"Guide to Cantinas in Mexico City / Cuchilleros, a Young Legend."
With its recently attained legal drinking age, Cuchilleros is quickly on its way to becoming a legend in Mexico City.
By: Jajo Crespo / Photos from Cuchilleros (Facebook)
Opened in 2006 at just 18 years old, Cuchilleros has already earned the nickname "the senators' place" due to its frequent patrons. It's also common to find businessmen, sports figures, and people from the entertainment industry here. Cuchilleros has struggled to stay relevant and appealing over the years.
A Cantina with a Long Tradition
But don't be fooled by its youthfulness; this cantina is rooted in a long tradition. It inherits its legacy from the Belmont cantina, once located on Atenas Street, and takes its name from the homonymous street in Madrid, known for crafting swords used in bullfighting. Cuchilleros acknowledges that the origin of Mexican cantinas is a fusion of Iberian and Mexican cultures, as pointed out by Cuchilleros collaborator David Ramos: "Initially, cantinas were dominated by Spaniards. Later, a group of Mexicans started creating their own cantinas, leading to a gastronomic fusion of Mexican and Spanish cuisine."
The continuous effort to stay relevant is evident throughout the establishment. One expression of this is live music, of which Cuchilleros is very proud. The venue features a stage with lights to enhance the musicians' performances, with set times (Thursdays and Fridays from 7 to 8 pm, and Saturdays from 6 to 7 pm). Another example catering to guests are the private rooms available for reservations.
However, maintaining relevance comes at a cost: lights, meticulous care, attention to detail, private rooms, and a children's area (available on Saturdays and Sundays). This dedication is reflected in the menu; Cuchilleros isn't a cheap cantina, especially for dining. So, keep in mind all the subtleties of the place when ordering a "balas de plata" (a lazy susan with six oyster shots topped with cocktail sauce) and settling in to enjoy the live music.
- Address: Madrid 17, Tabacalera, Mexico City
- Contact info: 55663654 / 55663786
- Hours of Operation: Monday to Friday, 1:30 pm to 11 pm. Saturdays, 1:30 pm to 10 pm. Sundays, 1:30 pm to 8 pm.
- Ideal for: Lunch and dinner
- Type of cuisine: Mexican, Spanish, meats, and seafood.
- Payment: Cash and cards accepted
- Accessibility: Yes
- Parking: Yes
- Reservations: Not necessary, but can be made through their website or by phone
- Nearby Public Transport: Yes, Reforma Metrobus (Line 1 and 7) and París
- Pet friendly: No
- Suitable for children: Yes
- Vegan options: No
- Price of beer: $63
