Ryo Kan Mexico City: Authentic Japanese Cuisine You NEED to Try!
Ryo Kan Mexico City: Authentic Japanese Cuisine You NEED to Try! (And Maybe the Spa is a Bit…Meh?) - A Chaotic Review
Alright, buckle up buttercups, because I just got back from a whirlwind trip to Mexico City, and let me tell you, my taste buds are still singing. This review is all about Ryo Kan, and lemme just say, the food? Divine. The rest of the place? Well, let's just say it's a mixed bag, like a sushi platter where the wasabi is unexpectedly…sour.
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- Meta Description: Craving authentic Japanese in Mexico City? Ryo Kan promises culinary bliss, but the experience is…complicated. Read my honest, messy, and opinionated review of the food, the spa, the hotel, and everything in between! Accessibility, amenities, and all the delicious, and maybe not-so-delicious, details.
(Okay, now for the juicy stuff…)
Arrival & First Impressions: A Glimmer of Hope (and a Slightly Confusing Check-In)
The hotel is… imposing, okay? Like a sleek, obsidian monolith plonked down in the middle of the city. The exterior is slick, modern, with a hint of… well, I'm not sure what kind of hint, but it’s there, I promise. Accessibility seems to be taken seriously – good start! I spotted ramps, elevators, and what looked like genuinely helpful signage. The front desk staff were friendly, although the check-in process itself was, shall we say, a little… verbose. They went through every detail, twice. But hey, at least they were thorough! There's a doorman, which always makes you feel fancy, even if you're just wearing wrinkled travel clothes like I was. (Front desk [24-hour] is a plus, no matter what.)
Rooms: Comfort and Convenience (Plus a View That Might Kill You)
My room? Absolutely lovely! Clean, modern, and (thank the gods!) air conditioning that blasted like a polar vortex. Especially since Mexico City’s, climate can swing wildly. The bed was incredibly comfortable, and the blackout curtains were a godsend after a day of exploring. Seriously, best sleep of my life, so far. The bathroom was pristine, with a giant mirror that made me feel like I was about to star in a shampoo commercial. They had all the essentials: bathrobes, hair dryer, slippers and an in-room safe box. Oh, and Free Wi-Fi! Everywhere! (Thank you, internet gods!)
Now, the view. I was on a high floor, and the city just sprawled beneath me. Magnificent if you weren't scared of heights like yours truly. There was an umbrella in the closet, which I quickly discovered I definitely needed, because, yeah, Mexico City weather is…a thing.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: The Heart of the Matter (and the Reason You’re Reading This)
LET'S TALK FOOD! This is where Ryo Kan truly shines. The restaurant, tucked away discreetly on the ground floor, is an absolute masterpiece of Japanese cuisine. Don't skip it. Seriously.
- Japanese Cuisine in Restaurant: Duh, it's Japanese! The only kind!
- A la carte in restaurant: This is the main menu. Go wild.
- Asian breakfast & Western breakfast: Both are available. I am a purist for the former.
- Breakfast [buffet/ buffet in restaurant]: I opted for the buffet, which was well-curated.
- Coffee/tea in restaurant/Coffee shop: Yup. Delicious coffee!
- Desserts in restaurant: Okay, the green tea ice cream nearly destroyed me.
- Happy hour: (Because, come on, it’s Mexico City!) The bar serves up some fantastic cocktails. Definitely take advantage.
- Restaurants : (Plural!) If you can't find something you like, then you're probably lying.
- Room service [24-hour]: So helpful after a long day of adventure, especially (whispers) those late-night sushi cravings.
- Snack bar: Perfect quick eat for a hectic schedule.
- Soup in restaurant: Ramen was a lifesaver.
- Vegetarian restaurant: Yes! Great options for veggies.
- Western cuisine in restaurant: If that's your thing…
I mean, the sushi was ethereal. The ramen? Broth so rich it could probably cure world hunger. The tempura? Light, crispy… perfection. Forget the rest of the hotel for a second; this food is worth the trip alone. I spent a good chunk of my trip just devouring everything. Seriously, I ate things I didn't even know I liked. I had a bottle of water waiting in my room, so the next day I could do it all over again.
There was a poolside bar, and let me tell you: cocktails while gazing into the sunset… just… chef’s kiss.
That Other Stuff: Fitness, Relaxation, and (Maybe) Disappointment?
Okay, this is where things get a little… bumpy. Let's address the elephant in the room: the spa.
- Ways to relax/ Spa/ Spa/sauna/Steamroom/Swimming pool/ Swimming pool [outdoor]: If you want these, then you should be happy.
- Body scrub/Body wrap/Foot bath/Gym/fitness/Massage: Services are here, though the execution may vary.
- Pool with view: If you want one, then this is it.
The fitness center was decent, basic but functional. The pool, though… oh, the pool. It looked stunning from afar, all shimmering turquoise and inviting. The reality? A bit… underwhelming. Fine, but not the kind of "escape from reality" vibe I was hoping for. And the spa! The spa… Let's just say it was a bit…generic. The massage was okay; the atmosphere, not so much. It felt more like a sterile medical facility than a place of tranquility. I've had better massages at the airport. I'm not one to complain, but I'm writing a review for you, so I'm saying.
Cleanliness & Safety: Good Vibes (and Lots of Hand Sanitizer)
They took cleanliness and safety seriously, which is comforting in this day and age.
- Anti-viral cleaning products/ Daily disinfection in common areas/Hand sanitizer: Everywhere!
- Hygiene certification: They definitely earned it.
- Individually-wrapped food options: Yes!
- Physical distancing of at least 1 meter: Felt safe.
- Professional-grade sanitizing services: Top marks.
- Rooms sanitized between stays / Room sanitization opt-out available: Yes!
- Safe dining setup/ Sanitized kitchen and tableware items/ Staff trained in safety protocol/ Sterilizing equipment: All there.
- Cashless payment service: Always nice.
They have CCTV in common areas and CCTV outside property, which is always a safety net. They had a first aid kit and a doctor/nurse on call. They also had fire extinguishers and smoke alarms, but did anyone see?
Services & Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter (or Don't)
- Business facilities/ Meetings/ Meeting stationery/ Xerox/fax in business center: All there, though I didn't need it.
- Cash withdrawal/ Concierge/ Currency exchange/ Daily housekeeping/ Doorman/ Dry cleaning/ Elevator/ Facilities for disabled guests/ Food delivery/ Gift/souvenir shop/ Invoice provided/ Ironing service/ Laundry service/ Luggage storage/ Safety deposit boxes/ Terrace: All those things.
- Air conditioning in public area/ Audio-visual equipment for special events/ Contactless check-in/out/ Convenience store/ Essential condiments/ Indoor venue for special events/ On-site event hosting/ Outdoor venue for special events/ Projector/LED display/ Seminars/ Shrine/Wi-Fi for special events: All there.
The concierge was helpful, but occasionally a bit…overwhelmed? I asked for recommendations for a good taco place, and I ended up with a list of super-fancy, fusion restaurants. (Don't get me wrong, the food was delicious, but not exactly what I was looking for!) The elevator was fast. The daily housekeeping was meticulous, and I loved that. They had luggage storage, which was invaluable.
For the Kids & Couples: Not My Wheelhouse (but I Spot Some Things)
I'm not a kid
Honey Dew Transient House: Angeles City & Clark's BEST Kept Secret?
Okay, buckle up, buttercup. We’re heading to Ryo Kan in Mexico City, and my brain’s already a delightful, chaotic mess of anticipation and “did-I-pack-the-right-adapter” anxiety. Here's the whirlwind, the glorious train wreck, the beautifully imperfect truth of this trip…
Ryo Kan Rumble in Mexico City: A Hot Mess Itinerary (and My Inner Monologue)
Day 1: Arrival & (Attempted) Zen
Morning (6:00 AM – Airport Arrival, Mexico City… Ugh, the Lines!): Okay, so I think I'm actually in Mexico City. The flight was a blur of crying babies and aggressively enthusiastic middle-aged men who seemed convinced I was their long-lost niece. Immigration? Let’s just say patience is a virtue I lack. Stood in line for what felt like a millennia, fueled by lukewarm airport coffee and a deep, primal need for a bathroom.
Morning (9:00 AM – Ryo Kan Check-in, Hopefully Not a Disaster): Finally! Made it to Ryo Kan. The pictures? Gorgeous. My reality? Maybe a little less so. The cobblestone streets leading up to the hotel were charming, but my luggage was not. One suitcase’s handle decided to stage a rebellion, and I swear I almost face-planted in front of a very judging chihuahua. Check-in… smooth, thank god. The lobby? Gorgeous. Minimalist perfection. Already feeling the stress melt, even if my lower back is screaming.
Afternoon (11:00 AM – Room Reveal & Immediate Meltdown of Joy): Okay. Here we go. The door unlocks… HOLY. MOLY. My room is like a freaking Zen sanctuary. Polished wood, natural light spilling everywhere, AND a little balcony? I think I might actually cry. Okay, I did cry. A little. From the beauty. This place is going to be my escape.
Afternoon (1:00 PM – Lunch, Finding My Bearings… Maybe): Time to eat. I'm starving. Seriously, hanger is a real thing, people. Wandered around the neighborhood, feeling overwhelmed by all the amazing taco stands and the sheer volume of people. Picked a place that looked promising, though god knows what I ordered. It was delicious though even if I'm not sure what the protein was. All I know is it involved tortillas, and a cilantro-lime sauce that has changed my life. I'm officially a glutton for all things tacos.
Afternoon (3:30 PM – Gentle Stroll & Realization of Impending Doom): I'm thinking I need to relax. The hotel has a garden, and the website said there's a “tranquil ambiance.” I swear, I heard a dog bark and it's definitely not tranquil in that way. So I'm wandering around the garden, taking some deep breaths. Realized I haven’t even brushed my teeth. Decided to do that now… and hopefully not run into that grumpy chihuahua.
Evening (6:00 PM – Dinner, Maybe Not So Zen After All): The hotel's restaurant, as I thought, is beautiful. Think minimalist meets Japanese-chic. I ordered the ramen. I am now wondering if that was a good move, as I'm sitting here, slurping noodles and accidentally making eye contact with a stern-faced businessman. I feel like I’m accidentally joining a serious business conference.
Evening (8:00 PM – Trying to Meditate (and Failing Spectacularly): Okay, so I’m supposed to “center myself” or something. My mind is a monkey on Red Bull. Tried the meditation app. Started thinking about how to get my laundry done. Failed. Watched some TV instead. Currently, the TV is playing an hour long documentary on the history of the tortilla. It checks out.
Day 2: Culture Shock, Food Comas & Existential Dread
Morning (8:00 AM – Breakfast Bliss (and the Search for Coffee)): That breakfast was incredible. Eggs, fruit, pastries… I swear, I ate enough for three people. Found coffee! Glory!
Morning (10:00 AM – Teotihuacan Pyramids - OMG): The pyramids! Holy moly. The scale! The sheer history! I climbed to the top of the Pyramid of the Sun, and felt… well, mostly breathless and convinced I was going to tumble down. The view, though? Surreal. Absolutely worth the near-cardiac arrest.
Afternoon (1:00 PM – Lunch, Or, Another Taco Adventure!): Back in the city, back to the tacos. This time, a tiny hole-in-the-wall place crammed with locals. I pointed at something, said "si," and ended up with the most incredible al pastor I've ever tasted. My stomach is a happy, tortilla-filled haven.
Afternoon (3:00 PM – Museo Nacional de Antropología & Total Overwhelm): The museum! The stuff! Artifacts, history, I felt like I had to learn a whole new language. Couldn't focus. The crowds, the information overload. My brain officially overloaded. Ended up wandering aimlessly until I found a bench and just… sat. Admire the beautiful architecture though.
Evening (6:00 PM – Back at Ryo Kan, Regrouping. Maybe a Nap?): Needed to retreat back to my serene little room for a good ol' nap. This is what the peace of the room is for. A little bit of serenity.
Evening (8:00 PM – Dinner, & The Great Taco Debate): Back at the restaurant. This time, a different dish. I'm thinking of making a serious study of the different types of tacos. This is not a frivolous endeavor, I swear. Tonight I tried the fried fish. Delicious, but not as good as the al pastor. My inner taco critic is now fully engaged.
Evening (9:00 PM – Staring Out the Window at the City Lights and Questioning Everything): The city lights are beautiful. What am I even doing here? Do I have any idea what I'm doing with my life? Should I get a pet? I'm pretty sure I left the iron on. Oh god, is my car now? The hotel is beautiful though, so I'll stay.
Day 3: Departure (and Promises to Return, Eventually)
Morning (8:00 AM – Heartbreak and Coffee): Seriously, leaving this hotel is like breaking up with a lover. The coffee, the room, the serenity. Ugh. Need more coffee.
Morning (9:30 AM – Last Stroll: One last meander through the neighborhood, soaking up the last bits of Mexico City magic. This time it's not too hot. And the cobblestones are beautiful.
Morning (10:30 AM – Packing (and Realizing You Packed Too Much)): This time the handle on my suitcase isn't broken. So that's great. But it's too heavy. I have to do some ruthless editing of my possessions.
Morning (11:30 AM – Final Hotel Moment (and a tear or two)): Last time in the room, and it feels like a cruel goodbye. The peace. Sigh. I'll be back. Mexico City, I'll be back.
Afternoon (1:00 PM – Airport Chaos (Again)): The lines, the waiting, the stress of getting through security. I'm tired, I'm hungry, and I just want to be on the plane.
Afternoon (3:00 PM – Take-off, and the Emotional Aftermath): Bye, Mexico City! (For now!). This trip has been a whirlwind of tacos, history, and moments of absolute, blissful peace. And now I’m on a plane heading home, ready to face the world, post vacation anxiety, and start making plans for my next trip. And the next one? Maybe next time, I'll pack more underwear.
Ryo Kan Mexico City: Unleash the Inner Foodie (and Maybe Your Budget...)
Alright, listen up food lovers! You've *gotta* hear about Ryo Kan in Mexico City. Forget tourist traps promising "authentic" anything. This place? This is the real deal. But before you dive in, let's get a few things straight... and maybe save you some embarrassment (speaking from... experience).
What's the Big Deal About Ryo Kan Anyway? It's Just Sushi, Right? (WRONG!)
Okay, so, yes. They have sushi. AMAZING sushi. But calling Ryo Kan "just sushi" is like calling the Mona Lisa a nice picture. It's a disservice! They're serving up seriously authentic Japanese cuisine. We're talking delicate tempura, steaming bowls of ramen that'll knock your socks off, and probably THE best gyoza I've ever tasted. Forget those sad, pre-made things. These are fluffy clouds of deliciousness. Seriously. I dreamt about them. No, seriously. The *Gyoza*.
Is it "Authentic" Authentic? I Had "Authentic" Ramen in Cancun Once... Don't Ask.
Dude, I feel your pain. Cancun "authentic" is a minefield. Ryo Kan? Different planet. The first time I went, I walked in and immediately felt like I’d been teleported to a tiny, bustling alleyway in Tokyo. The staff? All genuinely Japanese, speaking rapid-fire Japanese at each other that I understood about as well as quantum physics. And the food... look, I *tried* to order something safe. I chickened out. But then I saw the guy next to me DEVOURING a bowl of something that looked ridiculously good. I gestured, he laughed, and next thing I knew, I was trying (and failing) to master the chopstick skills of a seasoned salaryman while slurping down broth that was literally *dancing* on my tastebuds. Authenticity? Oh yeah. Big time.
The Menu: Where Do I Even START?! I Get Overwhelmed.
Okay, deep breaths. The menu *is* extensive. It's a glorious, slightly intimidating testament to the breadth of Japanese cuisine. My advice? Don’t be afraid to ask for help. The staff is (usually) super friendly and can guide you. Personally, I'm a sucker for the ramen, especially the Tonkotsu. The broth is rich, the noodles are perfectly cooked, and the pork belly? MELTS. IN. YOUR. MOUTH. Seriously. It's worth everything. EVERYTHING. (Okay, maybe not my first born. But close.) And for a good starting point, try a couple of their different starters. Like the seaweed salad and the octopus. Those are always winners.
And don't skip the desserts! Just... don't. I'm not going to spoil anything, but let's just say the green tea ice cream deserves its own religion. Seriously. This one time, I went with a group, we got a whole table of food, and the server brought out the wrong ice cream?! I almost cried. Okay, I *might* have teared up a little. But they quickly fixed it, and all was well. Almost.
Okay, So, Is it Expensive? 'Cause I'm Not Exactly Ballin'.
Here's the deal: it's not *cheap*. It's probably not the kind of place you'd eat at every single night, unless you're independently wealthy or inherited a gold mine. But, for the quality of the food, the authenticity, and the overall experience? It's worth it. My suggestion? Go for lunch. Generally, the lunch specials offer a better value. And skip the sake (unless you're feeling particularly flush and adventurous). Stick to some excellent beer.
Where Is It? Getting Around Mexico City Can Be Tricky.
Ryo Kan has a few locations! Check their website, but often the one in the Zona Rosa is the most well-known. Finding it? Okay, it's in the Zona Rosa. I'm terrible with directions, so I always just put it into Google Maps or Uber. Mexico City traffic? Brace yourself. Give yourself extra time. You'll probably need it. And, pro-tip: parking can be a nightmare. Public transport or a taxi/Uber is your best bet, especially if you plan on indulging in that delicious sake…
What About Reservations? Do I NEED them?
YES. ESPECIALLY on weekends. Seriously, make a reservation. Learn from my mistake. I once showed up on a Saturday night, absolutely starving, and had to wait for, like, an hour and a half. An HOUR AND A HALF. I ended up ordering a mountain of appetizers because I was so hangry, and by the time my ramen arrived, I was only about halfway through. Don't be like me. Reserve. Or go early. Or go on a Tuesday. Just… plan ahead.
Anything Else I Should Know? Any Hidden Gems On the Menu?
Okay, a few more things:
- Speak some Spanish: While some staff may speak English, having a basic grasp of Spanish will definitely help. They appreciate the effort!
- Tipping: It's customary in Mexico, so factor that into your budget. A good rule of thumb is 10-15%.
- Explore: Don't be afraid to try something new! Step outside your comfort zone. The menu is vast, and there are hidden treasures everywhere. (Like the crispy tofu. Seriously, the tofu.)
- Go with people you love: Sharing food is half the fun! And you can try more dishes!
- Don't be afraid to make a total mess of yourself. That amazing ramen will most likely end up all over your face, and maybe some down the front of your shirt. Embrace it!
Finally... prepare to fall in love. You've been warned. Ryo Kan is addictive. Seriously. I'm already planning my next trip. Now, if you'll excuse me, I think I have a craving to satisfy...
