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The days of the three-martini lunch may be gone, but some restaurants still buzz with the sound of wheels and deals in motion. Discreet alcoves hide the quiet rendezvous, suitably imposing menus impress VIP clients, and exquisite waterfront views set the scene for a celebratory toast. These power playgrounds attract all breeds of movers and shakers—from high-profile politicians and finance execs to media moguls and entertainment royalty.
Best Power Lunches in....
Best Power Lunches
Mexico City
Sir Winston Churchill Manuel Avila Camacho 67, Polanco, 55.5280.6070 winstonchurchills.com
The Draw: Decades of refined service and constant good cooking have kept the clubby Sir Winston Churchill at the forefront of the city’s power lunch spots. The Scene: The aristocratic setting feels reminiscent of Tudor England, and a world apart from the rest of Mexico City. The sharply dressed diners tend to be older, male, and long-time patrons (for years, if not decades). Five private spaces, with the Marine Room being the most intimate, satisfy those looking for discretion. Mon–Sat 1pm–1am. $$$$ Hot Tip: The authentic Caesar salad, prepared tableside, is an excellent way to begin; follow it up with the signature roasted prime rib with Yorkshire pudding.
Nobu Paseo de Tamarindos 90–21A, Bosques de las Lomas, 55.9135.0061 noburestaurants.com.mx
The Draw: Unbeatable contemporary Japanese dining inside a new architectural icon. The Scene: The combined forces of Robert De Niro and his favorite chef Nobu Matsuhisa are behind this elegant restaurant in the city’s newest power center—the spectacular Torres Arcos building. Seating areas cater to varied power-lunching scenarios: Terrace seats offer high visibility; an active sushi bar encourages friendly, informal chats; and two semi-enclosed “privados” offer discretion to groups of 8–12. Mon–Wed 1–11pm, Thu–Sat 1pm–1am,
Sun 1–6pm. $$$$ Hot Tip: If you have troublenavigating the menu, ask for the “omekase,” and the chef will tailor dishes to your preferences. Seal a deal at meal’s end by adjourning with a warm bottle of aged rice wine to Nobu’s oh-so-intimate Sake Lounge, discreetly hidden behind the red sliding door.
Astrid & Gastón Alfredo Tennyson 117, Polanco, 55.5282.2666 astridygaston.com
The Draw: The city’s finest Peruvian fare in a spectacular contemporary setting. The Scene: As the capital’s love affair with gourmet Peruvian dining hits its stride, Astrid & Gastón perfectly fills the niche. Here, the new generation of businesspeople and politicians impress guests with fresh flavors and formal elegance. The building’s clean lines and ivy-covered façade make for a grand first impression; inside, the effect is only heightened, with white linens, stylish suede armchairs, built-in cabinetry, and an airy patio. Mon–Sat 1:30–11pm,
Sun 1:30–6pm. $$$ Hot Tip: Kick off a business lunch with a round of skillfully prepared pisco sours—the light, lemony, and refreshing cocktails complement the fresh-from-the-sea cebiches and tiraditos.