Every May, Condé Nast Traveler releases its Hot List, a collection of the best new hotels, spas, restaurants, and nightspots. Check the Daily Traveler every day for a new post from this year's list.

Japanese-inspired minimalist decor ensures that nothing detracts from the ambitious creations of Basque-born chefs Bruno Oteiza and Mikel Alonso. Occasionally the pair stray too far into the molecular gastronomy hinterlands to concoct flavors and invent textures, but when they get it right, the result is superb. The squid stuffed with caramelized onions and stewed in its own ink is nicely smoky, and the escolar verde apio, a Pacific fish cooked in a hen broth flavored with celery, is simple and divine. Anise ice cream makes an appropriately bold finish (entrées, $24-$38).

Address: 407 President Masaryk
Tel: 52-55-5282-2064

Further reading:
* Hot List 2008
* The Mexico City Guide
* Hot List on the Daily Traveler