About Pasaguero
Pasagüero is a beloved indie music venue and cultural bar tucked into a narrow block of Calle Motolinía in downtown Mexico City’s Centro Histórico district. Since opening in late 2004 under the vision of the Pandal brothers, it has stood out by blending nightclub energy with a grassroots arts center vibe. Its interior – a rustic, loft-like loft bathed in bright folk-art murals – invites both casual nights out and lively concerts. By day Pasagüero wears a laid-back restaurant face, serving traditional antojitos (snacks) and lunch specials. By night it transforms: the lights dim, the long bar hums with local craft beers and dozens of mezcales, and the crowd gathers close to the small stage to dance and discover new sounds.
Several features make Pasagüero unique in Mexico City’s scene. Unlike more formal clubs, its space is highly flexible, thanks to a renovation by designer Eduardo Olivares that equipped the hall with sliding wooden partitions and an overhead rail for lights and cables. In minutes the room can switch from an art gallery to a concert floor to a cabaret-style lounge. The result is an intimate hall of roughly 800–1,000 capacity (depending on configuration) that still feels airy. Reviewers often note how it never feels cramped despite its downtown location – a testament to the open square layout. Over two decades Pasagüero earned a reputation as a “cultural phenomenon” and a key catalyst in the revival of Centro nightlife. It has launched countless local indie bands and hosted experimental artists, making it one of the city’s most emblematic spots for music lovers. This storied past and its distinctive folk-kitsch decor – think bright paper flowers, murals, and handcrafted banners – give Pasagüero a charm that stands out among Mexico City’s clubs.
Events and Programming
Pasagüero’s calendar is packed almost every week with live shows spanning genres and formats. On most nights (especially Thursday through Saturday) you’ll find everything from rock or folk bands to reggae, cumbia, or jazz combos filling the stage. In recent years it has expanded its roster to electronic and experimental music too: techno and house nights are common, often featuring local DJs or even international electronic acts. For example, when the theater reopened its stage in spring 2023 after renovation, it kicked off with two high-profile electronic nights led by Nortec Collective founders Bostich (Ramon Amezcua) and Fussible (Pepe Mogt). Veteran rock and indie stars are frequent headliners as well – past lineups have included Mexico City icons like Silverio and DJ Pablito Mix relaunching albums or simply celebrating the scene.
Shows at Pasagüero typically start late in the evening (often 10–11pm) and run until the early morning. However, occasional matinee concerts or Sunday folk lounges also pop up on the schedule. The venue has no shortage of recurring series: for years it hosted the indie rock nights “Pasagüero Sundays” and electronic series like “Techno Friday Nacht” with international guest DJs. It also branches out into art and culture events: think album-release parties, multimedia art shows, even indie film screenings that make use of its projector-equipped walls. Because of this diversity, every visit can feel different – one weekend might be an intimate singer-songwriter set, the next a full-on dance party with aerial visuals. Audiences tend to be young, creative, and open-minded, contributing to a friendly, insulated community feel. Taking its roots seriously, Pasagüero often keeps show prices low; advance tickets for relaunch events in 2023 went on sale around 100 MXN (about $5 USD). Generally, standard tickets for indie acts range from roughly $100–250 MXN ($5–12 USD), and carryovers like multi-night passes or early-bird pricing happen for big events. Because it’s a popular local venue with limited capacity, fans are advised to grab tickets early through the official channels (email newsletter, social media announcements, or at the venue’s own box office) once shows are announced.
Tickets and Booking
Pasagüero doesn’t typically use major ticketing platforms. Instead, tickets are sold through the venue and its partner promoters. Once an event is announced (via the Pasagüero website, social media, or local listings), you can usually buy tickets online on authorized local sites or in person at the venue during opening hours. Pasagüero operates as a bar/gallery from early afternoon, so one smart tactic is to walk in around 2–4pm on the day of a show and buy your ticket at the bar (credit cards are often accepted, but some DJs and smaller shows may be cash-only). Because the final door-opening time is later in the evening, this ensures you won’t miss out at the last minute.
For high-demand concerts and festivals held at Pasagüero, presale notifications are sometimes offered through the venue’s email newsletter and social media posts. Many events also have a “first release” ticket price (often 100–150 MXN) that jumps higher closer to showtime. There is no standard seating pricing (all general-admission) although on rare occasions promoters might sell “value-entry” tickets or multi-day bundles for a series of shows. If budget is a concern, keep an eye out for early-bird discounts; in 2023 the seasonal relaunch techno series offered a two-night pass for around 550 MXN ($28) total, a saving over individual tickets. Remember that Pasagüero draws a Madrid-sized crowd, so especially for well-known indie acts, tickets often sell out. The best approach is to wait for the official announcement, secure tickets immediately, and arrive early on show-night to claim a good spot.
Seating and Layout
Pasagüero is designed for standing-room concerts rather than fixed seating. On the main floor there are no built-in chairs or tiered rows; the space is a large rectangular hall with a small raised stage at one end. Attendees typically stand on the flat dance floor in front of the stage. A handful of barstool seats or small movable chairs might be available along the perimeter for anyone who needs to sit, but these are very limited and first-come. In practice the front area near the stage becomes the prime viewing spot – most fans press forward to be close to the performers and speakers. Those wanting a break from the crowd can rest along the side walls or at high tables near the bar.
Venues reviews and local sources indicate that Pasagüero can accommodate roughly 800–1,000 people at full capacity, making it feel large enough for club concerts but intimate compared to arenas. Sightlines are generally good thanks to its open design: there are no obstructing pillars and the bartop has been shifted to the sides so that even people at the back can see the stage clearly. Unlike formal theaters, Pasagüero does not have balconies or upstairs seating – it’s essentially one open hall with a 15–20 foot ceiling. The sound system is set up for club use, with speakers arranged to fill the room evenly. Sound engineers staff most shows and can adjust levels and EQ on the fly, meaning acoustics are usually well-balanced (no weird echoes or dead zones). In summary, when picking a spot, choose the front for better sound and visibility, or the sides/back if you need space to grab a drink and chat. VIP or reserved sections do not exist here – everyone is part of the same general-admission area, reinforcing the communal vibe.
Getting There and Parking
Address: Pasagüero is at Calle de Motolinía 33 , in the heart of the Centro Histórico (historic downtown). That places it just a block from the main square (El Zócalo) and near landmarks like the Catedral Metropolitana.By Metro (subway): The nearest Metro stations are Zócalo (Line 2, blue line) and San Juan de Letrán (Line 8, green line) . Both are about a 5–10 minute walk from Motolinía. From Zócalo station, head south through the plaza and over the street toward the Catedral; Motolinía is a pedestrian-only block between 16 de Septiembre and 5 de Febrero streets. From San Juan de Letrán, walk a couple of blocks east on 16 de Septiembre and turn right onto Motolinía. (Note: Mexico City’s Metro requires preloaded fares, so have a Metro card or cash ready.)By Bus/Microbus: Many downtown bus routes (such as routes 100, 108, 156, 36, and others) stop near the Zócalo or Ciudadela area. From there, it’s just a short walk to Motolinía Street. There are also pesero (route van) minibuses along Eje Central and Avenida 20 de Noviembre that can drop you nearby. Because Pasagüero is so central, it’s usually easiest to take any route that goes to the Historic Center or Zócalo and then walk on foot toward Motolinía.By Car/Taxis/Rideshare: Driving is possible, but keep in mind downtown Mexico City has heavy traffic and limited parking. Motolinía itself is a short pedestrian block (Metrobus Zone, closed to cars from 6pm), so taxis or an Uber will typically drop you at the corner of a nearby block (for example, the intersections of 20 de Noviembre & Dr. Mora or República de Uruguay & Motolinía). Several paid parking garages operate near the Zócalo and Santo Domingo Church (a few blocks away); these charge around 50–100 MXN per hour. Street parking is generally illegal in the Centro Histórico at night, so if you do drive, plan to use a plaza garage and walk the last two or three blocks. Many locals and visitors simply use Metro or taxi to avoid the hassle of parking.On Foot: Pasagüero is only a 5–10 minute walk from major downtown attractions. If you’re already visiting the Palacio de Bellas Artes, Museo Franz Mayer, or other Centro sights, just make your way via Avenida Juárez or Tacuba to the Zócalo, and then wander south toward the venue. The venue block is easily recognizable by a row of low historic buildings painted in warm colors, with a hanging neon “Pasagüero” sign. In good weather, walking is pleasant (watch out for uneven sidewalks) and often quicker than dealing with traffic.
Inside the Venue
Entering Pasagüero, you’re greeted by a cozy, artsy vibe that matches its reputation. Staff will usually do a quick ticket and ID check (especially if alcohol is being served and the crowd is mostly 18+). Inside, the entire concert space is visible from the entrance at the north end: a low stage is positioned at the opposite wall. Along the left wall is a full-length wooden bar serving beers, cocktails, tequila shots and mezcal tasting flights – the setup is more pub than lounge, fitting the venue’s casual mood. On the right wall are high tables and a few stools where you can perch with a drink. Colorful decor – papel picado banners, Dia de los Muertos motifs, murals by local artists – creates a festive backdrop.
Food service overlaps with the venue’s sister kitchen, La Bipo, which occupies the rear corner. By afternoon and early evening a full menu of Mexican dishes and snacks is available (tacos, tortas, bowls, pasta, and vegetarian options). Even at night you can order bar snacks like chicharrón (fried pork rind) or guacamole. Many visitors praise the affordability and flavor of these bar eats. Beverages focus on local microbrews (glasses are often served “eco” style, meaning over ice in a Mexican-style cooler mug), along with house cocktails. A modest selection of bottled juices, sodas and water is also sold.
There is no coat check or luggage storage, so it’s best not to bring anything too bulky – your party table or area near the bar will be your base. Bathrooms are located at the back; they are basic but clean, with one stall each side (no luxury amenities). Accessibility note: the entire main floor is on one level, but the original building’s layout means doorways might be slightly narrow and the restroom area is a step up. Guests with disabilities may want to call ahead and double-check facilities. In general, the venue is low-key and welcoming, so expect a friendly crowd. The atmosphere is often dimly lit with colored stage lights or projector art on the walls. Most shows are louder and fuller as the night goes on; early bird or pre-party crowds sit and chat, while the late-night crowd usually stands front and rocks out.
Nearby Amenities
Pasagüero is surrounded by a surprising variety of downtown gems. Right across the street (C. Motolinía #36) sits La Casa del Pavo , a famous 100+ year old tortería known for turkey mole sandwiches. It’s perfect for grabbing a hearty pozole or a pork and pavo torta before shows – open daily until mid-afternoon. Adjacent to Pasagüero is a branch of La Rambla , a quick-service torta and sandwich shop serving late–night bites (they stay open until 1am or so on weekends). A short walk east on Motolinía will take you to Cafe Máquina (excellent brews) or El Globo if you need pastries at unusual hours.
For nightlife, Motolinía and the intersecting 16 de Septiembre have several intimate bars and mezcalerías. The region is known for crafty cocktail spots: for example, walking two blocks north you’ll find the Chopo Bar in the Casa Del Arbol cultural center, or the steeply decorated La Xampa with roof terraces. Southward toward República de Uruguay street there are hidden cantinas and art spaces. Downtown museums and theaters (Bellas Artes, Sergio Mastretta galleries, the Anthology Film Archives) are also nearby if you want to sightsee before the show. Hotels in this historic core range from boutique to budget – some named ones within two blocks are Gran Hotel Ciudad de México (right on the Zócalo) and the colonial Downtown Hotel on Isabel la Católica. Staying near the center means most guests can walk to or from Pasagüero, and late-night taxis/Ubers congregate at key plazas like Juárez and Zócalo. If you arrive early, the area’s busy mercados and mercados for souvenirs provide a fun pre-show stroll to kill time.
What Makes This Venue Special
What truly sets Pasagüero apart is its counter-cultural spirit and history. In a city of large, tourist-heavy clubs, Pasagüero is rooted in local musical subcultures. It became legendary for nurturing the “outsider” scenes of the 2000s: indie rock, alternative, hip-hop, and later EDM. Journalists credit it as one of the “triggers” of Mexico City’s downtown renaissance. Its flexible wooden-frame interior reflects that ethos: movable partitions, cage-like ceiling trusses, and art-wash lighting create an ever-changing playground rather than a static stage. Because of this, an event here feels more like an underground art happening than a conventional concert. Internationally, Pasagüero even carried its party vibe abroad – promoters once took a “Fiesta DF” concept from Pasagüero to sister events in New York, Paris, and Tokyo as a bit of Mexico City’s barrio soul on tour.
Moreover, both performers and audience members appreciate the intimacy. Bands often mention that playing there feels personal: the audience is so close that eye contact is easy, and the friendly energy is palpable. Fans remember seeing big names in tiny settings or catching raw new acts on tiny stages. This mix of professionalism (good lighting rigs, a solid PA system) and DIY atmosphere (handwritten posters, artful graffiti) gives Pasagüero its charm. It’s the kind of place where culture flows freely: some weekends you might enter a techno rave and emerge to catch a folk duo on an adjacent legal stage. That unpredictability and deep community connection keep audiences returning, show after show.
Visitor Tips and Information
Tickets & Timing: Arrive early if possible. Doors often open at 9–10pm or later for big shows, but the bar is open by 1:00pm. If you have late-entry tickets (some nights allow staggered entry), ask at the door for your group name. Always carry local currency (pesos) in cash; while cards are accepted at the bar, smaller events or food stands usually need cash.
Accessibility: The venue floor is flat except for the stage, so moving around is easy. However, Pasagüero is in a 19th-century building with narrow portions and a single-level restroom area, which may not be fully wheelchair-accessible. There is no parking lot or drop-off besides the narrow street entrance. If you have mobility issues, consider calling ahead or arriving before the crowd to find assistance or ask staff about the easiest access route.
Rules & Tips: Security is relaxed but the staff enforces a few basics. All visitors will have their bags checked at the door – large backpacks or giant camera cases are discouraged. Safe items like wallets, phones, small cameras and ID are fine. Bringing your own drinks or food is not allowed; the bar serves local beers, sodas, and inexpensive snacks. Smoking indoors is prohibited by law (Mexico City bans indoor smoking at bars), though there is a small outdoor terrace on Motolinía for breaks. Photo policies vary: casual smartphone pictures are usually okay, but professional cameras or recording audio/video might require permission from the venue or performing artist.
Atmosphere and Dress: Pasagüero’s vibe is informal. Dress code is casual – jeans, sneakers, T-shirts and the occasional costume or facepaint are all common. The crowd tends to lean younger (20s-30s), eclectic and open-minded. Shows often get hot and packed, especially near the stage, so wear breathable clothing and stay hydrated. If you prefer the full concert experience, stand near the front. If you want to chat easily or avoid crowds, the areas by the back wall and bar are quieter. Be respectful on the dance floor – though friendly, it isn’t a mosh-pit environment. And as with any club, watch your belongings; Pasagüero is generally safe but it’s always wise to carry only essentials in a secure pocket or small bag.
Connectivity: There’s no official Wi-Fi for guests, and cellular reception can be spotty indoors due to the thick walls. Social media and messaging happen mostly outside. To meet friends, use local meeting points (“Atr\u00e1s de la barra” or the neon guitar sign by the entrance) or share a cellphone pic of a mural on the wall as a clue. If language is a concern, you’ll find many staff and bartenders speak basic English, but bringing a translation app never hurts in the Centro Histórico.
What is the capacity of Pasagüero?
Pasagüero fits about 800–1,000 people in its general-admission setup. There are no fixed seats, so capacity can vary by event (around 500–600 if chairs are added for special shows). The crowd-per-square-meter is comfortable for a club environment, giving an intimate concert experience without feeling claustrophobic.
What are the nearest Metro stations?
The closest Metro stop is Zócalo on Line 2 (Blue), which comes out just north of the main plaza. From the station, head south towards the cathedral and follow Motolinía Street west one block. Another nearby station is San Juan de Letrán on Line 8 (Green), roughly a 5-10 minute walk to the east. Both stations will get you to Pasagüero within a few city blocks.
How much do tickets cost and where can I buy them?
Ticket prices at Pasagüero vary by show. Most indie concerts and DJ nights charge around 100–250 MXN (about $5–15 USD). Special events or international acts might be higher. Tickets go on sale a few weeks before an event and can often be purchased directly at the venue’s box office during daytime hours, online through authorized sellers, or via the venue’s social-media announcements. For big nights, consider subscribing to Pasagüero’s newsletter to catch any presales or discounts.
Are there seats or is it all standing room?
Pasagüero is mainly a standing-room venue. The floor is open and flat, so audiences usually stand close to the stage. There are only a few high stools and bar tables along the sides for seating, but most shows expect guests to stand or dance. If you need to sit, go early and grab one of the limited chairs by the wall or bar; otherwise plan for a comfortable night on your feet or leaning at a table.
Is it wheelchair accessible?
The main concert space of Pasagüero is on one level, with no stairs between the entrance and the stage floor. However, the historic building has a narrow doorway and a slightly raised restroom platform, which may be challenging for some wheelchair users. The venue is not fully certified for accessibility. If you require special accommodations, it’s best to call ahead and confirm details. A friend noted that bringing someone to assist or using a small portable ramp at the door can ease entrance.
What should I bring or not bring?
Bring a government-issued ID (if you look over 18, you’ll likely be carded for drinks), cash (many small vendors and early ticket sales are cash-only), and comfortable clothing. Leave large bags or suitcases at home because there’s no coat check – small backpacks are okay but may be searched. Prohibited items include outside food or drink, large camera equipment without press approval, and obviously anything dangerous. Earplugs can be useful for sensitive ears during loud shows.
Is there a dress code?
Pasagüero has a casual dress code. Most attendees wear everyday outfits: t-shirts, jeans, sneakers or boots. Some concertgoers in the rock or electro scenes might dress slightly up (e.g. dark attire, boots, alternative fashion), but ties and formal wear are not expected. The venue does not have a strict policy as long as you’re neatly dressed and respectful. Rainy weather can make downtown sidewalks slippery, so wear appropriate shoes.
Are outside cameras or photography allowed?
Casual photographers using phones or small point-and-shoot cameras are usually fine as long as you’re discreet. Pasagüero encourages sharing photos on socials, so expect open photo-taking during shows (no flash blasts, please). Things get tricky with professional equipment: if you have a DSLR or video camera with detachable lenses, it’s polite to ask permission from staff or the artist manager before filming. In rare cases, a promoter might ban photography during a performance, but most nights are fairly relaxed. There is no official dark room, but lens flashes are discouraged so you don’t disturb performers.
Does Pasagüero have coat check or lockers?
No. Pasagüero does not offer a coat check, lockers, or bag storage. All belongings are carried with you. The venue recommends bringing a small bag or crossbody purse for essentials and keeping larger jackets on your person or draping them over a nearby chair. On colder days, expect to carry your coat inside and hold it at your spot.
Can I eat or smoke inside?
Yes to eating (the in-house restaurant/bar serves food), but smoking indoors is not allowed. Pasagüero features a full menu from its partner kitchen, so you can order tacos, sandwiches or snacks and enjoy them at a bar table. Drinks include a selection of beers, mezcales, tequila shots and mixers. By law, smoking (cigarettes, e-cigarettes, etc.) is banned inside Mexico City bars, so patrons step onto the little outdoor terrace or the street to smoke.
What time do shows usually start and end?
Doors often open around 9–10 PM, and headliners typically play at 11 PM or midnight. Shows can run until 2–3 AM on weekends. Weeknight events usually wrap up by midnight or earlier. Always check the ticket or event page, since some alt shows begin unusually early (like 8 PM) or late (post-midnight DJ sets). Since events end quite late, plan your return transit accordingly: the Metro runs 5 AM on weekends, and taxis/Ubers are readily available in Centro all night.
Are minors or families allowed?
Most Pasagüero concerts are geared toward adults, especially given the late hours and alcohol service. Entry is typically restricted to ages 18+ after 9pm (legal drinking age in Mexico is 18). If an event is designated all-ages or a daytime cultural show, you might see teens or children with parents, but these are rare special cases. Always check that specific show’s listing; often the front page of social media or the flyer will say “18+” if it’s strictly private. Solo minors should not plan on attending unsupervised.
How safe is it around Pasagüero?
Centro Histórico is generally safe in the evenings where Pasagüero is located (an area busy with shops, restaurants, and churches). Of course, standard city-precautions apply: stay aware of your belongings in crowds (purse/snatch theft can occur in any bustling area), and stick to well-lit streets. The venue has security at the door, and inside the crowd is usually respectful. Taxis and Ubers line up near the Zócalo and Plaza de la Constitución later at night, so exiting in a large group or together with bandmates is easy. Overall, thousands of fans come through Pasagüero each year without incident, but as always, use common sense when traveling late at night.
