Hi - I'll be going to Mexico next month for the first time since the pandemic began. In addition to visiting CDMX and seeing friends and my usual places, I'm planning a few days in Puebla.

I just reserved a room at the Hotel Casareyna, which seems a bit decadently luxurious - anyone want to talk me out of it, or tell me it's totally worth it? I've heard very good things about the restaurant.

Also, I'd be very grateful for any tips and suggestions, particularly when it comes to food! And I'd love any thoughts on Talavera ceramics. I'd like to at least see the Uriarte factory (I believe it's open for tours?) but would be thrilled for any recommendations of alternative places to go.

Thanks very much!

Room was very comfortable and the filete de res con tuetano a la mexicana was the best of our 3 week trip. Casareyna is only a 5 to 10 minute walk to the centro. We enjoyed Puebla and wouldn't hesitate to book again at Casareyna.

Thank you! I've heard great things about the restaurant - very much looking forward to it (although I think I'll draw the line at bone marrow ).

Why not visit the town of Chipilo? You'd get a legit taste of Italy in Puebla, and it's not so far from the city.

Interesting. Thanks for that - I'd never heard of that town!

Back from Mexico so I figured I'd reply to my own thread in case anyone else has similar questions.

The restaurant at Casa Reyna was absolutely excellent - I highly recommend it! A Mexican friend and others who have been told me they have the best mole, and I wouldn't argue - it was delicious, if a bit heavy. I ate at the restaurant three times, each time getting different things, and each time I was extremely satisfied. I think my favorite meal was the salmon in two pipianes (red and green); it was very flavorful; the fish was cooked perfectly, and it wasn't as heavy as some of the other dishes you generally eat in Mexico.

On the flip side, I also ate at El Mural de los Poblanos, which has the reputation of being one of the best restaurants in the city. I had adobo chicken, which was also delicious - but a couple of hours later, my stomach was, shall we say, not having it. Admittedly, these things can happen in Mexico, but that was a big disappointment.

Otherwise, I took a day trip to Cholula to see the pyramid/church they built on top of it. I really liked the town, the state museum right next to the pyramid site was surprisingly interesting and very well laid out, and I had a lovely lunch. The town had a very relaxed feel to it, and everything was a comfortable walk from the main square.