A Roma Norte specialty cafe in a beautiful Porfirian space — high ceilings, tiled floors, large windows that flood the room with the particular golden light that the neighborhood's tree canopy filters every morning. Cardinal takes its espresso seriously without the austerity of the more minimal Roma cafes, creating a space that is equally suited to focused coffee drinking and long, unhurried mornings with a book. The Mexican bean program is strong, the baristas are trained and passionate, and the atmosphere achieves the balance between serious coffee and welcoming room that many specialty cafes struggle with.
Location
Roma Norte, Mexico City
Map
Insider Intel
A double espresso for the house roast in its purest form. The cappuccino is well-made if you want milk. The pastries and light breakfast items (avocado toast, granola) are better than standard cafe fare. The iced coffee options are decent in the afternoon heat. Ask about the current Mexican single-origin for pour-over if you want to explore beyond espresso.
Weekday morning from 9am to 11am when the cafe fills with Roma regulars and the light through the windows is at its best. Weekends are busier and more brunch-oriented. The afternoon lull (2-4pm) is pleasant for quiet reading.
Located on Cordoba in Roma Norte, a residential street with easy walking access to the neighborhood's main avenues. The Porfirian building is beautiful and the interior is more spacious than most Roma cafes. Coffee runs 50-100 MXN. Card and cash accepted. Wifi is good for working, though the cafe's atmosphere rewards being present rather than productive. The neighborhood location makes this a natural daily spot for Roma visitors.