A trendy hangout for foodies and families in Mexico City is Mercado Roma, an upscale market offering everything from churros to tacos to huaraches
(a dish of masa, varied toppings and queso fresco).
Launched in May 2014 and located in the hip La Roma neighborhood, the concept was born of a traditional Mexican market, but offers contemporary twists on Mexican food with special attention to artisanal, organic and local cuisine.
But the chance to sample gourmet foods isn’t the only reason to visit. Mercado Roma promotes itself as a space for people to connect in a frenetic city of 9 million. Conceived by Vigilante de la Construcción and the Sacal family, their goal is to create links between people and their neighborhood. “We want people to mix, sit with strangers, and spark new conversations,” Elly Van Os, the market’s spokesperson, told AQ. They accomplish this through the market’s layout, designed by award-winning architect Michel Rojkind and Gerardo Salinas and their creative teams. There are three open, spacious floors with plenty of close seats to encourage new encounters and friendships.
The blend of culinary trends with community building has been a success. More than 50 vendors now offer their wares in a shopper-friendly setting that includes a rooftop terrace, a chef’s table, and even a cigar bar.
And in February they’ll be opening their next venture, Mercado Roma Coyoacán, another market for gourmands in the capital’s historic southern district. The market is the perfect place for an afternoon bite before a big night out in the city.
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Landa is an associate at 100 Resilient Cities. She was previously a programs associate for Mexico at AS/COA.
