Contramar, Mexico City, Mexico

It was our first night in Mexico City, and even though there wasn't much of a time change from home, we had to get up early to get there, so an early dinner was in order. Thank goodness we had a reservation because the place was completely packed at 4:40 in the afternoon--perhaps aided by a World Cup game, which could be seen (and heard) from every corner of the large restaurant with closely packed seating. This is not a quiet place at the best of times, but if you like a lively festive environment and do not need to hear yourself think, this is a great place to eat seafood. My favorite dish was the shrimp tostada and the signature dish of the restaurant is the whole fish, grilled and then served half with salsa verde and half with salsa rojo. The whole meal was excellent and I would recommend it. The chef Gabriela Cámara has served as a culinary advisor to a former Mexican president, so not like we discovered this place!