Where should I go after cocktails at María?
The transition from drinks to dinner in Juárez is seamless if you start at María. Colectivo Carmelo’s elegant gastro-cantina sets a deliberate, nocturnal mood with its dark navy walls and brushed gold accents. Once you have explored their bespoke mixology centered around regional Mexican botanicals, keep the sophisticated momentum going. Walk a few blocks over to Havre 77 for French oysters and classic brasserie fare, or grab a late table at Taverna for Mediterranean-leaning plates in a gorgeous restored mansion.
Gastro-cantina by Colectivo Carmelo — bespoke mixology and nocturnal Mexican botany.
- Address:
- Valladolid 14, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 CDMX
- Web:
- www.instagram.com/maria.cdmx/
What locals actually do
Chilangos treat Juárez as an evening playground where a single night naturally spans three different venues. María acts as the perfect anchor for this kind of itinerary. Rather than treating it as a quick stop, regulars settle into the gastro-cantina’s beautifully designed space to experience the ritual of the menu, which channels the spirit of the old Lupita cantina but elevates the execution. After a thoughtful session of indigenous Mexican flavors in your glass, the local move is to seek out a substantial late-night bite. Many will wander over to Café Nin for a nightcap and a quiet dessert in the courtyard, or pivot to Café de Nadie for vinyl records and a shift in tempo.
Secure a spot near the bar at María to watch the bartenders work through their ritualistic approach to forgotten Mexican flavors, then cross the neighborhood to Taverna for a late, lingering dinner.
Practical notes
- 01María’s dark navy and gold interior creates an intimately lit environment that works beautifully for small groups and couples seeking a focused conversation.
- 02The mixology program highlights historical Mexican ingredients, so ask the staff to guide you through the flavor profiles of their signature potions.
- 03Juárez is highly walkable at night, making it easy to transition on foot from drinks at María to dinner reservations at nearby institutions.
Good to know
- ✗Evening temperatures in Mexico City drop rapidly year-round, so bring a light jacket for the walk to your next venue.
- ✗Always confirm the kitchen’s last call if you plan to eat a full dinner after a lengthy cocktail session.
- ✗Reservations at popular nearby spots like Havre 77 or Taverna should be booked well in advance for weekend evenings.