Em (*, Mexico City)

Feb 19th, 2026:

My first night arriving into Mexico City was a hectic but I was able to find a little bit of peace tucked away while having a late dinner at Em.

Being the only solo diner in such a small space was a bit intimidating at first considering how many couples were out on dates but the service team made me feel right at home with their chatter in between courses.

After finishing my last bites, I was given the opportunity to take a peek into the kitchen. Thank you again Daniel and the fellow folks I got to share laughs with, you all made my first night abroad an awesome one! 🙂

The menu and non-alcoholic pairing was more than filling, I’d recommend coming with a very empty stomach.

The tepache (one of the drinks in the pairing) was such an interesting combination with tamarind, pineapple, and a bit of smokiness. I loved the refreshing notes of apple mocktail in the beginning and the iced tea towards the end. It was my first time learning about NA wines! My favorite courses included the acuyo, stone crab, shrimp taco, and the desserts at the end.

Em Tasting Menu + Non-alcoholic drink pairing (their take on the margarita is pictured with the sea bass course)

1. Acuyo – cactus and seaweed

2. Gordita – paired with sour cream and caviar along with two versions of moles. The green was spicy and herbaceous while the brown was more fruity!

3. Stone Crab

4. Minilla and Avocado

5. Corn – paired with huitlacoche topped off with black truffle

6. Shrimp

7. Sea Bass

8. Guanábana

9. Mamey

10. Petit four