Cantinas in Mexico City / "El Ebro": The Temple of Cantinas

Fotos cortesía de: Sitio web y Facebook de El Ebro

In 1931, President Pascual Ortiz Rubio sought to solidify Article 123 of the Constitution. The Federal Labor Law was decreed that year. We like to think that the Mexican community of workers and lawyers celebrated the law at the new El Ebro cantina, which had just opened its doors on Avenida Fray Servando Teresa de Mier. Later on, it found its permanent home at number 29 Alfredo Chavero Street in the Obrera neighborhood. During the 60s and 70s, it underwent renovations until it took on the distinctive appearance it has today. Its striking and somewhat peculiar building could be mistaken for a temple. Its red and silver lights and colors invite us to join in its promise tattooed in its slogan: "the best cantina in Mexico."

Cantinas in the Obrera neighborhood

Since finding its new location, a whirlwind of celebrations and good drinks has marked the history of this place. Upon entering, one is immediately infected with good vibes from the live music. Diners blend their voices with those of the artists who always wear an eternal smile, understanding the party, enjoying it, promoting it. Rumors, songs, shouts, and conversations mix with the bustling efficiency of the waiters. Tables of suits, ties, and polished shoes coexist with others in jeans, t-shirts, and caps. Here, there's something for every taste and appetite, with over a hundred dishes divided into four courses. You decide. Suddenly, I'm struck by the sight of a gigantic "elephant ear" (milanesa) promising to steal the show at the table next to mine. This scene contrasts with my small, discreet plate, perfectly stocked with cochinita tacos, generously overflowing as they should be.

The first ensemble concludes, but here, the musical variety never ends. Our waiter tells us that sometimes more than ten bands perform in a single day. Suddenly, a huge plate of shrimp atop a bed of refried beans confirms the creativity of their menu.

El Ebro continues its trend of updating to new tastes, much like its renovation in the 70s. Recently, it has added a new terrace in true postmodern chilango style. There are no excuses here; diversity is in the air. With a menu boasting over a hundred dishes, the hardest part will be making up your mind.

• Address: Alfredo Chavero 29, Colonia Obrera
• Operating hours: Monday to Friday (closed on Tuesdays) from 10 am to 9:30 pm
• Ideal for: lunch, dinner
• Type of cuisine: Mexican, international, a little bit of everything like in a good cantina
• Payment: cash and cards
• Accessibility: yes
• Parking: valet parking available
• Reservations: not necessary, but Fridays every other week might require waiting in line
• Contact info: 55780458
• Nearby public transport: Metro stations San Antonio Abad, Doctores, Obrera
• Pet friendly: no
• Suitable for children: offers a kids' menu on weekends
• Vegan options: no