The Opera Bar (1870)
How can we not mention the famous Bar La Opera with Pancho Villa’s bullet hole in the ceiling? The Belle Epoque has never been “more beautiful”. This has been a must-see for generations of visitors to the capital. There is a menu but we advise you to limit yourself to starters because the food is standard.
Cinco de Mayo 10, Center (see map)
Open Monday to Saturday from 1pm to 6pm, Sunday until 6pm
Paris Room (1950)
A neighborhood tradition, Salón París recently moved from its original location in the Zócalo of Santa Maria; fortunately, it retains its old-world atmosphere. It is supposedly where ranchera giant José Alfredo Jiménez began singing in public. It is a favorite among locals and still offers occasional live traditional music. Free snack come with drinks.
Torres Bodet 152, (see map)
Santa Maria la Ribera
Monday – Saturday 12.30pm – 10pm, Sunday until 8pm
Covadonga Hall (1940)
This traditional club for Spanish ex-patriots became, a few years ago, a meeting place for the neighborhood’s artists. Yet the veterans can still be found chatting in the vast, fluorescent-lit room. There is a good wine list, but the food is mediocre at best. Choose simple tapas like bocadillos, tortilla española or calamares a la Romana.
Puebla 121, Colonia Roma (see map)
Open Monday to Saturday 1pm – 2.30am, Sunday until 7pm
