MEXICO, Mexico | We know Mexico well, but sometimes less about its capital, yet fascinating and overflowing with attractions of all kinds. Mexico City is a pleasant mix of cultures, where the pandemic has spawned new cultural buds and where a new wave of nomads have established themselves for the longer term. This winter, if you opt for Mexico City, visit these must-see places.
Casa Pedegral
Luis Barragán is one of Mexico’s most influential architects and Casa Pedegral is the largest and most impressive residence he designed. Built between 1947 and 1950, the house was the subject of advertising campaigns for the urban development of the El Pedregal district. At the time, it was intended as a utopian solution initiated by the architect to alleviate the demand for housing in one of the fastest growing cities in the world. It remains today one of the most interesting places to discover in the Mexican capital. It is possible to visit the Casa by appointment.
Contramar Restaurant
While studying art history, chef Gabriela Cámara opened Contramar Restaurant with a group of friends, out of a desire to bring the taste of fresh seafood to the city and create a place where artists and creatives would feel at home. It’s a successful bet 20 years later, when we find the best aguachile and fish tacos in town. To visit for brunch or to taste a classic!
Casa Ortega
Photo taken from the Casa Ortega Facebook page.
Photo taken from the Casa Ortega Facebook page.
Photo taken from the Casa Ortega Facebook page.
Casa Ortega was the first residence designed by architect Luis Barrangan, and it is one of the few that he will live in. It includes a garden and an adjoining house, and it is now possible to visit the premises. Casa Ortega hosts several art installations, including during Zona Maco, an annual art fair held in the city.
Bar Margarita, in Tepoztlan
Located 1h20 from Mexico City, Tepotzplan is the city where all the residents of the capital go for a long weekend and a little bath in nature. The Margarita bar, masterfully led by Matthieu, the grandson of the owner of the adjacent hotel, is the place to find the best cocktails in the area and enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains. . Go there on weekends for a musical line-up from international DJs.
Parcela, in Tepoztlan
This magical place is a farmhouse, a kitchen and a meeting place, where you can get in touch with local artisans and discover the products of the land. We go there as much for the tastings as to admire the landscape, a glass of natural wine in hand. Parcela is to be visited to get acquainted with local and authentic cuisine. There are also workshops on local products.
Acme Lounge
A place of dissemination, development and exhibition, the Salón Acme has three main rooms opening onto different levels, in which several exhibitions and artistic projections take place. It is particularly popular during the Zona Maco art fair, but people go there all year round to visit its various exhibitions or to sit down in the middle of its crowded terrace.
Bar Yu-Yu
This “speakeasy” is a lot of talk in Mexico City. Entering it you will feel like you are in a cafe from the 20s. Then walk through the door and find yourself in a small bar of about 20-25 people with an exquisite cocktail bar and a record player for vinyls. The atmosphere is dark with lights in the right places and great music! To discover for an evening where everything is possible.
scarring
Cicatriz is a cafe where you go during the day or early evening for a sandwich or simple tapas to eat on the go. The place, which is more of a café during the day, becomes a restaurant-bar during the evening. Always offering creative dishes, it overlooks the street and you don’t hesitate to take a seat around communal tables in the company of the local fauna.
Rosetta
Photo taken from the Facebook page of the Rosetta restaurant.
Photo taken from the Facebook page of the Rosetta restaurant.
Photo taken from the Facebook page of the Rosetta restaurant.
Chef Elena Reygadas’ Italian restaurant is by far the most stunning and romantic restaurant in town. As soon as you take a look at the menu, you understand that its creators are people who have travelled. Order the fresh pasta of the day without hesitation, and also stop by the nearby bakery for exquisite pastries. Without a doubt one of the best restaurants in Mexico City!
Artisan market, in Valle del Bravo
Valle del Bravo is an increasingly popular area, 2h30 by car from Mexico City. The place is full of small hippie markets, pretty farmers markets and pleasant Airbnb accommodations. There is a fauna of young thirtysomethings and young retirees. If you plan to explore the surroundings, stop by its craftsmen’s market, a must in the area. On the menu: baskets, ceramics, pottery, etc. Open daily from 10:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Monte Alto State Park
This protected area near Valle de Bravo has over 20 km of trails for hiking, horseback riding and mountain biking. It is also possible to go paragliding and hang gliding. The trails are classified according to their degrees of difficulty (beginners, intermediate and advanced hikers). A great way to connect with nature.