History and culture meet on every corner of Mexico City. There is no better place to explore these than in the capital’s oldest cafés. They hold the stories of the past from the great artists, writers, and politicians who have inhabited these streets.
If you want to visit the place where Che Guevara and Fidel Castro likely planned the Cuban Revolution – or get an early start in the historic center with a Veracruz coffee and a delicious chocolate concha – don’t miss this guide to the five coffee shops with the longest tradition in CDMX.
Café de Tacuba
The classic of classics. This iconic establishment – located in the historic center since 1912 – is one of the oldest in the city. We recommend the Americano or the Tacuba chocolate in addition to the restaurant and traditional cantina fare.
Tacuba 28, Centro, Cuauhtémoc
T. 55 5521 2048
Café La Blanca
Café La Blanca was born a century ago as a dairy and has been a meeting point for artists, writers, and even presidents. Here you can try 15 kinds of hot coffee, including their famous lechero. As for food, don’t miss their tamales de nata, enchiladas, or paellas.
Av. 5 de Mayo 40, Centro, Cuauhtémoc
T. 55 5510 9260
FB. Café La Blanca
Café El Popular
With more than 70 years of history, El Popular is one of the most beloved places in the historic center, featuring 24-hour service, refreshing beverages, and Mexican cuisine. Try the Veracruz coffee along with some tasty chilaquiles. Their bread is freshly baked, and the conchas are delicious.
Av. 5 de Mayo 52, Centro, Cuauhtémoc
T. 55 5518 6081
IG. @cafeelpopular
Café La Habana
Café La Habana, located in Colonia Juárez, opened in 1952 and has been visited by literary Gabriel García Márquez, Octavio Paz, and Carlos Fuentes. The owners even claim that Fidel Castro and Che Guevara planned the Cuban Revolution here. Order a cup of Havana coffee or an espresso.
Av. Morelos 62, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc
T. 55 5535 2620
IG. @cafelahabana
Café Moka
“Other cafes, there are many; cafes like this, only one”. This phrase graces the entrance of Café Moka, a small family business located in the Santa María de la Ribera neighborhood since 1930. The coffee is brought from Coatepec, Veracruz, roasted on site, and ground in an antique copper mill. The best options are the café de olla or the dark roast decaffeinated coffee.
Santa María la Ribera 6, Santa María la Ribera, Cuauhtémoc
T. 55 5535 8452
FB. Café Moka
