The AB List: Mexico City
City Guide, Travel Inspiration, & Shopping List
Travel for Artful Living
In our increasingly connected yet somehow isolated world, travel is the ultimate creative reset button. It’s not about ticking off every IG-worthy hotspot; it's about immersing yourself in new cultures, shifting perspectives, and recharging your creative spark. From exciting sensory experiences to meaningful connections with new (or old) friends, travel opens your mind to possibilities that influence both your artistic vision and your approach to life.
I just got back from Mexico City (CDMX), where I visited with 16 friends for a bachelorette, and it was everything. The city's energy was unmatched—so vibrant and alive, it’s like the city whispered, “You really need to do this more often.” Consider me inspired. It was a reminder to travel more and practice artful living.
TL;DR
This one is a bit long. If you’re in a rush and want to skip ahead to the good stuff now, grab my Google Maps CDMX 2024 list so you have all the spots saved right away. And if you’re reading this in your inbox, you might need to hit "expand" to see the full newsletter—some email platforms trim longer ones. Alright, let’s get into it!
Mexico City
I knew that CDMX was cool, but once I was actually there, I realized how unique and special it truly is. What I loved most about Mexico City was the creative energy in the air. From the bold murals adorning buildings to the innovative culinary scene and the pulsating rhythm of deep house nightlife, every corner of the city seemed to whisper (or sometimes shout) inspiration.
Mexico City charms with its seamless blend of old-world history and modern flair. As my friends and I strolled through Roma and Condesa, we found ourselves bouncing between centuries-old churches, cutting-edge art galleries, and trendy mezcal bars. CDMX is truly one of a kind; it’s hard to compare it to any U.S. city. If I had to describe it to someone who hasn’t been, I'd say it’s like blending the artistic spirit of New York City, the vibrant food scene of Los Angeles, and the creative edge of Austin—all with a uniquely Mexican twist. The lively, walkable neighborhoods echo the charm of Brooklyn or Silver Lake, where trendy spots coexist with cultural landmarks. CDMX radiates warmth and community (big dog owner community) with incredible food, art, and hospitality that makes you feel like you’ve stumbled upon something special and alive.
CDMX City Guide
While Mexico City is brimming with well-known foodie spots like Pujol and late-night tacos like Taquería Orinoco, the true essence of the city often lies in its lesser-known spots. We hit a handful of popular classics for group dinners, did a local-led walking food tour, and checked out some mezcal nightclubs. Here’s a mix of the places I recommend:
Eat
Taverna - One of the top 3 restaurants I have been to in my whole life. And it’s probably the most stunning restaurant in CDMX. Housed in a beautifully restored 1905 hacienda with endless rooms, grand stairs, and tall ceilings that open up to a greenhouse where they grow their food, the space is mostly illuminated by candlelight, and we went for a late-night group dinner. The Mediterranean-inspired menu (made by chefs who studied at Noma) features dishes roasted in a wood-burning oven—don't miss the chorizo-stuffed dates wrapped in jamón serrano (my favorite bite), the table Pan Tomate is lifechanging, and any of the smoked meat entrees you can’t go wrong with. Lately, I’ve been into Mezcal Negronis and the one I got here was perfectly paired with the menu. This week they’re hosting Javier Plascencia, one of my favorite chefs I’ve been to his Anamalion in Cabo and his Finca Altozano in Valle de Guadalupe. If you ever find yourself at either of those, I highly recommend it!
Esquina Común - The address may no longer be a secret, but getting a reservation at this coveted spot is still a challenge—available only through direct messages on Instagram. Luckily, we booked them 2 weeks before Chef Ana Dolores González received a Michelin star this past August. The flavors were nothing like anything I have ever tried, but I loved every bite. We did family-style, tasting about eight dishes. Don’t come for the atmosphere; come to expand your palette and mind.
Paramo - An extensive list of taco options and mezcal recipes. Tucked away above a small taco joint, its laid-back vibe and rooftop setting make it ideal for a casual night out. The octopus ‘al pastor’ tacos were a hit with our group.
Club Tengo Hambre - Walking food tours are always a win, and my experiences with CTH have been nothing short of incredible. In CDMX, we took the Mexico City Street Food Essentials tour—a culinary adventure through quesadillas, juicy steak tacos, and pastries that are too good to pass up. The highlight? A special stop at Pujol's sister spot, Molino, where we had avocado tacos wrapped in edible plants—unexpected and unforgettable.
Contramar - This spot has been pumping for 26 years. No trip to CDMX is complete without a long, late-hour lunch at Contramar, when the place turns into a full-on brunch-style party. The tuna tostadas (we got 16) and whole fish with red and green sauce are a must.
Lardo - A neighborhood favorite known for its Mediterranean-inspired dishes with a Mexican twist. The open kitchen gives the space a warm, inviting feel, and the menu features everything from wood-fired pizzas to fresh pastries and standout seafood. Whether you're going for brunch or a laid-back dinner, Lardo’s atmosphere feels effortlessly chic—ideal for a relaxed yet sophisticated meal.
Drink
Salón Palomilla - My favorite lounge joint blending old-school cantina vibes with a modern chic aesthetic and only room for about 80 people. Known for its mezcal cocktails and lively atmosphere, it’s perfect for a laid-back night with friends. We met cool people here, and they opened up the rooftop while we drank amongst massive art hanging on the walls.
Departamento - A low-key yet buzzing club in CDMX, known for its intimate setting and cutting-edge music. Tucked away in a Roma building, it draws a creative crowd with its mix of electronic beats and live performances. We did bottle service and VIP table—it’s best during crowded nights.
Leonor - A small, unassuming club in CDMX that’s big on energy. It’s a late-night spot where things don’t really get started until after midnight. The groovy vibe and packed dance floor make it a must-hit for a fun, no-frills night out. We were there early and took over the whole spot for a disco.
Limantour - A CDMX cocktail institution, consistently ranked among the world’s best bars. With its sleek design and inventive drinks, it’s the perfect place to kick off or wind down a night in Roma Norte. Don’t miss their signature margarita al pastor—it’s a true standout.
Soho House Mexico City - The absolute best Soho House location. Set in a stunning 1940s mansion in Juárez, it’s a perfect spot to work during the day or sip cocktails on the terrace by night. A true home base for creatives in the city.
Shop
Proyecto Rufina Condesa - A shop and art initiative dedicated to revitalizing Mexico City’s cultural scene. Focused on promoting emerging artists, this dynamic shop offers small artist exhibitions, workshops, and community engagement. My friend Danielle and I grabbed a collection of handmade ceramics.
Mercado de Artesanías - I stumbled upon a stunning mixed-metal charm necklace that perfectly captures the spirit of Mexico City. This vibrant marketplace is brimming with handcrafted treasures, making it an ideal spot to find unique pieces that add a touch of artistry to your collection.
Goodbye Folk Vintage Boutique - A gem in Mexico City, offering a curated collection of unique vintage pieces that blend nostalgia with modern style. A must-visit for vintage lovers seeking something special to enhance their personal style.
Fueguia 1833 - A captivating fragrance house in Mexico City that crafts unique scents inspired by the country’s rich landscapes and cultural heritage. Each fragrance tells a story, evoking memories of vibrant markets, lush forests, and ancient traditions.
City Guide Recap
This is just my curated list of top spots in the city. While I didn’t cover every nook and cranny, I’m always hungry for more adventures. Comment with your favorite spots in the city so I can add them to my list. If you’re planning a trip to CDMX, send me an invite—I’m ready to tag along!
As winter creeps in and you start plotting your 2025 vacation, challenge yourself to explore a city you’ve never experienced before. Embrace each day with the curiosity of a true traveler, hunt for hidden gems in your routine, and don’t be afraid to wander off the beaten path. In artful living, remember: life itself is your ultimate creative project.
Recommendations
My list of items was inspired by my recent trip to CDMX, each thoughtfully curated to reflect the textures, colors, and creativity of the city. Whether you’ve experienced Mexico City or not, these picks capture the essence of artful living—mixing tradition with modern flair, bold colors with earthy textures, and a sense of discovery in everyday moments. Some of these I have and highly recommend, some of these we saw while shopping Saturday afternoon in Roma Norte and Condesa.
The key to creating a home and life you love lies in finding small treasures that reflect your personality, how you feel, and what truly inspires you. Each item you choose should bring a sense of joy and connection, adding to your environment in a way that feels both personal and intentional. Surrounding yourself with pieces that spark creativity and mirror your values is essential to cultivating a space that keeps you grounded and motivated every day.
Here are some of mine:
Condesa Gin - I love this Gin made in CDMX, have it on our bar at home
Burnt Ceramic Copita - If you drink Mezcal, it should be sipped from authentic copitas. Made in Mexico.
Tu Casa Mi Casa - Home recipes from the most famous chef in CDMX, Enrique Olvera, who mans the restaurant everyone raves about.
Mexican Citrus Juicer by Verve - a fun countertop accessory for fresh cocktails.
Travel Journal - I love how it’s not just empty pages, but more of an activity to fill out.
Margs. Dad Hat - My friends own this brand and I love their stuff. Necessary for your next happy hour.
Flowered Candle - Made in Mexico, perfect for holiday hostings.
Speckle Desert Platter - Artisan made in a village over an open fire, this is a functional art piece.
Colima Salsera - Stop eating salsa out of the plastic container from the store. Serve it in this Mexican-made salsera to authentically elevate your chip experience.
Molcajete - I have this, we use it all summer long for recipes.
Guadalupe Pendant - Similar to the one I bought in CDMX, this unique piece represents the patron saint of Mexico and California, this one comes from Los Angeles. I added it to my travel charm necklace.
Ceramic Container and Cup - I need this in our guest room. Made in Mexico.
Cactus Azul by Fueguia 1833 - Scents from the Mexican desert, from the perfumery I listed above as a must-visit.