El Cardenal · Restaurant · Mexico City
The city's benchmark breakfast, running since 1969
El Cardenal has been a Mexico City breakfast institution since 1969, when Oliva Garizurieta and Jesus Briz opened the first dining room. The Palma 23 branch, a few steps off Madero in the Centro Historico, occupies a French style building with high ceilings, wide stone columns and service across two floors.
The house makes much from scratch. Tortillas begin at the nixtamal stage, and the chocolate is worked up from the tablet. The trio that made the reputation is the chocolate, the fresh baked bread and the nata, the thick raw milk cream, and it is the order most first time guests are pointed toward.
Beyond breakfast the menu covers classic Mexican comida, and the dining rooms stay busy from opening through the afternoon with a mix of office workers, families and visitors. Service closes in the early evening, so this is a morning and midday restaurant, not a dinner booking.
Tables are arranged by phone. Lunch fills entirely on most days, so call with plenty of notice or expect to wait at the door.
Address: Calle de la Palma 23, Col. Centro, Centro Historico, Cuauhtemoc, 06000 Ciudad de Mexico, CDMX, Mexico, Mexico City
El Cardenal takes its own reservations direct in Mexico City. This MyRSVP guide covers the room, what it is known for and when to go.
Hours of operation
- Monday: 08:00 - 18:30
- Tuesday: 08:00 - 18:30
- Wednesday: 08:00 - 18:30
- Thursday: 08:00 - 18:30
- Friday: 08:00 - 18:30
- Saturday: 08:00 - 18:30
- Sunday: 08:30 - 18:30
Frequently asked about El Cardenal
How do I get a reservation at El Cardenal in Mexico City?
Tables at El Cardenal are booked directly with the restaurant. If it is part of a bigger Mexico City plan, our Mexico City partner handles the beach clubs and nightlife around your dinner and can point you to the venue's own reservations channel.
What should I order at El Cardenal?
El Cardenal is best known for its signature dishes and shareable plates. Tell MyRSVP your party size and any dietary needs and we note them with your request.
What is the dress code at El Cardenal?
El Cardenal keeps an upscale dining dress code: smart, dressed-up attire, no athletic wear or beachwear. MyRSVP confirms any current door specifics with your booking.
Where is El Cardenal located?
El Cardenal is in Mexico City, at Calle de la Palma 23, Col. Centro, Centro Historico, Cuauhtemoc, 06000 Ciudad de Mexico, CDMX, Mexico. MyRSVP can build it into a full Mexico City itinerary alongside the surrounding nightlife.
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