The Ultimate Roma Norte, Mexico City Neighborhood Guide
Uncover Roma Norte Mexico City—the bohemian neighborhood packed with chic boutiques, top dining, vibrant markets, and leafy streets.
In the heart of Mexico City, Roma Norte stands out as one of the capital’s most dynamic neighborhoods. Its leafy boulevards are lined with Belle Époque mansions, trendy boutiques, and sidewalk cafés that give it a distinctly bohemian feel.
This is a place where you can start your morning with an iconic guava pastry from Panadería Rosetta, wander through a gallery or two, shop for ceramics or vintage furniture, and then end the evening over cocktails at one of the world’s best bars. It’s eclectic but cohesive, timeless yet constantly evolving—an authentic slice of the modern city that’s also deeply global in its outlook.
After countless trips to Mexico City, I’ve found myself returning here again and again, often making Roma Norte my home base. It’s the neighborhood that feels most like me: equal parts creative, laid-back, and endlessly curious.
This guide is the result of those stays—an insider’s look at what makes Roma Norte, Mexico City the neighborhood I can’t stop coming back to.
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Where is Roma Norte?
Roma Norte is one of Mexico City’s most bohemian and stylish neighborhoods. Geographically, it’s set in the heart of the city, within the Cuauhtémoc borough, generally west of the historic center.
The neighborhood makes up the northern section of Colonia Roma, bordered by Avenida Chapultepec to the north, Insurgentes Avenue to the west, Medellín Street to the east, and blending into Roma Sur at its southern edge.
Running right through its center, Avenida Álvaro Obregón serves as Roma Norte’s main artery, lined with buzzy restaurants and bars. Just across Insurgentes lies La Condesa, its equally fashionable sibling.
Colonia Roma itself is divided into these smaller yet interconnected sections:
- Roma Norte
- Roma Sur
- The historic pocket of La Romita
While each area shares that signature Roma vibe—tree-lined streets, cultural flair, and a sense of old-meets-new—Roma Norte generally steals the spotlight, emerging as the neighborhood of choice for both locals and travelers in search of Mexico City’s creative soul.
A Short History of Roma Norte
Roma Norte wasn’t always the hip, café-hopping neighborhood it is today. The area first took shape in the early 20th century, when Mexico City began expanding beyond its colonial center.
Modeled on European urban ideals—broad boulevards, leafy plazas, and ornate mansions in French Art Nouveau and later Art Deco styles—Roma quickly became the residential playground of Mexico’s upper classes.
As the decades rolled on, however, Roma’s fortunes shifted. By the mid-20th century, wealthier families migrated to newer suburbs, leaving behind grand homes that were subdivided or neglected. The 1985 earthquake struck a devastating blow, destroying buildings and forcing many residents out.
For years afterward, Roma Norte was a shadow of its former self.
But decline paved the way for reinvention. Artists, writers, and young entrepreneurs began moving in during the 1990s and early 2000s, drawn by affordable rents and the neighborhood’s architectural soul.
Abandoned mansions became galleries, old storefronts turned into design shops, and cafés spilled onto leafy sidewalks. Today, Roma Norte thrives as Mexico City’s bohemian heart—a cultural hub where creativity is as much a part of the streetscape as the jacaranda trees in spring.
The neighborhood’s artistic spirit has also echoed far beyond Mexico. Alfonso Cuarón’s Oscar-winning film Roma (2018), a must-watch before visiting, immortalized the area on the global stage, highlighting its layered history and the intimate stories woven into its streets.
Literature, cinema, art, and gastronomy now flow together here, making Roma Norte not just a neighborhood but a cultural symbol of modern and hip Mexico City.
Where to Stay in Roma Norte
Roma Norte doesn’t have the sheer number of hotels you’ll find in other parts of Mexico City, but it more than makes up for it in style.
Here, quality trumps quantity—boutique stays in restored mansions, chic apartments behind leafy courtyards, and intimate guesthouses that feel personal and design-driven. Here are my top picks for Roma Norte hotels.
Roma Norte, Mexico City Hotels
Colima 71 – a design lover’s dream in the heart of Roma Norte. More art gallery than traditional hotel, this boutique stay fills a restored mansion with sleek, minimalist interiors, rotating exhibitions, and a curated library of architecture and design books. Rooms are pared-back but stylish, and the atmosphere feels more like staying in a creative friend’s townhouse than a hotel.
Nima Local House – a four-room hideaway set inside a beautifully restored early 20th-century home. With its leafy courtyard, eclectic design blending vintage and contemporary touches, and warm, personalized service, it feels more like a private residence than a hotel.
The breakfasts here are fantastic, the rooftop terrace, and the sense of being truly immersed in Roma Norte’s bohemian lifestyle make this spot a winner.
Ignacia Guesthouse – a stylish five-room retreat tucked behind a leafy courtyard, known for its bold, colorful design and exceptional breakfasts. Intimate yet polished, it captures Roma Norte’s creative, bohemian spirit in a way that feels both chic and personal.
La Valise Mexico City – the epitome of discreet luxury in Roma Norte. With just three suites set inside a 1920s townhouse, it blends old-world architecture with contemporary design details. Each suite feels like a private apartment, complete with curated art, vintage furnishings, and in some cases, outdoor terraces where beds can be rolled under the stars.
Brick Hotel – Roma Norte’s grand boutique address, set in a restored early 20th-century mansion on Orizaba Street. Larger and more full-service than most of the area’s stays, it offers sleek, contemporary rooms alongside a rooftop terrace, spa, and two excellent restaurants.
Roma Norte Rentals
Mexican Magic – charming one-bedroom, one-bath apartment in Roma Norte is perfect for a couple seeking a stylish city escape. Set in a historic Porfirian building, it’s decorated in traditional Mexican style with vibrant pops of color and authentic character. Both the bedroom and living room open onto a lush, plant-filled garden—an inviting spot for morning coffee or evening wine.
The Light of Gold – three-bedroom (5 bed), two-bath apartment in Roma Norte is perfect for families, groups of friends, or remote workers. A private terrace offers sweeping city views, while inside you’ll find bright, stylish rooms designed for both relaxation and socializing.
Two bedrooms come with en-suite bathrooms, and the third includes a desk setup—ideal for anyone working on the go. With private parking and a prime location just steps from Roma Norte’s trendiest bars, restaurants, and boutiques, it’s an unbeatable base for exploring Mexico City.
Best Things to Do in Roma Norte, Mexico City
Explore the Streets of Roma Norte
One of the best things to do in Roma Norte, Mexico City, is simply to wander. This is a neighborhood best explored on foot, where every leafy block reveals something new—whether it’s a Belle Époque mansion, a design-forward boutique, or a brand new, buzzing café.
Strolling along Colima Street – I’d consider this the jewel of Roma -, you’ll pass concept stores, art galleries, and historic architecture wrapped in bougainvillea.
Other streets worth lingering on include Álvaro Obregón, with its grand avenue of trees and restaurants spilling onto sidewalks, Orizaba Street, known for its stately facades and the pocket park Plaza Río de Janeiro, and Tabasco Street, where leafy canopies and charming storefronts set the perfect scene for an afternoon wander.
Visit Plaza Rio de Janeiro
At the heart of Roma Norte sits Plaza Río de Janeiro, one of the neighborhood’s most beloved gathering spots. It’s shaded by towering trees and surrounded by elegant early 20th-century mansions. The square is instantly recognizable thanks to its bronze replica of Michelangelo’s David.
You’ll find locals walking their dogs, couples lingering on benches, and visitors soaking up the laid-back, bohemian vibe that defines the area.
On weekends, the plaza often comes alive with art fairs, vintage markets, and pop-up events, making it a great spot to browse local crafts or grab a coffee from one of the surrounding cafés before strolling through the leafy streets.
Go Boutique Shopping
Roma Norte is one of the best neighborhoods in Mexico City for boutique shopping, with an endless stream of concept stores, design shops, and independent fashion labels spilling out along its prettiest streets.
From high-end Mexican designers to quirky homeware and vintage gems, you could easily spend an entire afternoon (or days) browsing and still feel like you’ve only scratched the surface.
Honestly, I’m not really sure where to start with this one—I have so many favorites here that it’s almost impossible to choose. Some are dedicated to fashion, others to interiors, and many blur the line between gallery and shop.
A few I’d recommend including are:
Casa Bosques – art-focused bookstore and concept space, with the added twist that you can actually stay overnight in one of the three uniquely curated rooms tucked away upstairs.
ORIGINARIO – sleek furniture store in Roma Norte showcasing contemporary Mexican design.
Metate – beautifully curated boutique selling glassware, ceramics, and clothing
El Parián – historic arcade in Roma Norte filled with small boutiques, galleries, and cafés, perfect for browsing local design in a charming, old-world setting.
For All Folks – clean, minimalist boutique specializing in natural skincare and lifestyle products, all made in Mexico
Piezas Unicas – a treasure trove of vintage furniture, offering one-of-a-kind pieces. By appointment only.
ZII ROPA – minimalist clothing label that’s all about clean lines, natural fabrics, and timeless silhouettes.
Librería Anticuaria A Través Del Espejo – If you read Spanish, this second-hand bookstore is great.
Casa Ananda Vintage Boutique – cozy Roma Norte shop brimming with handpicked vintage clothing and accessories
Pottery Park – playful, design-forward shop dedicated to colorful ceramics and quirky pottery pieces that double as functional art.
On the other side of Av Chapultepec, which is technically Juarez, you’ll also find some of my favorites: Marsella 68, Xinu Perfumes Marsella branch, Carla Fernandez, and Seleccion Marsella. Make sure not to miss the ceramics of uber-talented Perla Valtierra just a few blocks away, too.
Visit Roma’s Museums & Galleries
Beyond its leafy streets and café culture, Roma Norte is one of Mexico City’s creative hubs, home to an impressive mix of small museums, galleries, and design spaces.
From contemporary art and cutting-edge furniture to historic collections housed in elegant mansions, the neighborhood offers a cultural circuit that feels both intimate and world-class.
Whether you’re browsing the works of emerging artists, stepping into the home of a renowned historian, or discovering furniture that doubles as sculpture, Roma’s art scene is as eclectic and bohemian as the neighborhood itself.
Here are some of my favorite, must-see art spaces.
Galería OMR – One of Mexico City’s leading contemporary art galleries, OMR has been championing bold, boundary-pushing artists since the 1980s. It’s a must for anyone looking to understand the city’s place on the international art map.
Museo del Objeto del Objeto (MODO) – A quirky and fascinating museum dedicated to everyday objects, design, and communication, from vintage packaging to advertising ephemera. It’s both nostalgic and surprisingly thought-provoking.
EWE Studio – Part gallery, part design studio, EWE creates sculptural furniture pieces that are as much art as they are functional. This is the place to see (and even purchase) some of the most innovative designs coming out of Mexico today.
Casa Museo Guillermo Tovar de Teresa – The former home of historian and art collector Guillermo Tovar de Teresa, this beautifully preserved mansion showcases colonial art, antiques, and a glimpse into Mexico’s cultural past.
Casa Lamm Cultural Center – Set inside a grand Porfirian-era house, Casa Lamm is a cornerstone of Roma’s art scene, hosting exhibitions, lectures, and cultural events. It’s also home to a bookstore and a café that make lingering easy.
Galería Mascota – A small but cutting-edge gallery focused on contemporary art, Galería Mascota is known for spotlighting emerging international and Mexican artists in a fresh, intimate setting.
MAIA Contemporary – A forward-thinking gallery that highlights contemporary Mexican and international artists, MAIA is known for immersive, large-scale exhibitions that blur the line between art and experience.
Visit Mercado Medellin
For a taste of everyday life in Roma Norte, head to Mercado Medellín, one of the neighborhood’s most colorful and authentic markets. Known as the “Little Havana” of Mexico City, it’s not only a place to shop for fresh produce, flowers, and spices, but also a hub for Latin American flavors.
Here you’ll find Colombian coffee stands, Cuban food stalls, Peruvian ceviche counters, and endless rows of Mexican fruits and chiles.
The market takes on an especially magical feel in the week leading up to Día de los Muertos, when its aisles are completely overtaken by mountains of bright orange cempasúchil (marigolds). The air fills with their heady fragrance, and stalls brim with candles, papel picado, and other ofrenda essentials.
It’s a kaleidoscope of color and tradition that makes Mercado Medellín one of the most atmospheric places in Roma Norte during the season.
Dive into the Gastronomy Scene
Roma Norte has earned its reputation as one of the culinary hotspots of Mexico City, where traditional flavors meet contemporary innovation at every turn. From Michelin-recognized fine dining to low-key taco joints that locals swear by, the neighborhood is a playground for foodies.
You’ll find chefs pushing boundaries with modern Mexican cuisine, cozy cafés perfect for slow mornings, and cocktail bars that double as culinary destinations.
Scroll down to the “Where to Eat in Roma Norte” section for my curated selection of the neighborhood’s best eats—handpicked spots that show exactly why Roma Norte is considered the beating heart of Mexico City’s food scene.
Tours & Activities in Roma Norte
If you’re short on time—or simply prefer to let a local lead the way—Roma Norte is perfect to explore through a guided tour.
Food tours are among the most popular, taking you through markets, taquerías, and contemporary eateries for a true taste of Roma’s gastronomy.
Architecture and history walks dive into the area’s Porfirian mansions, Art Deco facades, and the stories behind them, while art-focused tours can guide you through the best galleries and design studios without the guesswork.
For something more immersive, there are also mezcal tastings, cooking classes, and even bike tours that weave Roma Norte into a broader circuit of the city. You’ll find the best of Roma Norte’s tours below.
Epic Condesa and Roma Norte Walking Tour
Michelin Taco Bike Tour: Roma Norte & Condesa /All-Inclusive
Lucha Libre Tickets & Tacos & Beer & Mezcal
Where to Eat in Roma Norte
Best Restaurants in Roma Norte
When it comes to dining, Roma Norte is the crown jewel of Mexico City’s gastronomic scene. The neighborhood is home to some of the city’s most iconic restaurants, buzzy newcomers, and casual spots that punch well above their weight.
Whether you’re after fine dining, a late-night bite, or a neighborhood café with serious culinary chops, Roma Norte delivers. Here are some of the best places to eat right now:
Contramar – A seafood institution famous for its tuna tostadas and butterflied pescado a la talla.
Fugaz – A fresh face on the scene, serving inventive Mexican plates in a sleek, minimalist space.
Huset – An open-air, garden-like restaurant known for wood-fired cooking and a romantic atmosphere.
Mi Compra Chava Marisqueria – A casual neighborhood favorite that’s all about Sinaloa-style seafood with a modern twist. No reservations- be prepared to wait.
Rosetta – Chef Elena Reygadas’ flagship, where Italian techniques meet Mexican ingredients in one of Roma’s most beautiful townhouses.
Blanco Colima – A stylish mansion-turned-restaurant offering upscale dining, cocktails, and a lively bar scene.
Máximo – A fine-dining pioneer of the farm-to-table movement in Mexico City, with constantly changing seasonal menus.
Expendio de Maíz Sin Nombre – An experimental eatery where heirloom corn is the star, served in endlessly creative forms.
Páramo – A late-night staple serving elevated Mexican comfort food in a moody, laid-back setting.
Lalo! – A lively all-day café famous for its oversized communal table and excellent breakfasts.
Tres Tonalá – A cool, contemporary space mixing art, food, and design with a seasonal menu.
Barra Lupe – Roma Norte’s newest arrival, a modern bar-restaurant hybrid that’s already drawing buzz with its creative small plates and cocktails.
Meroma – A sophisticated yet relaxed spot where Mediterranean influences meet Mexican ingredients, best enjoyed on the leafy terrace.
Jenni’s Quesadillas – iconic quesadilla street food stand in Roma Norte.
Best Bakeries and Cafes/Coffee in Roma Norte
Roma Norte is as much about its café culture as its fine dining scene. From artisanal bakeries perfuming the streets with fresh bread to sleek third-wave coffee shops pulling some of the city’s best espresso shots, the neighborhood is a haven for anyone who loves good coffee and pastries.
These spots stand out and are ones I go back to again and again.
Panadería Rosetta – Chef Elena Reygadas’ beloved bakery, world-famous for its guava pastry (and yes, it lives up to the hype).
Bizcochería Bakery – A charming neighborhood bakery known for its buttery croissants and creative seasonal pastries.
Madre Café – A stylish café set in a grand Roma mansion, equally popular for its brunch menu and chic, leafy patio.
San Macha – A quirky little spot that pairs excellent matcha and coffee with house-made Japanese sandos.
Buna – A pioneer of Mexico’s specialty coffee scene, showcasing sustainable, small-batch beans in a sleek modern space.
Café Trucha – A cozy café with a neighborhood vibe, perfect for slow mornings and strong coffee.
Constela Café – Minimalist and modern, this café is all about precision brewing and beautifully roasted Mexican coffee.
Café 1900 – Housed in a restored Porfirian mansion, this café blends old-world charm with a solid menu of coffee and light bites.
Dosis Café – Known for its cool, urban vibe and excellent cold brews, it’s a go-to spot for digital nomads and creatives alike.
Best Bars in Roma Norte
When the sun sets, Roma Norte transforms into one of Mexico City’s most exciting nightlife districts. From world-renowned cocktail temples to low-key wine bars and vermuterías, the neighborhood offers a little bit of everything—always with that signature Roma edge of style and creativity.
Loup Bar – A cozy natural wine bar with an ever-rotating list of bottles, perfect for casual evenings and great conversation.
Licorería Limantour – Consistently ranked among the world’s best bars, Limantour is Roma’s cocktail institution, known for its inventive, artful drinks.
Oropel Vermutería/Vino – A chic, golden-hued space dedicated to vermouth and wine, ideal for aperitivo hour with small plates on the side.
Vigneron – An intimate bar and shop specializing in natural and biodynamic wines, with knowledgeable staff who love guiding you through the list.
How to Get Around Colonia Roma
Colonia Roma is best explored on foot—its leafy streets, hidden courtyards, and pocket parks reveal their charm slowly, and walking lets you soak up the neighborhood’s bohemian vibe.
That said, Roma is also well connected to the rest of Mexico City. The Insurgentes and Sevilla metro stations sit on its edges, and rideshares like Uber and DiDi are plentiful for hopping between neighborhoods or getting home after dinner.
Cycling is also a great option here, with the city’s Ecobici bike-share program offering easy rentals and Roma’s flat, bike-friendly streets making it a breeze to pedal between stops.
Are you ready to dive into the best of Roma Norte, Mexico City? Let me know all your questions and comments below.
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