Mexico City
Mexico City is the vast capital city of Mexico. It's known for its Templo Mayor (a 13th-century Aztec temple), the baroque Catedral Metropolitana de México of the Spanish conquistadors, and the Palacio Nacional, which houses historic murals by Diego Rivera. All of these are situated in and around the Plaza de la Constitución, the massive main square known as the Zócalo. Here is our guide to CDMX.
STAY
FOUR SEASONS Set in a stunning colonial-style building right on Paseo de la Reforma with a charming verdant inner courtyard garden, perfect for al fresco dining or having a cocktail at Fifty Mils, voted one of the 50 Best Bars of the world. Av. Paseo de la Reforma 500, Juárez; fourseasons.com
ST. REGIS Situated in one of the few skyscrapers on Paseo de la Reforma, which makes for scenic city views. Enjoy a glass of champagne at check-in and butler service throughout your stay. Book a treatment at the Remede Spa and soak in the jacuzzi or swim in the pool after. Av. Paseo de la Reforma 439, Cuauhtémoc; marriott.com
LAS ALCOBAS Designed by Yabu Pushelberg, a stunning spiral rosewood staircase leads from reception into the hotel’s breakfast room and spa. It’s also home to restaurants Anatol and Dulce Patria, which are among the best in the city for fresh Mexican cuisine. Av. Pdte. Masaryk 390, Polanco; marriott.com
CONDESA DF Designed by India Mahdavi, this is Condesa’s crown jewel. The rooftop bar serves up some of the city's best sushi, not to mention stunning views of Chapultepec Park. There's also a tiny Hammam spa for a dose of relaxation after a long day exploring the nearby independent shops, cafes, restaurants, and galleries. Av. Veracruz 102, Roma Norte; condesadf.com
HOTEL HABITA The Enrique Norten-designed, glass-enclosed, Hotel Habita was Mexico City's very first design hotel, and remains a stylish choice today. Located in Polanco on Avenue Masaryk next to the luxury boutiques of Polanco, and featuring minimalist decor and a rooftop pool with a lively bar scene. Av. Pdte. Masaryk 201, Polanco, Polanco V Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; hotelhabita.com
CAMINO REAL The perfect choice for art and architecture lovers. Built in 1968 by Ricardo Legorreta, arguably one of Mexico's most influential architects, and featuring an Isamu Noguchi-designed fountain in the entrance, and works by Rufino Tamayo, Pedro Friedeberg, Jose Covarrubias, and more. Behind the pink and yellow facade, lies a secluded courtyard pool, adjoining gym, and a choice of restaurants. Calz. Gral. Mariano Escobedo No. 700, Anzures, Miguel Hidalgo; caminoreal.com
DOWNTOWN MEXICO A hotel by Grupo Habita located in the city's downtown or "Centro " neighborhood in a 17th-century palace with a classic colonial courtyard, a rooftop pool, a 1940's mural by Rafael Gonzalez Lozano, and Azul Historico, a traditional Mexican restaurant. Isabel La Católica 30, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc; downtownmexico.com
IGNACIA GUEST HOUSE Tucked away on a tree-lined street in Roma, reminiscent of a hidden courtyard in Milano. Named after a housekeeper who worked at the Casona for over seventy years (there are gorgeous block-print portraits of her in the numerous alcoves). Ignacia has a verdant central garden overrun with cacti with a menu featuring cocktails made with artisanal mezcal and freshly picked fruit. Jalapa 208, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; ignacia.mx
CASA TEO A minimalist boutique hotel created by famed Mexican restaurateur Enrique Olvera of Pujol. The space is situated above the former location of Pujol, which previously encompassed the production kitchen and private dining room for the restaurant. Petrarca 254, Polanco, Polanco V Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; teo.casa
RYO KAN Located in the emerging Little Tokyo district of Mexico City, modeled after a traditional Japanese Ryokan Inn, and intended as a fusion of "Japanese and Mexican identity and values.” Designed by local architect Regina Galvanduque who runs GLVDK Studio, the hotel features a rooftop jacuzzi, tatami mats, and a zen-like courtyard garden. A perfect escape from the bustle of CDMX. Rio Panuco 166, Cuauhtémoc; ryokan.mx
OCTAVIA CASA Designed by Mexican practice PPAA (Pérez Palacios Arquitectos Asociados) founded by Pablo Pérez Palacios, and based around the eponymous fashion brand. The Condesa hotel and its minimalist interiors are designed to be an extension of the clothes offered by Octavia. Av. Amatlan 126, Hipódromo Condesa; octaviacasa.mx
MARQUIS REFORMA The gleaming Art Deco hotel is positioned on Paseo de la Reforma, a grand boulevard modeled after Paris' Champs-Élysées and Vienna's Ringstrasse. The award-winning, 16,000-square-foot spa inspires guests to stay put, as does charming Los Canarios restaurant, where classic Mexican cuisine is served overlooking Avenue Reforma. Av. Paseo de la Reforma 465, Cuauhtémoc; marquisreforma.com
THE RITZ-CARLTON Rising 58 stories in the heart of the financial center, make sure to visit the rooftop bar at the recently opened Ritz-Carlton in Mexico City. Av. Paseo de la Reforma 509, Cuauhtémoc; ritzcarlton.com
HOTEL CARLOTA A hotel that stands out with its modern Mexican architecture and decor. It also has the boutique Mexican Design Taxonomy filled with local fashion, accessories and ceramics. Río Amazonas 73, Col. Renacimiento, Cuauhtémoc; hotelcarlota.mx
BRICK HOTEL Set amid the cafes, museums and galleries of the hip Roma district, this chic hotel is housed in a former mansion. Amenities include a stylish restaurant, a bar and a lobby cafe, plus a leafy patio, and a spa area with treatment rooms. Cda. Orizaba 95, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; brickhotel.com
CASA POLANCO A boutique hotel in a historic home in Polanco with gorgeous green marble and a popular breakfast buffet. Luis G. Urbina 84, Polanco, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; casapolanco.com
NIMA LOCAL HOUSE HOTEL A stylish boutique hotel in a colonial building in Roma Norte with an amazing spa and retail shop. Colima 236, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; hotelnima.com
KIMPTON VIRGILIO A new boutique hotel by Kimpton with a rooftop in Polanco. Anatole France 79, Polanco, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; kimptonvirgilio.com
CAFES | BAKERIES
PANADERÍA ROSETTA You'll be lucky if you can grab a seat at this charming and teensy hole in the wall, but you can always take their incredible pastries and snacks to-go on a walk around the Roma. The Panadería is an extension of the acclaimed Italian restaurant Rosetta, where chef Elena Reygadas was churning out European breads and pastries of such quality, that its own separate bakery (now two) was in order. Try the croissants, conchas, and especially the guava roll.
CHURRERÍA EL MORO This legendary "churreria" has been open in the same locale in the Centro since 1935 when the Spanish owners bought the property and imported the Spanish fried-dough delicacy to Mexico. There is also an outpost at the Mercado Roma. elmoro.mx/
EL GLOBO Originally opened in the 19th century, El Globa serves traditional bread and pastries (Conchas, Orejas, Garibaldis, Bolillos, and Teleras) and the staff still wear the old-school pinstripe uniforms. elglobo.com.mx
MAQUE CAFÉ Traditional Mexican pastries like the Concha and the Oreja have French origins so this Parisian-inspired café in Condesa is fitting. The old-school pinafores and lace aprons are especially charming, and there is a second location in Polanco. maque.com.mx
DULCERÍA DE CELAYA A beautiful candy shop in Centro, open for over a century, featuring wooden display cabinets, baroque-style mirrors, and even a sign that haven't changed in over 100 years. The sweets haven't changed much either, as the Dulceria is one of the only places where you can still find a vast array of traditional sweets including cajeta, marzipan, cocadas, and pay de rompope. Av. 5 de Mayo 39, Centro Histórico.
CHIQUITITO CAFE A fair-trade artisanal café with coffee beans from a small grower in the state of Veracruz. chiquititocafe.com
CAFÉ NIN A chic cafe serving pastries, small plates & sandwiches alongside a thoughtfully sourced wine list. Havre 73, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc; cafenin.com.mx
NEVERÍA ROXY The Condesa locale of this authentic soda fountain and sorbet (nieve) shop has been around since the late 1940's, serving sorbets, milkshakes, and ice cream sundaes with flavors including lemon, mandarin, mamey, chicozapote, melon, and pineapple. neveriaroxy.com.mx
LA MICHOACANA A chain of paleterias serving traditional and unique flavors including maracuya, guava, mamey, and walnut. michoacana.com
OJO DE AGUA Fresh fruit juices, along with green juice options, salads and vegetable sandwiches are served at this chain. https://grupoojodeagua.com.mx.
CICATRIZ CAFE A cozy cafe serving staples like tahini-dressed kale salads and creamy mamey pies. C. Dinamarca 44, Cuauhtémoc; cicatrizcafe.com.
JOE GELATO Be sure to ask for the secret menu at this gelato shop like the maiz gelato topped with smoky pox, a popular corn liquor first used by the Mayans in religious ceremonies. C. Versalles 78, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc.
LA RIFA An open-air café dedicated to artisanal Mexican chocolate from cacao nibs and decadent bars to handmade drinks and specialty desserts like the tamal de nat tocado with chocolate foam and berries. Be sure to ask for the terruño, the outpost’s secret Mezcal and chocolate pairing menu. C. Dinamarca 47, Cuauhtémoc.
CAFE AVELLANEDA Try a cappuccino with almond milk at this casual cafe serving single origin coffee and homemade pastries. Higuera 40-A, La Concepción, Coyoacán.
BUVETTE ROMA The popular New York bistro has opened a Mexico City location in La Roma. Orizaba 145, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; dbs-restaurants.com
IVOIRE Chic French restaurant serving escargot, seafood & meat plates, plus brunch classics & wine. Av. Emilio Castelar 95, Polanco
MANDOLINA Italian meals, cocktails & brunch served in a stylish locale with a leafy, lemon-themed interior. Av. Emilio Castelar 135, Polanco; dankohospitality.com/our-restaurants/mandolina
MADRE CAFE Traditional meals & gourmet coffee served in a smart cafe with a chic terrace & lush surrounds. Orizaba 131, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; madrecafe.com
MILOU A French cafe, popular for breakfast. Av. Veracruz 38, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; cafemilou.com
SAINT A small French-style bakery and pastry shop with irresistible goodies run by Coahuila native Daniel López and Ana Melissa.Gral. Benjamín Hill 146-1, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc
PETIT ROQUEFORT Down-to-earth restaurant preparing handmade sandwiches & burgers, plus chicken salads. Londres 37, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc; petitroquefort.com
CICATRIZ Cozy, relaxed hangout offering brunch staples, sandwiches & salads, plus wine, cocktails & coffee. C. Dinamarca 44, Cuauhtémoc; cicatrizcafe.com
CAFE NIN Chic cafe serving pastries, small plates & sandwiches alongside a thoughtfully sourced wine list. Havre 73, Juárez; cafenin.com.mx
MENDL DELICATESSEN Order the famous pastrami sandwich! Citlaltépetl 9, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc; mendl.mx
FARMACIA INTERNACIONAL A popular all-day cafe with multiple locations. f-i.com.mx
EL MINUTITO A new cafe in Juarez. Londres 28, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc
MERCADO EL 100 Open-air market held each Sunday, featuring 50 local & organic farmers & food producers. Cda. Orizaba S/N, C. U. Benito Juárez, Roma Sur, Cuauhtémoc; mercadoel100.org
CURVA CAFE DE ESPECIALIDAD A specialty coffee shop. C. Artículo 123 126, Colonia Centro, Centro, Cuauhtémoc; curvacafe.com
CAFÉ LA CEL An all-day cafe in Roma Norte. San Luis Potosí 121, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; cafelacel.com
PANYA SAM / EL SHOKUPAN A Japanese cafe and bakery. Guadalajara 99, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
BOREL A cafe and wine bar. Fernando Montes de Oca 55, Colonia Condesa, Cuauhtémoc
SESENROOM A collagen cafe and health food store. Av. Homero 1433, Polanco, Polanco II Secc, Miguel Hidalgo
CAFE TRUCHA Cafe Trucha in Roma is a great place to post up for a couple hours, snack on a few tapas, and get some work done. Plaza Río de Janeiro 53-Local 2, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
BOU A bakery and breakfast restaurant in Roma Norte. Tonalá 110, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
ESPIRITU SANO A healthy vegetarian cafe. Ámsterdam 317, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc
GABA RESTAURANTE A new breakfast spot in Condesa. Avenida Mazatlan 190, Hipódromo Condesa
MAQUE Breakfast & brunch fare like pastries, chilaquiles & coffee at an airy stop-off with a leafy patio. Varsovia 61, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc
QUENTIN CAFE A well designed cafe with locations in Roma, Condesa, and Juarez.
BARS
FIFTY MILS Located within the leafy courtyard of the elegant Four Seasons Hotel, order a craft cocktail like the Bugs Bunny made with carrot juice and perfumed with Fernet or go local with the Ant Man, a Mezcal libation with ants, egg white, and bitter hoja santa leaf. Four Seasons Hotel, Av. Paseo de la Reforma 500, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc; fiftymils.com
LA BODEGUITA DEL MEDIO If you’re missing Cuba, visit this re-creation of the original famous Havana bar. Order a mojito and if you’re lucky enjoy the son cubano bands that often perform and inspire salsa dancing. Cozumel 37, C. U. Benito Juárez, Cuauhtémoc; labodeguitadelmedio.com.mx
LA CLANDESTINA A dimly lit, intimate mezcaleria in Condesa with brick walls awash with paintings by local Mexican artists— apart from one wall that is completely lined with a collection of glass jars filled with mezcal. Taste any of the 22 varieties and purchase bottles to take home. Av. Álvaro Obregón 298, Colonia Condesa, Cuauhtémoc; milagrito.com/
GIN GIN An airy, garden oasis of a bar in the heart of Colonia Roma crafting delicious botanical concoctions around gin including the Velloncino de Oro, a rosemary-infused gin cocktail, and the Mexican Pimms, made with fresh fruit and home-made ginger ale. There is a second location in Polanco. Av Oaxaca 87, Roma Norte; gingin.mx
LA BOTICA A mezcaleria supporting small, independent distilleries sourced from all parts of the country. laboticamezcaleria.mx
FELINA BAR A Condesa gem featuring specialty cocktails, mid-century furnishings, and a soulful soundtrack. C. Ometusco 87, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc.
CLUB SAN LUIS The spot for salsa dancing in Roma Norte. San Luis Potosí 26, Roma Sur, Cuauhtémoc.
HUGO EL WINE BAR A new wine bar in Roma that specializes in natural, biodynamic, and skin contact wines. Av. Veracruz 38, Roma Nte; hugoelwinebar.com
MAMA RUMBA A nightclub featuring two levels filled with live Latin music, DJs, bars, and salsa dancing. C. Querétaro 230, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc.
LICORERÍA LIMANTOUR One of the world’s 50 Best Bars and one of the original mixology cocktail bars in Mexico City with locations in Polanco and Roma. Try the Mr. Pink! Av. Álvaro Obregón 106, Roma Norte; limantour.tv
ZINCO JAZZ CLUB A jazz bar hidden away in Centro on the bottom floor of a restored Art Deco bank building with crimson velvet curtains, a few intimate club tables, and a long bar serving up old school cocktails. Calle de Motolinia 20, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc; zincojazz.com
KING COLE BAR The St. Regis has imported its signature cocktail from New York, the Bloody Mary, and given it a local mezcal twist. The music tends to come from a live piano in the corner, or the occasional jazz quartet at this elegant bar. Av. Paseo de la Reforma 439, Cuauhtémoc; espanol.marriott.com
SALON COVADONGA By day, the Covadonga's denizens are generally old Spanish guys playing dominoes and eating traditional Asturian delicacies like tortilla espanola, but by night it's a whole different demographic that flocks here. Young local hipsters arrive around 7pm to begin their night out with a few beers—and shots—among friends. It's an old cantina—a traditional drinking den—and the futbol is always on TV, the aging waiters wear prim black vests over starchy white shirts, and the interiors haven't had a makeover in what feels like 50 years. It's comforting to know, though, that even in the Roma, one of the hippest parts of town, some places never change. Puebla 121, Roma Norte
MAISON ARTEMISIA A restaurant set in a restored, turn-of-the-century "maison" serving French fare with an upstairs Belle Epoque-themed bar specializing on absinthe and all its accouterments. Tonalá No. 23, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; maisonartemisia.com
HANKY PANKY A members-only speakeasy-style bar serving cocktails and elevated plates in a dimly lit space. Turín 52, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc; hankypanky.mx.
XAMAN BAR A midcentury modern style bar dedicated to pre-Hispanic plants used in cocktails like the Mayaj, a whiskey and absinthe drink served in a glass egg and made with sweet vermouth infused with raspberry, cocoa, and honey maple. Stay for the DJ sets, where you can dance until early morning as a server makes rounds with a smoking bowl of copal. Copenhague 6, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc; xaman.bar
PHONIQUE Located below Helena restaurant, this deep house and techno club is divided into three main spaces. Havre 42, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc.
CASA FRANCA Visit for live jazz and blues in Mexico City— get there early to find a table. Merida 109, Roma Norte.
DEPARTAMENTO A bar and restaurant with a sprawling terrace and live music. Álvaro Obregón 154 Primer piso, Roma Norte; departamento.tv
PÁRAMO A lively bar and restaurant, fitted with a skylight, greenery, and string lights. Av. Yucatan 84, Roma Norte.
PATRICK MILLER A place to dance to 80s, 90s, or 2000s tunes on Friday nights. The nightclub features neon walls, giant disco ball, and event a strobe light show. Merida 17, Roma Norte.
BAR LA OPERA It dates back to the late 1800s when it was the bourgeoisie post-opera hotspot. With Mexico City becoming more and more modern, Bar La Opera keeps a part of the past intact. Av. 5 de Mayo #10, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, de la, Cuauhtémoc; laoperabar.com
FÉLIX A classic bar with mezcal, a signature hamburger, and bar bites. Av. Álvaro Obregón 64, Roma Norte.
LEONOR Contemporary, upbeat nightclub in a moody space featuring DJs & themed parties, plus cocktails. Av Nuevo León 163, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc
EL TIGRE SILENCIOSO A cantina with delicous food in Roma. Colima 159-int 1 a, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; Colima 159-int 1 a, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
BAR LAS BRUJAS Dark & intimate bar with an all-female staff serving light bites & creative cocktails. La Casa de Las Brujas, Calle Rio de Janeiro 56 Local B Col, Roma Nte
CAIMAN An intimate craft cocktail bar. Av Nuevo León 120, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc
TOKYO BAR A speakeasy cocktail bar tucked away in Mexico City's Little Tokyo, and all about vinyl, Japanese whisky and top-end cocktails. Río Pánuco 132, Cuauhtémoc; edokobayashi.com
CAFE DE NADIE A cocktail bar, which is the brainchild of a group of DJ friends, who put together a stunning collection of more than 1500 vinyl records. Chihuahua 135, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; cafedenadie.mx
SOMSAA WINE & TEA ROOM A wine & tea Room inspired By Asian flavors. Cda. Orizaba 219, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
JARDIN PARAÍSO During the day, Jardín Paraíso is a casual place to grab a beer under a shady palm tree. But at night, it turns into a nightclub. C. Querétaro 202, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
EL DEPARTAMENTO Laid-back restaurant & bar with a sprawling terrace, offering familiar bar bites & live music. Av. Álvaro Obregón 154-primer piso, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; departamento.tv
CASA FRANCA A Jazz bar in Condesa. Merida 109, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
PARAMO A rooftop and buzzy eatery for Mexican dining & drinking, fitted with a skylight, greenery & string lights. Av. Yucatan 84, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
TLECAN MEZCALERIA A Mezcal bar in Roma. Av. Álvaro Obregón 228-Local 2, Roma Nte
BALTRA BAR Chic, laid-back bar offering creative cocktails amid decor inspired by Darwin's Galápagos voyages. Iztaccihuatl 36D, Colonia Condesa, Cuauhtémoc; baltra.bar
LIMANTOUR Legendary cocktail bar turning out clever drinks & snacks in a chic, 2-story space with a terrace. Av. Álvaro Obregón 106, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; limantour.tv
POLPO Polpo is a small Italian wine bar inside the picturesque Pasaje Parián, a leafy passageway with small shops, restaurants and even a spin bike. Av. Álvaro Obregón 130, C. U. Benito Juárez, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; polpobar.mx
LOUP BAR A natural wine bar in Roma Norte. Tonalá 23, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; loupbar.mx
DINSMOOR POLANCO A private club in Polanco. Hegel 307, Polanco, Polanco V Secc, Miguel Hidalgo
EL MICKY BAR A jazz bar with live music and dancing. Gral. Enrique Torroella 32, Ampliación Daniel Garza, Amp Daniel Garza, Miguel Hidalgo;
CAFE SISMO A coffee shop and bar with events. Jose T.Cuellar 39, Obrera, Cuauhtémoc
SUNDAY SUNDAY Afternoon dance parties on a rooftop.
PHONIQUE A private club.
ANTRO JUAN A disco club. Av. Álvaro Obregón 287, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; antrojuan.com
SALON SAN LUIS The place to go salsa dancing in Roma. San Luis Potosí 26, Roma Sur, Cuauhtémoc
VIGNERON A wine bar in Roma Norte. Jalapa 181, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; vigneron.mx
NIV A wine bar in Condesa. C.Atlixco 132, Hipódromo Condesa, Cuauhtémoc; nivbar.com
SALON PALOMILLA Av. Yucatan 84c, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX
CAFE TACOBAR Fun, down to earth, with high-quality yet casual food and drink. Av Oaxaca 12, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
MANADA An intimate wine bar. Diag. San Antonio 1923-local d, Narvarte Oriente, Benito Juárez
EL AYER A cocktail bar in a colonial townhouse in Roma with a dueling piano bar (similar to Toni2 in Madrid). C. Querétaro 147, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
MIMI A club with a disco ball and a 70s-style floor that lights up while dancing. Av. P.º de la Reforma 325, Cuauhtémoc
RESTAURANTS
PUJOL Chef Enrique Olvera’s award-winning restaurant is perhaps the most famous, and arguably the best, in Mexico City. The beautiful restaurant is tucked away on a tree-lined street in Polanco, and features an outdoor courtyard with firepits. If you can’t secure a reservation for the main dining room, we recommend the taco omakase tasting at the bar. Tennyson 133, Polanco; pujol.com.mx
CONTRAMAR Chef Gabriela Camara’s seafood staple in Polanco. Sit on the terrace and order the tuna tostadas to share, followed by the famous Pescado a la Talla, and finish with the fig cheesecake for dessert. Calle de Durango 200, Roma Norte; contramar.com.mx
QUINTONIL Tucked away on a tiny, nondescript street in Polanco by Pujol alum Chef Jorge Vallejo and his wife and restaurateur Alejandra Flores. Av. Isaac Newton 55, Polanco; quintonil.com
DAROSA A buzzy, delicious Italian restaurant brought to you by Andreina Matos of La Naturel fame in Miami. Barcelona 24, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc; darosamx.com
EM A Mexican restaurant by Lucho Martinez of Martinez Restaurant fame. Tonalá 133, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
ULTRAMARINOS A seafood restaurant and wine bar by Lucho Martinez. Mérida 21, Roma
SAN ANGEL INN The preferred place for Sunday brunch. Sit in the charming courtyard of the stunning colonial-era former monastery, and enjoy the mariachi trio. Diego Rivera 50, San Ángel Inn, Álvaro Obregón; sanangelinn.com
ENO A casual all-day cafe in Polanco by Chef Enrique Olvera of the famed Pujol. eno.com.mx
ROSETTA An Italian restaurant located in what was once a Beaux-Arts mansion in Roma by Chef and owner Elena Reygadas, who trained with Giorgio Locatelli in London. Colima 166, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; rosetta.com.mx
BLANCO COLIMA Located next door to Rosetta, stop by for post-dinner drinks in this Porfirian-era mansion. Colima 168, Roma Norte; grupocarolo.com.mx
LARDO A Mediterranean restaurant and café in Condesa by Chef Elena Reygadas. Agustín Melgar 6, Colonia Condesa; lardo.mx
LALO! A casual breakfast and lunch spot from Enrique "Lalo" García, the chef behind the beloved Maximo Bistrot. Whatever you do, don't miss the bread basket at breakfast. Zacatecas 173, Roma Norte; eat-lalo.com
EL CARDENAL Don't let its location in the Centro's Hilton deter you, El Cardenal has been around since the 80's and is a staple for Mexican cuisine— from freshly baked conchas at breakfast to traditional chiles en nogada or tacos de arrachera at lunch. C. de la Palma 23, Centro Histórico; restauranteelcardenal.com
MAXIMO BISTROT LOCAL Chef Eduardo Garcia’s Parisian-inspired restaurant with a rotating daily menu featuring ingredients sourced fresh from the farmer market. Av. Álvaro Obregón 65 Bis, Roma Norte; maximobistrot.com.mx
HAVRE 77 A French restaurant in a crumbling 19th century mansion, designed by architects Francisco Pardo and Julio Amezcua. Havre 77, Juárez; havre77.mx/menu
BOTÁNICO As the name implies, this restaurant is set in a modern structure filled with greenery and a cactus garden, serving organic food. Alfonso Reyes 217, Colonia Condesa.
TETETLAN Located in Jardines del Pedregal, an elegant suburb on the outskirts of the city, set in the horse stables of a home designed by Luis Barragán, the space was recently restored by an art collector who lives next door. It is many things: a café serving shade-grown local coffee, a showcase for local designers, a restaurant serving creative Mesoamerican dishes, a yoga studio, a hotel for visiting artists who are asked to donate a book to Tetetlán’s extensive collection, and a listening library. Av. de Las Fuentes 180 - B, Jardines del Pedregal, Álvaro Obregón.
LAGO A restaurant and gallery restored by OMR gallery set on the lake in the Bosque de Chapultepec. The interiors are filled with plants and the menu features farm to table classics. II Section of Bosque Chapultepec Lago Mayor; lago.com.mx
EL CALIFA A popular taqueria chain offering tacos filled with steak, nopal, chicken, pork belly, but the standout is al pastor (served straight from the rotating spit). If you’re especially hungry, order the costra de arrachera— a tortilla topped with an abundance of meat and crisped cheese. elcalifa.com.mx
EL FAROLITA Across the street from the original El Califa, El Farolita is the slightly more old school, no frills, late night taqueria, which also offers an excellent al pastor, as well a signature salsa especial recipe— a mix of all their salsas thrown together on the grill. elfarolitosf.com
TICUCHI A restaurant by Pujol’s Chef Enrique Olvera, Ticuchi (bat in Spanish) is a cavernous restaurant with a kitchen anchored by an expansive comal, a traditional clay cooking surface. Petrarca 254, Polanco; ticuchi.mx
HUNAN A see and be seen Chinese-inspired restaurant with soaring ceilings, filled with tropical plants. Order a lychee martini to start followed by lettuce wraps, fried rice, dumplings, and duck. There are locations in Pedregal, Lomas, and San Angel. hunan.com.mx
MERCADO DE COYOACAN A vibrant, 2-story marketplace in operation since 1921 with food stalls selling vegetables and spices. Ignacio Allende s/n, Del Carmen, Coyoacán; centrodecoyoacan.mx
CATAMUNDI A beautiful, spacious restaurant in the back of a specialty gourmet store in Polanco with an open kitchen. Alejandro Dumas 97, Polanco; catamundi.com
NICOS Chef Gerardo Vazquez Lugo inherited Nicos from his mother, who opened the restaurant in 1957, serving her family's traditional recipes in a large cafeteria-like dining room in Azcapotzalco. Today, the restaurant sources local, organic ingredients which have been incorporated into the traditional menu. Order the Guacamole, made tableside in a molcajete, and share dishes including Chiles en Nogada, Mole, and Enchiladas. Finish with a glass of Pulque, which Chef Lugo has sourced from all over the country. Nicolasa delicatessen in Colonia Claveria and Condesa is also operated by Chef Lugo. Av. Cuitláhuac 3102, Claveria, Azcapotzalco; nicosmexico.mx
DELIRIO BY MÓNICA PATIÑO This corner deli-turned-restaurant in Roma by Chef Monica Patiño and her daughter Micaela Miguel serves delicious Mexican-Mediterranean dishes made with locally sourced ingredients. Nearby Abarrotes Delirio is an ode to the old-fashioned general store selling select produce, freshly baked bread, prepared foods, local jams, honey, and wine. There's also a window outside serving coffee, dessert, and the ubiquitous tortas. Monterrey 116, Roma Norte; delirio.mx
CASA VIRGINIA After the success of Café Delirio, Chef Patiño and her daughter charmed the building's owner, Virginia, into renting them the entire building—a 1920's French Beaux Arts-style home with high ceilings, tall windows, old-fashioned tiled floors, and a rooftop garden. They named the restaurant in the elderly landowner’s honor with an ever-changing menu— except for the famous red snapper topped with tapenade. Monterrey 116, Roma Norte; casavirginia.mx
MEROTORO Gabriela Cámara and Pablo Bueno’s second restaurant, after the success of Contramar, brings the surf-and-turf cuisine of Baja California to the Colonia Condesa neighborhood. Amsterdam 204, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc; merotoro.mx
EL PARNITA A small, unassuming family-run open-air cafeteria serving snacks and small plates, including tostadas, tacos, tlacoyitos, all served on warm tortillas, and homemade habanero salsa. Av. Yucatan 84, Roma Norte; elparnita.com
AZUL HISTÓRICO Chef Ricardo Muñoz Zurita serves up a delicious mole negro and Oaxacan tortilla soup with chipotle salsa in a 17th-century palace with a patio. Isabel La Católica 30, Centro Histórico; azul.rest
SUD 777 A contemporary space set on a charming cobblestone street with a terrace, patio, and leafy, open dining room offering tapas and sushi. Blvrd de la Luz 777, Jardines del Pedregal, Álvaro Obregón; sud777.com.mx
EL DANUBIO Open since 1936, this Basque seafood restaurant is an old-school classic with the requisite white tablecloths serving Lobster Thermidor and fresh seafood towers, flown in daily. República de Uruguay 3, Centro Histórico de la Ciudad; danubio.com
ROKAI The first of Edo Kobayashi Group’s Japanese restaurants. Find a seat at the bar and trust the Chefs with an Omakase menu featuring fresh fish, flown in the same day. Río Ebro 89, Cuauhtémoc; edokobayashi.com
EL BAJÍO Chef Carmen "Titita" Ramirez Degollado opened her first restaurant in 1972 in Colonia Cuitlahuac serving the Veracruzan dishes she grew up with. Start with the Veracruzan platter, a selection of mini-tamales, and fried masa gorditas. Alejandro Dumas 7, Polanco; restauranteelbajio.com.mx
TORI TORI Rojkind Arquitectos and Esrawe Studio designed this sleek Japanese restaurant. Temístocles 61, Polanco; toritori.com.mx
MERCADO ROMA A take on the traditional covered market, the Mercado Roma is a bi-level space selling everything from fresh juices to fair-trade coffee, Spanish tapas, and classic Mexican snacks. C. Querétaro 225, Roma Norte; mr.mercadoroma.com
SALON COVADONGA By day, older Spanish men play dominoes and eat traditional Asturian dishes like tortilla espanola, but by night young locals arrive for drinks at this old-school cantina. Puebla 121, Roma Norte.
MASALA Y MAÍZ A Mexico City-based restaurant by Chefs Norma Listman & Saqib Keval with dishes serves with the intention of being shared. Calle Marsella 72, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc; masalaymaiz.com
E.M. LUCHO MARTINEZ Formerly known as Emilia, this Omakase restaurant is located in the former Maximo Bistro location. Tonalá 133, Roma Norte; itsemilia.rest
MONTEJO CANTINA A Condesa cantina serving food from the souther state of Yucatán including excellent cochinita pibil tacos. Av. Benjamín Franklin 261-A, Colonia Condesa; lamontejo.com
BÓSFORO A mezcaleria in Centro serving cocktails and guacamole with a side of chapulines. Luis Moya 31, Colonia Centro, Centro.
LOS PICUDOS A local spot for delicious carnitas tacos and fresh salsas. Moras 230, Tlacoquemecatl del Valle, Benito Juárez; lospicudos.mx
BLANCO CASTELAR Located in a former house designed by architect Shafick Kaim in 1939, serving Mexican-European fusion. Av. Emilio Castelar 163; grupocarolo.com.mx/blancocastelar
LA DOCENA A seafood restaurant and oyster bar with locations in Polanco and Roma Norte. Av. Álvaro Obregón 31, Roma Norte; ladocena.com.mx
QUESADILLAS MARIA ISABEL An old-school luncheonette serving quesadillas filled with cheese and a choice of potato, chorizo, or spicy rajas. Don’t miss the famous flan for dessert! Bosque de los Ciruelos 278, Bosque de las Lomas, Miguel Hidalgo.
NIDDO A relaxed, bohemian eatery helmed by mother-son duo Karen Drijanski and Eduardo Plaschinkski. The menu is inspired by their travels and features dishes like hearty eggs shakshuka, and a decadent cheddar and gouda grilled cheese served from an an open kitchen. Dresde 2, Juárez.
LUCIO A taqueria by five best friends who host a weekly taco Tuesday; a guest chef creates a one-night-only taco menu best enjoyed with tepache, a made-in-house fermented pineapple drink. C. Versalles 92, Juárez; lluciorestaurante.com.
LB DINING ROOM Set within Loose Blues shop, this Japanese café serves sushi and teriyaki plates. C. Dinamarca 44, Cuauhtémoc.
AMAYA A Baja-Mediterranean restaurant by chef Jaír Telléz with the first-ever exclusively natural wine list in Mexico. Calle Gral. Prim 95, Juárez; amaya.meitre.com.
ALBA COCINA LOCAL Chef Alejandro Caral serves dishes like fried huauzontles, an herb in the amaranth family made savory with chili marinade and queso cotija. Calle Marsella 80, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc; albacocinalocal.com
HELENA A chic eatery serving international dishes, brunch, and cocktails in an airy dining room. Havre 42, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc; helenas.mx
FONDA 99.99 A neighborhood restaurant that Serves Yucateca food. Moras 347, Tlacoquemecatl del Valle, Benito Juárez.
YOSHIMI Located within the Hyatt Regency, serving traditional Japanese food. Order the Pork Katsu Curry and an Asahi beer. Campos Elíseos 204, Polanco; hyatt.com
LOS LOOSERS A vegan Mexico/Asian fusion restaurant. Try the noodles and the tacos, made from scratch. Sinaloa 236 B, Roma Norte; losloosers.mx
MERCADO EL 100 A vegan organic farmer’s market stocking coconut milk, produce and sprouted bread. Orizaba S/N, Roma Sur, Cuauhtémoc; mercadoel100.org
POR SIEMPRE VEGANA A vegan taqueria. Go for an early breakfast of gordita filled with green bean, cactus salad, amaranth, salsas and green juice. Coahuila 169, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc.
OTTO Otto is like having your Mexican grandma cooking for you—all the love included. Chilaquiles are a must, plus Molletes Asados and hearty Huevos Rancheros. Río Nazas 55, Cuauhtémoc.
LOS SINALOENSES MARISQUERIA A casual ceviche and tostada restaurant with excellent tuna tostadas and scallop aguachile. C. Bajío 253, Roma Sur, Cuauhtémoc.
EL PUERTO DE ALVARADO A tiny space inside of the colorful Mercado de San Juan with the best ceviche, fresh tuna, and shrimp tostadas in town. 2ᵃ Calle de Ernesto Pugibet 21, Colonia Centro, Centro, Cuauhtémoc.
NOBU The classic sushi restaurant has an outpost in Polanco, perfect for outdoor dining and people-watching. Order the signature lychee martini, Tiradito Nobu Style, Black Cod with Miso, Yellow Tail Jalapeño, and a try the new Umami menu. P.º de los Tamarindos 90-PB21A, Bosques de las Lomas, Cuajimalpa de Morelos, 05120 Ciudad de México; nobu.mx
MARTINEZ A new hotspot in Roma Norte in a casual-yet-chic setting, with an open kitchen that invites diners to watch the team in action. Puebla 90
GALANGA The best place for Thai food in Mexico City. Monterrey 204, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
TRASTEVERE An Italian restaurant in Lomas. Monte Everest 635, Lomas de Chapultepec, Miguel Hidalgo; trasteveremx.com
EDO KOBAYASHI The Edo Kobayashi Group was founded in 2013 with innovative creation based on Japanese food, Try their restaurants and bars throughout the city including Rokai, Sushi Kyo, Hiyoko, Iwashi, Sakagura, Sushi Tatsugoro, Iwashi AICm, and Enomoto AICM as well as bars Toky Music Bar, Le Tachinomi Desu, Bar Tatsugoro. edokobayashi.com
LA BARRA DE FRAN Charcuterie, tapas, paella & Spanish wines in a sleek space lined with bottles & hanging hams. Av. Emilio Castelar 185, Polanco, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; labarradefran.com
KURA Laid-back spot serving Japanese dishes such as sushi, ramen & oden, plus seafood, Wagyu beef & beer. Colima 378-Local A, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
SARTORIO Sophisticated restaurant serving modern, refined Italian cuisine, with a focus on fresh pasta. Cda. Orizaba 42, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; sartoria.mx
IKIGAI Ikigai sushi group includes Ikigai, Umai, Sakai, and. Miru Cda. Monte Ararat 220, Lomas de Chapultepec II Secc, Miguel Hidalgo
YOSHIMI Traditional Japanese specialties presented in a posh, minimalist setting at the Hyatt Regency. Campos Elíseos 204, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo
JIN SAN A shabu shabu restaurant in Santa Fe; Av. Javier Barros Sierra 540, Santa Fe, Zedec Sta Fé, Álvaro Obregón, jinsan.com.mx
MEROMA Trendy eatery with a local & global menu featuring reimagined meat & seafood dishes, plus cocktails. Colima 150, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; meroma.mx
YORU A handroll and sushi restaurant in Condesa. Sinaloa 156A, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; yoru.mx
ANÓNIMO An Italian restaurant in Condesa. C. Atlixco 105, Hipódromo Condesa, Cuauhtémoc
CHOZA A Thai restaurant in Roma. Monterrey 194, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
MOG BISTRO Hip, industrial dining room & terrace serving Asian-style meat skewers, dumplings, sushi & noodles. Frontera 168, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc;
SESAME Pan-Asian dishes from Indian samosas & pad Thai to Chinese dumplings at a cool spot with a terrace. Colima 183, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
EL JAMIL Wood-beamed restaurant with a leafy terrace for hot & cold Lebanese meze dishes, plus grilled meats. Amsterdam 306, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc
EXPENDIO DE MAIZ SIN NOMBRE A restaurant in Roma Norte focused on preserving nixtamalization, among other traditional methods and heritage. Av. Yucatan 84, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
YAKUMANKA Upbeat restaurant with outdoor tables serving traditional ceviche & other Peruvian fare. Guanajuato 138, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; mandarin-house.com.mx
MARI GOLD Mari Gold is a Mexican and Indian restaurant in San Miguel Chapultepec that has great vegetarian options. Calle Gob.Protasio Tagle 66A, San Miguel Chapultepec II Secc, Miguel Hidalgo
MASALA Y MAIZ Trendy spot with an industrial-chic vibe serving traditional meals with Indian & African elements. Calle Marsella 72, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc; masalaymaiz.com
CASTIZO Fashionable destination featuring contemporary Spanish dishes & signature cocktails. C. Chilpancingo 46, Colonia Condesa, Cuauhtémoc; restaurantecastizo.com
MARMOTA Comfort food in Roma Norte - order the grilled cheese. Plaza Río de Janeiro 53, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; marmota.mx
IL FIORINO A Tuscan style trattoria. Medellín 224, Roma Sur, Cuauhtémoc
PIGEON A Mediterranean restaurant in Roma. Plaza Río de Janeiro 56, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
BABERO ROMA A classic Italian restaurant. Calle de Durango 221, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
BELFIORE Italian cuisine, desserts & wines are served in this warmly decorated venue with a terrace. Av. Pdte. Masaryk 514-Local A, Polanco, Polanco II Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; belfiore.mx
BELLA AURORA An Italian restaurant by the same chef as Rosetta. Puebla 242, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; bellaaurora.mx
MACELLERIA Homestyle Italian dishes in a trendy space with exposed wood beams, plus outdoor tables. Orizaba 127, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; macelleria.com.mx
KIIN THAI A Vietnamese restaurant in Roma. Cda. Orizaba 219, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
LA UNICA A classic Mexican restaurant in Polanco. Anatole France 98, Polanco, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; launica.mx
CARIÑITO TACOS A casual taqueria in Roma. Guanajuato 53, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
TEZONTLE RESTAURANT Updated local cuisine, Oaxacan plates & drinks in a hip, open-air space at the Casa de la Luz hotel. Rcda. de Jesús 7, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc; tezontlerestaurante.com
JOWONG A Korean restaurant in Condesa. C. Pachuca 51, Colonia Condesa, Cuauhtémoc
CHICAMA A Peruvian restaurant in Roma Norte. Av. Álvaro Obregón 130, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
FUGAZ A tiny restaurant in Roma that's great for a long, leisurely lunch. Cda. Orizaba 3-3 B, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
KILL BILL SUSHI Delicious sushi in colonial Roma. Cda. Orizaba 39, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc,; killbill.mx
SUPPLI A Roman trattoria. Bucareli 69b, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc
BAROLO An Italian Mediterranean restaurant. Cda. Orizaba 203, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
MARGOT A new restaurant with a rooftop. Calle de Durango 219, Roma Nte.
FIDEO GORDO A ramen restaurant in Roma Norte. Colima 5, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
LINA A restaurant and bar in Roma Norte. Av. Yucatan 147, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; lina.mx
ROSELLE An Italian restaurant with pasta and pizza. C. de Chiapas 122, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
SAPO BOTANERO ASIATICO A dim sum restaurant. Guadalajara 61, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
PLONK The newest addition to the wine-loving scene with an unbeatable location, and stunning open-kitchen. Iztaccihuatl 52, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc; plonk.mx
MALIX In Mexico City's posh Polanco neighborhood, this restaurant is located in an elegantly renovated Spanish Revival-style mansion Av. Isaac Newton 104-Local 2 y 3, Polanco, Polanco V Secc, Miguel Hidalgo
NINYAS A Japanese restaurant. C. Versalles 21, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc
SARDE A contemporary seafood restaurant. Puebla, Roma, Cuauhtémoc; sarde.mx
MALCRIADO A cafe and wine bar. C. Atlixco 127, Hipódromo Condesa, Cuauhtémoc; malcriado.mx
CANA A charming restaurant and wine bar. Liverpool 9, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc
MADAI An omakase bar. C. Río Lerma 162, Cuauhtémoc
CANTON MEXICALI A Chinese restaurant with retro 50s decor. Av. Álvaro Obregón 264, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc
NIICH A fusion Mexican restaurant. Chicontepec 57, Hipódromo Condesa, Cuauhtémoc
TACOS EL GÜERO A traditional taco joint. C. Gral. José Morán 22, San Miguel Chapultepec I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo
EL JAMIL Wood-beamed restaurant with a leafy terrace for hot & cold Lebanese meze dishes, plus grilled meats. Manuel María Contreras 59, San Rafael, Cuauhtémoc
DEGÜ CONDESA A delicious Mexican restaurant in Condesa. Calle Huichapan 25, Hipódromo Condesa, Cuauhtémoc; degu.mx
EL PARNITA Buzzy space known for tacos & cocktails, with sauces mixed at the table & live guitar players. Av. Yucatan 84, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
COVADONGA A traditional cantina in Roma. Puebla 121, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
BAR EL BOSQUE Bar El Bosque is a great place in Condesa to come with a few friends and have a seafood feast. Cl. 13 de Septiembre 29, San Miguel Chapultepec I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo
VIA SOL A dumpling and wine restaurant. Unión 88-C, Escandón I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo
OYSTER SHOP BY FISM As the name suggests, they specialize in oysters. C. Versalles 117, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc
MI COMPA CHAVA MARISQUERIA Generous traditional seafood dishes are showcased at this informal, industrial-style restaurant. Zacatecas 172, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc;
BABERO A stylish wine bar and restaurant with outdoor seating in Condesa. Calle de Durango 219, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
EL GRECO El Greco is a must-visit when you're in Condesa. This place has been in business for over 40 years. Michoacán 54-B, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc
PALAPA CANTINA CARIBEÑA A traditional cantina with a Caribbean twist. C. Versalles 113, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc
CASA VIRGINIA Chef Mónica Patiño creates a restaurant concept that evokes family Sundays in Colonia Roma, where there was a meeting of two cultures, European and Mexican. Av. Monterrey 116 Cuauhtémoc, Monterrey 116, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
OJO ROJO DINNER Ojo Rojo is an American diner in Roma where you can eat a fantastic tuna melt. Av. Álvaro Obregón 04, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
SALAZAR A bistro in the heart of Mexico City. Av. P.º de la Reforma 333-Piso 8, Cuauhtémoc
NICOS Warm, family-owned Mexican stop for traditional fare like enchiladas, duck mole & a mezcal cart. Av. Cuitláhuac 3102, Claveria, Azcapotzalco, 02080 nicosmexico.mx
LOS COCUYOS A taqueria near the Centro Histórico. Simón Bolívar 59, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc
1985 ANTIFINE A creative and unique fine dining restaurant. Cda. Orizaba 76, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; 1985antifinedining.com
UMAI A Japanese restaurant in colonial Roma. Colima 159, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; restauranteumai.mx
CICATRIZ Cozy, relaxed hangout offering brunch staples, sandwiches & salads, plus wine, cocktails & coffee. C. Dinamarca 44, Cuauhtémoc; cicatrizcafe.com
SUPERETTE A crepe and cider bar in Condesa. Av Michoacán 181, Colonia Condesa, Cuauhtémoc
MERCAVÁ Relaxed eatery featuring hummus, Israeli delicacies & cocktails, plus a terrace. Ámsterdam 53, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc; bullandtank.com/merkava
CANOPIA A cafe and wine bar in Condesa. Av México 190, Hipódromo Condesa, Cuauhtémoc
SUSHI IWASHI An authentic Japanese restaurant by Edo Kobayashi. Av. Emilio Castelar 204, Polanco, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo
SUSHI KYO An Edomae style sushi restaurant led by Chef Yoshimasa Aoki, part of Edo Kobayashi. Havre 77, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc; edokobayashi.com
PARAMO Buzzy eatery for Mexican dining & drinking, fitted with a skylight, greenery & string lights. Av. Álvaro Obregón 31, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
PIZZA FELIX In the Roma Norte neighborhood, serving authentic Neapolitan pizza. Av. Álvaro Obregón 64, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; pizzafelix.mx
TAVERNA Cozy, shabby-chic restaurant with a courtyard plating Mediterranean provisions, plus cocktails. Calle Gral. Prim 34, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc; taverna.mx
IMBISS Imbiss has a fine selection of natural wines, craft beers, and cocktails alongside an itinerant, mostly European-style menu.Oslo 8, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc;
MAKAN Inside a beautiful house in the Roma neighborhood, hidden from the outside world, is Makan, run by chef Maryann, originally from Singapore. Emilio Donde 68B, Colonia Centro, Centro, Cuauhtémoc; restaurante.covermanager.com/reserva-en-restaurante-makan
MAIZAJO A tortilla shop and take out bar downstairs with a rooftop restaurant serving Mexican classics upstairs. Order the duck tacos! Fernando Montes de Oca 113, Colonia Condesa, Cuauhtémoc
BOTTEGA An Italian bakery and cafe serving fresh bread and pastries in Roma Norte. Cda. Orizaba 39, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; bottega.com.mx
PIZZERIA DELLA MADONNA A neighbouring church informed the layout and design of this pizzeria in Mexico City, in which architect Sofía Betancur placed the oven in full view. The Pizzeria Della Madonna is located next to the Parroquia de la Sagrada Familia in Roma Norte. Cda. Orizaba 37, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; madonnapizza.mx
BRASSI Upscale brasserie with checkered floors & live bands, serving breakfasts, steak frites & cocktails. Virgilio 8, Polanco, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; brassi.com.mx
MI COMPA CHAVA A marisqueria with seafood dishes from tostadas, ceviches, oysters, sashimi, and aguachile, to zarandeados and more with multiple locations.
EL TURIX In Mexico City's posh Polanco neighborhood, this elegantly renovated Spanish Revival-style mansion feels like a peek inside the lives of well-to-do locals. Av. Emilio Castelar 212, Polanco, Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo
ART | CULTURE | ACTIVITIES
CASA ESTUDIO LUIS BARRAGÁN Tucked away in a residential neighborhood near Chapultepec Park, you'll find a handful of homes and gardens designed by Mexico's only Pritzker prize-winning architect, Luis Barragán. His home, which he designed in its entirety, from the structure to the furniture to the pastel color palette, is almost exactly as he left it, and open for tours. Gral. Francisco Ramírez 12, Ampliación Daniel Garza, Amp Daniel Garza, Miguel Hidalgo; casaluisbarragan.org
CASA GILARDI Mexican architect Luis Barragán's last home. In fact, he came out of retirement to design the bachelor pad turned family home for Pancho Gilardi and Martin Luque, who owned an advertising agency in Mexico City. The Luque family still lives in the home, and if you’re lucky— Martin’s son will give you a guided tour himself. Calle Gral. Antonio León 82, San Miguel Chapultepec I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; casagilardi.mx
CUADRA SAN CRISTOBAL Cuadra San Cristóbal, built by Barragán in 1968 for the Egerstrom family on the outskirts of Mexico City, features a ranch with colorful walls and a pool. Available by private tour. Cda. Manantial Ote. 20, Mayorazgos de los Gigantes; barragan-foundation.org
MUSEO SOUMAYA A museum holding the collection of Mexican billionaire Carlos Slim, named after his wife Soumaya, and designed by Slim's son-in-law Fernando Romero. It includes the largest selection of Rodin sculptures outside of France. Blvd. Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra, Granada, Miguel Hidalgo; museosoumaya.org
MUSEO TAMAYO A contemporary art museum housing muralist Rufino Tamayo's entire collection nestled within Chapultepec Park designed by two of Mexico's most prominent modernist architects Abraham Zabludovsky and Teodoro González de León. Av. Paseo de la Reforma 51, Polanco, Bosque de Chapultepec I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; museotamayo.org
MUSEO JUMEX The David Chipperfield designed museum by Eugenio López Alonso, housing his private collection of contemporary art, which includes pieces from Robert Gober, Dan Graham, Gabriel Orozco, Vanessa Beecroft, and more. Blvd. Miguel de Cervantes Saavedra 303, Granada, Miguel Hidalgo; fundacionjumex.org
MUSEO FRIDA KAHLO "CASA AZUL" The “Blue House” is located in colonial Coyoacan where the artist grew up and eventually passed away. After she died, Diego Rivera opened it as a museum, and it features many of her works in rooms exactly as she left them. Londres 247, Del Carmen, Coyoacán; museofridakahlo.org.mx
MUSEO MURAL DIEGO RIVERA A small museum in the Centro Histórico home to one of Diego Rivera's most famous murals, Dream of a Sunday Afternoon in the Alameda Central, a Marxist critique of the upper-echelons of the ruling class. Balderas S/N, Colonia Centro, Centro, Cuauhtémoc; inba.gob.mx
PALACIO NACIONAL Built on the site of the last Aztec emperor's home, this enormous Palace was once the home of Hernan Cortes, the Spanish conquistador, and has been the seat of Mexican government since gaining independence from Spain. The highlight is Diego Rivera's massive mural representing the entire history of the Mexican people from its indigenous origins, to the Spanish conquest, to the arrival of Marxist ideology. P.za de la Constitución S/N, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc; palacionacionaldemexico.mx
PALACIO DE BELLAS ARTES The Adamo Boari-designed Beaux-Arts palace is the crown jewel of the Centro Histórico with immaculate marble interiors and massive murals by Diego Rivera, David Alfaro Siqueiros, and Rufino Tamayo. Performances are hosted in the theater, which features a glass Tiffany curtain designed by landscape artist Dr. Atl (Gerardo Murillo). Av. Juárez S/N, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc; palacio.inba.gob.mx
MUSEO DE ARTE MODERNO The Museum of Modern Art in Chapultepec Park is part of the Instituto Nacional de Bellas Artes and displays modern art from the 1920’s to the present day. Av. Paseo de la Reforma s/n, Bosque de Chapultepec I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; mam.inba.gob.mx
MUSEO ANTROPOLOGÍA Designed in 1964 by Pedro Ramírez Vázquez, Jorge Campuzano, and Rafael Mijares Alcérreca, the monumental building contains exhibition halls surrounding a courtyard with a huge pond and a vast square concrete umbrella supported by a single slender pillar known as "el paraguas" or "the umbrella". Located in Chapultepec Park, it is the largest and most visited museum in Mexico and features pre-Hispanic art including the original Aztec calendar, which was unearthed in Mexico City. Av. Paseo de la Reforma s/n, Polanco, Bosque de Chapultepec I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; mna.inah.gob.mx
TEMPLO MAYOR When Hernan Cortés and his army of Spanish conquistadores arrived in México city—then Tenochtitlan—they destroyed everything, especially the temples. The ruins of the Templo Mayor, next to the Zócalo, were discovered in the late '70s, and the site remains an active archaeological site. Seminario 8, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc; templomayor.inah.gob.mx
MUSEO DE ARTE POPULAR Housed in a beautifully restored Art Deco building in the Centro Histórico, and home to Mexican folk handicrafts and textiles. The museum shop sells quality regional crafts. Revillagigedo 11, Colonia Centro, Centro, Cuauhtémoc; map.cdmx.gob.mx
MUSEO FRANZ MAYER Franz Mayer was a German immigrant who lived in Mexico in the early 20th-century and amassed an enormous collection of decorative arts, including silver, 16th-century furnishings, talavera tiles, and Pueblan pottery. The museum is set in an elegant, restored 16th-century ex-monastery. Av. Hidalgo 45, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Guerrero, Cuauhtémoc; franzmayer.org.mx
ARCHIVO DE DISEÑO Y ARQUITECTURA A space dedicated to exhibiting, researching, and rethinking design in its many forms and outlets. Gral. Francisco Ramírez 4, Ampliación Daniel Garza, Amp Daniel Garza, Miguel Hidalgo; archivo.design
MUSEO DOLORES OLMEDO Dolores Olmedo was one of Diego Rivera's greatest patrons and her home, an ex-hacienda near Xochimilco, houses her collection of his works. In October and November, the museum displays an amazing Dia de los Muertos altar, as Doña Lola always did when she was alive. Av Mexico 5843, La Noria, Xochimilco; museodoloresolmedo.org.mx
KURIMANZUTTO Monica Manzutto and her husband José Kuri's along with contemporary artist Gabriel Orozco, opened the gallery to display other modern artists including Daniel Guzmán, Abraham Cruzvillegas, and Damián Ortega, The exquisite Alberto Kalach-designed space is worth the visit alone. Gobernador Rafael Rebollar 94, San Miguel Chapultepec I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; kurimanzutto.com
GALERÍA OMR A cutting-edge contemporary art space in Roma Norte. Córdoba 100, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; omr.art
MUSEO CASA ESTUDIO DIEGO RIVERA Y FRIDA KAHLO Diego Rivera and Frida Kahlo’s home designed by muralist Juan O'Gorman with a small temporary exhibition space, a few rooms dedicated to both artists, and Diego's studio, where he made many of his most famous paintings surrounded by floor-to-ceiling windows and huge paper maché Judas sculptures. Diego Rivera s/n, San Ángel Inn, Álvaro Obregón; inba.gob.mx
MUSEO ANAHUACALLI Muralist Diego Rivera was a major collector of pre-hispanic artifacts, and the Anahucalli, built out of volcanic stone and designed by Diego Rivera himself, houses all 60,000 pieces he acquired from archaeological digs across the country. The collection is as impressive as the building itself which Rivera designed as his studio with advice from architect Frank Lloyd Wright, which incorporates pre-hispanic motifs while trying to meld into the local surroundings as much as possible. Try and visit during Dia de los Muertos to see the incredible ofrendas with marigold petals, sugar skulls, candles, and regional folk art. Museo 150, San Pablo Tepetlapa, Coyoacán; museoanahuacalli.org.mx
XOCHIMILCO Tourists and locals alike enjoy spending an afternoon cruising down canals in these colorful gondolas serenaded by mariachi bands.
BALLET FOLKLÓRICO DE MÉXICO A Mexican folkloric ensemble in Mexico City presenting dances in costumes that reflect the traditional culture of Mexico. C. Violeta 31, Guerrero, Cuauhtémoc; balletfolkloricodemexico.com
CASTILLO DE CHAPULTEPEC Chapultepec Castle located on top of a hill in Chapultepec park means "at the grasshopper's hill" from the Nahuatl word chapoltepēc, and the home of the National History Museum. Bosque de Chapultepec I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; https://mnh.inah.gob.mx/
BIBLIOTECA VASCONCELOS A public library designed by Alberto Kalach and Juan Palomar, with a pyramid-style entrance, which opens up cathedral-like into a soaring space lined on either side by cantilevered book stacks that float nobly above it all. Eje 1 Nte. S/N, Buenavista, Cuauhtémoc; bibliotecavasconcelos.gob.mx
LUCHA LIBRE
A low-brow, but highly entertaining activity. Purchase masks and capes outside and enter to view the spectacle of Mexican wrestling. Avenida de Las Granjas 800 cerca metro Balderas y Cuahutemoc.
ABELARDO RODRIGUEZ MERCADO A traditional public market located in the historic center with murals by Isamu Noguchi during his love affair with Frida Kahlo. Mercado Abelardo L Rodriguez, Girón.
TRAVESIA CUATRO Founded in Madrid, the gallery was created create with the intention of linking the artistic scenes of Europe and Latin America, representing Spanish and Mexican artists. Valladolid 35, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; travesiacuatro.com
ESRAWE STUDIO A multidisciplinary studio by Héctor Esrawe consisting of furniture, object and interior design, as well as architecture, public space installation, and museography. Esrawe is also the co-founder of EWE, VISSIO and MASA, which aim to promote Mexican collectible design. He is also a founding partner of the perfumery brand Xinú and of Casa del Agua, which collects rainwater and filters it into alkaline natural drinkable water. Visit the Polanco Showroom or Roma Norte Studio. esrawe.com
EWE STUDIO A design studio devoted to the preservation and advancement of Mexico’s rich artisan heritage, while embracing new mediums and languages for the execution of limited-edition sculptural and functional objects. Founded by Manu Bañó, Age Salajõe and Héctor Esrawe. Located in Roma Norte, by appointment only. Córdoba 206, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; ewe-studio.com
MASA GALERÍA Masa walks the line between art and design founded by a collective of creatives — Héctor Esrawe, Age Salajõe, Brian Thoreen, and Cristobal Riestra, along with Isaac Bissu and Roberto Diaz — whose backgrounds in art, design, and architecture are reflected in MASA’s presentation of design at its boundaries. By appointment only. Pl. Villa de Madrid 1, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; mmaassaa.com
AGO PROJETS AGO Projects is a design-driven practice and designer representation space based in Mexico City and New York by Rudy F. Weissenberg and Rodman Primack. Av. Paseo de la Reforma 382-int 501, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc; ago-projects.com
CASA ORGÁNICA Designed by renowned Mexican architect Javier Senosiain and open by guided tours. Acueducto Morelia 26, Vista del Valle; casaorganica.org
CASA PEDREGAL "CASA PRIETO LOPEZ" “This is a real home, not a museum,” explains César Cervantes, a businessman and art collector who today lives in one of the greatest Modernist masterpieces of Mexico: Casa Pedregal by Luis Barragán. Visits are allowed, but only by appointment, and don’t be surprised if you find the scent of tortillas coming from the kitchen and a bottle of wine open on the table. It’s exactly how Luis Barragán, the genius architect responsible for the home designed between 1947 and 1950, would have wanted it. Open by appointment only. Av. de Las Fuentes 180, Jardines del Pedregal, Álvaro Obregón.
ALGO An exhibition space within the Bosque de Chapultepec by OMR gallery featuring contemporary works of art including a James Turrell. 2nd Section of Bosque Chapultepec Lago; lago.com.mx
CENTRO CULTURAL DEL BOSQUE A cultural center and theatre. Campo Marte, Paseo de la Reforma y, Av. Paseo de la Reforma s/n, Miguel Hidalgo; citru.inba.gob.mx
LODOS GALLERY A contemporary art gallery presenting critically aware artists working within new modes of production. Turín 38b, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc; lodosgallery.info
BOSQUE DE CHAPULTEPEC A sprawling park containing castles, museums, a lake, an amusement park, and the Audiorama, a semi-secret jewel inside the park. It’s a hidden oasis of vivid greenery where you can borrow a book and read under the dappled light of the tree canopies, listening to a selection of classical music. Miguel Hidalgo; data.sedema.cdmx.gob.mx
SALA NEZAHUALCÓYOTL One of the best concert hall in the country in terms of its acoustics, architecture, and programming— especially for classical music. Av. Insurgentes Sur 3000, C.U., Coyoacán; musica.unam.mx
JARDINO BOTANICO Located between the Tamayo and the Anthropology Museum in the Bosque de Chapultepec, featuring cacti & chili plant displays, plus rare orchids in an ornate glasshouse with a stained-glass roof. Av. Paseo de la Reforma 126, Bosque de Chapultepec I Sección, Bosque de Chapultepec I Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; chapultepec.org.mx
CAPILLA DE LAS CAPUCHINAS This chapel built by architect Luis Barragán in 1952 for Capuchin nuns is now a World Heritage site, located within a cloistered convent in Tlalpan. Col. de, Miguel Hidalgo 43, Tlalpan Centro I, Tlalpan; barragan-foundation.org
OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE The Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe is a Roman Catholic church, basilica, and National shrine of Mexico which houses the cloak containing the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Fray Juan de Zumárraga No. 2, Villa Gustavo A. Madero, Gustavo A. Madero; virgendeguadalupe.org.mx
GALERÍA NORDENHAKE Galerie Nordenhake is an international contemporary art gallery with galleries in Berlin, Stockholm and Mexico City. Monterrey 65, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; nordenhake.com
GALERÍA MASCOTA Galeria Mascota is a new project space providing a platform with a focus on the work of emerging foreign artists. Valladolid 33, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; galeriamascota.com
TRAVESIACUATRO A contemporary art foundation, founded in 2003 in Madrid by Silvia Ortiz and Inés López-Quesada. Valladolid 35, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; travesiacuatro.com
OLIVIA FOUNDATION A new gallery with a private collection on display in a beautiful space. Tonalá 46, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; oliviafoundation.mx
JO-HS A contemporary art gallery for emerging artists by Elisabeth Johs. Gobernador José Guadalupe Covarrubias 46 San Miguel Chapultepec I Secc Miguel Hidalgo Ciudad de México; jo-hs.com
MAIA CONTEMPORARY A contemporary art gallery in Roma Norte. maiacontemporary.com; Colima 159, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc;
CASA BASALTA A cultural center in Mexico City. Colima 159-Local 2D, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; casabasalta.mx
CASA DE LA BOLA The Casa de la Bola is located in what was the old Villa de San José de Tacubaya, currently in Mexico City. This beautiful place preserves its viceregal architectural characteristics, it consists of two floors, a central patio with staves and corridors supported by quarry columns. From the central patio you can see the beautiful garden where there are colonial vestiges such as three ponds and remains of clay canals. Since Antonio Haghenbeck y de la Lama acquired the house in 1942, he decided to recover the green area by building a garden with extensive vegetation in a European romantic style with cobbled walkways, fountains and sculptures. Av. Parque Lira 136, Tacubaya, Miguel Hidalgo; museoshaghenbeck.mx/museo-casa-de-la-bola
CASA DESIGN HUNTER A design showroom, by appointment only, by Design Hunter magazine. Halley 9, Anzures, Miguel Hidalgo; www.designhunter.mx
SHOP
AURELIA CONCEPT STORE A design line by our dear friends from San Diego— the De La Torre Suárez sisters. All products are handmade by artisans in Mexico using recycled or reforested wood. The unique, elaborate wooden bags feature interchangeable charro straps handmade by Mexican artisans, commemorating the charrería culture. This national sport and art form originated in Spain and was brought to Mexico in the 16th Century, later becoming the national sport which promoted not only riding technicalities and beautiful stallions but elegant attires with intricate detailing worn by the charros (the male riders) and the escaramuzas (the female riders). Cozumel 61, Roma Norte; aureliamexico.com
LA CIUDADELA A traditional style Mexican market that specializes in the sale of Mexican handcrafts and folk art, located in the southwest corner of the historic center of Mexico City. Balderas S/N, Colonia Centro, Centro, Cuauhtémoc.
SANBORNS DE LOS AZULEJOS Sanborns is an upscale general market owned by Carlos Slim, and ubiquitous in the city, but its branch in the Centro Histórico is something special. Housed in the historic Casa de los Azulejos, an 18th-century palace covered in blue and white tiles. Inside the cafeteria, where the Mexican intelligentsia used to hang out in the 50s and 60s, milkshakes and club sandwiches are served up by women in old school uniforms under a ceiling covered in frescoes and historic photographs (it was once home to the National Jockey Club). Av. Francisco I. Madero 4, Centro Histórico; sanborns.com.mx
MERCADO LA LAGUNILLA On the same site since colonial times, La Lagunilla is one of the largest covered markets in the city, selling food, furniture, and vintage clothing. On Sundays, antique dealers set up on the streets surrounding the market. Cerrada Lopez Rayon 46 Lote 1, Corner with Ignacio Allende, Centro.
YAKAMPOT Francisco Cancino's line of sleek, pared down women's clothing is a big hit among Mexico's magazine editors, and we can see why. First there are the elegant, season-less silhouettes that make his clothing a wardrobe perennial, and then there's the fact that it's all handmade by artisans across the country. Fittingly, his first shop in Polanco, designed by Emiliano Godoy and Tuux, is built with the same local, sustainable principles as his clothing. Salvatierra 45, San Miguel Chapultepec II Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; yakampot.com.mx
EL BÁZAAR SABADO A colorful bazaar on Saturdays featuring stalls with goods by artists set in an 18-century home and colonial plaza in San Angel. Find everything from paper flowers and embroidered blouses to carved Pepita glassware. Pl. San Jacinto 11, San Ángel TNT, San Ángel, Álvaro Obregón; bazaarsabado.com
DECADA Arguably one of the best shops in the city for mid-century antiques. Owners Cecilia Tena and Lucía Corredor split their time between Berlin and New York buying and importing their finds back to their shop in Polanco. Calle Dr Erazo 172, Doctores, Cuauhtémoc; decada.com.mx
RODRIGO RIVERO LAKE Rodrigo Rivero Lake's Polanco penthouse apartment and Naucalpan warehouse are packed to the brim with museum-quality antiques from Mexico, India, and beyond, along with paintings and sculptures by major modern Mexican artists— including by his late friend Chucho Reyes, one of the most influential Mexican painters of the 20th Century. An incurable collector, he's spent a lifetime on the hunt both in Mexican flea markets, at European auction houses, and on the road in India. On the weekends, he heads to the Lagunilla Antiques Market in Mexico City, where all the vendors know him by name, and always have a thing or two to show him. Visit his gallery and meet the charming host. By appointment only. Campos Elíseos 199-PH, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; rodrigoriverolake.com
ONORA Founded by Maria Eladia Hagerman (wife of Director Alejandro Inarrítu) and Maggie Galton, an NYC transplant who spent years working with artisans across the country. Onora sells beautiful handicrafts including black ceramic candleholders from Oaxaca, table runners from Chiapas, serving dishes from Puebla, and more. Lope de Vega 330, Polanco, Polanco V Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; onoracasa.com
LA LONJA MERCANTIL A traveling design market where participating artists, fashion and product designers, and food and drink purveyors sell their wares. Find some of the best names in design, including clothing from Carla Fernández and Carolina K, mezcal from Mezcal Amores, furniture by Oscar Hagerman and Pirwi, and chocolates from Unelefante. San Ildefonso 48, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Centro, Cuauhtémoc; lonjamercantil.com
SANDRA WEIL Peruvian designer Sandra Weil's flagship store in Polanco designed by architecture firm Zeller y Moye. Arquímedes, Polanco 20-3, Polanco IV Secc; sandraweil.com
CARLA FERNÁNDEZ Offering a modern take on traditional Mexican embroidery and textiles from a boutique within the Downtown Hotel featuring clothing racks designed by Pedro Reyes, one of the most prominent conceptual artists in Mexico. carlafernandez.com
CASA BOSQUES Housed in a whitewashed, renovated home in the Roma and decorated with sleek bookshelves, casually placed Jean Prouvé chairs, succulents, and ferns, Casa Bosques offers a curated selection of indie magazines, journals, and books from small publishers. Córdoba 25, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; casabosques.net
180° Along with hipster basics (ie Fjällräven backpacks and special edition New Balance sneakers) you will also find emerging designers Julia y Renata, Alejandra Quesada, Carolina K, chocolate bars from Casa Bosques, and magazines and books from local publishers. Colima 180, Roma Norte; 180grados.mx
ZII ROPA Founded by Bridget Tidey, inspired by travels in the deserts of Baja California Sur, this Roma Norte boutique marries the concept of coastal and city living by creating timeless, modern, and functional silhouettes using natural fiber fabrics. Tabasco 61, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; ziiropa.com
SANGRE DE MI SANGRE A handmade jewerly studio and brand by Mariana Villarreal. F, Orizaba 101, Roma Norte; sdemis.com
PLANTA A botanical design studio specializing in conceptual and experimental installations. Proyecto Público Prim, General Prim 30, Colonia Juárez; plantadb.com
FILIA A futuristic shop with pieces by independent Mexican brands like mariachi-inspired belts by Toronero and sustainable handbags made from recycled cans by Alysta. Berlin 35, Colonia Juarez; filia.store
ALYSTA An independent clothing and art store by Ali Estrada. alystathestore.com
QUERENCIA A concept shop with multiple locations throughout Mexico City. querenciashop.mx
LIBRERÍA JORGE CUESTA A bookstore with hard-to-find vintage literature in both Spanish and English. C. Liverpool 12, Juárez.
LOOSE BLUES A vintage-inspired lifestyle shop located in Mexico City where you will find different brands from Japan, the US, and Mexico as well as a Dining Bar serving delicious Japanese-Mexican fusion. Friday nights are home to Izakaya, DJ’s, tattoo events, and art shows. Dinamarca #44, Col. Juárez; looseblues.mx.
UTILITARIO MEXICANO A shop selling Mexican kitchen staples like matte-finished coral pitchers, enamel pewter bowls, marbled resin plates, and jícaras— drinking gourds perfect for enjoying the shop’s selection of artisanal Mezcal. Marseille 3a. Colonia Juarez; utilitariomexicano.com.mx.
IKAL A new multi-brand store that carries a strong selection of Mexican designers. Av. Pdte. Masaryk 340A, Polanco, ikalstore.com.
LAGO DF A boutique with a great selection of fashion and home accessories. Av. Pdte. Masaryk 310, Polanco; lagolatam.com.
MERCADO DE JAMAICA A 24 hour flower market where various vendors sell their wares. Guillermo Prieto 45, Jamaica, Venustiano Carranza; mercadojamaica.com.
XINÚ PERFUMES A local perfume brand inspired by the aromatic botany of the Americas, using the highest quality raw materials. Alejandro Dumas #161, Polanco, Polanco IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; xinuperfumes.com
GALERIA DANIEL LIEBSOHN A gallery located inside the Plaza del Angel antiques center, which has dozens of shops and a market on Saturdays. Londres 161, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc; liebsohn.com
AYRES ESTUDIO A home goods store inspired by the pre-Hispanic culture of Mexico, which is reflected in its pieces with a contemporary approach. ayresmx.com
VARON An avant-garde, unisex jewelry brand and studio based in Mexico City. Juan de la Barrera 87, Colonia Condesa, Cuauhtémoc; varonofficial.com
BI YUU Handwoven carpets and tapestries. C. Artículo 123 116, Colonia Centro, Centro, Cuauhtémoc; biyuu.mx
TANE ORFEBRES Tane reinvented traditional silver designs, taking the craftsmanship to the next level. Their last collection had Iris Apfel as a guest designer, and the shop is a gallery in itself. tane.com
DANCASSAB Designer Daniela Cassab creates handmade jackes using the finest lamb leather, sewn by Mexican artisans. Monte Athos 155, Lomas - Virreyes, Lomas de Chapultepec IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; dancassab.com
CARALARGA A Mexican textile and jewelry brand by Ana Holschneider and run with her sisters and a team of talented artisans from Queretaro. caralarga.com.mx
REMIGIO Located within the trendy Downtown Hotel, this shop has Oaxacan handcrafts, textiles, and artisanal clothing. Isabel La Católica, Segundo Piso #30-Interior 7, Centro Histórico de la Cdad. de México, Cuauhtémoc
PROYECTO RUFINO A beautifully designed shop selling clothing, candles, ceramics, as well as Laguna Cyprien soaps upstairs. Jalapa 129, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; proyectorufina.com
LAGUNA CYPRIEN A luxurious home store and product line selling soaps, shampoos, conditioners, moisturizers, diffusers, aromatic oils, and more. Ámsterdam 133, Hipódromo Condesa; lagunacyprien.mx
PUSHKIN MARKET A flea market next to a park dedicated to the Russian playwright. Av. Cuauhtémoc 104, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc
HACIENDA ZOTOLUCA BOUTIQUE Equestrian-style clothes, interior design, and art inspired by Hacienda Zotoluca. Shop at the boutique in the Four Seasons or the stand alone boutique nearby. Río Elba #50, Cuauhtemoc; hzmexico.com
CASA HOTBOOK A concept store, art gallery, restaurant, and event space by Hotbook Magazine in Lomas. Monte Líbano 280, Lomas de Chapultepec, Miguel Hidalgo; casahotbook.com
SPA
NIMA URBAN SPA A spa set in a beautiful colonial townhouse in Roma with treatments including massages, facials, manicure/pedicure, hair salon, cold plunge, jacuzzi, steam room, and sauna. Colima 212, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc; nimaurbanspa.com
NUUP BEAUTY Sary studied skincare in Korea and brought back all the tricks of the trade (along with products) to Mexico. We recommend the signature facial with stem cell treatment. Av. Corregidores 823-Piso 5, Lomas Virreyes, Lomas de Chapultepec IV Secc, Miguel Hidalgo; nuupbeauty.com
POLLY’S PLACE Hands down the best facial massage we’ve ever had. Book the signature facial. Located in Lomas in a chic studio, and she also offers manicures. Av. Paseo de las Palmas 1275, Lomas de Chapultepec, Miguel Hidalgo; bypolly.simplybook.me
DAY & WEEKEND TRIPS
TEOTIHUACAN Teotihuacan “the place where Gods were created” is a vast Mexican archaeological complex an hour from Mexico City. Running down the middle of the site, which was once a flourishing pre-Columbian city, is the Avenue of the Dead linking the Temple of Quetzalcoatl, the Pyramid of the Moon, and the Pyramid of the Sun.
TEPOTZLÁN An hour and a half from Mexico City, Tepotzlán is known as the reputed birthplace of Quetzalcoatl, the Aztec feathered serpent god, and for its weekly craft market. A steep hike leads to the Aztec Tepozteco pyramid with views of the valley. A 16th-century former Dominican monastery, the Tepoztlán Ex-Convento, has a local history museum and the adjacent Carlos Pellicer Cámara Museum displays pre-Hispanic art. Stay at Amomoxtli Hotel in a casita surrounding the pool with views of the El Tepozteco mountain range. Book a traditional Temazcal treatment at the spa and enjoy Mexican cuisine from the terrace restaurant.
VALLE DE BRAVO Known to locals as the “Hamptons of Mexico,” this “pueblo mágico” and resort town is two hours from Mexico City, set on Lake Avándaro. The town’s cobblestoned main street is filled with coffee shops, high-end furniture shops, art galleries, gourmet restaurants, and trendy bars situated in colonial buildings. The lakeside location is prime for waterskiing, sailing, and paragliding. Hike the Velo de Novia, a forested park that’s home to a crystal-clear waterfall and blue lagoon. Visit in November, to see Monarch Butterflies congregate in the Biosphere Reserve Sanctuary. Check into La Casa Rodavento, a 20th-century mansion turned boutique hotel designed by Mariana Valero, a Mexican artist living in Guadalajara. The hotel’s restaurant, Nuestro, is headed by Chef Diego Isunza Kahlo (the nephew of Frida Kahlo) with a menu focused on preserving locally sourced Mexican ingredients and recipes, like his classic pozole, made with suckling pig and cacahuacintle corn with ingredients from the “100 Market” (where all goods are sourced less than 100 miles away) for the ultimate farm-to-table experience. The lakeside embarcadero is lined with michelada bars and taco carts. Shop at the Mercado de Artesanías, an arts and crafts market where you’ll discover stall after stall of works from Guerrero, Jalisco, Michoacan, and more. In addition to colorful Mazahua fabrics, you’ll find Otumba pottery and handcrafted wood furniture. Visit the 17th-century Templo de Santa María of Ahuacatlán before leaving.
PUEBLA Puebla is two and a half hours southeast of Mexico City, known for its colonial architecture, talavera pottery, and most of all—its culinary history. According to the late Anthony Bourdain, “the best line cooks in NYC come from Puebla.” The Renaissance-era Puebla Cathedral has tall bell towers and overlooks the central Zócalo, and the Museo Amparo offers an extensive display of pre-Hispanic art. The city’s historic center was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, but arguably Puebla’s most noteworthy contribution is mole poblano. Legend has it that nuns from the Convent of Santa Rosa in the 16th-century serendipitously created the famous dish while hurriedly preparing a last-minute meal for the visiting archbishop, and threw together assorted chiles, warm spices, chocolate, nuts, and stale bread before slow-cooking the mixture. Stay at the La Descansaría, La Purificadora or the Rosewood Puebla. Dine at Augurio by famed chef Angel Vázquez; El Mural De Los Poblanos a popular restaurant by Chef Liz Galicia whose name takes inspiration from the vibrant, detailed wall mural by artist Antonio Álvarez Morán; Casa Reyna tucked away in a boutique hotel with a mole recipe from the grandmothers of the two co-owners and the two co-executive chefs; La Noria located on the grounds of what was formerly a 16th-century hacienda named San Miguel La Noria; and Casa Barroca by Chef Hugo Minutti who credits his unique mole flavor to extra dark chocolate from Oaxaca. Try your hand at making the famous mole yourself at a cooking class offered by Mesones Sacristia in an 18th-century building in the famous Callejón de los Sapos neighborhood in the historic center. For something other than mole, enjoy the famed tacos arabes at Las Ranas. Visit The Great Pyramid of Cholula “Tlachihualtepetl”— the largest pyramid by volume known to exist in the world today. Afterward, shop at the local Mercado and Talavera workshop to bring home some of the beautiful blue and white ceramics.
Photo: © Steve Silverman