Cantina Salon Rios
Old-school cantina near the Merced market where off-duty workers drink cheap beer and watch telenovelas on a wall-mounted TV. The botanas include brothy soups and small tacos served gratis with drinks.
Address
Av. Circunvalacion, Col. Merced Balbuena
Other Venues in La Merced
Salon Los Angeles
Historic dance hall operating since 1937. Live cumbia, salsa, and danzon bands on weekends. One of Mexico City's most authentic dance venues. Cover around 100-200 MXN.
Cantina La Faena
Old-school cantina near the Merced market with cheap beer, botanas (free snacks with drinks), and a mostly male local crowd. Cash only.
Pulqueria Las Duelistas
Traditional pulqueria in the Centro Historico serving flavored pulque. A piece of living Mexican drinking culture. Noisy, crowded, and inexpensive.
Bar Mancera
Century-old cantina at the edge of the La Merced district. Tile floors, swinging doors, and cheap mezcal. Frequented by market workers and local regulars.
Salon Tenampa
Legendary mariachi bar on Plaza Garibaldi that has operated since 1925. Live mariachi bands perform continuously, and the tequila flows freely. A cornerstone of Mexico City's musical heritage.
Cantina La Peninsular
Traditional cantina in the Centro Historico with swinging saloon doors and free botanas served with every round. The clientele is almost entirely working-class locals from the surrounding market area.