Posted by Mexico City is immense, energetic and, at first glance, a little intimidating, so the secret is not trying to conquer it all at once. Base yourself in just a couple of neighbourhoods and you’ll quickly discover a city that’s welcoming, creative and surprisingly easier to navigate than you’d imagine.
For Travis, that means spending most of our time in Condesa and Roma. These neighbouring districts perfectly capture the city’s character; leafy and residential, stylish yet unpretentious, with just enough grit to keep things interesting. Walking is the best way to explore, allowing you to soak up the architecture, cafés, parks and street life while avoiding the city’s often debilitating traffic.
You’ll find one of the world’s most exciting food scenes here, alongside inventive cocktail bars, exceptional coffee roasters and friendly locals who make the city feel remarkably welcoming. Despite their big-city setting, Condesa and Roma feel safe, relaxed and effortlessly cool.
Condesa is the more polished of the two, centred around the leafy streets of Hipódromo and beautiful Parque México. By day it’s calm and residential, while evenings bring its restaurants, wine bars and cocktail spots to life. Calle Tamaulipas is a dining hotspot, while the quieter surrounds of Calle Amsterdam offer charming cafés and neighbourhood eateries beneath the trees.
Roma is our favourite neighbourhood and arguably the creative heart of Mexico City. Equal parts gritty and fashionable, it’s packed with outstanding restaurants, intimate bars, independent galleries, vinyl record stores and old-school barber shops. Whether you’re wandering on a laidback Sunday afternoon or heading out after dark, Roma always has something happening without ever feeling overwhelming.
And don’t miss Parque México, one of the city’s most loved green spaces, where locals walk their dogs, families gather, children play and food trucks occasionally line the edge. It’s the perfect place to slow down and experience everyday life in one of the world’s most exciting cities.
Just Coffee…
Quentin Cafe | Ámsterdam 67a, Hipódromo
Quentin’s Condesa outpost is a cute hole-in-the-wall café with sexy industrial styling, strong coffee and seriously good pastries. Leafy sidewalk seating adds to the laidback atmosphere, while a hidden back room offers extra space. Small local chain or not, the hipster vibe feels genuinely authentic here.
% Arabica | Av. Veracruz 102, Roma Nte.
This outlet (located in the Condesa DF hotel) brings the brand’s polished global coffee style to a leafy corner of the neighbourhood. Inside, stark white interiors are softened with warm timber touches, while outdoor tables spill onto the sidewalk. Beans are roasted onsite, and the coffee easily ranks among Condesa’s best. % Arabica
Buna | Amsterdam 285, Condesa
Buna is a groovy corner café with an industrial edge – with concrete floors, raw walls and roller doors opening straight onto the sidewalk. They roast their own beans, with bags available to take home, while sandwiches, toast and plenty of seating options encourage lingering over another coffee.
Chiquitito Café | Alfonso Reyes 232, Hipodromo
Chiquitito is a tiny postage-stamp café with just a handful of indoor tables and extra seating spilling onto the sidewalk. The coffee is consistently flawless, the staff genuinely lovely, and the sandwiches excellent, especially the jamón pan. Small in size, but full of neighbourhood charm.
Constela Café | C.Colima 209, Roma Nte.
In the heart of Roma, Constela is a slick, light-filled café where coffee is taken seriously. Big windows, sidewalk seating and plenty of laptops create a modern hipster atmosphere. Expect a rotating selection of beans, carefully made pour overs, and a decent food menu too.
Brew Brew | C. Orizaba 96, Roma Nte.
A lively Roma café favourite where weekend queues to dine-in spill onto the street. Upbeat music and a cool neighbourhood setting keep the energy high, while the handy takeaway coffee window makes grabbing a quick caffeine hit fast and effortless. Brew Brew
The Coffee | Av. Álvaro Obregón 130, Roma Nte.
The Coffee’s Roma outpost is tiny but charming, tucked within the beautiful Hotel Parisian arcade. Modern white interiors with blond timber accents keep things simple, while tables in the light-filled passageway make for pleasant lingering. Expect quality coffee, including iced and flavoured options. The Coffee
Brunch & Snacks…
Ritmo Café | Medellín 78, Roma Nte.
Ritmo proves that a short menu can still satisfy every craving. Eight thoughtfully curated dishes range from chilaquiles to salmon avocado toast and indulgent pancakes, all presented with panache. The industrial-chic space particularly comes alive on weekends, when DJs, brunch cocktails and a stylish young crowd create a lively, energetic atmosphere. Ritmo Cafe
Mendl Delicatessen | Citlaltépetl 9, Hipódromo
Mendl blends Jewish deli traditions with a broad all-day menu spanning Mexican and international favourites. Chilaquiles sit beside shakshuka, while bagels, lox and sandwiches round things out. The large, bustling space offers indoor, outdoor and upstairs seating, though the serene upstairs bar with its open windows is the standout spot. Mendl Delicatessen
Cafe Toscano | Av Michoacán 30, Hipódromo
Opposite Parque México, this branch of the Café Toscano collection is the kind of relaxed neighbourhood brunch spot that instantly draws you in. Sunny sidewalk tables, homely interiors and light jazzy tunes set the tone, while friendly service keeps locals returning. Chilaquiles and huevos rancheros are favourites, though hot cakes and granola are just as good. Fresh juices, strong coffee and a chilled atmosphere make it an ideal way to start the day. Cafe Toscano
Ojo de Agua | Citlaltépetl 23C, Hipódromo
Ojo de Agua is a groovy café and juice bar with an earthy atmosphere, colourful murals and a wall stacked with fresh fruit. The menu leans healthy and fresh, with plenty of egg dishes alongside quality açai bowls and juices. A small grocery section adds to the neighbourhood feel, and there is another outlet over in Roma. Ojo de Agua
Peltre Loncheria | Av. Álvaro Obregón 85, Roma Nte.
Peltre Lonchería is a reliable choice for breakfast and coffee, pairing quality food with bright, contemporary surroundings. This Roma outpost on bustling Álvaro Obregón is ideal before exploring nearby boutiques and galleries, serving authentic Mexican breakfast classics alongside thoughtful modern interpretations. Peltre Loncheria
Panaderia Rosetta | C.Colima 179, Roma Nte.
From the team behind Restaurante Rosetta, the Panaderia is a small but hugely popular pâtisserie where queues are part of the experience. Set on a leafy, tree-lined street, the slightly chaotic space feels like an Aladdin’s cave of artisan breads and pastries. There’s lovely outdoor seating, excellent coffee and almost too much choice – deciding what to order becomes the hardest part. Panaderia Rosetta
Odette | Pl. Popocatépetl 35, Hipódromo
The enticing aroma of baking hits before you even step inside Odette. Croissants, cookies, baguettes and both sweet and savoury pastries fill the counters, with trolleys constantly restocked to keep up with demand. There’s usually a queue, a testament to its loyal local following. Coffee is also available and there are a few outdoor tables if you’d like to linger. Odette
Helados Cometa | Tampico 21, Roma Nte.
Set on a leafy residential street, Helados Cometa is a smart little ice cream shop focused on quality over quantity. With only a handful of flavours available, every scoop shines. The ice cream is wonderfully smooth and creamy, served in crunchy waffle cones for the perfect indulgent snack. Helados Cometa
Churreria El Moro | Av Michoacán 27, Hipódromo
A local institution since 1935, El Moro pairs bright blue-and-white tiled interiors with plenty of seating and a steady stream of churros rolled to order in sugar or cinnamon. Four dipping sauces add to the flavour, alongside other sweet treats and comforting drinks. They have multiple locations across the city. Churreria El Moro
Tacos…
El Parnita | Av. Yucatán 84, Roma Nte.
El Parnita remains one of Mexico City’s original cult taco destinations, and for good reason. The dark, rustic dining room hums with energy, upbeat music and warm hospitality. With 24 taco varieties served individually, exploration is encouraged. Unexpected flavour combinations delight, while three house salsas add the finishing touch. El Parnita
CHICOJULIO Fish Tacos & Chips | Jalapa 126, Roma Nte.
Chicojulio is a rustic little gem where the fish tacos steal the show. Choose battered or grilled, flour or corn tortillas, then hit the boat-shaped salsa station for extra zing. The lightly battered fish taco is perfection. With ceviches and burgers on the menu too and a cruisy pavement seating area, it’s an endearing local favourite. CHICOJULIO Fish Tacos & Chips
Taquería Orinoco | Av. Álvaro Obregón 100, Roma Nte
Taquería Orinoco keeps things refreshingly simple: four taco options, five salsas and one beer to choose from. Order at the counter, grab a seat among the white tiles and red tables, and watch the open kitchen in action. The tacos are generously filled, juicy and satisfying, making an order of three a perfect meal. Taqueria Orinoco
Taqueria Los Caramelos | Av Michoacán 93, Colonia Condesa
Taquería Los Caramelos is an underrated Condesa gem. While there’s a dining room hidden behind a curtain, the sidewalk standing area is where the energy is, fuelled by loud music and cheerful staff. With eleven taco options, burritos, margaritas and cold beers, it’s all about flavour over presentation. The slightly crusty tortillas add a satisfying contrast, and service is impressively fast. Taqueria Los Caramelos
Tacos Atarantados | Córdoba 113, Roma Nte.
Open until 1am, Tacos Atarantados delivers exactly what you want from a late-night feed – lively energy, top-quality ingredients and seriously good tacos. The bright white-and-green tiled room buzzes with music, the open kitchen is busy churning out the goods. Eight salsas kick things off, before tacos (four meat options available), árabes, cachetadas and cold beers take over. They have even exported their tacos to Miami now, where they have an outlet in trendy Wynwood. Tacos Atarantados
Dining…
Bar Meroma | C.Colima 150, Roma Nte.
Meroma pairs a Michelin-starred dining room with a tiny, lively bar that feels more like a hidden den. Low ceilings and timber-panelled walls create a cosy atmosphere, while a concise cocktail list leans heavily into mezcal. A small but thoughtful by-the-glass wine selection complements the exceptional food from the upstairs restaurant – seasonal, sustainable dishes from land and sea prepared with real integrity and care. The quality fully justifies the Michelin recognition. Bar Meroma
Loup Bar | Tonalá 23, Roma Nte.
Loup is the kind of charming neighbourhood wine bar every city needs. Low lighting, wine bottles lining the walls and perfectly pitched music create an inviting bistrot atmosphere, while the knowledgeable team speak passionately about every pour. The by-the-glass list may be concise, but quality runs high. Food is equally compelling, from steak frites and Brussels sprouts to an exceptional Wagyu burger. A local recommendation that absolutely delivers. Loup Bar
Hugo | Av. Veracruz 38, Roma Nte.
Tucked away on a quiet residential street in Condesa, Hugo is the kind of place you could easily walk past without realising the gem within. The minimalist space centres around a lively bar and open kitchen, with a small terrace outside. Seven wines are poured by the glass, while the bottle list is impressively extensive, spanning Europe’s great wine regions. Michelin-starred cooking delivers flavour-packed sharing plates, making it dangerously easy to settle in for an afternoon that turns into evening. Hugo
Lardo | Agustín Melgar 6, Colonia Condesa
Lardo nails the modern Italian wine bar formula with effortless cool. The long bar, open windows, and buzzing dining room create a lively, stylish atmosphere that feels unmistakably Mexico City. Backed by the team behind Rosetta, the food leans confidently Italian: petite pizzas perfect for sharing, zingy salads, grilled dishes, and excellent nibbles. Service is polished without feeling stiff, and the wine list smartly favours Italy with a few French and Mexican bottles added to the mix. It’s busy, fashionable, and fun – definitely book ahead. Lardo
Lindy | Av México 31, Colonia Condesa
Housed in the stylish Rodona Hotel, Lindy delivers elevated comfort food in a cosy art deco setting filled with romantic lighting, old-time tunes and a bustling open kitchen. A narrow courtyard offers additional dining space, though the intimate dining room is full of charm. The menu spans ceviche, oysters, mussels and gnocchi, while steak frites and the popular hamburger lean into classic bistro territory. Thoughtful details throughout make it feel polished without ever becoming overly formal. Lindy
Azul | Av. Nuevo León 68, Hipódromo
Azul delivers refined Mexican dining without losing its authentic soul. Intimate front rooms lead into a dramatic atrium-like dining space filled with soaring ceilings and living walls of greenery. The menu celebrates traditional Oaxacan flavours, especially moles, with beautifully presented dishes served on striking blue-patterned plates and white tablecloths. A thoughtful Mexican wine list, extensive tequila selection and attentive service elevate the experience further. Even the simple Sopa de Tortilla arrives as a piece of edible theatre. Azul
Contramar | Durango 200, Roma Nte.
Contramar remains one of Mexico City’s great lunch institutions; a buzzing seafood powerhouse filled with locals, tourists and the city’s well-heeled crowd. The dramatic high-ceilinged room, mural-covered wall and open kitchen create real theatre, while attentive staff in coats and bow ties keep everything polished. Seafood is exceptional across the sprawling menu, from the raw bar to soups, tacos and daily specials. Cocktails are extensive, the wine list is serious. Contramar
Rojo Bistrot | Ámsterdam 71, Colonia Condesa
Rojo brings a little slice of Paris to Mexico City, serving comforting French bistro classics in a relaxed, slightly boho setting. Earthy walls, low lighting and a pleasant outdoor dining area create an easy neighbourhood feel. The menu covers all the favourites from confit duck, entrecôte and French onion soup, to pastas, salads and a dependable burger and fries. Rojo Bistrot
Drinking…
Baltra Bar | Iztaccihuatl 36D, Colonia Condesa
Baltra feels like a speakeasy hiding in plain sight. The cosy, living-room-like space is filled with eclectic prints, vintage treasures, and a loyal local crowd. Service is unpretentious, while the cocktail-making displays quiet confidence and creativity. The choose-your-own-adventure menu leads to unexpected flavour combinations, each drink arriving with its own story. Wine and beer options are limited, but cocktail lovers will love one of Condesa’s true gems. Baltra Bar
Licoreria Limantour | Av. Álvaro Obregón 106, Roma Nte.
This remains one of Mexico City’s benchmark cocktail bars 15 years on. Deceptively small from the street, it opens into lively rear and upstairs spaces usually buzzing with a young crowd. Sit at the bar to watch the sharp, engaged team mix inventive drinks from an ever-changing menu, perhaps a Tegroni (a Negroni made with Tequila) alongside a flawless G&T. Contemporary without feeling pretentious, the drinks are the star, though the delicious guacamole from the snack menu is a standout too. Licoreria Limantour
Owl Bar | C. Atlixco 94, Colonia Condesa
Behind an unmarked door, up a dark hallway and narrow staircase, Owl Bar reveals itself as one of Mexico City’s most elegant secrets. The concrete shell is softened by backlit fabric walls, mood lighting and luxe furnishings. Cocktails are crafted with quiet confidence, from impeccably executed classics to inventive house creations. The cherry tomato-garnished margarita is unforgettable. Add attentive staff, refined Asian-inspired snacks and a lively soundtrack, and you have a bar that feels both exclusive and effortlessly cool. Owl Bar
Wallace Whisky Bar | Av. Tamaulipas 45, Colonia Condesa
Wallace channels the charm of an old English pub, with dark timber, pressed-metal ceilings and cosy nooks surrounding a handsome central bar. Whisky lovers are spoilt for choice, with drops from Japan, Scotland and America, while cocktails and beer are equally well represented on the menu. As the night progresses, DJs lift the energy, transforming this refined drinking den into a lively late-night destination. Wallace Whiskey Bar
La Clandestina | Av. Álvaro Obregón 298, Colonia Condesa
La Clandestina is a candlelit mezcal bar with an effortlessly enchanting atmosphere, from the greenery-framed entrance to the tiny pavement seating outside. Inside, two cosy dimly lit rooms host a relaxed, slightly older crowd sipping through an extensive mezcal list and beautifully crafted cocktails. The smoky mezcal mojito is a standout. Beer and wine options are minimal, as mezcal is very much the main event here. La Clandestina
La Botica | C. Orizaba 161, Roma Nte.
La Botica is a compact, eclectic mezcal bar where antique mirrors, velvet curtains and cabinets of curiosities set the tone. Around 20 mezcals span smoky, citrusy and earthy profiles from different regions, alongside agave cocktails and a couple of beers. Guacamole, tacos and Latin music keep the energy flowing well into the night. La Botica
Cafe de Nadie | Chihuahua 135, Roma Nte
This friendly bar blends serious drinks with a stylish, low-lit atmosphere. The long, minimalist room is lined with an impressive vinyl collection, while cocktails and mezcal take centre stage. Food goes beyond bar snacks, with ceviche, sandwiches and pasta. Helpful staff, terrace seating and a well-dressed crowd complete the appeal. Café De Nadie
Lucky | Av México 31, Rooftop, Colonia Condesa
Perched on the fifth floor of the Rodona Hotel, Lucky feels like a hidden retreat overlooking the treetops of Parque México. Cocktails dominate the menu, with around 25 creations, there’s only a handful of wine and beer options. Lounge-style seating, a retractable roof and occasional DJs create a relaxed atmosphere that can quickly shift into something more lively as the evening progresses. Lucky
Lagerbar Hercules | Campeche 322, Hipódromo
Hércules is the kind of laidback neighbourhood spot that quickly wins you over. Bright yellow tiled walls and ceiling set a cheerful tone, while seven beers on tap, plenty more in cans and bottles, and excellent tortas keep locals lingering. With upbeat music, a few stools, and standing room, it’s relaxed, social, and full of character. Lagerbar Hercules
La Roma Brewing | Av. Yucatán 84-local L, Col, Roma Nte.
This easy-going brewery keeps things relaxed and approachable, with 16 house-brewed beers spanning enough styles to satisfy any crowd. The spacious industrial room feels intimate thanks to its simple fit-out, retro rock soundtrack and friendly atmosphere. Burgers and nachos suit the mood, while roller doors open the brewery seamlessly onto the street. La Roma Brewing
Things To Do…
Plaza de la Constitución | Centro Historico
Better known as El Zocalo, no visit to Mexico City is complete without experiencing one of the world’s great public squares; it places you at the heart of the nation’s history, culture and daily life. Surrounded by grand architecture, museums and landmarks, it offers an unforgettable introduction to the city’s rich heritage. Around the square is the main cathedral, plus the national palace, which both can be visited. This busy main square of the city is a must see, if for no other reason to really get a sense of how bustling a city of 21 million people can be. Plaza de la Constitución
Mercado de la Merced Tour | Centro Historico
This fascinating market is huge and you’ll likely get a little lost on your own, so take a small-group tour with the informative team at Eat Mexico. There are some really fabulous food stands throughout the market, so you’ll definitely appreciate a guide steering you to the best (and more hygienic) ones. Some of the tastings are so simple but so very good (like steak tacos with fries on top) whilst others border on the more exotic (think cows head tacos). There is a LOT of food sampling, so eat lightly before you embark on this foodie adventure. Any foodie will love this tour! Eat Mexico
Teotihuacan Ruins
The pyramids of Teotihuacan are an essential Mexico City experience; spectacular, awe-inspiring and steeped in history. A guided tour makes visiting easy, taking the hassle out of navigating the journey while adding valuable context along the way. Climbing the Pyramid of the Sun is a memorable highlight, with incredible views and plenty of photo opportunities. Beyond the ruins, many tours introduce you to local villages, traditional foods, agave and mezcal, offering a broader and more authentic glimpse of life beyond the city. The ruins are 40km from the city centre, so you’ll need to allow a full day to make the most of this adventure.
Coyoacan
A quaint township, less than ten metro stops from the city centre, Coyoacán offers a welcome escape from Mexico City’s bustle, with leafy plazas, colourful colonial architecture and a distinctly local atmosphere. After arriving at the Coyocan metro station, start your exploration with a visit to the Frida Kahlo museum, then afterwards amble into town. Stop in at the Mercad, then wander around the town square, where there’s usually food and market stalls. Finally, exit via the Viveros metro station, as there are lots of lovely homes and a few charming little squares to stop and admire on the way to Viveros.
Where to Stay…
Rodona Hotel | Av México 31, Colonia Condesa
Tucked into a quieter pocket of Condesa opposite Parque México, the Rodona is an intimate 23-room hotel with warm, genuinely helpful service. Set within a beautifully converted art deco building, the earthy yet contemporary interiors feel calm and considered, and the quirky photography throughout adds a fun factor. The beds and showers are excellent, two details many hotels still miss. Some rooms feature charming balconies, while Lindy restaurant and Lucky Rooftop bar add plenty of appeal. The location makes exploring both Condesa and Roma effortless. Rodona Hotel
Condesa DF | Av. Veracruz 102, Roma Nte.
One of the original boutique hotels to shape Mexico City’s hospitality scene, Condesa DF still feels effortlessly cool. Housed within a lovingly restored 1928 neoclassical building, the 40-room hotel balances understated style with a calm residential atmosphere. El Patio’s leafy courtyard is perfect for relaxed drinks, while the triangular rooftop terrace adds another layer of charm. The discreet entrance only enhances the sense of escape. Upgrade to a suite if you can. Condesa DF
Hotel Parian | Av. Álvaro Obregón 130, Roma Nte.
Hotel Parián is a beautifully restored early-1900s property offering just 19 rooms in the heart of Roma. Set above a light-filled arcade filled with stylish shops, cafés and dining spots, it feels both intimate and connected. Rooms are serene and elegant, blending contemporary design with white tones, green accents and warm blond timber. Hotel Parian
Colima 71 Casa de Arte Hotel | C.Colima 71, col. , Del, Roma Nte.
Tucked away on one of Roma’s quieter back streets, Colima 71 delivers boutique luxury with effortless style. This Michelin key awarded property offers just 16 contemporary suites, each an impressive 40–50 square metres of floor space. Some feature private balconies or terraces, while the location places Mexico City’s best restaurants, bars, galleries, and shopping within easy walking distance. Calm, sophisticated, and perfectly positioned. Colima 71 Casa de Arte Hotel
Four Points by Sheraton Mexico City, Colonia Roma | Av. Álvaro Obregón 38, Roma Nte.
This hotel is a reliable, modern base right on Álvaro Obregón in the heart of Roma Norte. The atrium-style lobby and inviting bar create a welcoming first impression, while compact, functional rooms deliver Marriott consistency with just enough character to avoid feeling too generic. Four Points by Sheraton Mexico City, Colonia Roma
Featured Photo: ‘Prickly Pear Cactus’ – Teotihuacan Ruins
Travis. 