mei Del Valle opened its doors on Félix Cuevas 835 in the Col del Valle Sur area of Benito Juárez. The entrance is modest, with a simple sign that hints at a plant‑based menu, and the interior features a ramen bar where bowls are assembled in view of diners. Prices fall in the MX$100–200 bracket, and the kitchen runs from 2 pm to 9 pm every day. Early reviewers (1148 in total) highlight a bowl of orange chicken ramen that blends sweet citrus with the depth of a traditional broth, and they mention a side of ginger ale that pairs well with the spice. The vibe feels a little like an anime café, with subtle décor nods that make the space feel playful. The rating of 4.7 reflects a solid start, though the crowd is still small enough that you can claim a seat without waiting.
Both places bring something distinct to the table, but if I had to pick the one with the most upside, it would be Chubbies Polanco. Its bold flavor combos and the novelty of a marmalade finish give it a conversation starter that could draw a wider audience as word spreads. Vegan Ramen Mei Del Valle already scores high on the plant‑based front and will likely grow with the rising demand for vegan comfort food, but its niche anime vibe may limit its appeal to a specific crowd. For now, both are worth a visit before they get crowded, and I’ll be checking back to see how the reviews evolve.
