Barrio Chino

The basics

Barrio Chino is a small area that’s easy to cover on foot. Many of the shops here focus not on Chinese goods, but on electronics and appliances, particularly on the southern block of the neighborhood. Most of the culinary treats are on the northern block, where you'll find Chinese groceries and ice cream shops, and plenty of Chinese restaurants (along with a few Japanese spots for good measure). Some walking tours of Mexico City’s downtown highlights pass next to or through Barrio Chino.

Things to know before you go

• Barrio Chino is a must-visit for fans of architecture and Chinese culture.
• The neighborhood is wheelchair-friendly, but some shops have small steps at the entry.
• Bring an appetite—this part of town is particularly well known for its Chinese dishes, some with a Mexican twist.

How to get there

Barrio Chino is in downtown Mexico City, bordered by Dolores Street to the west and Lopez Street to the east, between Avenida Indepencia and Victoria. The nearest metro station is San Juan de Letrán on line 8. Most taxi drivers will also be able to get you there easily.

When to get there

Head to the Barrio Chino at lunchtime and you’ll find plenty of great dishes worth sampling. The best time of year to visit the neighborhood is during the annual Chinese New Year's festivities, which take place over the weekend closest to the date itself. It’s at its most festive during this time, with live performances and lots of traditional food.

Alameda Central

A few blocks away, Alameda Central is a massive green space dotted with statues and around a dozen fountains, all connected by a network of stone walkways. It's worth wandering over if you’re in the mood for a bit of people-watching or just want to rest your legs. The park has public Wi-Fi, too.