Skip Pujol. Go to Masala y Mais Instead.

Within one week, I visited the fifth best restaurant in the world, Pujol, and the ninth best restaurant in the world, Quintonil. The quality of service and presentation at each restaurant was excellent, and with a favorable exchange rate, we paid relatively little for a world-class meal. That’s where the positives end. With the exception of the mole, every dish at Pujol was flavorless. Not a spice to be found on any dish. In a country known for sauces and flavors, it was disappointing to have such a high-class meal where everything was bland. Quintonil was better—but not by much. Their restaurant was less impressive in terms of decor and felt less posh than Pujol, but at least the food at Quintonil was better. However, it was a lot of fish (and I like fish), and also lacked flavor.

By contrast, the unranked Masala y Mais, a restaurant with only six or seven tables, packed a punch. The restaurant serves tapas style small plates that blend Mexican and Indian cuisines. I had some of the best prawns of my life there. These crustaceans were big and juicy and coated in a spicy chili paste that blew me out of the water. The lamb dish was incredible, too, as was the quesadilla dish oozing with Oaxaca cheese.

The only disappointment with Masala y Mais was the dessert. I ordered the best Chai I’d had in Mexico City (crossing a low bar to be sure) and a dessert that I’m happy to say I’ve already forgotten. It was only memorable in that it was inedible. Thankfully, I was already so full from the meal that I quickly forgave and forgot. At less than half the price of either Pujol or Quintonil, it was undoubtedly at least twice as tasty.

Next time you’re in Mexico City, skip the Open Table reservations at Pujol and Quintonil. Bypass the overrated restaurants, and head straight to Masala y Mais for a meal that won’t disappoint. Perhaps just go get ice cream or churros somewhere else for dessert.

Pujol