Borough: Miguel Hidalgo
Established: 1869
Location: 5 km southwest of Angel of Independence

Who lives here

Of the 26,600 residents who live in this bustling neighborhood south of Condesa, the majority are longtime residents, as well as middle-class families and young professionals looking for an affordable alternative to Condesa and Roma. Escandón’s location and pleasant cost of living attract real estate investors with an eye for up-and-coming neighborhoods.

Escandón has a very local feel, with residential buildings interspersed with small businesses and traditional markets. Still relatively unknown to expatriates, visitors might notice a stronger sense of community there than in neighboring colonies.

A Brief History of Escandón

The neighborhood is named after the Escandón family. The aristocratic Escandóns gained wealth through business ventures in transportation, mining, and real estate, becoming one of the richest and most powerful families in Mexico in the 19th century. In 1869, a family patriarch purchased part of the old Hacienda de la Condesa, which was divided into what would become neighborhoods including present-day Condesa and Escandón. In the late 1800s, it was still part of the town of Tacubaya, on the outskirts of Mexico City, and the family’s personal estate.

Escandón became part of the Federal District (now Mexico City) in 1929. With the climax of the Mexican Revolution, Escandón became a residential neighborhood, largely occupied by military officers and their families. The construction and expansion of major arteries like the Eje 4 Sur and the Viaduco in the mid-20th century gave the neighborhood the shape we know today.

A guide to Escandón today

Quiet and full of families, Escandón’s strategic location provides easy access to other popular neighborhoods like Condesa and Roma while maintaining its own sense of identity. It is known for its affordability, cultural richness and local charm.

Escandón is bordered by Eje 4 Sur Benjamín Franklin and Avenida Baja California to the north, Viaducto Río Becerra to the south, Avenida Nuevo León to the east, and Avenida Revolución to the west.

The neighborhood is divided into two sections on either side of Avenida Patriotismo. Section I is the western half of the settlement, bordering Tacubaya along Avenida Revolución. It is a slightly more residential mix of historic buildings and modern developments. The population is noticeably older and quieter than the east, which has more mom-and-pop shops and family parks and borders Roma Sur along Avenida Nuevo León. The crowd is a bit younger and more diverse, probably attracted by the denser concentration of cafes, restaurants and shops. Both sections share a northern border with Condesa in the form of Eje 4 Sur.

Escandón is great if you like: Explore facets of CDMX that are less commercial than Roma and Condesa but just as brimming with history, tradition and life. It’s a safe place that presents a real slice of local life, with small shops, markets and restaurants that reflect the daily culture of Mexico City.

What to do in Escandon

Parish of San José de la Montaña: The small church in Eje 4 Sur appears modest from the street, but a pop interior reveals a magnificent display of stained glass.

Roldán Sandoval Cultural Center: With a complete program of unique shows and artistic events, the original theater from the 1970s is considered one of the most important cultural spaces in the neighborhood.

Martí Building: The iconic Art Deco building designed in 1931 by architect Francisco J. Serrano is one of the most beautiful in Escandón. It is located on Sindicalismo Street, on the corner of José Martí Street.

Escandon Market: For more than 30 years, this center has played a much more important role than a community market. It’s a gathering place for residentsmaking a stop here more of an immersion in Mexico than a shopping experience. Grab a bite to eat at the Playa Escondida market.

Guadalajara90210: Jalisco unique nomadic art gallery has a permanent space, but no permanent collection, in Escandón.

Pulquería la Pirata: Channel your inner bohemian when you walk through the lounge-style swing door of this no-frills pulque bara neighborhood staple for 80 years.

Tuesday Tianguis: From 7:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., charming Calle José María Vigil hosts an open-air market selling everything from embroidered baby clothes to fresh spinach.

Sombrereria Escandón: Need a hat? Enter Escandón first hat storewhere Don Ignacio will find the perfect style and cut for you.

What to eat in Escandón

Terraza Micheviche: Beer, seafood and the large, lively terrace of this casual dining spot is the perfect way to end a day of wandering.

OPPA: This popular Korean restaurant is cool, casual, and known for its authentic, homemade dishes and charming atmosphere. Fuel up on a steaming bowl of flavorful ramen on the cozy outdoor patio.

Via Sol: Who knew delicate, juicy ravioli could pair so well with wine? Be sure to check out the events calendar, as the little restaurant there’s a lot going on.

Canteen El León de Oro: It has everything you could want in one classic canteen: Formica tables, bright lighting, flat-screen TVs, and occasional mariachi appearances. However, it’s the hearty menu and lively ambiance that keeps locals coming back again and again.

Conejo Rojo Coffee: When it’s time for a pick-me-up, why not stop for an organic coffee the red rabbit? Admire the alternative art on the walls while the barista prepares a French press beer.

Cafe Escandon: Brimming with trinkets and snacks, you simply can’t come to this side of town without taking a look. discovering Mexican craftssip hot chocolate bubbled with marshmallows.

A hidden gem in Escandón

There’s something about the quiet energy of Calle José María Vigil that will transport you to a Mexican town of the past. Small and leafy, stroll past street art, hanging hummingbird feeders, multi-colored facades, a secluded bakery, and the occasional friendly neighbor on your way home from the market.

Bethany Platanella is a travel planner and lifestyle writer based in Mexico City. She lives for the dopamine hit that comes immediately after booking a plane ticket, exploring local markets, practicing yoga, and snacking on fresh tortillas. Sign up to receive it Sunday love letters in your inbox, go through it blogor follow her on Instagram.