Mexico City
No one warned me about the dogs of Mexico City. As soon as I arrived, I was in awe at the sight of up to twenty canines at a time helmed by dog walkers. Big dogs, small dogs, furry, spotted, all wagging their tails with an air of friendly insouciance. Every corner I turned, I spotted dog paraphernalia overflowing from Oxxo’s front displays. One morning, I even spotted a makeshift shrine to dogs in someone’s apartment window.
To me, Mexico City’s dogs represent the spirit of the city itself - approachable, carefree, and likely cooler than you. Every single person I’ve known who’s traveled to Mexico City has come back with rave reviews regardless of taste, lifestyle, or budget. Whether you’re a creative, history buff, or nightlife addict, Mexico City is the ultimate crowd pleaser.
where to stroll & stay
Roma - Central, trendy, and walkable neighborhood. Great for your first time.
La Condesa - Condesa is Roma’s hipster sister. I’ve stayed here each time I’ve visited due to the close proximity to Chapultepec park! It’s the best place for a morning jog. Parque México and Parque España are pleasant locations for dog watching, reading in the park, or a midday stroll.
Juárez - Take a walk from Roma into Juárez for bustling shops, eateries, and window shopping.
Centro - For a history and culture fix, visit the tourist attractions near Alameda Central park. I spent a night at the Gran Hotel overlooking the Zócalo and loved the stained glass!
Coyoacán & San Ángel - Spend a Saturday visiting these two neighborhoods off the beaten path. Start with the Frida Kahlo museum and wander Avenue Francisco Sosa after. Cute architecture, weekend flower/art markets, and a local feel.
where to eat
For popular restaurants, book as early as possible. And dare I say - skip the Pujol reservation? Sadly, CDMX is the only city in Mexico where I’ve experienced food poisoning. To prevent Montezuma’s revenge, pop a Pepto Bismol before meals, avoid ice/tap water even when brushing teeth, and pass on most street food.
Maximo - Inventive cocktails and dishes (ex. corn-based martini)
Quintonil - Elevated experience at one of the world’s best restaurants
Contramar - Go for the tuna tostadas and red/green fish. Snag a lunchtime walk-in.
Choza CDMX (194 Monterrey) - Cool speakeasy bar meets spicy Thai fusion restaurant. They’re only open on weekends and don’t take reservations.
Hugo - French inspired wine bar with cocktails and small plates (gnocchi)
Taqueriá Orinoco - Late night tacos
El Pescadito - Fish tacos
Por Siempre Vegana - Vegan tacos
Expendio de Maiz Sin Nombre - I still haven’t had a chance to check out this lunch spot, but it’s on my list. No formal menu, just endless rounds of dishes based on daily ingredients.
Café Nin - Light-filled brunch spot with lively ambiance
Panadería Rosetta - Grab a pastry and stroll along Calle Colima!
Ojo de Agua - Salads, açai bowls, and juices
Amamba - Same as above
Blend Station - Great spot if you need to get some laptop work done. Strong wifi, outlets galore including at outdoor tables, and lunch offerings.
Cicatriz - Another cute cafe for reading, working, or catching up with friends. Turns into a wine bar at night.
Churrería El Moro - Churros for days
Nevería Roxy - Started in 1946, this family run ice cream parlor serves charming scoops and sundaes– very old school!
what to see
Make sure to book slots for places like Casa Barragan early. I’ve also snuck into non-English tours and enjoyed my experiences. Many sites are closed on Mondays so plan your visits accordingly.
Museo Frida Kahlo - Must-see tour of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera’s personal residence, which is adorned with artwork and home decor.
Museo Nacional de Antropología - Unique assortment of archeological artifacts from Aztec, Mayan, and pre-Columbian civilization
Casa Orgánica - Unique house tour that highlights Senosiains’s organic architecture. It’s a house built into the side of a grassy hill and inspired by natural elements. Pushed my personal definitions of how space, nature, and ecology can function cohesively.
Casa Luis Barragan - For architecture fans, an interesting tour into Barragan’s personal residence and creative sensibilities. Be warned - they’ll charge ~$20USD to take photos. You can enjoy the tour without.
Palacio Nacional, Museum Mural Diego Rivera, Palacio Postal, and House of Tiles - For those seeking traditional art and history offerings, Centro’s sites are conveniently situated in the same radius.
Museo Soumaya - The museum’s impressive spiral structure leads to a vast art collection grouped by historic period from the pre-colonial era to the modern. Check out Museo Jumex across the street.
Museo Tamayo - Small contemporary art collection that takes less than 2H to visit
Lucha Libre - Watching WWE style Lucha Libre was not on my to-do list originally, but it was entertaining to observe the crazy wrestling costumes. Buy a ticket at the ticket office shortly before.
Teotihuacán - Cannot believe I still haven’t done the pyramid/ hot air balloon tour (thanks for nothing, food poisoning), but I had booked a guided tour with round transportation on Viator.
what to buy
Rock Your Hair - I would put this place at the top of my list if categorized by favorability. I’ve had amazing haircuts here for under $50 USD. Request Isaac - he’s highly personable, speaks English, and even remembered me a year between appointments.
Vintage Shops like Vintage Hoe, Revolver Vintage, or Goodbye Folk
Roma Boutiques such as Happening or NAKED CDMX. Plug a few of these into your phone and walk around the general neighborhood to see what catches your eye!
Polanco Shops like Onora and IKAL - Pricey boutiques, more for window shopping fine ceramics and hand-picked designers. There’s a Zara next to IKAL.
where to go out
Departamento - Bi-level bar with drinks and live music - you may need to pay a cover fee
Xaman Bar - Creatively inspired cocktails, speakeasy ambiance
Hotel CondesaDF Rooftop Bar - Chic daytime or nighttime spot for drinks at a boutique hotel overlooking Parque España
Bar Oriente - Electronic music in the heart of Roma
Pervert CDMX - Harder techno that leans a bit more Berghain with a secret location each time
