ABOVE IT ALL: Rooftop Venues in Mexico City

The third edition of my guidebook 'Mexico City: An Opinionated Guide for the Curious Traveler' will be out later this week…you'll be hearing from me about that soon. Meanwhile, I will be posting excerpts from the new edition here. Here's the first installment. 

ABOVE IT ALL: Rooftop Venues in Mexico City

With street life being so intense, it can be a great relief to head upwards and relax in a rooftop bar or restaurant, many of which afford spectacular views of the city.

Several restaurants overlook the colonial splendor of the Zócalo, Mexico City’s massive main plaza. Try Puro Corazón (Monte de Piedad 11, 6th floor), or Restaurant El Mayor (Republica de Argentina 15, corner of Justo Serra) where you can contemplate the remains of the Templo Mayor.

Sears Café (across from the Palacio de Bellas Artes) On the 8th floor of art-deco Sears store you’ll find a small café with a balcony overlooking the Palacio and its lovely manicured gardens.

Isabel la Católica 30, Located in a smartly remodeled colonial building, this new complex includes the Hotel Downtown & several restaurants and shops. The top floor terrace is a great place for a drink; you can use the pool for the price of a drink.

Miralto (41st floor of the Torre Latinoamericana.) This is as high as you can get in the Centro for a drink or a meal. On a clear day the views are astounding.

Hotel Condesa DF (Avenida Veracruz at Parque España, Colonia Condesa), the chic and trendy rooftop terrace is a great place for a drink, especially in March when the jacaranda trees are in bloom.

Bellini (Word Trade Center, Colonia Napoles) is the city’s only revolving restaurant. It’s tacky, but fun.