What's the best time to eat at Contramar, and how do I get a table?
Contramar in Roma Norte is a classic not because it’s a 'scene,' but because the food is consistently good. The best time to eat is between 14:00 and 16:00, especially Tuesday through Friday, when the kitchen is humming and the crowd is lively but not overwhelming. Forget trying to get a table after 17:00 on weekends.
What locals actually do
Locals know that Contramar is a lunch spot, not a dinner spot. We go for a long afternoon meal, usually starting around 14:30, lingering over the pescado a la talla, tuna tostadas, and a few cheladas. The energy peaks mid-afternoon, and by 18:00, the place begins to empty out. Reservations are essential, even if you know someone – especially if it's a weekday. Tourists often try to treat it like a late dinner destination, which misses the point entirely.
Go for a long lunch, 14:30 on a Wednesday. Reserve a table a week in advance and order the whole grilled fish and the tuna tostadas.
Practical notes
- 01Reservations are almost always necessary, especially for weekend lunch. Call or book online well in advance.
- 02The restaurant closes at 19:30 during the week and 20:00 on weekends; last call for food is usually an hour before closing.
- 03Contramar is closed on Sundays, so plan your visit accordingly. Do not show up on a Sunday expecting lunch.
Good to know
- ✗Showing up without a reservation on a Saturday afternoon and expecting to be seated quickly.
- ✗Trying to go for dinner — Contramar is fundamentally a lunch experience.
- ✗Ordering anything other than the seafood; you’re there for the fish and tostadas.