For Víctor Manuel Gálvez Palmer, a butler at The St. Regis Mexico City, hospitality means anticipating the needs of others and turning a stay into a lasting memory. Away from the hotel, that same perspective leads him to explore the city through its restaurants, museums, parks, and favorite local spots. This is his personal guide to a Mexico City that, he says, always has something new to reveal.

A MORNING OF ART AND NATURE

One of Víctor’s favorite ways to start the day is with a walk. Among his preferred places is La Mexicana Park, in Santa Fe, where he finds an unusual combination in the city: expansive green spaces, walking paths, and a range of restaurants that make it easy to extend the visit.

For a cultural experience, he recommends Museo Soumaya, whose collection spans different periods and artistic movements, as well as Museo Jumex, dedicated to contemporary art. He also enjoys visiting galleries such as OMR and ARRÓNIZ, particularly for their contemporary art programs.

His interest in art began in high school, when he studied art history. Since then, visiting museums, observing sculptures, and discovering new works have become one of his favorite ways to experience a city.

A CITY MADE FOR WALKING

If he had to choose one walk, Víctor would pick Paseo de la Reforma at sunset. The avenue offers views of some of the capital’s most recognizable buildings and monuments as the city shifts into a different rhythm.

He also enjoys exploring Mexico City at night. For him, the illumination of its buildings transforms the architecture and gives the city a different personality.

When he wants to escape the urban pace, he trades buildings for the forest. Among his favorite destinations for hiking are Desierto de los Leones, Nevado de Toluca, and La Malinche. He visits these places to disconnect, breathe mountain air, and reconnect with nature.

SHOPPING WITH TWO SIDES OF MEXICO

To show his foreign friends the diversity of the capital, Víctor suggests combining two very different experiences.

First, Avenida Presidente Masaryk and Plaza Antara in Polanco, where international brands, restaurants, and retail spaces come together. Then, a visit to La Ciudadela in Mexico City’s Historic Center to discover Mexican craftsmanship and find pieces that represent different traditions from across the country.

The combination, he explains, reflects two sides of the city: a contemporary, cosmopolitan capital that coexists with a deep artisanal tradition.

A TABLE MADE FOR SHARING

When it comes to dining, one of his recommendations is Maximo Bistrot, where he particularly enjoys the atmosphere and cuisine. For dessert, he has a favorite: French toast.

Another option is Ling Ling, especially for its panoramic views of the city. One of his recommended dishes is the wagyu.

Rather than looking for a single restaurant that defines Mexico City, his selection reflects one of the capital’s qualities he enjoys most: the ability to move from an intimate dining experience to a table overlooking the city, all within the same destination.

THE NIGHT TAKES A DIFFERENT TURN

When night falls, Víctor has three recommendations, each with a distinct personality.

Toledo Rooftop is his choice for combining food, music, and a DJ-driven atmosphere. For cocktails, he recommends Handshake Speakeasy, known for its creative drinks and attention to detail.

For a more relaxed night, he suggests Pizza Félix in Roma, where he enjoys the ’80s-inspired music and an atmosphere that reflects his personal tastes.

Three Must-See Experiences If he had to narrow Mexico City down to three experiences, Víctor would choose Paseo de la Reforma at sunset, La Mexicana Park, and Museo Soumaya. Three places that, from his perspective, offer different ways to experience CDMX: the energy of its avenues, its green spaces, and its cultural richness.

Perhaps that is also the best way to understand the city Víctor enjoys: a capital where a walk can turn into a museum visit, an afternoon of shopping can end at a table overlooking the city, and, just a few hours later, the night can unfold in an entirely different setting. In Mexico City, there is always something left to discover.

@_vicpalmer