Jazz... in Mexico City?! Si!
Most people associate Mexico with mariachi music.
It's true, Mexico is the birthplace of mariachi--and a host of other musical genres.
But it's also a fertile ground for jazz music, a fact which might come as a surprise to visitors.
Two clubs--totally different in their ambiance and vibe--are ideal places to drop in, hang out, and enjoy Mexico's jazz scene. Papa Beto, the older of the two, is located on a little touristed corner about a block off a highway. But don't pass it by: it's everything a good jazz club should be: a little dark, a little raw, really intimate, and filled with other jazz lovers. The only thing missing, a friend said, was a little smoke... but since the indoor smoking ban was passed in the city earlier this year, Papa Beto can't do much about that detail.
Papa Beto, founded by a Japanese expat who has lived in Mexico for more than 20 years, is a welcoming place with excellent music. Their kitchen serves up Japanese-inspired dishes, such as tempura shrimp and vegetables, and their bar, while somewhat limited, offers drinks at reasonable prices. For a schedule and information about cover prices, visit Papa Beto's website.
The second club, Zinco, is located smack dab in the heart of Mexico City's "Centro Historico," or historic district. This club is a bit classier and its bar menu is more extensive. (Try the Mezcalini de Tamarindo!) A bit younger than Papa Beto, Zinco also has the distinction of having presented some pretty impressive musicians, including Wynton Marsalis. It tends to be crowded, though, so if you're not there by 10, you're likely to be standing through the set.
But both clubs have their merits and are worth a visit. I've just posted a video of Papa Beto on my own website, as well as a travel pack of photos, so you'll be able to get a preview!
Papa Beto:
Address: Manuel Villalongin #196-H, Colonia Cuauthemoc
Phone: 5592-1638
Zinco:
Address: Motolinia #20, corner of 5 de Mayo, Colonia Centro
Phone: 5512-3369