Colonia Roma: One of the Coolest Neighborhoods in Mexico City
Director Alfonso Cuarón introduced the world to his childhood home, Colonia Roma, through the academy award-winning film Roma. Though the movie is in black and white, the charm, vibrancy, and magic of this neighborhood still shines through. If you visit Roma Norte today, you’ll experience colorful murals adorning buildings, hipsters and young professionals populating cafes, and the divine smell of tacos on every corner. Keep reading to find out why Colonia Roma is one of the coolest neighborhoods in Mexico City.
What is the difference between Roma Norte and Roma Sur?
Before we begin, let’s define the terms. Colonia Roma refers to the general district and began as a single neighborhood. When it became too large, both in terms of geography and population, it was split into Roma Norte and Roma Sur. The two distinct neighborhoods are divided by Coahuila street. Additionally, La Romita is a small, fashionable neighborhood located just north of Roma Norte. Of the three neighborhoods, Roma Norte is the largest and most lively, though each offers a unique style.
Where in Mexico City is Roma?
Colonia Roma is located in the Cuauhtémoc borough of Mexico City, southwest of the city’s historic center. The three neighborhoods can be found east of the entrance to the city’s largest park, Chapultepec. The entire Roma district is found south of Avenida Chapultepec and north of freeway Viaducto Miguel Alemán.
How do I get from Mexico City airport to Colonia Roma?
Mexico City Airport (MEX) lives on the eastern edge of the city compared to Roma which is centrally-located. To get from Roma to Mexico City Airport, expect a 20-minute ride without traffic. Traffic, however, is ever present in Mexico City. Plan plenty of extra time when traveling to or from the airport to Roma.
Where to eat in Colonia Roma?
The competition between Polanco and Roma is fierce for the foodie capital of Mexico City. There is no shortage of dining options in Roma, which makes picking the right spot extra difficult. We recommend Rosetta for fine-dining, which combines Mexican ingredients with European technique. If you’re traveling with dietary restrictions, try Por Siempre Vegana Taquería or Ramen Bar for a variety of options. For a special Sunday treat, stop by El Hidalguense to taste traditional Mexican barbacoa.
What kind of architecture is in Colonia Roma?
To understand the architecture, you need to know the history of Roma. Roma was built on the western limit of Mexico City in the late 1800s/early 1900s for wealthy citizens. These affluent residents designed the streets and houses to mirror trendy European styles, which is now called “Porfirian”. Other older styles include Art-Deco and Neo-colonial, which can be seen in the older structures. Due to earthquakes, changing styles, and a lack of urban planning, many modern structures have been erected as well. This rich mix of old and new, European and colonial, creates a unique display, only found in Roma.
Are there any mercados in Colonia Roma?
Markets are a dependable feature of all neighborhoods in Mexico City. Roma is home to some of the best!
Mercado Medellín
Mercado, Medellín #20, 06760 Ciudad de México, CDMX
Over 500 stalls sell a wide variety of produce and goods from other countries in Latin America like Colombia and Cuba. In total, this market occupies an entire square block, so make sure you leave plenty of time to explore and shop. If you’re looking for a more in depth experience, hire a local tour guide to bring you through the market, stall by stall. Our best recommendation: don’t skip the Cuban heladería or ice cream shop.
Mercado el 100
Orizaba S/N, Roma Sur, Cuauhtémoc, 06760 Ciudad de México, CDMX
This outdoor market is held each Sunday, featuring 50 local & organic farmers & food producers. Each farmer and producer lives within a 100-mile distance from Mexico City, hence their name “el 100” . For over 10 years this market has been motivating social, environmental and economic change. Make sure to stop by this incredible market to buy your produce and to learn about the incredible impact of these local farmers.
Bonus: Market-style casual dining spots have increased in popularity in Mexico City. Read about two of our favorites below!
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Mercado Roma
Calle Querétaro 225, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX
This market has a well-regarded reputation and it does not disappoint. If you’re looking for an upscale food court with plenty of options, this is the spot for you. We recommend exploring all three levels, including the beautiful rooftop beer garden. While visitors come to eat from the more than 50 unique brands, they stay for the ambiance, music, and unique art and shopping.
El Comedor de los Milagros
Medellín 221, Roma Sur, Cuauhtémoc, 06760 Ciudad de México, CDMX
This hot spot in Roma combines the market environment with exceptional dining. In an open-air, casual environment, guests sit at picnic tables to sample foods from 7 different countries. El Comedor de los Milagros creates a unique meeting place for many Latin American cultures and cuisines. The foods range from pizza to steaks, tacos to arepas, feijoada to ceviche, and more! Experience the best of Latin American cuisine from one market.
Where to shop in Colonia Roma?
While Polanco is the center for all things designer, Roma is home to the city’s best boutiques. If you prefer local designers, one-of-a-kind finds, and funky threads, start your shopping spree here. Carla Fernández is a community-minded designer, with a boutique named after her. The vibrantly colored designs are inspired by her experience with indigenous cultures. If you look for sustainable fashion choices, try Goodbye Folk. Their trendy pieces feature refurbished vintage and handmade shoes. For some locally-designed eyewear, head to Escopica on the beautiful Colima street.
Best transportation options in Colonia Roma?
While public Metrobuses run down the main roads that border Roma, your best bet for within the neighborhood is walking or biking. Walking down the wide, colorful avenues gives you the time and space to enjoy the architecture, discover hidden boutiques, and take in the energy from this incredible neighborhood.
For more efficient transportation, utilize the bike lanes along Avenida de los Insurgentes. For bicycle rental options, there are numerous EcoBici stations scattered throughout Roma. In order to use EcoBici, you must have a card, so they aren’t ideal for tourists with a limited travel window. Weekend or week-long travelers would have better luck with private bike rentals like Casai Bikes, available to rent in select Roma Norte units.
In Roma you can dine at a variety of markets and restaurants, shop at one-of-a-kind boutiques, and walk through colorful streets all day. Once you visit this incredible neighborhood, we’re sure you’ll agree that this is one of the coolest neighborhoods in Mexico City.
Ready to experience this incredible neighborhood? Check out Casai’s top 5 units in Roma:
