6 New All-day Cafés Around the U.S. That Will Make You Feel Like You're in Mexico

Priya Krishna
Updated
Mexico’s ubiquitous day-to-night neighborhood restaurants are finally becoming a stateside staple.

In Mexico, the day-to-night restaurant — a neighborhood hangout where locals can stop for coffee or convene over antojitos — is a commonplace sight.

Now these spots are catching on in the U.S., serving authentic, creative Mexican cooking around the clock. Visit these new and soon-to-open restaurants for migas in the morning or a mezcal cocktail at night, all in the same place.

Puesto — Santa Clara, CA

Last month the Bay Area got an outpost of this cheerful SoCal café, which serves Mexico City street-food favorites like chicharrones and nopalitos, along with an extensive taco selection. Entrées $10–$18.

Atla — New York City

From award-winning chefs Enrique Olvera and Daniela Soto-Innes, Atla is the casual complement to the ambitious Cosme. Humble but flavor-packed plates like flaxseed chilaquiles and enfrijoladas rule the menu, but you’d be remiss to skip over the anything-but-basic avocado toast. Small plates $11–$28.

Quiote — Chicago

The plant-filled spot in Logan Square specializes in seasonal Mexican fare, with dishes like crab tostadas with black lime and mustard seed and chicken in mole with carrots and granola. Entrées $10–$28.

Gallo Blanco — Phoenix

Chef-owner Doug Robson’s upbringing in Mexico informs his cooking at Gallo Blanco. Expect warming bowls of pozole rojo, a hearty pork-and-hominy stew; migas; and shrimp ceviche with pico de gallo and horseradish. Entrées $9–$15.

El Jardín — San Diego

Chef Claudette Zepeda-Wilkins elevates regional home cooking at her first solo endeavor, opening soon in Point Loma. Breakfast is currently a weekends-only affair — go for the Oaxacan hot chocolate and complimentary pan dulce, like conchas, soft, sweet rolls with a crunchy shell. Entrées $18–$30.

Eldorado Café — Austin, TX

The city is known for its breakfast tacos, and the ones at this comforting café do not disappoint. Try the “big papas,” a taco with spicy potatoes, bacon, a fried egg, and cheese. Entrées $7–$15.

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