Rosetta, helmed by acclaimed chef Elena Reygadas, offers an innovative fusion of Italian and Mexican cuisines in a charming Roma mansion. While the atmosphere and desserts shine, inconsistent service and hit-or-miss main courses make this Michelin-starred spot a bit of a gamble. Read on for a detailed first-hand account to decide if it’s worth a visit on your next Mexico City adventure.

As I stepped into the rustic-chic interior of Rosetta, nestled in a picturesque mansion in Mexico City’s trendy Roma neighborhood, anticipation tingled through me. This wasn’t just any meal – it was a date with one of the most talked-about restaurants in a city renowned for its culinary prowess.

Review: Rosetta Mexico City’s Culinary Crown Jewel is it worth the hype?

Rosetta has been on every foodie’s lips lately, from snagging a coveted spot on the World’s 50 Best Restaurants list to earning Mexico’s first Michelin star. But would the reality live up to the hype? As a seasoned travel writer with an incurable case of wanderlust (and an equally insatiable appetite), I was determined to find out.

Over the next few hours, I embarked on a gastronomic journey that would prove both delightful and perplexing. From innovative dishes that danced on the taste buds to moments of service that left me scratching my head, Rosetta turned out to be full of surprises. So – we’re about to dive into the complex flavors of one of Mexico City’s most intriguing dining destinations.

The Setting at Rosetta Mexico City: A Mansion of Culinary Dreams

Ambiance at Rosetta Mexico City

• Housed in a beautifully restored Roma mansion
• Rustic-chic decor with a touch of old-world charm
• Indoor tree adds a whimsical natural element

Walking into Rosetta feels like stepping into the stylish home of a well-traveled friend with impeccable taste. The restaurant occupies a stunning mansion in the heart of Roma, one of Mexico City’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

The interiors strike a perfect balance between rustic and refined. Exposed brick walls and weathered wooden beams create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Soft lighting from elegant fixtures casts a gentle glow over the dining rooms. Perhaps the most striking feature is the tree growing right through the center of one dining area, its branches reaching towards the high ceilings.

Helpful Tip: Request a table near the tree for a truly magical ambiance, especially in the evening when twinkling lights are strung through its branches.

While the setting is undeniably charming, I did notice that the acoustics can make for a rather noisy dining experience when the restaurant is full. If you’re looking for a quiet, intimate meal, you may want to request a table in one of the smaller dining rooms.

The Culinary Vision Rosetta Mexico City: Where Italy Meets Mexico

Chef Elena Reygadas at Rosetta Mexico City

• Acclaimed Mexican chef known for innovative fusion cuisine
• Blends Italian techniques with Mexican ingredients
• Focus on seasonality and supporting local producers

At the helm of Rosetta is Elena Reygadas, a chef who has become something of a culinary rockstar in Mexico City and beyond. Her approach is a unique fusion of Italian techniques and Mexican ingredients, resulting in dishes that are both familiar and excitingly new.

Reygadas’ commitment to seasonality and supporting local producers is evident throughout the menu. Many ingredients are sourced from small farms in and around Mexico City, ensuring peak freshness and flavor.

Helpful Tip: The menu changes frequently based on seasonal availability. Don’t get too attached to specific dishes you may have read about online – be open to trying the chef’s latest creations!

Rosetta Mexico City Menu: A Culinary Rollercoaster

The menu rotatates based on whats available . You can view the current menu here https://rosetta.com.mx/en/el-menu/

Starters at Rosetta Mexico City

• Innovative takes on traditional Mexican ingredients
• Standout: Savoy cabbage tacos with pistachio sauce

My meal began with the restaurant’s signature starter: savoy cabbage tacos. These delicate parcels filled with herbs and dressed with a vibrant pistachio sauce were a revelation. The dish perfectly encapsulated Reygadas’ ability to elevate humble ingredients into something extraordinary.

Main Courses la Rosetta Restaurant

• Emphasis on handmade pasta dishes
• Creative use of Mexican ingredients in Italian-inspired plates
• Inconsistent execution across dishes

My solo dining experience at Rosetta turned out to be a delightful culinary adventure, thanks to the thoughtful suggestion from my waiter. Recognizing my desire to sample multiple dishes, he offered half portions, allowing me to explore more of the menu without overindulging.

1. Pappardelle with chicken livers and sage ($395 MXN for full portion) This dish was a standout, offering a sophisticated take on comfort food. The chicken livers provided a rich, almost foie gras-like indulgence without being overpowering. The balance of flavors was impeccable, with the sage adding a perfect aromatic touch. The pasta itself was cooked to perfection, demonstrating Rosetta’s expertise in handmade pasta.

1. Tagliatelle with Italian sausage and chile de árbol ($490 MXN for full portion) While competently prepared, this dish didn’t quite reach the heights of the pappardelle. The sauce was well-balanced, showcasing a nice interplay between the spicy chile de árbol and the savory sausage. However, it lacked that special something to make it truly memorable.

1. Sea bass in sea salt with herbs and samphire This dish exemplified Rosetta’s skill with seafood. The sea bass was cooked to perfection, its delicate flavor enhanced by the salt crust cooking method. Served over a bed of greens with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, it was a testament to the power of simple, well-executed cuisine.

Helpful Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask about half portions if you’re dining solo or want to sample more dishes. The staff at Rosetta seem accommodating to such requests, allowing for a more diverse tasting experience.

The ability to try multiple main courses provided a comprehensive view of Rosetta’s strengths. While not every dish hit the highest notes, the standouts – particularly the pappardelle and the sea bass – showcased the kitchen’s ability to balance innovative techniques with respect for quality ingredients.

Helpful Tip: Don’t be afraid to ask your server for recommendations. The staff should be well-versed in the current menu and can guide you towards the chef’s latest successes.

Desserts

• True standouts of the meal
• Innovative use of Mexican ingredients in sweet applications

Where Rosetta truly shines is in its dessert offerings. I indulged in the Melipona honey jelly with brown butter vanilla ice cream, and it was nothing short of spectacular. The delicate sweetness of the rare Melipona honey paired beautifully with the rich, nutty notes of the brown butter ice cream.

The Service at Restaurante Rosetta: A Mixed Bag

• Rushed and impersonal at times
• Lack of attention to detail
• Potential issues with water service and billing practices

Unfortunately, the service at Rosetta did not quite match the caliber of the food or setting. I found the staff to be rushed and somewhat impersonal, with minimal interaction beyond taking orders and delivering dishes.

There also seemed to be some questionable practices around water service, with foreign diners being automatically given (and charged for) bottled water while local tables received complimentary house water. This left a sour taste that had nothing to do with the food.

Helpful Tip: Be very specific about your water preferences when ordering to avoid any unexpected charges.

Salón Rosetta: The Speakeasy Experience

• Beautiful upstairs bar with vintage charm
• Overpriced and underwhelming cocktails
• Inconsistent service

After dinner, I ventured upstairs to Salón Rosetta, the restaurant’s speakeasy-style bar. While the space itself is stunning, with high ceilings and ornate decor, the cocktail experience left much to be desired.

The drinks were both overpriced and underwhelming in terms of taste and balance. Service in the bar area was also hit-or-miss, making it difficult to order additional drinks or ask questions about the menu.

Helpful Tip: If you do visit Salón Rosetta, stick to wine or beer rather than the signature cocktails.

Reservations for Rosetta Restaurant Mexico City

Securing a reservation at Rosetta can be a bit of a challenge, but it’s not impossible. Here’s what you need to know:

• Online Booking: The easiest way to make a reservation is through Rosetta’s online booking system. I managed to snag a lunch reservation about three weeks in advance.
• Timing is Key: For the best chances of getting a table, try booking for lunch. I secured a noon reservation without much difficulty.
• Plan Ahead: While three weeks worked for me, it’s recommended to book even further in advance for dinner reservations, especially on weekends.
• Alternative Options: If you’re feeling spontaneous or couldn’t secure a reservation, you can try your luck as a walk-in. Some diners have reported success with simply showing up and waiting for a table, particularly during off-peak hours.
• Phone and Email: For groups of 1-14 people, you can also make reservations via email (re***********@**********om.mx) or phone (+52 55 5533 7804).
• Large Groups: For parties of 15 or more, contact the events team directly at ev*****@**********om.mx.

Helpful Tip: If you’re flexible with your dining time, consider booking for lunch or an early dinner. These slots often have more availability and can provide a more relaxed dining experience.

My experience with the reservation process was smooth. The online system was user-friendly, and I received a prompt confirmation email. However, it’s worth noting that for tables of 5-14 people, Rosetta may request a credit card to guarantee the reservation.

Remember, if you need to modify or cancel your reservation, it’s courteous (and often required) to do so at least 24 hours in advance. This allows the restaurant to accommodate other diners and avoids potential no-show fees.

Is Rosetta Mexico city restaurant Worth the Hype?

After my experience at Rosetta, I’m left with mixed feelings. There’s no denying the creativity and skill behind many of the dishes, particularly the mains and desserts. The setting is undeniably charming, and there’s a palpable sense of excitement around the restaurant’s innovative approach to Mexican cuisine.

However, inconsistencies in both food and service make it difficult to wholeheartedly recommend Rosetta as a must-visit destination. For the price point and the restaurant’s reputation, one expects a more polished and memorable dining experience from start to finish.

Who Should Visit Rosetta?

• Food enthusiasts interested in innovative Mexican cuisine
• Travelers looking for a special occasion meal in a beautiful setting
• Diners who prioritize creative desserts and are willing to splurge

Who Might Want to Skip It?

• Those seeking a traditional Mexican dining experience
• Budget-conscious travelers
• Diners who value attentive, personalized service above all else

The Bottom Line

Rosetta remains an intriguing player in Mexico City’s vibrant culinary scene. While it may not consistently live up to its lofty reputation, there’s still plenty to appreciate about Chef Reygadas’ unique vision and the restaurant’s commitment to showcasing Mexican ingredients in new ways.

If you do decide to visit, go with an open mind and tempered expectations. Focus on the starters, select mains, and desserts, and be prepared for a bit of a gamble when it comes to main courses and service. With the right attitude, Rosetta can still offer a memorable – if imperfect – taste of Mexico City’s cutting-edge gastronomy.

FAQs Rosetta roma La Roma Mexico

1. How far in advance should I make a reservation at Rosetta? It’s recommended to book at least 2-3 weeks in advance, especially for weekend dinners.
2. Is there a dress code at Rosetta? The dress code is smart casual. Avoid shorts, flip-flops, and overly casual attire.
3. Does Rosetta offer vegetarian or vegan options? Yes, there are usually several vegetarian dishes on the menu. Vegan options may be more limited, so it’s best to inquire in advance.
4. What is the price range for a meal at Rosetta? Expect to pay around $50-80 USD per person for a full meal with drinks, excluding tip.
5. Is Rosetta suitable for large groups? The restaurant can accommodate groups, but it’s best to contact them directly for parties larger than 6 people.