Kevin and I spent our birthdays this year in one of our favorite cities, Mexico City. Yes, we have the same birthday and we're one year apart, what are the chances?! We traveled along with a small group of some of our closest friends. It was a quick three-night trip, but the kind that leaves you feeling energized and inspired long after you get home. The city has such an incredible mix of culture, architecture, food, and design, and every neighborhood seems to have its own personality. From the moment we arrived, we spent our days wandering, eating, shopping, and soaking in as much of the city as we could together.

Naturally, a lot of the trip revolved around food. Mexico City has one of the best dining scenes anywhere, and we made it a priority to visit a few favorite spots. Lunch at Contramar in Roma Norte was a highlight. Vibrant, lively, and absolutely delicious. A morning visit at Panadería Rosetta, which has the most amazing pastries and a beautiful rooftop for brunch or lunch. In Polanco, Comedor Jacinta served what might be the best chilaquiles I’ve ever had, and Farina Lomas was another favorite stop while we explored the Lomas neighborhood. For something more casual, La Once Mil Taqueríawas a perfect taco spot. One evening we also did a private mezcal tasting at Mis Mezcales, which felt like a very festive way to celebrate our birthday.

This visit we got to stay in Polanco at Las Alcobas Hotel which was quite a treat! A modern Mexico City escape with that incredible design you expect. 

Beyond the food, what I always love about Mexico City is the creativity that exists everywhere. The design scene is incredible, and I left feeling so inspired by the craftsmanship and thoughtful details in so many of the shops we visited. Some favorites were Lago, Onora, and Sandra Weil in Polanco, along with Audette, Bunker Bazaar, El Parián, and Esperanza Home in Roma. Each space had such a strong point of view, with beautiful handmade pieces and a real sense of artistry behind them. Those kinds of places always spark ideas that find their way back into what we do.

We also made time to explore some of the cultural side of the city. We visited Museo Jumex and the Museo Nacional de Antropología, walked through Parque México in Condesa, and spent time exploring the architecture and design around the city. One of the most memorable moments was a quick day trip to the Teotihuacán pyramids. We had an incredible time and spent a couple hours hiking around two of the pyramid areas. Just enough time to take it all in without feeling rushed.

Evenings were just as fun. We went to a Lucha Libre show, which is such a wild and entertaining Mexico City experience, and ended a couple nights with cocktails at Hanky Panky and Roca Hi-Fi Bar, both tucked-away spots that made the nights feel a little special.

Four days went by quickly, but Mexico City always leaves me feeling inspired! By the culture, colors, the design, the craftsmanship, and the creativity that seems to be around every corner. Trips like this are such a reminder of how much travel influences the way I see things and the ideas I bring back with me.

Kevin and I are already talking about the next trip back. And next time, I think we’ll stay in Roma.