Canitas Mexico City / Bar El Sella, a cantina with a superior food
El Sella is a cantina in Doctores known for its à la carte food.
By Alejandro Pohlenz
My grandfather Jaime used to say that in Asturias there were only two seasons: the season of snow and the season of mud. This mountainous region, whose capital is Oviedo and is located in northern Spain, is known as "the green Spain" and for its cured meats with fantastic names like pantruque, moscancia, and sabadiego; dishes like cachopo, Pitú de Celaya, and the famous fabada asturiana. From Asturias came Mr. José Ángel del Valle Caso, who founded Bar El Sella 74 years ago in Colonia Doctores.
El Sella?
El Sella is an unusual name for a cantina in Mexico City. It literally means "saddle without a backrest used during the Roman Empire."
The facade is straightforward, almost a disguise as it doesn't reveal the wonders inside. What makes it unique is that there is no music or distracting screens that hinder human interaction.
The Menu
At El Sella, there are no snacks (as is traditional in cantinas); you must order from the menu.
What we love and you must try: Order the chorizo a la sidra (a typical Asturian dish), the much-talked-about chamorro, and the house cheeses.
Food Police insider advice: They say it was the favorite spot of actress Carmen Salinas. Could it be true?
- Address: Dr. Balmis 210, Colonia Doctores, Cuauhtémoc, 06720 Mexico City, CDMX
- Hours of Operation: Monday to Saturday from 12 p.m. to 7 p.m.
- Ideal for: Food
- Type of Food: Asturian-Mexican fusion
- Payment: Cash and cards
- Accessibility: Yes
- Parking: Valet parking
- Reservations: No
- Phone: 55 55 78 2001
- Nearby Public Transport: Metro Hospital General
- Pet Friendly: No
- Kid-Friendly: No
- Vegan Options: No
