A stylish modern-Mexican spot with tableside flourishes, very friendly service, and creative dishes; great overall, though a few diners report inconsistent cooking and over-attentive service.
La Penúltima delivers solid neighborhood dining through excellent food quality and exceptional service warmth, competitive with the area's better restaurants. However, inconsistent execution on steaks and seasoning alongside occasional food safety concerns prevent a higher grade. The pleasant modern setting and creative Mexican menu appeal to diners seeking quality with flair, though not yet at destination-restaurant caliber.
The room feels modern and welcoming, with staff who seem genuinely eager to please. Reviewers describe tableside flourishes, from flaming margaritas to a dessert show, and one diner summed it up: "Service was exceptional from start to finish." However, there are some review authenticity concerns - some review patterns are consistent with solicited or influenced feedback. The cooking leans creative Mexican rather than strictly traditional: queso Mazamitla with sweet-savory notes, mezcal shrimp in three chiles, manchamantel pork, and hoja santa-wrapped fish. Flavors are bold and plating polished, ideal for guests who enjoy classic dishes with a twist. A few diners report uneven execution on steaks and a service style that can feel overly present. Families are welcome here. There is a dedicated kids menu with arrachera plus fries and creamy pasta, and multiple reviews mention children enjoying their meals. Picky eaters can fall back on tacos or chicken, while adventurous kids may enjoy trying flautas or sopa azteca.
Area vibe: Trendy central neighborhood near Reforma with a mix of offices, boutiques, and bars; draws locals and visitors.
Safety: Generally safe, well-trafficked near Reforma; standard big-city awareness advised at night.
What's nearby: Close to Paseo de la Reforma, theaters, and hotels; convenient pre-theater and cocktail stop.
Go for the Queso Mazamitla starter, mezcal shrimp main, and a tableside Frutas Borrachas dessert.
It’s a casual spot with limited parking, recommended reservations for busy nights, and drinks can push a bill to around $800–$1,200 MXN.
A modern, friendly room with tableside theatrics that can get lively during live music or karaoke nights.