Time-Warp in the Big Taco - DF Institutions

One of the things that makes Mexico City so appealing is that the past and present sit cheek by jowl continuously, and thus you can time travel without setting foot outside of the metropolis, making Mexico City the true home of magic realism. Stepping back in time is easiest done in the Centro Historico. Check out all the different historical periods in these DF Institutions..

First up is the Sanborns Restaurant housed in the beautiful 1596 Casa de Azulejos (House of Tiles) with the most exquisite 18th Moorish tiles covering the facade of the building. Sanborns itself is a true DF Institution with its department stores being very reminiscent of the "Are you being served" variety. Next up is the wonderful Casino Espanol, the most traditional of restaurants, located in a 17thc Palace complete with chandeliers, and a full size ballroom.

There are beautiful stained glass panels and ceilings to complete that opulent dining experience...

and the dining room boasts the highest ratio of immaculate, pristine waiters to diners that I have ever witnessed, lending that air of luxury and old-fashioned attentiveness..

For the sweet-toothed a visit to the Institution of Celaya, established 1874, is mandatory. It sells all kinds of decadent sweet treats all with a somewhat archaic flavour...

Fancy something a bit more savoury and substantial?? Forget Subway and head to La Casa de Pavo which has been dishing up hearty, hot turkey sandwiches since 1901 to a very appreciative crowd at this little traditional cafe on Motolina...

Moving on through the centuries, the next Institution of note is the immensely popular and atmospheric Art Deco Cafe Tacuba founded in 1915. Always swinging with Mariachi bands, it is a great place to take visitors for an authentic taste of Mexico..

Yes it does look a bit like you are being served by doctors and nurses here which perhaps enhances the Institutionalised surroundings... but what gorgeous Art Deco architecture is on display...

Want to move on a bit more timewise?? Well how about a bit of 1950s retro chic where you can buy all things 50s kitsch here at Las Galerias el Triunfo.....

And where is my next visit to a DF Institution?? Well actually the expansive, marble bathrooms of Palacio Bellas Artes where the Irish play "Ladies and Gents" is being staged amongst the porcelain urinals and luxurious Ladies...will keep you posted!!

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