A local’s guide to Mexico City

One of the largest urban centers in the world, Mexico City overflows with life, traffic and great food. It’s a city of contrasts, a place where you’ll find street vendors and world-class fine dining on the same block. There’s always something happening, a new restaurant to try, a new museum or art exhibit, a concert from artists who travel from around the globe.

Residents are known as “chilangos,” and while the roots of that nickname have been scrutinized, many of us carry it with pride. It’s like a badge that means we can endure anything. Even though it rains most afternoons from June to October, we never carry an umbrella. We take long drives to work, eat quick lunches and stretch out long chats with post-meal coffee and desserts. At this sobremesa, or roundtable, there is always room for a carajillo, a coffee spiked with sweet liqueur. We are loud, warm and friendly. We love to show off our city.