Miralto
The Torre Latinoamerica was, from its completion in 1956 until, perhaps, the 1990s, the tallest building in Mexico and a symbol of the nation’s entry into the modern era. In the late 1980s, I discovered the stunning wraparound bar on the 41st floor, whose fabulous decor had been untouched since its inception: the mid-century chrome-edged black Bakelite tables and bars and mid-century modern carpeting were frozen time. Unfortunately, the powers that be in extremely bad taste decided to redo the place about 20 years ago and it all went in the bin to be replaced with plasticky airport lounge furniture. The current event is more tastefully done with a nod to retro; it’s a great place for breakfast. As the song says, “on a clear day, you can see forever…”
Latinoamerica Tower, Eje Central Lázaro Cárdenas, 41st floor, Center
tel. 55 1387 6937
Open Tuesday to Thursday 9am-11pm, Friday, Saturday 9am-12pm, Sunday and Monday 9am-10pm
Cha Cha Chá Terrace
Cha Cha Chá may have a silly name but it’s an interesting place. It is emblematic of the restoration and rebirth that is taking place around “Revolución”, an area left for decades to slowly decay and now a popular daytime walking destination: you can climb the monument itself for extraordinary views of the city across the uber-deco Frontón México has been transformed into a tacky casino: Jai Alai no longer takes place there. In Cha Cha Chá, even if there is no dancing, the evenings are lively. The spacious, high-ceilinged dining room, located on the sixth floor of the corner building, opens onto an airy terrace overlooking the monument and plaza. The food is fair: limit yourself to drinks and a light snack.
Avenida de la Revolución 157, south-east corner of the square, 6th floor see map
tel. 55 5705 2272
Open from 1pm to 1.30am Tuesday to Saturday, Sunday until 6pm, closed on Mondays
