Mexico City 

Thea Cumming 

Mexico

Oaxaca: Mexico's Mezcal County

Santa Muerte in Mexico City with Marina Nacamuli

Darcie Imbert

Feria Material

Claire Francis

Carnaval de Bahidorá

Sabrina Louis

Oaxaca

Pia Riverola’s Photo Book is a Love Letter to Mexico

Intimate Portraits of Mexico City’s Boxing Community

Dimitri Voulg

A Guide to Solo Travel in Mexico City

Where to Find Good Accommodation in Mexico City

Where to Eat and Drink in Mexico City 

What's the Deal on Transport in Mexico City 

Mexico City's Cultural History 

Building a Modern Utopian Paradise in Mexico with Andrés​ Saavedra

Meth Math’s Trippin Mix is a Celebration of Life and All Its Joys

Melissa Williams

Morbido Fest

What are Racial Politics like in Mexico City?

Photos of the Huichol People and Their Sacred Practice of Mexican Beadwork

Rage and Fury: Photos of Mexico’s Anarcho-Punk Scene

What's the Political Situation Like in CDMX? 

Hena Sharma

Mexico's Worst Drought in 30 Years Has Dried Out This Lake

Temazcal: Mexico’s Soul-Healing Sweat Lodges

A Guide to Mexico City's Best Neighbourhoods

The Lowdown on Drugs in Mexico City

Yasmin

What We Got Up to at TRIPPIN On 35s & 45s

Mexico City: The Safety Guide 

The Queer Scene in Mexico City 

Police in CDMX: What's The Stance?

David Hanes-Gonzalez

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.

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

One of my favorite places to go pick up some crazy vintage finds for my wardrobe, for shows, editorial, etc. All range of prices and for every taste. And a very friendly treatment.

This is a traditional comida yucateca restaurant, hidden in a building downtown. The best southern food I’ve ever had in CDMX.

This kitschy house belonged to the famous Mexican songwriter Roberto Cantoral, who composed for big recording artists such as José José. He wrote a very beautiful song with a trio he had called ‘’El Reloj’’ and the music sheets are sculpted in the main entrance door. This used to be around the corner on the neighborhood I grew up in. It’s kind of a suburban zone but it gives perspective to the more touristic areas in CDMX.

This is little hidden Japanese ‘’fondita’’ in the heart of Roma Sur that offers a daily Japanese full meal menu at an amazing price. This is my favorite place to take new friends. Their matcha cake - it’s unbelievable!

It’s an old mansion that used to be property of a famous Mexican golden-era movie director and was also used as a set in many of his movies. Fun fact: he was actually the model for the Oscar’s award statue. My aunt used to know his granddaughter and they opened the house for us. Now it's a museum and you can actually schedule a visit.

Mexico City with Girl Ultra

I like to call this spot “A Mexican version of an Omakase”. No menu here, you just sit down and let them know about food restrictions (if there’s any) and let yourself be surprised by the parade of corn-based delicious dishes that roll out of their beautiful open kitchen. The head chef works directly with produce from Guerrero and cooks each dish thinking of seasonalities and taking influences from traditional foods from different regions of the country. 
No reservations available.


One of my favorite places to get to know a new city is through its markets. Mexico City is home of over 300 warehouse-looking mercados, one in almost every neighborhood. And I’d say each has a very distinct personality. Medellín is not only known being a favorite one-stop shop for the Roma neighbors with a meat & poultry section, flowers and plants, key maker, furniture and kitchenware but also for offering some soutamerican produce that would be hard to find elsewhere. 


Good coffee, amazing pastries and glorious breakfast in the mornings; delicious sourdough pizza and great wines in the evening. Has a very inviting, warm and casual atmosphere which makes it the perfect hangout spot for meeting both locals and visitors, or simply sipping on coffee. 

One of my absolute favorite projects in the city. La Rifa is a Bean-to-Bar place that works directly with Mexican cacao producers and turns the seed into the most delicious chocolate. From single origin bars to cacao and water based drinks, chocolate cookies, truffles and even kombucha and beer, it’s all delicious here. 

If there’s one thing you should try out when visiting the country is definitely its street food and tacos. This pop up stand has been serving the most amazing mixiote tacos since 1986. Here, the sheep meat is cooked inside little parchment paper sachets with a perfectly seasoned marinate with a mix of dried chiles, avocado leaf and even cinnamon. Top this double-sized taco with cactus, pineapple and one of their incredible salsas. Keep in mind they only open Wednesday, Friday, Saturdays and sometimes they show up on a random Sunday. 

If there is one place I like to spend my weekends at is this. Amazing music, guest dj’s, the most amazing daiquiris, natural wine, mezcal and incredibly delicious thai-inspired food. 
Only opens Saturdays and Sundays, so be patient as waiting times can get crazy long, or if you prefer, show up on listening Mondays which are way more chill and easier to get into. 


Street Food in Mexico City with The Curious Mexican 

This is my favourite record shop to find,disco & funk in the city.

Excellent coffee and the best croissant you’ll find outside of France.

I love playing at YuYu cause it’s what a real nightclub should be - a dark, sweaty little basement, a sound system you can feel in your bones and a no phones on the dance floor policy. Mostly techno & electronic music, but you can find some more soulful disco and house played here too.

A lot of people will recommend the ever busy El Parnita next door, but this is the spot for super authentic rural cuisine. There’s no menu at this joint, just tell them what you do / don’t eat and they do the rest.

This market only runs on Saturdays from 8am - 3pm. There are many huge and amazing markets in Mexico City (Lagunilla, Sonora etc) but personally I prefer an easy stroll to an expedition so this is my favourite market for whiling away a few hours on a Saturday. You can find vintage eyewear, records, antique furniture, art and weird trinkets by the boat load.

"I live nearby this taco truck and it’s always poppin. Tasty, cheap and meat-free. Vegan or not you gotta eat these tacos at least once while you’re in the city.

I love to grab a coffee and head to Parque Mexico. It’s a mini jungle in the neighbourhood that's perfect for people watching but even better for dog watching.

This lil spot has an awesome selection of vintage clothes, prints by local artists and accessories by local designers.

The National Anthropology Museum is next level. Remember this is a culture that had access to the finest of psychedelics so their ancient artefacts are trippy AF. Just note it will take you a good few hours to do the whole museum, it’s huge with so much to see.

Yasmin's Guide to Mexico City

Tyler Henry

This is my restaurant! Come say hi. Choza is a Thai-influenced restaurant and listening bar. The vibe is for drinking cold beer, eating with your hands and sharing spicy food. Music is a priority, and there is a custom hi-fi system always grooving something psychedelic, global, funky, etc. – usually with someone selecting vinyls. You won’t find choza on Google. It’s walk-in only and only open on Saturdays, Sundays and Mondays, but the experience is made with a huge amount of love and deliciousness.

This is the type of place that makes me fall in love with Mexico city. Go here for a relaxed lunch of people watching and crazy delicious flavours. If you have one meal in all of Mexico city, this should be it. The concept is just “RURAL MEXICAN FOOD” based around heirloom corn they source, nixtamalize, and grind in house (as well as supplying many other restaurants in Mexico). Jesus, the chef and owner, is from the countryside in Guerrero and he cooks with a pure soul. Many of the ingredients come directly from his farm or surrounding land in Guerrero.

Make a reservation for 3pm, preferably on a Thursday or Friday when they have live music, and go for a superbly long meal. It’s far, yes, probably a 30min Uber from your Airbnb or hotel, and its in the middle of nowhere, and its only open for lunch - but it’s one of most soulful meals in CDMX. Its traditional Mexican dining at its absolute best, showcasing much of the diversity of the food of different regions of Mexico, as well as interesting Mexican ingredients and ancient Mexican recipes. Ask about the “teporocho” (alcoholic tea) to end the meal. In fact, ask lots of questions about everything! The menu changes often and the waiters are very educated on the food they serve so just ask for suggestions.

Tiny little taco joint in San Rafael with only standing space - it pains me to include this spot here because I want to keep the tiny, so fucking flavourful taco joint all for myself. The Al Pastor and the Tripa tacos are perfect. The Torta with pastor and queso is awesome too. The whole experience of eating tacos here is perfect. Im here at least once a week.

Yucatecan home-cooking. Soulful and spicy and always hits the spot. I will often be here eating alone relaxing to good music with a book. My go to order is the Sopa de Lima followed by panuches de Cochinita, an agua de Chaya, and a few beers. Run by a lovely woman Jocyln who started the place using her mothers recipes.

One of the cities best and most extensive mezcal lists coupled with trippy amazing music, well educated and friendly staff. Go here for a psychedelic night of heavy mezcal drinking with a good homie. The restaurant next door (same owner but the restaurant is unnamed/unmarked) is also absolutely delicious and focuses on unique regional cuisines of Mexico. This is an extraordinary bar.

One of the cities best mixologists, Kristian, opened a tiny bar tucked away in Roma where he is the only employee and you’re basically drinking in his home - a home with an absurdly fucking stocked bar. He built everything from the lighting to the bar by hand. A normal night might include a cocktail with juice squeezed fresh in front of you and a root that makes your mouth go numb, a sample of some sotol, a mezcal sample, a sample of some weird liquor he just got from a friend, a mezcal negroni style drink, a big beer you’re now splitting with the people next to you, a joint or two being passed around at 1:30am, and a fernet. You get the idea. Go here and drink till it closes and enjoy the amazing work and friendliness of Kris. Please do tell Kris that I sent you! To me, Tacobar is probably the best bar in all of Mexico city. It’s great when it’s slammed on the weekends, but it’s best experienced on a Tuesday or Wednesday when it’s a bit more intimate and Kristian can take his time taking care of you with delicious drinks.

Absolute, absolute, must go experience for anyone who likes dancing or is interested in nightlife. This is a legendary dance club that’s only open on Friday nights and has been going for like 30 years. It feels like you're walking into an insane dance party in the 80s. Its mostly “high energy” techno, its got the craziest diversity of people who go every week and are every age and wear every color and are very friendly. What defines the club is that EVERYONE dances, without pretention or care, and its known for insane dance circles with choreographed groups of people letting loose. Go here!!!

A perfect market for someone who wants to see a larger Mexico city market but isn’t quite ready to hit la Merced. Jamaica is best known as the OG flower market, and it has an insane selection of flowers. But it also has very good food and very good selection of ingredients I often go here for more special things like wild mushrooms, kefir limes or weird spices.

Chef Tyler Henry’s Guide to CDMX

Paurro

 The No System House is a spot created by people that are deeply involved in the underground music scene in Mexico. It’s a great DIY space that hosts different events like album release parties, ambient happenings, art exhibitions, and parties with great local artists. It also has a space for rent to practice your DJ skills, record a set or a radio show and do live streaming. 

This club is a staple and an institution in CDMX’s nightlife. The night to go is on Fridays for its HI-NRG night and you should really get ready to do some serious dancing. There is a community going there for years to compete in the middle of the dance floor which makes the vibe of that place incomparable. There is nothing like that anywhere else in Mexico City  

This spot works as a rehearsal space and a music production studio during the week. However every Thursday they host events in the afternoon with DJ sets from local artists which are also streamed plus beers and mezcal for sale. It’s a great plan if you want a taste of the emerging electronic music scene. 
 

Club Colima is a small but very cute bar/club with great cocktails, great sound and a very diverse program of mostly local DJs every week. The spot is inside a delicious fried chicken sandwich spot called Frito y Cruel so you can get some food there if you get hungry. The vibe feels like the next-door bar where all your friends go and the music range goes from cumbia to afro beat to house and a little bit of techno too. 

Yu Yu has become a true classic to CDMX nightlife. With the recent opening of its own radio station called Drama plus the bar upstairs (with a delicious cocktail menu), the place has come full circle. This club is the one with the riskiest music programming and variety of genres but always with amazing taste. You can jump into a footwork, a techno, or a reggaeton night, there is something there for everyone. 

Salón San Luis is a time capsule to the romantic Fichera years of modern Mexico. This ballroom with 73 years of tradition is a complete experience with a live salsa and cumbia band, beautiful and skilled dancers, old-school bottle service, and red velvet with mirrors all over. I always feel nostalgic after leaving, it’s legendary. 

This is a spot with three floors with different atmosphere’s to hang out, eat and try different flavors of Pulque. The top terrace has commercial music, on the second floor they host different DJ’s every night and the first floor has cumbia, salsa, hip hop, and a more eclectic vibe. 

Funk is an electronic music club hidden in a basement located in Colonia Condesa. Its sound system and lighting are amazing which makes every night memorable. Its music programming is pretty diverse musically with a great combination of national and international talent every night. You definitely can’t miss this one. 

Faena is an extravagant cantina and a Taurine museum that has been open for more than 80 years. It is an ideal spot to pre-game before a night out. Its vibe is super old school and zero pretentious, just what a cantina should be. They serve some appetizers like caldo de Cameron and tostadas de pata but the main purpose of going there is to have a drink and a long chat with friends. 

The Best Clubs in Mexico City Selected by Paurro

During Covid-19 Seo Ju Park and Sofia Acosta, both from Mexico City, started their Kimchi project because they felt Mexico City lacked a good Kimchi and K-Food project.

Dooriban is a dark kitchen family style K-food project by Mamá Park, using Seo Ju Park's mom's recipes for the best Korean food experience.

Makan is a Singaporean bites and wine bar space owned by Singaporean-born Maryann and her Mexican partner Mario.

Founded by Thai-born Somsri Raksamran and her Mexican husband, Galanga Thai is one of the most known Thai restaurants in Mexico City.

Tachinomi Desu is one of Mexico city's coolest bars offering a large array of Sakes from Japan and some even made in Mexico. The bar is part of Edo Kobayashi's group. Edo is a Japanese-Mexican who owns several of the city's most iconic Asian spots.

Bao Bao is a Taiwanese eatery owned by Taiwanese-Panamanian Kathy Fong who opened this spot to best represent the diverse gastronomy of this tiny Asian island.

Vietnamese restaurant chain that opened in 2019 and now has three open restaurants in Mexico City and one upcoming in Cancún with Mexico's best Vietnamese food.

Go upstairs to the little steak Japanese joint they run. It’s a hidden entrance to the side of the actual restaurant and kind of an insider thing.

Asian-Owned Businesses in Mexico City

La Lovemaker

Although it's true that it is a new concept in the record store in the City, the partners have a long history in the field of vinyl records, at each visit it is normal that you find new records of various genres. The place is comfortable and welcoming, there will always be someone to guide you to buy a new record. And the prices are real and accessible. Their selection is mostly 7¨ records.

In the heart of the Doctores neighborhood it is possible to find a great selection of varied music in 7' and 12'. In the catalog it is possible to find everything from the most classic to the "secret boxes" full of the most difficult to find items. Only first editions. It is a space where occasionally there are selections of DJs and Bands.

It is the only store in CDMX that continues to maintain a subculture as its banner, this store is a tribute to an era. Music listened to by mods and rudeboys. You can find, Northern Soul, Ska, 60s Beat, Psychedelia, among other vintage sounds.

Shop specializing in counterculture music like garage, punk, hardcore, exotic, also iconic compilations from independent labels, totally street music.

La Lovemaker's Guide to the Best Record Stores in CDMX 

If you only eat one thing off the street it should be this. It’s a spot on Colima for quesadillas during the day. The huitlacoche and queso is incredible, so is [the] chicken tinga. But the green mole with chicken and cheese is otherworldly. A great entry point to street food as it's approachable, delicious and fairly simple. I probably eat here more than anywhere else in Mexico City. One mole verde con queso, one huitlacoche con queso.

Yucatecan home cooking. Soulful, spicy and hits the spot. I will often be here eating alone, relaxing to good music with a book. My go-to order is the sopa de lima followed by panuchos de cochinita, an agua de chaya and a few beers. Run by a lovely woman, Jocyln, who started the place using her mother's recipes. One sopa de lima, four panuchos de cochinita, one whatever else is inspiring.

Tacos of chargrilled meats. I love, love, love the poblano con bistec with a side order of chiles toreados. The alambre de pastor is very good. Poblano de bistec.


In centro, this is an OG taco spot open late and serving the best suadero and campechano tacos in Mexico City. I often bike here late at night to crush a few tacos. Be very, very careful walking around the surrounding area after dark. [Order] four campechano, two suadero.

A tiny little taco joint in San Rafael with only standing space. It pains me to include this spot here because I want to keep the tiny, flavourful taco joint all for myself. The al pastor and the tripas tacos are perfect. The torta with pastor and queso is awesome too. The whole experience of eating tacos here is perfect. I'm here at least once a week. Four pastor, one tripas.

An old-school joint cooking northern Mexican staples, and a great place to sit in a booth crushing beers and tacos for a long lunch. I often find myself here with chilaquiles on a slow Monday morning.

Easily a top five spot for me in Mexico! The coldest, best beer in Mexico! OG joint serving just birria, side of avocado, side of queso, amazing beers and tequila. Get the beer “campechano” – it’s a mix of their dark and light drafts in a huge, ice-cold mug. Live music, photographer running around. A celebratory place, great for groups and rowdy fun. Go here! Birria, side of queso, side of avocado, at least three campechano cervezas.

Commonly referred to as the best al pastor in the city. During the daytime it's an autobody shop; at night it turns into a massive al pastor operation that is not just delicious, but an awesome experience and vibe to eat at with giant, ripping pastor spits and people from all walks of life. Four pastor, one gringa.

The Best Tacos in Mexico City Chosen by Chef Tyler Henry

My favourite coffee spot. They only use Mexican beans and they work directly, and sustainably, with their producers.

This record store has everything. A very good selection of 90s house. Everyone that works here really knows what they’re talking about.

I really love seafood. The format of this spot is like a Mexican cantina, but the food is Spanish-style seafood.

Really good food and mezcals; DJs play on the weekends. This is a good spot for pre-gaming in Coyoacán.

A weekend art market in San Angel where you can find Mexican artists selling their works. Perfect weekend activity.

University Museum of Contemporary Art. Always amazing exhibitions on here and it’s just awesome to walk around the campus – the buildings are insane. There’s also a botanical garden.

When I need to escape the city, I love to take my dogs here. It’s 45 minutes from the city and you can do a barbecue, go hiking, walking and fish.

For a good cocktail and record selectors. This is a nice date spot.

A Guide to CDMX, Mexico City, Mapped Out by Paurro

The most approachable market around – a small market in Roma Sur that’s easy and a quick hit, but still has a bunch of great produce. Fantastic oaxacan puesto. A good Cuban ice cream spot. On Saturdays and Sundays the butcher, Meche y Rafael in the meat section, does awesome carnitas tacos. It’s the only spot with a seating section.

A perfect market for a visitor who wants to see a larger Mexico City market, but isn’t quite ready to hit La Merced. Jamaica is best known as the OG flower market, and it has an insane selection of flowers. But it also has very good food and a very good selection of ingredients. I often go here for more special things, like wild mushrooms or kefir limes or weird spices. My friend, Francisco, runs a chile shop there and does a very cool market-slash-food, make-your-own-salsa or mole and mezcal tour that is a great experience.

A fun market in centro with a great diversity of good produce and some awesome stands to eat and drink at. Tourist-y and overpriced for most chef shopping purposes, but excellent nonetheless. I get some specialty ingredients from here and love to just hang and drink.

Chaotic Mexico at its best! Merced is the largest traditional retail market in the city and one of the oldest. It's been going since the 18th century. It's located in the eastern part of centro. Let me just say, it is not in any way safe. The market is also a giant labyrinth that’s easy to get lost in. I would not recommend going here without someone who knows the market, and I would also lay off your cell phone anywhere near or within the market. That being said, it's magical, mind-blowing and endlessly inspiring! There is an extraordinary selection of good street foods within the market. I think it's best at 9am in the morning.

4 Markets You Need to Visit in Mexico City

Orbe Nacimiento

This was the first spot we thought of while making this guide, basically because it’s where we spend more time. This park is part of Museo Tamayo, a really good contemporary art museum which always has something cool to see. Nonetheless, most of the time we just go to the gardens, which are pretty empty on the weekdays. It’s a great spot to take the dog (Chango) out and just lay there, in the grass, and think about future projects, new ideas for music or any other things that may occur to us. It’s a place we hold dear because of how much time we’ve spent there. A great place to go non-verbal for a couple hours, which is a hard thing to find in this city.

This is a neighbourhood gem in Colonia Juárez, a very central and busy neighbourhood with lots of Korean food options. Nadefo is a delicious Korean barbecue place with a very chill ambience, and although it’s very popular and fairly well priced, it’s never overly crowded which is definitely a plus.
Galbi, which is marinated and grilled beef or pork ribs, is a fantastic choice for a house special, especially when you get to cook it on the table grill in the traditional Korean barbecue style. Accompanied with some rice wine (makkoli), dinner with friends in this place is always a great option.

Definitely somewhere you can have special gatherings, share wine and celebrate birthdays (it’s our go-to birthday celebration place for some reason).
A huge stone arch goes through the middle of the park, bisecting it and creating all these cute private spaces in which you can set up a picnic gathering. It’s located in Lomas de Chapultepec, one of the most affluent residential neighbourhoods in the city, which is not a very walkable place. As a result, the park is usually nearly empty, making it a great and almost private place to unwind with friends.

This place is definitely our go-to bar. We first spotted it walking past it, since it's almost exactly in the middle point in between both our houses. We would walk past it and wonder what the deal was with the place because of its mysterious entry, which has colonial-style architecture and a simple sign that says: Bar. When we finally went inside one day we found out it’s part of the Maria Cristina Hotel, which has a small but really cute garden inside that connects it to the bar with a small terrace. They have good martinis and a great vibe in general. It’s never crowded and you’ll never run into known people there.
Great place to just hang out and talk for hours. The terrace and the garden make you feel you’re hours outside the city, and the waiters are really nice.

Barba Azul stands as an iconic and timeless dancehall from the cabaret years in Mexico City. It really doesn’t matter what day of the week you go, there will always be people dancing with a live orchestra playing salsa, cumbia and bachata, among other Latin genres almost until daylight. The place is not only for the younger crowd, it has been around for more than 70 years, which is why you will encounter people of all ages. There's people that have been attending the place for several decades.

This intergenerational connection added to its peculiar decor, consisting of huge papier-mâché sculptures coming out of its all-blue interiors, make this space a very special and cherished club by everyone.

Explore Mexico City’s Less-Crowded Spots With Orbe Nacimiento

Irma Ruiseñor

A beautiful space in Colonia Cuauhtémoc offering a variety of mezcal, cuisines inspired by corn, well-curated exhibitions and listening sessions.

Part of the Yu Yu club, it's a cocktail bar with a nice radio where local DJs and selectors record and stream live sets.

A mezcal bar with a wide range of mezcal options from different regions of Mexico. Bósforo also offers delicious food and a spectacular playlist curated by the owner.

It began as a club and an online radio, and now it continues to host an itinerant series of parties and runs a record label where you can discover eclectic sounds from Latin American rave music. You can immerse yourself in the music and the vibe while encountering some of the most iconic DJs from the electronic club community.

A cozy restaurant in Colonia Juárez where you can enjoy really nice sandwiches, amazing appetisers like ceviche, delicious bread and a selection of beverages – including vermouth.

A hidden gem in Mexico, Loose Blues has a diverse kitchen with flavours from Asian cuisines as well as amazing cocktails and a great selection of music. They also have a store with contemporary fashion from local brands and an online radio.

An amazing and fun Sunday ceviche pop-up kitchen in the heart of downtown CDMX with a spectacular view of the Torre Latino. The place offers a really nice vibe and features amazing local, iconic DJs and guests to set the mood for the afternoon.

Located in the south of the city, this familiar place is a favourite, offering dishes from the southern peninsula of Mexico. Nothing on the menu costs more than 99.99 pesos (hence the name). Highly recommended dishes include lime soup, mix panuchos, and taquitos of queso relleno.

A hidden showroom in the heart of downtown Mexico City, Materia Lab specialises in street fashion, reflecting the essence of current urban style culture in Mexico.

An art gallery owned by one of Mexico's most iconic street artists, part of APC Rex Baton. Street Lynx presents and sells art from emerging and contemporary urban artists. They offer free exhibitions and art pieces for sale.

An art project and cultural agency that hosts and manages intriguing art projects by talented and rare artists, including art shows and collaborations with music festivals, movies, runways and other exciting ventures. They also provide free exhibitions and art pieces for sale.

An amazing multicultural space with a social focus who work very close with queer mexican communities. Pandeito also have a very nice offer of workshops.

Explore Mexico City with Irma Ruiseñor

Grace Neutral

Auckland 

London

Los Angeles 

Tattoo and shop owner Spider Sinclair, brings his own elegant twist to traditional fine line biker tats.

Lakara is the coolest guy I've ever met. Such a down to earth old Mexican punk dude. Has the sickest imagination, coolest artwork and does proper rock n roll tattoos.

If you’re into graffiti and old school hip hop then Charlie, the owner, is the guy for you. If you have more of an astrological calling then Mario is your boy. A small shop with super good vibes.

Moko is a young Mawi tattoo artist who specialises in soho tamoko which is the traditional hand poked method of tattoo originating from the natives in New Zealand.

Best shop in LA for lettering and script. Owned by one of the kings of graffiti, Norm.

There’s only one person you should see in there and that’s Ruby.

This is a safe space for everyone, LGBTQ friendly, very at home relaxed vibes. Where womxn rule. But boys are welcome!

Grace Neutral's Top Tattoo Spots

AAAA

Where I get my coffee everyday, the staff is the best and coffee too. This is located in Centro (downtown).

An independent synth shop. The owner is a good guy, and this is one of the few spots where you can find specialised electronic music instruments and modular synths in the city, located in Colonia Condesa.

In Centro downtown. It's also the mecca of Japanese mangas in the city. A lot of kids go to play and exchange, it's pretty fun and not the usual tourist activity.

An itinerant rave. They use warehouses and abandoned buildings to create a utopic, inclusive rave-slash-party experiences. Affordable for the locals and with the best international and local talent.

Located in Colonia Juárez. An independent fashion store with a futuristic, minimal and cyberpunk approach.

5 Independent Spots You Should Support in Mexico City

Moe Saavedra

My studio where you can find me tattooing most days.

This is an amazing mix of art & technology. It’s a fountain / water system / sculpture designed by Diego Riviera in the Chapultepec forest. There’s also a skatepark nearby here that I like to skate at.

This is a food market, famous for it’s mariscos (seafood). I always get the 'alambre de camaron’ and a corona.

This place is famous for it’s 80s high energy music vibe. It’s a must-experience for Mexico City there’s nothing else like it.

I find lots of cool weird stuff at this flea market. A lot of frames for art in my studio. Be warned this market is next to a trash station so I’ll shop there but I would never eat there haha. There are other good flea markets such as Lagunilla but now there’s a lot more tourists so the prices are higher. La Bufola is where you can find weird stuff super cheap.

CDMX with tattooist, Moe Saavedra

This is the type of place that makes me fall in love with Mexico City. Go here for a relaxed lunch of people watching and very delicious rural Mexican food based around heirloom corn they source, nixtamalize and grind in-house (as well as supplying many other restaurants in Mexico). Jesus, the owner and founding chef, is from the countryside in Guerrero and he cooks with pure soul. Many of the ingredients come directly from his farm or surrounding land in Guerrero. Jesus is one of the most influential people in the way I interact with food today. He is family to me – please tell him I sent you.

This is my favourite. A more proper sit down restaurant in Mexico City. This was the first restaurant I cooked in in Mexico, and has a huge place in my heart.  Make a reservation for 3pm, preferably on a Thursday or Friday when they have live music, and go for a superbly long meal. It’s far, probably a 30-minute Uber from your Airbnb or hotel, and it’s in the middle of nowhere. It’s only open for lunch, but it's traditional Mexican dining at its absolute best, showcasing much of the diversity of the food of different Regions of Mexico, as well as ancient recipes. You’ll be surrounded by Mexican families, tourist couples, local chefs, Mexican businessmen, etc. Get lots of mezcal. Take your time sipping, relaxing and hanging before ordering your next item to eat. Ask questions about everything! Skip the bread service, and instead get more tortillas and use them for dipping, scooping, wrapping everything in sight into them. The mole dishes are my favourite on the menu, but the menu changes often and the waiters are great so just ask for suggestions.

Painfully perfect Mexican breakfast cooked with love. Come here after a very late night partying (without sleeping), or wake up early and get here before 10am when most things begin to sell out. If you are a foodie, wake up early with a fat joint and go here.

So stoked on this recent opening from a very close friend, Chef Filipe Nives, and his partner Ramses from Berlin. They operated a badass restaurant together once upon a time in Berlin. Kind of all over the place on food, but I’d say elegant food meant for drinking with influence from Portugal – where Filipe is from – while also celebrating Japanese izakaya culture. The menu revolves around vegetables, but also great fried chicken. Extraordinary wine and drink selection. I love being here at the later end of the night – it feels like a back alley in NYC Chinatown. They often have events and pop-ups of sorts. An industry hang.

Thoughtful use of Mexican ingredients for excellent Italian food, housed in a stunning mansion. Classic institution. When you’re bored of Mexican food, this is a great place to have a more romantic dinner while still enjoying the local bounty, especially with an intimate friend or group of friends.

A spectacular, royal dining experience! This is royal Thai food in a gorgeous garden setting. Run by husband, wife and dear friends Somsri and Eleazar. They have done an extraordinary job creating an elegant dinner with authentic flavours – they grow many of the ingredients they cook with themselves (and I cook with!) on a farm in Hidalgo. I always leave a meal here impressed with their attention to detail and commitment to sharing authentic Thai culture with Mexico.

The Best Restaurants in CDMX 

A slick Japanese inspired speak-easy bar with a delicious hi-fi sound system. The house record collection is great, the cocktails are great and the heated toilet seats are also, great.

Casa Franca is a sexy spot and my favourite place to enjoy live music. They host regular Jazz and Blues nights with a rotating line-up of the cities finest musicians and the place itself has lots of cosy corners to make out with your date in also.

As a straight woman I’m probably not the one to tell you what the best Queer club night  is, but I have enjoyed many a Saturday night dancing in Sic. They always have a sick (pun intended) line-up of DJ’s and a dance floor full of friendly faces. Only open on Saturdays.

I love love love Teatro Lucido, it’s part theatre, part venue, part club, part someone’s home.. It’s a unique experience where everyone is a part of the performance, from immersive theatre to live bands to erotic poetry to DJ sets, anything can happen at Teatro Lucido. Check their instagram for dates / events.

An absolute must if you’re visiting CDMX, guaranteed good times with a live salsa and cumbia band in a beautiful Salon with checkered dance floor. Get a table with your friends, buy a bottle, order some fries and stay there dancing till 4AM. I’m not telling you to take mushrooms here but I’m not telling you not to either.

Choza is everyone’s favourite spot to be honest. Its got a vibe like no other, the food is out of this world and owner Tyler and in-house selector / MD Covagrooviest have been building a record collection full of rare and wonderful audio delights for years. On Mondays they have the “Lunes Listening Lounge” where they play 3 records in their entirety alongside guest DJ’s, friends and family. You can catch me there hanging, eating and sippin’ most weekends.

As the name suggests, this is the spot for Sunday afternoon through evening partying. Always bringing a heated line-up of international and local electronic DJs, the venue is pretty special also, located in the Historic Centre of the city on the 6th floor with killer views, definitely slide through for a sunset rave.

Mexico City

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