City Guide: Mexico City

How do you spend your time in Mexico City?

I go to football matches almost every week since we have four teams playing in the city (including Toluca, which is not technically in the city, but it is close). I try to visit new coffee shops, bars, cool bookstores, record stores, or vintage spots. There are lots of cultural events happening around the city and it is always fun to go to them with friends. A very Mexican thing around almost any corner are ‘tianguis’ (flea markets) and on the weekends, it is really fun to go and walk around them.

Which football pitch in Mexico City means the most to you?

Estadio Azteca (now Estadio Banorte) means so much to me not just because it is my club’s stadium, but also because it was the first stadium where I got to go as a young kid and the one where I’ve been the most as a football photographer.

What does a match day look like, beyond the ground?

Somewhere with chelas (beer) beforehand, a bar with friends if I’m not at the stadium, and after — so cliché, but for tacos for sure.

A spot that reminds you of football even though it’s unrelated?

I think tianguis. They are places where I go not expecting to buy things or think about football, but I always end up finding the most interesting football merchandise ever.

A spot that is buzzing with creativity right now?

La Laguna might be one of the coolest spots in the city: independent stores, amazing food, good coffee, a riso studio and even the Mubi offices, all in one place.

The meal you’ve had most often this year?

I guess it would be sushi... Wabi, in la Roma, is by far one of the best spots in the city for good sushi.

The newest place in the city that you recommend?

Cursi. It’s a steak restaurant with an interesting and experimental decor.

The place that’s been in Mexico City forever and still earns it?

Forever and ever SANBORNS. The BEST place to have breakfast, to try chilaquiles or enchiladas, a must for anyone visiting Mexico.

A match abroad you’d plan a whole trip around?

I’d love to go to a Manchester United match at Old Trafford. If not at the ground, I guess any pub around the stadium would work for me.

What insider tip would you give a football fan visiting?

ALWAYS try to get to the stadium early. It is a beautiful city, but it’s also a chaotic one when it comes to getting around. It’s better to arrive with plenty of time and grab a beer at the stadium before the match. Also, bring cash for the best football merch; the good stuff is always outside the stadium.

Any other things that someone visiting Mexico City needs to know?

Don’t only stay in La Roma and Condesa (the trendy areas). Explore places like el Centro, la Doctores, San Rafael, la Santa María la Ribera, or Coyoacán too.