How long does it take to walk through Narvarte?

The core walking route is approximately 2 to 3 kilometers and takes about 2 to 3 hours to complete. This includes time to stop and eat at 3-4 different taquerías and cantinas.

Is Narvarte safe for a night walk?

Yes, Narvarte is a middle-class residential neighborhood and is generally considered safe for walking at night. It is well-lit and stays busy with locals eating at street stands until late.

What is the most famous taco in Narvarte?

The Al Pastor taco at El Vilsito is the most famous. It is unique because the taquería operates inside a mechanic shop that is still in use during the day.

Can I do this walk during the day?

While you can see the architecture and the market during the day, many of the best taquerías like El Vilsito only open in the evening. For the full experience, start your walk after 7:00 PM.

Is this food walk suitable for vegetarians?

Narvarte is very meat-heavy, specializing in pork and beef. However, most taquerías offer 'quesadillas' or 'volcanes' (crispy tortillas with cheese) that can be ordered without meat.

Where should I start my Narvarte walking route?

Starting at Cantina El Sella near the Dr. Balmis area is ideal. It allows you to begin with a sit-down appetizer or drink before moving into the heavier street food stops further south.

What should I wear for a food walk in Mexico City?

Wear comfortable walking shoes and casual clothing. Mexico City evenings can be cool, so bringing a light jacket is recommended as you will be spending much of your time at outdoor taco stands.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Escape the well-trodden paths of Roma and Condesa to discover Narvarte, a mid-century neighborhood that serves as a true culinary heart for Mexico City locals. This self-guided food walk invites you into a world of sizzling suadero, towering trompos of al pastor, and historic cantinas where the beer is cold and the snacks are legendary. Narvarte is famous for its wide boulevards and functionalist architecture, but for food lovers, it is defined by its transition from daytime residential quiet to a vibrant nighttime street food scene. On this neighborhood stroll, you will experience the unique 'mechanic shop by day, taquería by night' culture that has made this area famous among Chilangos. While Narvarte lacks the flashy boutiques of neighboring districts, it offers an authentic look at the capital's obsession with the perfect taco. You will also encounter significant cultural landmarks, such as the modernist mosaics of the SCOP building, which provide a stunning backdrop to your gastronomic adventure. This walking tour Mexico City offers a chance to see how the city lives and eats away from the primary tourist zones. The route is designed to be flexible, allowing you to linger over a plate of chamorro at a classic Spanish cantina or stand shoulder-to-shoulder with locals at a bustling street corner. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, this walking route provides a deep dive into the flavors that define the modern Mexican palate. Explore independently and at your own pace, soaking in the atmosphere of one of the city's most delicious hidden gems. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

Visit El Vilsito, a world-famous taquería operating inside a functioning mechanic shop

Sample the legendary chamorro (pork shank) at the historic Cantina El Sella

Admire the modernist murals and mosaics at the iconic Glorieta SCOP

Experience the late-night energy of Tacos Tony, a master of suadero

Explore the local flavors and market stalls of Mi Mercado 24 de Agosto

Enjoy charcoal-grilled specialties at the standing-room-only Los Parados

Tour Stops (6)

El Sella

Begin your self-guided adventure at El Sella, a cornerstone of Mexico City’s cantina culture. Founded by Spanish immigrants, this establishment is legendary for its 'chamorro'—a slow-cooked, tender pork shank that practically falls off the bone. The atmosphere here is timeless, with wood-paneled walls and a bustling waitstaff that has seen decades of neighborhood history. Cantinas like this are more than just bars; they are social hubs where business deals are struck and family stories are shared. While the menu offers a variety of Spanish-Mexican fusion dishes, the chamorro is the undisputed star. Please note that cantinas can be very busy during the 'sobremesa' hours (late afternoon), so the vibe may shift from a quiet lunch spot to a lively social scene depending on when you arrive.

Glorieta SCOP

Take a moment to appreciate the striking modernist architecture and art at the Glorieta SCOP. This complex, originally the headquarters for the Secretariat of Communications and Public Works, features massive mosaic murals created by renowned artists like Juan O'Gorman and José Chávez Morado. These artworks depict the history of communication and transportation in Mexico, utilizing thousands of natural stones to create vibrant, lasting colors. The site has suffered damage in various earthquakes, and you may see scaffolding or restoration work in progress. It stands as a testament to the mid-century optimism of the Narvarte neighborhood, where grand urban planning met bold public art.

El Vilsito

Welcome to perhaps the most famous taco destination in the city. By day, this location is a functioning auto repair shop, but as the sun sets, the car jacks are cleared away to make room for 'trompos'—large vertical spits of marinated pork. El Vilsito is the gold standard for Tacos al Pastor. Watch the 'taqueros' skillfully slice the meat and flick a piece of pineapple from the top of the spit directly into the taco. The transition from mechanic shop to culinary hotspot is a quintessential Mexico City experience. Because this is a working business, the exact setup can change, and it only operates as a taquería in the evenings, usually starting after 8:00 PM.

Tacos Tony

Just a short stroll away is Tacos Tony, a local institution specializing in 'suadero'—a cut of beef that is slow-cooked in a circular metal vat called a 'comal con bola.' The meat is confited in its own fat until it reaches a perfect balance of crispy and tender. Tacos Tony is a high-energy spot, often surrounded by a crowd of locals eating on the sidewalk. This is street food at its most refined; the salsa here is notoriously spicy, so test a drop before you douse your taco. The rhythmic sound of the cleaver on the chopping block is the soundtrack of Narvarte at night.

Mi Mercado 24 De Agosto

To see the neighborhood's daily life, we pass by Mi Mercado 24 de Agosto. While many stalls close in the evening, the outer edges of the market remain a hub for snacks and quick bites. Markets like this are the lifeblood of Mexican neighborhoods, providing fresh produce, household goods, and affordable prepared foods. If you visit during the day, the interior is a maze of colors and scents. In the evening, the surrounding street vendors offer everything from tamales to elotes. The market's name commemorates the date it was inaugurated, and it remains a vital anchor for the community amidst the changing city.

Taquería Los Parados Universidad

Conclude your neighborhood stroll at Los Parados. The name translates to 'those who are standing,' which tells you exactly how to enjoy your meal here. There are no chairs; instead, everyone gathers around high counters to enjoy meats grilled over natural charcoal. This method imparts a smoky flavor that is distinct from the gas-grilled tacos found elsewhere. It is a social, democratic way to eat, where everyone from office workers to students stands side-by-side. Try the 'costilla' (rib) or 'arrachera' (steak) tacos to experience their signature charcoal-fired taste. It’s the perfect final bite before heading to a nearby mezcal bar or catching a ride home.

Frequently Asked Questions

A self-guided walk focusing on the 'Taco Triangle'—the area between El Vilsito, Tacos Tony, and Los Parados—is widely considered the best way to experience Narvarte's food scene. This route covers the neighborhood's most iconic al pastor and suadero spots.