Mexican writer, Carlos Fuentes published his first novel called Where the Air Is Clear, which later on became a biography of Mexico’s capital city. Fuentes’ kaleidoscopic description of the capital of the country cannot be used to talk about the Mexico of today. Urbanism and modernity give no quarter, as we see many of its historical buildings being substituted by parking lots and convenience stores.
The greatness that Alexander Von Humboldt once saw is still there, but people need to look beyond the traffic, pollution and enormous buildings, which rise as a symbol of progress, to see it. Mexico is still glorious because of its natural beauty and welcoming nature.
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The real voyage of discovery consists not in seeking new landscapes, but in having new eyes,” Marcel Proust stated, and under that premise, The New York Times decided to look at the Mexican capital with new eyes. The author of the article, Victoria Burnett, invites the tourists to discover the true essence of the megalopolis in only 36 hours. She transformed the city into a labyrinth worth exploring, where hidden places in the streets of Colonia Roma, a few popular museums, and some mercados can be found.—
Quintonil
Some people falsely believe that the food culture of Mexico can only be known through the tacos and quesadillas served on its street corners. However, Mexican gastronomy is more than that, and many chefs have taken this cuisine to the next level by making it into culinary art. Burnett recommends you to make a stop in the neighborhood Colonia Roma to visit Quintonil, the restaurant of the chef, Jorge Vallejo. Here you can taste Pre-Hispanic flavors by only spending US$47.
Located at: Newton 55, Polanco
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Covadonga
This place is a favorite of locals and visitors. The cantina (bar) is located in the Colonia Roma. Artists, politicians, businessmen, and more are just a few of its guests. It is the perfect place to run into a celebrity.
Located at: Puebla 121, Roma Norte
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Fonda Mayora
Here, the traditional Mexican cuisine meets high gourmet. The chef, Gerardo Vázquez and his team use their best cooking techniques to achieve perfection in their dishes. They also serve the best tortillas in the world. The New York Times recommends the green juice, beans, and the huevos encamisados (breaded boiled eggs).
Located at: Campeche 322, Condesa
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Telas Típicas
In this store you will find the best imported fabrics from the state of Puebla. Victoria Burnett emphasizes how she was able to find raw cotton fabric. People can also find materials to upholster any couch, make curtains or even clothes.
Located at: Campeche 157, Roma
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Street Art Chilango
It took a couple of years for street art to gain popularity. Some people still don’t agree with seeing “meaningless” graffiti on the walls of their city, but others have welcomed these urban artists.
Street Art Chilango is a community of artists that originated in 2013 to help promote Mexican street art. They help other artists find places where they can legally develop their work. They also give tours to anyone who is eager to learn more about these modern murals.
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Mercado de Medellin
This is another stellar place located in the Colonia Roma. At this market you can experience a less gourmet cuisine. Burnett suggests you to visit the food stand of “Meche and Rafael” (Stand 349 inside the market). On Saturdays, they sell the best carnitas (tender pork meat) in the city. As an alternative, Burnett also recommends you to go to the Mercado de la Merced
Located at: Medellin, Colonia Roma
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Franz Mayer Museum
The German art collector, Franz Mayer inherited his collection and as a result decided to create this museum. It is one of the most beautiful art centers in the city and frequently has temporary exhibitions, which come from around the world.
Located at: Hidalgo Avenue 45, Centro
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La Docena
La Docena is one of the best places for Surf and Turf in Mexico City. Their delicious oysters will make you feel as if you were eating them on an idyllic beach. On the other hand, their juicy steaks are out of this world. You will always want to come back for more, and time will briefly come to a stop with each bite.
Located at: Alvaro Obregon 31, Roma
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Bars
Victoria recommends you visit Baltra, a bar located in the neighborhood of Condesa. Their signature drink is the Old George Sour. If you are into discovering the best drinking spots of a city, you must go to Felina, a quiet bar with skillful bartenders.
To taste a typical drink you should make a stop at La Clandestina, a small place that will let your wild side come out. There you will find 33 oz bottles of mezcal that will last you until the break of dawn.
Baltra is located at: IztaccIhuatl 36-D, Condesa
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Downtown
To end this little tour of the city, you can make a stop at Downtown, a hotel/inn located in the heart of the city. You can either spend the night there or just an afternoon in its roof garden. Come out of your comfort zone and visit Casa Stella, which is a small boutique hotel. Finally, The New York Times suggests you end your night at La Rama.
Downtown is located at: Isabel la Católica 30, Centro
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Remember to visit all these places and share your opinions with us the next time you come to the city.
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