Ciena strikes an impressive balance across the board. It isn’t the trendiest or fanciest of places, nor is it the most expensive nor the busiest. It isn’t either on the other extreme in any of those matters: It seems to have found the right balance, to a point that it does it all in a subtle and understated way. The more I visit the more it grows on me–and the more I appreciate the small things that flew under the radar on my first few visits.
Their menus –breakfast + lunch & dinner– are thoughtfully curated. No flipping through endless pages, everything fits neatly into a single page. For breakfast, you will find a fruit plate, one oatmeal option –I’m not an oatmeal fan, but this one is delicious: warm oatmeal topped with fruit, almond cream, and cocoa nibs–, a handful of very tasteful egg dishes, chilaquiles (with short-rib), French Toast, a selection of baked goods, as well as and top notch coffee. A friend once claimed these folks make the best latte in Condesa –I wouldn’t go that far, but it is undoubtedly excellent. Speaking of drinks, their Ginger Bomb –a warm mix of ginger, lemon, honey, and other spices– is a personal favorite. It’s especially great on chilly mornings or when you’re feeling a bit under the weather.
For lunch and dinner they offer a fairly eclectic mix, perhaps with a slight mediterranean slant – gouda arancini, shishitos, polenta, hummus, aguachiles, and a few other similar items to start. They have a handful of items for salads and soups, and for the entrees a couple of sandwiches, a few –fresh– pasta choices, and a handful of other main dishes. The variety is eclectic without feeling scattered, and everything is consistently well-executed.
Ciena has a well balanced vibe, which makes it ideal for almost any occasion: a business meeting, a cozy date, a family brunch, or a night out with friends. It’s perhaps a touch too formal if you’re after a grab-and-go meal, but for anything else, it’s hard to beat. The outdoor seating is pleasant, and the interior is anchored by an open kitchen and bar. It’s the perfect setting to catch up with friends over cocktails or unwind with a glass of wine.
Located in the southern part of Condesa, on Alfonso Reyes, it’s just off the beaten path. It’s easy to grab a table in the morning, but for dinner, a reservation is highly recommended.
