David Hanes-Gonzalez is a first-generation Mexican American artist who specialises in lifestyle and documentary photographer.

David Hanes-Gonzalez

Using his lens to explore his own cultural identity and get closer to his roots, Hanes-Gonzalez most recently exhibited his series 

. Created across two years in collaboration with World Boxing Council and the Mexican boxing brand Cleto Reyes, 

is a series of black-and-white images that capture the intimate details of boxers and this shared sense of community formed within the city's gyms. This year, Hanes-Gonzalez was also recognised as a rising talent, and was selected by El Centro de la Imagen for their 2023 PICS Emerging Artists Class.

Having spent two years documenting boxers, Hanes-Gonzalez is all too familiar with Mexico City's training venues and where people go to eat after their sessions. Below is a guide featuring the city's best spots for training, alongside a selection of photography labs, record stores and eateries.

Mexico City 

Boxers from all across the city and state flock here every Saturday morning. Better known as La Casa de Sparring. Ask for Coach Chicano and you’ll be in good hands. Getting here is an equally thrilling experience. You must travel through 10-15 minutes of tianguis, passing hundreds of people, carnicerias, fruit and vegetables vendors, and eventually walk up a flight of stairs of a large warehouse.

Arguably the most scenic place to train in the city. Coach Tony Vega holds private and group classes early in the morning and every evening Monday to Saturday. A great place to train outdoors with a view.

A historic gym located in the Transito neighbourhood. If you are an amateur boxer fighting in Mexico City this place is a rite of passage.

Tucked in the middle of Tepito is another historic gym and home to many champion boxers. It’s open throughout the day with access to a soccer field as well. Come in early morning or around 4pm to train with some of them.

The centre for photography in all of Mexico. I'm very thankful that this institution exists. They have rotating exhibits featuring work from Mexican and Latin American artists, and frequently host workshops, portfolio reviews and other activities for artists of all ranges.

Looking to surround yourself with fellow photographers, develop and buy film, and work on your creative projects all from a rooftop? At Dichroic Lab you can do all that. My go-to place for my film developing needs and nerding out on all things photography.

Come for the coffee, stay for the music. Half coffee shop, half record store where the baristas DJ vinyl. A great space to edit photos or catch up with a friend. The music is so good that using headphones is almost frowned upon. At night they become a cocktail joint with rotating DJs. A must visit.

My perfect night out consists of live music. Former apartment-turned-jazz-club featuring music from local and international musicians. An intimate space, perfect for a date night or gathering with a group of friends. Make a reservation two days in advance so you can get a seat in the main room.

A good indicator of a classic taqueria is one that doesn’t have Instagram or accepts cards. This is my favourite in all of the city. If you need a reason why, read the 40,000 reviews on Google Maps or check out the line on any given Saturday or Sunday morning. Order the carnitas, you won’t be disappointed.

A small pulqueria and cantina located in Roma. A place I like to take visitors. Come here during the day or late night with a group of friends. Order a round of mezcal shots and pitcher of coconut pulque while listening to Mexican classics like Luis Miguel, Juan Gabriel and Los Angeles Azules.

Similar Guides

A Guide to Mexico City’s Boxing Gyms and Cultural Hotspots

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