Best Neighborhoods in Mexico City: Roma Norte and Condesa Travel Guide
Walking around the most charming neighborhood in Mexico City, Roma Norte
Mexico City is quite simply incredible. The food, the culture, the vibes, all make this a must-visit destination. But for a city of over 24 million inhabitants, it can be helpful to narrow your visit down to one or two neighborhoods. The neighboring hoods of Roma Norte and Condesa are two of our absolute favorites. Mexico City’s Condesa and Roma Norte neighborhoods are where old-world charm meets modern creativity. With leafy parks, Art Deco buildings, world-class restaurants, and a buzzing cultural scene, these areas are perfect for wandering, eating, and soaking in the city’s vibrant energy.Read on for a travel guide for how to enjoy your time in these vibrant pockets of Mexico City.
Getting Around
Both neighborhoods are walkable, but bikes and e-scooters are great for covering more ground. The Metro (Chapultepec, Sevilla, and Insurgentes stations) and Uber are also reliable options.
Where to Eat & Drink
Lalo for breakfast is a must.
Breakfast & Coffee
Panadería Rosetta – Famous for their guava pastries and fresh bread.
Lalo! – A colorful, casual breakfast spot with amazing chilaquiles.
Blend Station – Great specialty coffee and a relaxed workspace.
Lunch & Dinner
Contramar – Iconic seafood spot; order the tuna tostadas and split a red-and-green grilled snapper.
Máximo Bistrot – A farm-to-table restaurant with a perfect blend of Mexican and French flavors.
Tacos Orinoco – Legendary street-style tacos (try the chicharrón).
El Parnita-packed all day for casual bites
Rosetta-A Michelin-starred female chef?! Yes, Please
Casual Bites & Street Food
El Pescadito – The best fish tacos in the city.
Taquería Álvaro Obregón – A Roma classic, perfect for late-night tacos.
Churrería El Moro – Crispy churros and thick hot chocolate. open late.
STAY
Ignacio Guesthouse is one of the most charming (and stylish) options to stay in Roma Norte
Condesa DF- Very cool hotel in a fabulous location in Condesa
Ignacio Guesthouse- Small boutique hotel oozing charm.
Casa Luciana-Great comfortable location within walking distance to everything.
What do Do
One of the many great vintage shops in Roma Norte
Stroll Through Parque México & Parque España
These green oases are the heart of Condesa, lined with cafés, street performers, and people walking their (very stylish) dogs. Perfect for a morning coffee or a leisurely afternoon break.
Explore the Art Scene
Galería OMR – One of Mexico City’s leading contemporary art galleries.
Laguna – A repurposed textile factory filled with artists’ studios and creative shops.
Museo del Objeto del Objeto (MODO) – A quirky museum showcasing everyday objects with fascinating history.
Experience the Nightlife
Roma and Condesa come alive after dark with some of the city’s best bars and clubs.
• Licorería Limantour – Consistently ranked as one of the world’s best cocktail bars.
• Felina – A speakeasy-style bar with excellent mezcal cocktails.
• Departamento – A laid-back, indie music venue that feels like a house party.
Shop til you drop
Both of these incredible hoods are known for their amazing shopping. While more vintage shops can be found in Roma Norte, there are lots of great boutiques in Condesa as well.
• Casa Bosques – A dream for book lovers, featuring independent art and design publications.
• Lago/Algo – A high-concept space blending fashion, art, and design.
• Utilitario Mexicano – Beautifully designed, practical home goods made in Mexico.
Get in the spirit of Lucha Libre
For someone who has zero interest in wrestling, I still had a blast watching Lucha Libre. There is also a great shipping container food hall/bar area across from the area. This was a spontaneous idea on a sold-night so we ended up scalping tickets for aroun $25USD a person.
Final Tips
Bring cash – Many street vendors and smaller shops don’t accept cards.
Reserve in advance – Popular restaurants like Contramar fill up quickly.
Be street smart – Roma and Condesa are generally safe, but stay aware at night.
Enjoy the slow pace – This area is all about long walks, café-hopping, and soaking in the energy.
Roma Norte and Condesa capture the best of Mexico City: effortless cool, artistic flair, and some of the best food you’ll ever eat. Go hungry, stay curious, and don’t forget to look up—those balconies and facades are part of the magic.