About Altanera Roma
Altanera Roma is a high-end rooftop restaurant and bar in Mexico City’s trendy Roma Norte neighborhood. Located on the 8th floor of Colima 161 (corner of Orizaba) , it offers sweeping 180° views of the city skyline through floor-to-ceiling windows. The space is notable for its dramatic architecture: soaring 40-foot arched ceilings, expansive window walls and a warm, plant-filled decor with wood and earthy accents . According to design reviews, it feels like a luxurious patio (even likened to “eating in a friend’s terrace”), with abundant greenery and soft lighting that create a welcoming, open-air vibe . As Robb Report sums up, Altanera is a “new hotspot” in CDMX – in fact one of the “prettiest rooftops in the city” – showcasing contemporary Mexican cuisine on a stylish elevated terrace .
The restaurant is the latest venture from celebrity chef Lula Martín del Campo (known for Cascabel and Marea), and it was launched around 2020. Lula is lauded for championing traditional Mexican ingredients, and Altanera’s menu reflects that focus: corn, beans and chiles are celebrated throughout, often using nixtamalized maize and heirloom local varieties . In fact the name “Altanera” (which in Spanish means “proud” or “lofty”) was chosen to symbolize elevating Mexican food and culture – the owners explicitly state they want to use the concept of altanera to exalt Mexico’s heritage through modern cuisine . This blend of tradition and trendiness has made Altanera a popular destination: it even received a 2025 Travelers’ Choice award and ranks high in the city’s listings. Altanera’s total seating capacity is under 200 – roughly 72 seats on the main floor and about 82 more (including 20 high-top seats) on a lofted upper level – which is large for a rooftop venue. Overall, its combination of panoramic views, upscale design and award-winning chef makes it a standout destination in the Roma food scene.
Events and Programming
While Altanera is primarily a restaurant/bar, it is also marketed as an event venue. Twolines (the site for event rentals) highlights Altanera’s “extraordinary 180-degree view” and its 40-foot vaulted ceiling, calling it “the perfect space for an event” . In practice this means Altanera can host private parties, receptions and corporate functions on its open two-floor layout. For example, promoters might book the rooftop for a birthday dinner or product launch; with its mix of comfortable dining tables and a large open space, Altanera can accommodate seated dinners as well as mingling cocktail parties. That said, it does not typically have a public performance schedule or regular music concerts. Any live entertainment would be occasional and often background – some guests report soft live jazz or a DJ on weekend nights, but there is no fixed “concert calendar.” Most nightly programming is built around dining and ambient music. For special events (say a New Year’s Eve party or themed dinner), Altanera may offer set menus or fixed-cover tickets through promotion, but on a normal evening nothing beyond the table reservation is needed. Theater‐style staging is not part of Altanera’s everyday scene. Instead, expect a restaurant environment, potentially booked out by a private group if the event toasts are in that space.
Tickets and Booking
Because Altanera is a restaurant, there is no standard ticket or cover charge to enter – you simply pay for food and drinks. Dining here is relatively pricey: listings indicate an average spend >MXN500 per person (often translating to dinner checks of $25-50 USD or more per guest, depending on courses and drinks). To visit, guests usually make a reservation rather than buy an advance ticket. The owners recommend booking ahead, especially for prime times (weekend evenings). For instance, Altanera’s own announcements urge customers to “reserve now” via their Instagram handle or phone number . Many people use reservation apps (it’s listed on OpenTable) or call +52 55 9256 3836 . Walk‐ins occasionally seatable during slow weekday afternoons but are not guaranteed, so booking goes in advance. There isn’t an online ticket seller or box office; you pay at the end of your meal. If the restaurant ever runs a special dinner event or tasting menu (holiday specials or collaborations, for example), the booking process might involve prepaid tickets or vouchers, but this is rare. In general, the best strategy is to book a table as early as the venue allows – many guests say a week or more notice on weekends – and to expect food prices in the high range (entrees often $300–600 MXN each). Keep in mind also that some specialty items (like the lobster or premium cuts) can be even higher.
Seating and Layout
Altanera’s layout is an open, two-level floor plan with both indoor and outdoor seating. The lower restaurant level can seat about 72 guests at regular tables, while an upper mezzanine adds roughly 62 more table seats and another 20 bar‐stool (periquera) places . Guests enter on the main floor, which features most of the booth and table seating. A central staircase leads up to a second floor along one wall, doubling back to a partially open rooftop deck. In other words, everyone has a view: the high ceilings and glass walls mean light and skyline vistas reach nearly every table. Nevertheless, the premier seats are those nearest the large window wall or on the outdoor terrace balcony – those offer uninterrupted city views (great at sunset or by night). The upper level provides a more rooftop-bar style feel, often with sofa/lounge chairs near the edge for an extra open-air experience. TripAdvisor’s listing notes the venue has outdoor seating and a “full bar” , which corresponds to the high-top counter area and lounge spots. Sitting anywhere in the restaurant is comfortable for dining; acoustics are moderate (it’s styled as an upscale casual bistro, not a loud dance club), so conversation is easy and music is at a background volume. There are no obstructed sightlines, no general-admission “standing” sections, and no physical stage – the design is meant for dining and ambient drinking across both levels.
Getting There and Parking
Altanera is located at Colima 161 (8th floor) in Colonia Roma Norte . The easiest access point is at street level near the corner of Colima and Orizaba. To reach it, visitors typically head to the Roma/Condesa area. By public transit, take Mexico City’s Metrobus Line 1 (the Insurgentes route) or local buses that run along Avenida Chapultepec or Insurgentes; get off a few blocks from Colima Street and walk. There is no subway station immediately at Roma Norte; the closest Metro is Insurgentes (Line 1) which is about 5–8 blocks away. Many travelers will take an Uber or taxi, drop off at the corner of Colima and Orizaba, and then ride the elevator up. As for parking, TripAdvisor confirms on-site valet is offered（“Estacionamiento con servicio de valet: Sí” ）. In practice, this means when you drive up, attendants will park your car for you (tipping is customary). Beyond valet parking, street parking in Roma Norte is typically metered or limited to neighborhood permits – so most diners rely on the valet service or paid parking lots nearby. If using rideshare, the drop-off point is usually the sidewalk at the Colima/Orizaba entrance. Note that late-night transit in the area is reasonable: Insurgentes is a major corridor with 24-hour bus service, and many taxis/Ubers circulate as it’s a nightlife district. Overall, plan to arrive by car or ride-share; the exterior has easy curbside access for dropping off and picking up patrons.
Inside the Venue
Walking into Altanera feels like entering an upscale open-air club. There is a valet/pass-through area at the entrance, after which you are led up to the terrace floors. The atmosphere inside is modern and casual-chic: wooden benches, live plants, woven textures, and warm earth-tone accents mingle with sleek furnishings . Early-arriving guests will often notice a small starters table near the bar: typically the meal is introduced with freshly made tostadas and a salsa bar of three house-made sauces (including a spicy habanero salsa) alongside refried beans . This setup – provided as soon as you sit – is representative of the hospitality and flavor focus here. The servers are cordial and efficient, taking orders for food, cocktails and other drinks; their style is professional but friendly rather than stuffy. According to reviews, the staff typically speaks both Spanish and English and makes you feel welcome. Behind the bar there is a full cocktail menu (TripAdvisor explicitly notes a “Bar completo” ). Patrons can enjoy a wide selection of tequilas, mezcals, wines and craft cocktails (some with Mexican twists) prepared by knowledgeable bartenders. You can sit at the bar if you like, or at any of the indoor tables tens or the outdoor ones on the balconies. Because of the layout, even relatively small lunches (weekday rushes) keep a relaxed, open feel.
For amenities: Altanera has standard restaurant services. Bathrooms are located off the main lobby (signs for “Salida” and “Hombres/Mujeres” are lit), and are reported to be clean and well-maintained. A coat check is generally not mentioned (it’s a warm rooftop space, so most guests keep light jackets at their table or draped over chairs). The venue does not advertise on-site lockers or cloakrooms, so plan to carry valuables with you. Altanera accepts credit cards (as noted in its online profile) , but it’s always wise to carry a little cash as backup. Free Wi-Fi is likely available (many high-end CDMX restaurants offer it), though one should double-check. Photography is common (the view and décor make for good snapshots), and there’s no sign forbidding casual photo-taking; just be respectful of privacy around other diners. On the other hand, avoid bringing outside food or alcohol (not allowed), and note that most nights require a reservation rather than a line. The atmosphere is upscale-casual: guests come in nice jeans, dresses or collared shirts, nothing too formal. There is no strict dress code posted, but smart-casual is recommended (for example, no flip-flops or athletic wear). Age restrictions are not enforced – families with children do dine there – but after about 8pm the vibe becomes largely adult. Finally, the restaurant operates weather-dependently: since much of it is open-air, a sudden rain could close the balcony seating (though staff will usually cover the space as needed). It’s wise to check the closing time (usually 10pm on weekdays and midnight or 1am on weekends ) and to plan transportation accordingly.
Nearby Amenities
Altanera sits in the heart of Roma Norte, a lively district packed with dining, nightlife and lodging options. Within easy walk are dozens of restaurants: for instance, Rosetta (vineyard-inspired Mexican fare) is on Colima just a block away, and Máximo Bistrot (chef-driven seasonal cuisine) is a few blocks north. The area also has casual cafes (Panadería Rosetta, Lalo!), sushi spots (La Barraca), and international cuisines (Osaka for sushi, Taquería Orinoco for tacos). For nightlife before or after, Plaza Insurgentes (one block west) has bars like Gin Gin (known for gin-and-tonics) and La Botica (artsy cocktail lounge). Streets around Altanera are lined with small boutiques, markets and galleries, so visitors can easily grab a coffee or browse shops pre-show. The neighborhood is flanked by a park (Parque España) and a square (Plaza Luis Cabrera) for a stroll. For accommodations, Roma Norte has many boutique hotels and rental apartments; for example the Colima 71 boutique hotel is just down the street (also at Colima) and offers luxury rooms. Because Altanera opens at 1pm, a smart visitor might arrive an hour early to explore the area – maybe lunch at a nearby eatery or a quick walk through the famous Roma fresco-lined streets. After the evening, late-night transportation is plentiful: Insurgentes (Line 1) metro is nearby (one stop south is the Zona Rosa neighborhood), and Metrobus or TP buses run late. Taxis and ride-shares are abundant around Roma, so catching a ride home up until the early hours is relatively easy. In short, Altanera is surrounded by the best of Roma’s amenities – dine, drink and stay anywhere around and walk a few blocks to the rooftop.
What Makes This Venue Special
Altanera stands out in Mexico City for several reasons. Architecturally, its soaring vaulted roof and 180-degree promenade view are both striking and rare for an urban restaurant . Few city eateries offer such a dramatic “sky-terrace” ambience, especially in a modern glass-and-wood hacienda style . Equally, the cultural mission of the place is unique: it is explicitly designed to celebrate and “elevate” Mexican culinary traditions in a fine-dining context . Esteemed chef Lula Martín del Campo brings deep respect for her ingredients – she’s known for hand-selecting local corn nixtamal and working closely with regional producers . This farm-to-fork ethos resonates through Altanera’s menu (for example, ordering a quesabirria taco or mole entrée here means you’re tasting top-quality Mexican ingredients with a modern twist). Also special is the restaurant’s reputation: early press dubbed it an “oasis” in Roma, and it quickly earned accolades (Traveler’s Choice, chef-of-the-year awards, etc.) that most new places don’t get . On a visit you can feel the pride (literally “altanera”) of the city in its design – local articles note it is doing something singular with contemporary Mexican flavors and an unbeatable terrace vibe . Finally, an unusual bit of lore has also attached to Altanera: local newspapers recently reported that the building’s upper floors (where the rooftop sits) were added without official permits, making Altanera essentially an “unauthorized” surplus on the neighborhood skyline . Whether that drama excites visitors or not, it has cemented Altanera’s place in Roma’s history. All told, artists and audiences love it because it combines Mexico’s rich culinary traditions, a glamorous “lofty” setting, and the kind of upscale hospitality one expects from a new palace of food.
Visitor Tips and Information
Getting in: Always reserve ahead. Altanera is popular, so advanced booking (via their phone or Instagram ) is recommended for weekend dinners. Aim to arrive about 10–15 minutes before your reservation to avoid the crowd. The check-in is casual – you’ll give your name to the host and wait at the entrance lobby. Dress style is smart‐casual: show up nicely dressed (avoid athletic shorts, tank-tops, flip-flops). Payment: The venue takes credit cards (as noted in listings ), and tipping is customary on top of tabs. Flash your ID if you plan to drink alcohol. What to bring: A camera/phone is great for the view, but large tripods are discouraged. In Mexico City evenings can get chilly, so a sweater or light jacket is wise (the rooftop is mostly open-air). Food & drink policy: You cannot bring outside food or drinks; all consumption must be through the restaurant. Smoking is typically only allowed on the outdoor balcony. Seating: Unless you rented a specific table, you generally have general seating – but you can request window/table preference when booking. Avoid scheduling during a dead period (late afternoon), as the best dining experience is at dusk or sunset. Children: Well-behaved kids are fine (especially before 7pm), but this is not primarily a family theme park – it’s more adult-friendly as the night goes on. Accessibility: Confirm in advance if wheelchair access is required – the building has an elevator, but the layout is multi‐level. Common mistakes: Don’t arrive on an empty stomach expecting quick street food – this is a leisurely dining experience. Also, don’t linger at a table for hours if it’s crowded; be mindful of other guests in line. Release times: Weekday closing is around 10pm (11pm Wed), Friday & Saturday at ~1am . Plan your return trip accordingly. Insider tip: If you want the best sunset view, book a 5pm or 6pm slot and ask for a window table or outdoor spot. For an extra treat, try to go on a clear night to see the city lights. Many local diners also recommend the margaritas and mezcal cocktails here (though there are no fixed “signature,” the bartenders are known to use Mexican ingredients like hibiscus or tamarind in creative drinks).
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make a reservation at Altanera Roma?
Altanera accepts reservations by phone or online. The easiest way is to call +52 55 9256 3836 or message their Instagram account (@altaneraroma) to book a table . Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for weekend evenings. If you do walk in without a booking, you may have a long wait unless it’s a slow time of day.
What days and hours is Altanera open?
Altanera is open for dinner (and late-night on weekends). It opens daily at 1:00 PM. Sunday through Tuesday it closes around 10:00 PM, Wednesday around 11:00 PM, and from Thursday through Saturday it stays open until about 1:00 AM . Hours can vary for holidays or special events, so it’s wise to check their official page or social media before a visit.
Where is Altanera Roma located and how do I get there?
Altanera is at Colima Street 161, in Colonia Roma Norte (Mexico City, ZIP 06700) , a few blocks east of Insurgentes Avenue. The nearest Metrobus stop is on Avenida Insurgentes (Line 1), about a 5–10 minute walk. Many people take ride-share or taxi directly to Colima & Orizaba. If driving, you can use on-site valet parking (Tip: tell them “valet”) . Street parking is sparse. In general, the easiest approach for tourists is a short taxi/Uber ride from a Metro or nearby hotel.
Is there parking available at Altanera?
Yes. Altanera provides valet parking for guests . This means you can pull up to the entrance and staff will park your car for you (tipping is customary). There is no large self-park lot, so if you choose to drive yourself instead of valeting, you’ll need to find street parking or a nearby garage. On busy nights the valet is much more convenient to avoid walking in the dark or paying for garage rates.
What kind of seating does Altanera have, and how is the layout?
Altanera has two levels of seating. The main (lower) level holds about 72 diners at tables, and a second elevated floor holds roughly 62 more at tables plus 20 seats at high-top (periquera) tables . There are both indoor dining tables and an outdoor terrace portion. Every seat enjoys city views: tables by the windows or on the balcony have especially unobstructed panoramic vistas. There are no general-admission standing areas – it is all table seating and a drink bar. The open layout and high ceiling ensure good visibility and acoustics throughout.
What type of food and drink can I expect at Altanera?
Altanera serves contemporary Mexican cuisine with an emphasis on high-quality, local ingredients . Typical starters include made-to-order tostadas with house salsas and refried beans . Popular mains range from seafood ceviches to meats like ribeye with chiles, all prepared in modern styles. The menu often highlights staples like maize and beans (for example, quesabirria tacos served with consommé are a favorite ). For dessert, the signature is a “pastel de horchata” tres-leches cake , among other sweets. Drinks-wise, there is a full bar – expect craft cocktails (many with Mexican twists like hibiscus or mescal), as well as wide selections of tequila and mezcal. Reservations often include water, but alcoholic drinks are extra. It’s a fine-dining price point, so planning a moderate budget per person is wise .
Are there any special events or music at Altanera?
Altanera is not primarily a concert or nightclub venue, so there isn’t a fixed schedule of shows or DJ nights. It focuses on dining service. On occasion, the restaurant may have a live musician or DJ (for example, a jazz duo or a guest DJ on weekend nights), but this is not guaranteed and not advertised like at a club. If a special event or holiday dinner is held (such as a holiday gala or themed party), then cover charges or fixed-price tickets might apply, but those are exceptions. In general, book Altanera for the food and ambiance – any music is usually background style and low volume, making conversation easy.
Who is the head chef and what is her background?
The kitchen at Altanera is led by Chef Lula Martín del Campo, a well-regarded figure in Mexican gastronomy . She has worked at top restaurants in Mexico and has earned awards for her cooking (including “Chef of the Year” in 2024 by a national guide ). Chef Lula is known for blending traditional Mexican ingredients (such as heirloom corn and regional chiles) with creative techniques. Altanera is her most recent project to spread those flavors to a rooftop-dining audience.
What is the dress code at Altanera?
There is no strict dress code posted, but the ambience is upscale-casual. We recommend smart-casual attire: nice jeans or trousers and a blouse/shirt or a casual dress. Locals often turn out looking polished (no flip-flops, sleeveless tank tops, or sweatpants). Since it’s a rooftop bar-restaurant, many guests dress “date-night” smart. Dressing neatly helps match the refined atmosphere (though it’s not black-tie by any means).
Is Altanera wheelchair-accessible?
Accessibility is a good question given the rooftop location. Altanera is on high floors, and the building does have an elevator, so wheelchair entry to the restaurant level is possible. Inside, the layout is relatively open. However, if you require special accommodation it’s best to call ahead to confirm: for instance, make sure an elevator is in service on the day of your visit. Paths and seating areas appear to be level once upstairs, but there may be small thresholds. In practice, travelers with mobility needs often suggest celebrating via reservation and talking to staff when you arrive so they can seat you ideally (such as in the elevator lobby area near the capacity counts we cited ).
Does Altanera have live music or entertainment?
Generally, no. Altanera is intended as a dining-and-drinks destination, not a live music club. You might hear ambient background music (or very soft live guitar/piano some nights), but there is no main stage or scheduled live entertainment. If you want loud music or a concert atmosphere, you would go to a venue that specifically advertises live shows. That said, special events (like corporate parties) booked privately at Altanera could occasionally bring in entertainers, but these are not open gigs for the public.
How early should I arrive for my reservation?
It’s best not to be much early (they typically open at 1pm). We’d suggest arriving about 10–15 minutes before your reservation. If you come too early, you may be asked to wait in a designated lounge or at the bar area until your table is ready. On busy nights, Altanera often runs on time, so late arrival (after your booking) can mean shorter dining time. In short, early is okay for a quick drink, but try to be close to your booked slot so they can seat you promptly.
What are the menu prices and average check per person?
As a fine-dining rooftop, Altanera is on the higher end. OpenTable lists the price category as “>MXN500” per person . In practice, expect starters/bites like tostadas or salads in the MXN150–250 range, main courses (seafood, meats) around MXN350–600, and signature desserts ~MXN150–200. Cocktails run MXN150–300. A typical dinner for two (entrees, a cocktail each, shared starters and dessert) can easily reach MXN1200–1800 total (or more, depending on wine and extras). Simply put, plan your budget in the upscale range for Mexico City dining.
Are children allowed in the restaurant?
Yes, families with children can dine there, especially during early dinner hours or weekends. The space isn’t a club – many parents go for dinner for special occasions. That said, after dark the atmosphere is adult-oriented (bar seating, late-hour music). It’s not explicitly a “kids’ place” (no play area, etc.), so if you visit with a child it’s best done earlier in the evening. Otherwise, think of it as a classy evening spot where well-behaved kids are welcome but tents/mass seating for children’s groups are not typical.
What should I order here? What are the house specialties?
Many guests highlight a few standouts. Appetizer-wise, the tostadas with creamy beans and house salsas (especially mole or habanero-based salsa) are a great start . Among entrees, queries about favorites include the quesabirrias (braised beef tacos served with consommé for dipping) and seafood like the ceviche or kampachi (grilled wagyu-style-style with beans and Xnipec salsa) . The ribeye with chiles or chicken pipián are also mentioned by diners. For dessert, the “pastel de horchata” (a tres-leches cake infused with horchata) is a must-try . In drinks, try a mezcal cocktail or a margarita made with fresh citrus – the bar is well-regarded for creative Mexican-ingredient cocktails. Alban: in short, if you only order a few things, make one vegetable/fresh seafood dish, one protein (like meat or fish), + the horchata cake. Staff can also recommend daily specials or vegetarian options (the menu changes seasonally).
Is it true the building has illegal extra floors?
Local news reports have noted that the building at Colima 161 was constructed above its zoned height (it has 10 floors in an area zoned for 4) . Altanera occupies what were technically unpermitted 9th/10th floors, making it an unusual case of a rooftop operating on an “irregular” building. This has been covered in a recent La Jornada article. For practical purposes, the building remains open to the public. The restaurant itself is unaware of any practical impact on diners – the controversy is more of an urban-planning footnote than something customers need to worry about.
