
When was the last time you walked into a bar and felt your jaw literally drop? That’s the exact sensation that awaits at Salon Palomilla, thanks to its show-stopping oculus – a dramatic circular opening in the ceiling that serves as both an architectural marvel and an Instagram-worthy focal point. What started as Mexico City’s best-kept secret has evolved into one of Roma Norte’s most coveted reservations, yet somehow maintains its mysterious allure.
I’ll never forget my first visit to this remarkable venue. As I stepped through the entrance, the gentle notes of jazz floated through the air, mingling with the excited murmurs of patrons gathered beneath that iconic circular opening in the ceiling. It’s a place where every detail tells a story, from the carefully curated artwork adorning the walls to the masterfully crafted cocktails that have earned this spot its reputation as one of Mexico City’s most intriguing destinations.
The Architecture & Design That Sets Salon Palomilla Apart

At the heart of Salon Palomilla’s allure is its stunning architectural design, anchored by the mesmerizing oculus that punctuates the ceiling of the main room. This circular opening isn’t just any skylight – it’s a deliberate architectural statement that transforms the space into something truly magical. The oculus serves multiple purposes: it creates a dramatic focal point, allows natural light to filter into the space during early evening hours, and establishes a unique atmosphere that sets Salon Palomilla apart from other venues in Mexico City’s vibrant bar scene.
The interior design takes inspiration from both traditional Mexican architectural elements and contemporary aesthetics. The space is a masterful study in contrasts, where rough textured walls meet sleek, modern furnishings. The color palette is rich and sophisticated, dominated by deep earth tones and warm lighting that creates an intimate atmosphere throughout the venue.
The walls tell their own story through a carefully curated collection of artwork that reflects Mexico’s rich artistic heritage while embracing contemporary expressions. Large-scale paintings command attention on the main walls, while smaller, more intimate pieces are thoughtfully placed throughout the space, encouraging exploration and rewarding repeated visits with new details to discover.
The lighting design plays a crucial role in defining the venue’s atmosphere. During evening hours, the oculus transforms from a source of natural light into a dramatic architectural feature, with carefully positioned lighting that casts enchanting shadows and creates depth throughout the space. The lighting scheme changes subtly throughout the evening, transitioning from the warm glow of sunset to more dramatic illumination.
The Bar in the Back

One of the most captivating elements of the back bar’s design is its collection of masks – an artistic touch that adds an element of mystery and cultural depth to the space. These masks, varying in style and origin, create an almost gallery-like experience as you sip your cocktails, serving as both decoration and conversation starter.
The Complete Guide to Reservations & Seating

Securing a spot at Salon Palomilla requires a bit of planning, but the effort is well worth it. The venue operates on a WhatsApp-based reservation system, which has become increasingly competitive as word of mouth has spread about this exceptional space. For the best chance at securing a table in the main room – particularly one near the iconic ceiling opening – you’ll want to plan several weeks in advance.
To make a reservation, simply send a WhatsApp message to their designated number. Be sure to include:
- Your preferred date and time
- The number of people in your party
- Any special requests or occasions you’re celebrating

The main room, with its proximity to both the oculus and the live music setup, is undoubtedly the most sought-after seating area. Tables here offer the full Salon Palomilla experience, combining the architectural wonder above with perfect positioning for enjoying the nightly jazz performances.
For those unable to secure a reservation or preferring a more spontaneous visit, the standing-room back bar offers its own unique charm. While you won’t have the same vantage point of the oculus, you’ll find yourself in a vibrant space where the energy is often more casual and social. The mask collection and artwork in this area provide plenty of visual interest, and the quality of drinks remains consistently high.
Live Jazz & Musical Entertainment

As the clock strikes 9 PM, Salon Palomilla transforms into one of Mexico City’s premier jazz venues. The live performances add another layer of sophistication to an already refined atmosphere, with the music perfectly complementing the architectural and mixological artistry on display.
The venue hosts a rotating lineup of talented jazz musicians, each bringing their own interpretation of both classic standards and contemporary pieces. The acoustics of the space, particularly in the main room, create an intimate concert experience where the music envelops you without overwhelming conversation.
The positioning of the band is thoughtfully arranged to ensure optimal sound distribution throughout the venue. Even from the back bar, the music carries clearly, creating a cohesive atmosphere throughout the space. The genre typically stays within the realm of jazz, ranging from smooth contemporary pieces to more traditional arrangements, all contributing to the sophisticated ambiance that Salon Palomilla is known for.
Craft Cocktail Menu & Signature Drinks

The cocktail program at Salon Palomilla stands as a testament to Mexico City’s flourishing craft cocktail scene. During my visit, I had the pleasure of sampling two standout drinks that perfectly exemplify the bar’s commitment to excellence: the Mezcal Espresso Martini and their interpretation of the Mai Thai.
The Mezcal Espresso Martini deserves special mention. This innovative take on the classic cocktail brilliantly marries the smoky depth of mezcal with rich coffee notes, creating a drink that’s simultaneously familiar and entirely unique. The slight smokiness from the mezcal adds an extra dimension to the traditional espresso martini profile, while maintaining the silky smooth texture that makes this cocktail so beloved.

Their Mai Thai interpretation demonstrates the bar’s ability to execute classical cocktails with precision while adding subtle touches that make it distinctively their own. The balance of rum, fresh lime, and almond notes creates a harmonious blend that transports you to a tropical paradise, even while sitting in the heart of Mexico City.
Beyond these signature drinks, the bar offers an extensive selection of spirits, with a particular emphasis on Mexican products like mezcal and tequila. The bartenders demonstrate an impressive knowledge of their craft, ready to guide guests through the menu or create bespoke drinks based on individual preferences.
Practical Information & Planning Your Visit

Located in the heart of Roma Norte, Salon Palomilla sits at Av. Yucatán 84c, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX. The venue is easily accessible by taxi or ride-share services, though parking is available in nearby lots for those driving. For the most current updates and glimpses into the atmosphere, follow their Instagram handle [insert handle].
When planning your visit, keep in mind that the atmosphere changes throughout the evening. Early hours offer a more relaxed environment, perfect for intimate conversations and appreciating the architectural details, while the energy picks up considerably after 9 PM when the live music begins.
While there isn’t a strict dress code, the sophisticated atmosphere calls for smart casual attire at minimum. Most patrons dress to impress, adding to the overall elevated ambiance of the venue.
Final Thoughts About Salon Palomilla

Salon Palomilla represents everything that makes Mexico City’s nightlife scene so special – a perfect fusion of architectural innovation, artistic expression, and masterful mixology. While it may have begun as a hidden gem, its evolution into one of the city’s most talked-about venues hasn’t diminished its charm or attention to detail. Whether you’re fortunate enough to secure a reservation beneath the iconic oculus or find yourself enjoying the lively atmosphere of the back bar, you’re in for an evening that transcends the typical bar experience.
The combination of live jazz, remarkable cocktails, and that unforgettable ceiling opening creates something truly unique in Mexico City’s bustling nightlife scene. Yes, you might have to plan ahead for a reservation, and yes, you might find yourself in the standing-room section if you don’t, but either way, you’re participating in what has become one of Roma Norte’s most compelling nightlife destinations. As Mexico City’s bar scene continues to evolve and expand, Salon Palomilla stands as a shining example of how thoughtful design, quality service, and attention to detail can create an experience that’s worth seeking out, again and again.
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