Neighborhood: Roma Norte and Polanco
Type of Food: Mexican Seafood
What to Order: Oysters, Whole Fish, Shrimp
Food Score: 9.7 / 10
What To Skip: Nothing
Vibe / Design: Casual chic
Crowd: Diverse, Cool, Well-Heeled
Service: B (Unless you sit at the bar, the service, in my experience, is slow, indifferent, and laissez-faire, and you must always request a waiter’s attention for service strategically.)
If your culinary adventures ever lead you to Mexico City, there's a dining experience that you can't miss: La Docena. As an ardent, and self-proclaimed seafood enthusiast, I've found myself returning to this acclaimed oyster bar time and time again whenever I'm in Mexico City, consistently drawn in by the promise of stellar seafood offerings and comforting ambiance.
La Docena's fame extends far beyond the city's borders, with its name gracing many "best of" lists and earning numerous accolades. But it's not just the awards that keep bringing me back; it's the restaurant's undying commitment to quality and its welcoming, laid-back atmosphere. Honestly, it's a place to get to for a late lunch with some friends, and just stay all day, gorging on seafood and getting day drunk on white wine (or micheladas con clamato, if you prefer). While I have certain preferences for what I order, take my word for it, basically, everything is worth trying.
The first thing you'll notice about both La Docena locations, born in Guadalajara, by the way, is the distinct atmosphere they cultivate. The Polanco location, tucked in the heart of the city, embraces a rustic charm that's reminiscent of a cozy coastal retreat. Each visit feels like a mini-vacation, a respite from the chaos that can be CDMX just outside.
The Roma location, on the other hand, skillfully blends modern chic with rustic and vintage undertones. The open kitchen adds a touch of theatre to the dining experience, providing a sense of intimacy if you're sitting at the raw bar.
Now, let's delve into the heart of the matter: the food. Over the years, I've sampled a broad spectrum of their menu, but the oysters remain a constant. Sourced directly from the coasts of Baja, their freshness is unparalleled, offering a taste of the ocean in every slurp.
Another personal favorite of mine is the Tostada de Pulpo. The octopus, tender and flavorful, perched atop a crunchy tostada and complemented by a smoky chipotle mayo, creates a harmonious fusion of textures and flavors.
And let's not forget the Camarones al Ajillo. Succulent shrimp bathed in a delectable garlic sauce, a seemingly simple dish executed flawlessly. It's a testament to La Docena's dedication to simplicity, letting ingredients speak for themselves.
Back at the Roma location, the Ostiones a la Parrilla are a must-try. The smoky flavor imparted by the grilling process adds a new dimension to the oysters, beautifully contrasted by the tangy salsa accompanying them.
But no visit to La Docena would be complete without the Pescado a las Brasas. A tender fish, perfectly cooked, served with vibrant, colorful garnishes. Nothing too overpowering, they just let the fish shine and enhance the fact that the fish is super fresh. It's a dish that keeps both your tastebuds and your visual senses entertained, embodying the restaurant's dedication to aesthetic presentation.
Over the years, La Docena has become more than just a restaurant to me - it's become almost a seafood religion, a place where food and atmosphere meet in the middle to create something consistent and satisfying. Whether you're a seafood lover or a diner looking to dive into everything CDMX has to offer, La Docena promises nothing but good seafood and good drinks. It's a must whenever I'm here, and I'm confident it will be for you too once you discover this not-so-hidden gem.