Contramar (Mexico City) Now Accepts Reservations

[Peter Cherches]

Everything I read here and in guide books said they didn't, so when I showed up at 2:10 to a half empty restaurant they asked me if I had one. They do save the bar and outside tables for walk-ins, so I sat at the bar. An hour later the place was totally full. So bear in mind that reservations are now accepted and pretty much necessary.

I started with the tuna tostadas, on the waiter's recommendation. It was fabulous. Mini tostadas with a layer of chipotle mayo topped with tuna carpaccio and garnished with avocado and crispy leeks. It comes in 4 or 5 pieces and can easily be split.

I couldn't have the signature whole fish since it was too big for one, but they prepared the esmedregal filet (cobia or jackfish) with their two sauces (red chile and green parsley). I much preferred the red sauce. The fish had a meaty, albacore-like consistency, but less oily. The chopped spinach they served it with was, however, much too salty. This dish was not as unqualified a success as the appetizer.

http://petercherches.blogspot.com

[Ruth in Condechi]

Ok the real skinny on reservations at Contramar.
Reservations can be made for anytime between 1PM ( when the restaurant opens) until 2:30 PM when the real "comida" hour begins. After 2:30 PM you can put your name on the waiting list.
So does Contramar take reservations, sure for an hour and a half period at opening, after that.............

[gabo1967]

Contrary to popuar belief, many Mexicans actually do have lunch before 3PM, not at noon-1PM but certainly before 230PM.

[Peter Cherches]

I got there at 2 and most of the reservations on the list were for 2:30.

[ChefJune]

Pete, we were there for lunch on Saturday, 11/28, and they still DON'T take reservations, except for "certain" people. My hostess is good friends with the owner of Contramar, and I asked her about your comments.

We had an excellent meal, sharing several dishes. The table's favorite was the appetizers of little Bacalao fritters. We liked the m so much we ordered another plateful! The tuna tostadas were excellent, also. ;)

[cristina]

June, thanks for clarifying re reservations at Contramar. Their current reservations policy--no reservations unless you are "certain" people--has always been their reservations policy. I was surprised but hopeful when I read Peter's post, and I'm glad but sorry to have your confirmation.

Link: http://www.mexicocooks.typepad.com

[Peter Cherches]

They had a pretty long list of "certain people" when I tried to get in. Their website has a reservations link with phone number.

[gabo1967]

I am surprised by this thread. I have been making reservations at Contramar for a few years -- the last time being last December when I last visited DF --. I just picked up the phone and called and had no problem. I doubt that I am in any "special" list.