Creative brunch cafe in Coyoacán with standout breads and a cult-favorite birria grilled cheese, balanced by slow/uneven service and occasional execution misses.
Doña Simona delivers appealing food quality anchored by standout house breads and signature dishes like birria grilled cheese, set in a charming Coyoacán courtyard with genuine warmth. However, inconsistent execution—cold plates, slow service, occasional order errors—and variable pacing during peak hours prevent it from reaching higher ground. Worth visiting for the breads and seasonal specials, but expect occasional friction.
On a leafy street near the heart of Coyoacán, the room feels warm and welcoming with house breads perfuming the air and a petite courtyard anchored by a grand tree. Service is often friendly and homey, though waits and order hiccups pop up at peak hours. A guest summed it up: "Lovely cafe energy, but expect a queue on weekends." In the kitchen, the approach blends Mexican brunch comfort with playful twists—think the cult-favorite birria grilled cheese, seasonal French toast riffs, and sturdy chilaquiles. When execution lands, plates look polished and satisfying; when it does not, diners note dry chips, lukewarm food, or a sweet-leaning mole. Pricing sits a touch high for a cafe, justified by sourdough baking and seasonal specials. Families will find familiar anchors—hotcakes, waffles, grilled cheese—and many kids gravitate to the sweets. There is no dedicated children's menu, but options are accessible. The venue is very pet-friendly, which many love; if your child is sensitive to noise or dogs nearby, consider off-peak times or the courtyard for space.
Area vibe: Historic, artsy district with leafy streets and weekend crowds; attracts locals and visitors for plazas and museums.
Safety: Generally safe, busy by day and early evening; typical urban vigilance near the center.
What's nearby: Near central Coyoacán plazas, cafes, artisan markets, and Frida-related attractions; street parking can be competitive.
Go for the birria grilled cheese and save room for one of their seasonal French toast riffs.
It is a casual, pet-friendly cafe with possible weekend lines and variable service.
A leafy, stylish cafe with a small courtyard and an upbeat, sometimes noisy brunch scene.