Where to eat and drink in Monterrey
Monterrey is known for its meat-heavy dishes, from cabrito (roasted baby goat) to carne asada to machacado (dried meat); its use of soft and floury tortillas (in contrast to the central and southern reaches of Mexico, where corn is king); and a strong beer-drinking culture.
Beers, cocktails, and wine
To dive into the drinking scene, check out Cervecería Fausto in El Centro—it’s a worthy rival to the Sierra Madre chain you’ll see across the city. Alternatively, swing by the vibey Pinto Bar, where the sidewalk tables fill up even on weekdays and the crowd skews youthful. Or, grab cocktails at San Pedro’s Mavericks or Reys Bar, which boasts a glorious disco ball and vinyl selection. Not to be outdone by swanky San Pedro, El Centro also has some more noteworthy watering holes—Vini the Bar and Zigzag, to name a few—while the spot for live music and cheap beer in Barrio Antiguo is undoubtedly Café Iguana.
Tacos
Northern taco joints are popping up left, right, and center in the Mexican capital these days, but the original branches are often local to Monterrey. If you need proof, look no further than local spots like Tacos Atarantados, Tacos del Valle, and Taquería Orinoco, all of which can be sampled in San Pedro. However, the tacos at Carnicería Estrella—an equally aesthetic spot that’s all white tiles and red details and can also be found in CDMX—are just as delicious, while Tacos Primo in El Centro is an absolute must. They claim to have the best tacos de bistec in Monterrey, and they’re not wrong (though you can definitely skip the bacon ones)—order at the counter, then head to the back to douse them in sauce. The line is long, but it moves fast.
If tacos aren’t your thing, try the sizable quesadillas dished out at Casa de los Abuelos in Barrio Antiguo. They’re on the pricier side, but the fresh corn tortillas, abundant fillings, and—most importantly—actually spicy salsas are worth it. Or try a different take on corn at Elotes Los Fernández, where you can enjoy a bag of chips served with corn, cheese, sauces, and toppings. Skip the chips if preferred.
Upscale options
Though securing an invite to a local’s carne asada barbecue is the best way to really enjoy a steak in Monterrey, your alternative is to head to a classic regio steakhouse: La Nacional is a firm favorite in the city, while the upscale Mochomos and La Torrada—all in San Pedro—are also on most foodies’ radars. Alternatively, the tasting menu at Pangea is worth the splurge if you’re all about the dining experience.
