Discover the 5 best bars in the historic center of CDMX

One requirement to claiming that you really saw Mexico City is a visit to some of the most emblematic bars in the historic center. A tour of our cosmopolitan city shouldn’t miss these spots that combine music and cocktails to create incredible atmospheres that will leave you wanting to come back again and again with friends and family.

From the place where Pancho Villa brazenly shot off his pistol to a bohemian Oaxacan mezcalería, here is our selection of the five best bars in the historic center to experience the capital’s nightlife.

Bósforo

Bósforo Centro Histórico Bar
Photo: On the Grid

This hidden gem has a bohemian vibe and the food and cocktails will transport you to Oaxaca with dishes such as avocado leaf cake with soursop or quesadillas typical of the region. They have an extensive selection of mezcals from various regions in Mexico that you can pair with several craft beers.

Luis Moya 31 local 2, Centro, Cuauhtémoc

T. 55 5512 1991

IG. @bosforomezcaleria

La Ópera Bar

La opera bares centro historico
Photo: Reurbano

Known for the bullet that Pancho Villa left embedded in its ceiling when he fired his pistol on a whim, the French-inspired architecture and period furniture brought from New Orleans are all part of its appeal. Serving a wide array of drinks, including classic cocktails and mezcals, “Music Fridays” are a wonderful option to take in some jazz and boleros.

Av. 5 de Mayo 10, Centro, Cuauhtémoc

T. 55 5512 8959

IG. @barlaopera

Nardo

Nardo bares centro historico
Photo: Time Out

Nardo is tucked inside the Hotel Umbral on Venustiano Carranza. Mixology, art, and gastronomy all come together in this creative club. It houses a gallery where the work of Latin American artists is exhibited. The bar offers signature cocktails and cuisine by talented chef Jaime Durán.

Venustiano Carranza 69, Centro, Cuauhtémoc

T. 55 1005 3288

IG. @nardo_cocktailclub

Pata Negra 

Pata negra bares centro historico
Photo: Chilango

Pata Negra is one of CDMX’s favorite bars, arriving in the area in 2017. Since then it has become an iconic spot not only for cocktails made by some of the best bartenders in town, but also the live music, including independent acts, and even salsa classes.

Av. 5 de Mayo 49, Centro, Cuauhtémoc

T.  55 7233 1284

IG. @patanegra_mx

Zinco Jazz Club

Zinco bares centro histórico
Photo: Zinco

Founded in 2005, Zinco Jazz Club is located in the former vault of the Antiguo Banco Mexicano. The bar offers the best of local and international jazz, along with jazz classes and other music-related events. To complement the intimate mood of the space we recommend a mocktail, a martini, or a sparkling wine.

Motolinia 20, Centro, Cuauhtémoc

T. 55 1131 7760

IG. @zincojazzclub

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