About Tonal
Tonal is a innovative cultural venue and restaurant located in Roma Norte, Ciudad de México. It’s a multidisciplinary “foro” (forum) for music and the arts with an integrated conscious bar and kitchen. By day Tonal looks like a neighborhood eatery on Álvaro Obregón, serving healthy, creative cuisine and specialty coffees. After dark, it reveals its true identity: a lively second-floor performance space with an organic wood-and-greenery design. Residents and visitors rave about Tonal’s unique concept – its “Barra Experimental” counter uses traditional ingredients like cacao and coca with adaptogenic herbs, alongside a classic cocktail bar. This forward-thinking combination of dining, mixology and culture has made Tonal a standout in CDMX’s nightlife scene. Architecturally, Tonal blends modern comfort with natural elements: live plants, warm wood paneling and flexible seating areas. It’s a community hub embracing local artistry, meaning every visit feels participatory. Whether it’s hosting experimental music nights or weekend workshops, Tonal matters because it nurtures Mexico City’s creative social life while offering a fresh take on food, drink and design.
Events and Programming
Tonal’s calendar is packed with rich variety – cutting-edge DJs, live bands, dance parties, and even cultural events beyond music. You’ll find weekly “Club Tonal” dance nights featuring local and international DJs spinning Afro-Latin beats, cumbia, salsa, klezmer or electro-folk, as well as one-off concerts by indie and World music acts. For example, Tonal has welcomed acts like Meridian Brothers (Colombian experimental cumbia), Pahua (Latin techno/house), and singer-songwriters presenting new albums. Aside from music, the space regularly hosts poetry readings, improvisational theater and conscious-community gatherings. Programming is diverse: science talks, yoga classes and open mic sessions also pop up on the schedule. Entry is often free or low-cost, with many events listed as “acceso gratuito” (free entry). Major concerts and club nights typically have a cover or ticket fee – roughly MXN $200–400 on average; special showcases can run around $500 in advance. Shows usually start in the late evening (9pm–10pm) and can run into the early morning. Tonal’s team also curates themed nights (such as “Noche Negra”), which blend music genres in a continuous party. Follow Tonal’s Instagram or official site for the full lineup – each week’s schedule spans everything from dance lessons and DJ battles to album launches and folklore ensemble concerts.
Tickets and Booking
Tickets for Tonal events are sold primarily online or at the venue’s box office on show days. Popular concerts and parties tend to sell out, so it’s wise to secure tickets early. Announcements go out on Tonal’s social channels, and bigger shows may have a presale on approved ticket platforms (e.g. Box Offices of Tonal partners). Often you can register or buy tickets through local Mexican ticketing services – plan to do this at least a few days in advance for headliners. For door shows (especially DJs or free-entry nights), a guest list or “pre-registro” might be managed via Tonal’s Instagram or email. Typical prices: general admission club nights often have an MXN $100–$250 cover, while live music events range MXN $200–$400 depending on artists. Any VIP or seated ticket tiers (if offered) will cost more. Note that many community events at Tonal remain free or pay-what-you-can. If you’re planning for a packed weekend, arrive early, especially on Friday/Saturday nights. Evenings can be busy, so reservations or presales for high-demand events can save time. The small box office (taquilla) opens about an hour before showtime; it’s cash/card-accessible for last-minute sales. Whenever possible, check Tonal’s updates for door times and age limits (many events are 18+).
Seating and Layout
Tonal’s layout comprises a ground-floor dining lounge and a dedicated upstairs performance space. On entry you pass through the street-level restaurant/bar, which has a few tables and a relaxed café vibe. Stairs or an elevator then lead to the second floor, where the real action happens. The upstairs hall has a stage along one wall, with wooden floor and standing room for the crowd. It’s mostly general admission: there are some high-top cocktail tables and a few benches around the edges, but no fixed seating. For dance parties, the open floor comes alive, so best views are toward the center near the stage. If you prefer to mingle or sit, the side lounge areas offer small tables; those get taken early on busy nights. Acoustics are warm thanks to wood finishes and foliage, so sound carries evenly. Be aware that the sound booth and speakers are usually towards the back or side, so if you’re very close to monitors the bass can be intense. Unique features include the “Barra Experimental” along the lobby (ground floor) with plants and botanicals on display, plus a main bar serving craft cocktails. There’s also a snorkeling of rooftop greenery visible from inside. No matter where you stand or sit, the design is meant to feel intimate – there’s no balcony level or obstructed views. One caution: the venue can get smoky from dancing (no indoor smoking is allowed, but the atmosphere can be packed), so those with sensitivities may prefer a stop near the air vents or advance to the sparsely populated corners.
Getting There and Parking
Tonal is located at Avenida Álvaro Obregón 160 in the Roma Norte neighborhood of Ciudad de México (zip code 06700). It’s in the trendy Cuauhtémoc borough, between Calle Sonora and Calle Sinaloa. Driving is possible, but street parking in Roma can be very limited and ticketed (use parking meters or local garages). The venue itself has no private lot. If you arrive by car, consider nearby parking garages (on Sonora or Aguascalientes streets) or car-sharing drop-offs. Public transit is convenient: the closest metro (subway) station is Chilpancingo (Line 1 and Line 9), about an 8–10 minute walk west down Álvaro Obregón. The Insurgentes Metrobus line runs along Avenida Insurgentes (one block west); the Sonora or Plaza Luis Cabrera stops are a short walk. Many city bus routes also run on Insurgentes and Álvaro Obregón. For a scenic route, MX bike-sharing (Ecobici) stations line Álvaro Obregón. After events, ride-hailing apps (Uber/Didi/etc.) can drop you directly in front of Tonal’s entrance (watch for Av. Obregón traffic). Late-night rideshare pickups are common on the side streets. If you prefer taxis, flagging one on Sinaloa or Sonora is usually easier than on main bows. A helpful tip: on weekends locals often suggest walking the few blocks from the metro (many venues nearby) while enjoying the neighborhood’s nightlife ambiance. Just bring ID and be aware of your surroundings; Roma Norte is lively but always worth staying alert after dark.
Inside the Venue
Expect a modern, minimalist yet warm vibe once inside Tonal. The restaurant area has low lighting and natural wood accents. The bar menu is visible on a digital screen behind polished countertops. Staff greet you at the door – they’ll check tickets or guest list for events. Security may do a quick bag search. Upstairs (performance area) features spotlights, speakers on stands and a DJ booth or band stage. Flavorful house cocktails (think mezcal and herbal concoctions) are crafted to order behind the bar. Tonal’s specialty drink menu includes creative signature cocktails – for instance, the “Coco Láctico” (with coconut rum and Mexican cacao) – as well as native fermentations like house-made tejuino. They also stock craft beer and natural wines. A modest food menu is served throughout the night (the restaurant kitchen below remains open, so expect shareable plates). For comfort, Tonal maintains air conditioning and fans upstairs, important in the warm season. Restrooms are clean and modern; one is located on each floor. Women’s and men’s (with urinals) bathrooms both have sinks and are restocked regularly during shows. There is no formal coat check, so coat racks are provided by the entrance or near the bar. Tonal offers free Wi-Fi for guests, and there is decent cell-phone reception (Metro or Telcel users generally have signal upstairs). Throughout the night, the staff keeps the energy high – bartenders and servers often dance along to the music. Don’t forget to swing by the merchandise table (if present) for event T-shirts or vinyl if a touring band is playing. By closing time, toilets can have a line, so plan accordingly.
Nearby Amenities
The Roma Norte/Condesa area around Tonal is packed with options for food, drink and accommodation. For pre-show dining: a few blocks east on Álvaro Obregón you’ll find trendy cafés like Café Nin (for pastries) and Salón Ríos (for seafood). Popular restaurants steps away include El Cuartito (pizza) and Lalo! (American-style diner fare). If you want traditional Mexican, La Casa de Toño (famous for pozole) is just down Insurgentes. After the show, late-night tacos at Falafelito or Carnitas El Carpintero (both open until 3–4am nearby) are a local tradition. Nearby hotels in Zona Roma/Condesa range from boutique options (Casa Comtesse, Nima Local House) to international chains (The Red Tree House, Hilton Presidente). If you need to stay overnight, there are hostels on Colima or Calle Durango blocks away. For drinks before or after Tonal’s shows, the neighborhood offers bars like Licorería Limantour (innovative cocktails) and Hanky Panky (speakeasy vibe) within walking distance. Travel options late at night include round-the-clock Uber/Didi service, or the Metro (which runs until midnight or 1am on weekends). There are also a few 24-hour bike stations and taxi stands on Insurgentes. As a rule of thumb: arrive 1–2 hours before the show if dining nearby, and plan your transport back before leaving. Walking to the Templo Mayor nearby is short, but many choose a cab after late events. Generally Roma Norte is lively and safe, though it’s wise to stay in well-lit areas late at night.
What Makes This Venue Special
Tonal stands out for its fusion of Mexican tradition with contemporary culture. The name itself (“tonal” referring to musical tone or energy) reflects its mission as a living artistic space. It was designed as much as a social experiment as a nightclub – with features like a herbal “Barra Experimental” that serve cacao, kombucha and coca-infused drinks alongside classic cocktails. Architecturally, the venue was built around a central garden wall and wood-trimmed interior to feel ecological and calming, even during high-energy events. Unlike sterile clubs, Tonal’s décor is very organic – ropes of vines, moss, and reclaimed wood remind you that the “forest” is never far from the dancefloor. Historically, even as a newcomer it has made waves for hosting cutting-edge acts not often seen elsewhere in the city (from Chilean jazz ensembles to international house DJs). Culturally, local patrons love Tonal for championing underrepresented genres – for example, cumbia and afrobeat nights are regular features. The staff often represents a tight-knit community of artists, so the vibe is inclusive and friendly. Artists appreciate its pro-quality sound and intimate scale: many performers comment that playing Tonal feels like a personal event. For the audience, Tonal offers a community experience – as Time Out described, “as soon as you walk in, you become part of the culture.” In sum, Tonal is special because it provides an all-in-one venue: world-class sound and lights, top-notch mixology, healthy cuisine, all wrapped in a uniquely Mexican creative spirit.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: Tonal’s main performance space is upstairs. There is an elevator from the ground floor, but wheelchairs may have difficulty due to door widths and step heights. Check ahead if accessibility needs are a concern. Entry and Age: Doors typically open 30–60 minutes before shows. Most events are 18+ (Mexico’s legal drinking age), so bring photo ID if you look young. The dress code is casual hip – streetwear or smart-casual is fine. No formal attire is required, but avoid overly ripped clothing or offensive slogans. What to Bring/Not Bring: Small bags are ok; oversized backpacks may be subject to inspection. Cameras are allowed but tripods/blocking aisles are not. (Pro cameras sometimes require prior approval.) Smoking inside is illegal in Mexico, so vaping or e-cigs are also prohibited on premises. Outside drinks or food are not permitted, but the venue sells bottled water and has vegetarian snack options. Common Mistakes: Don’t assume every night is a big dance party – check the event description (some nights are acoustic concerts or spoken-word evenings). Plan for drinks – a few tickets or cash for bar purchases. Phone battery can die quickly in nightlife; consider a portable charger. Insider Tips: If the show tickets say “general admission,” arr*ive early to claim a good spot. The upstairs area turns around after main acts or sets, so you may squeeze in later during the after-hours. On Thursday or Sunday nights, events can be cultural talks or free DJ sessions, so it’s a great chance to experience Tonal for no cover. During peak weekends, the kitchen sometimes closes earlier, so eat or grab snacks beforehand. Lastly, say hello to the staff – Tonal’s bartenders and house DJs often mingle with the crowd and can recommend drinks or next events. They also sometimes honor birthday shout-outs or song requests if asked politely.
What is Tonal in Ciudad de México?
Tonal is a restaurant and cultural forum in Roma Norte, Mexico City. On the ground floor it has a café and bar serving unique cocktails and healthy cuisine, while the upstairs hosts concerts, DJ nights and community events. It’s known for blending Mexican tradition (like cacao-based drinks) with modern club culture, making it a popular multipurpose venue in CDMX.
How can I buy tickets for events at Tonal?
Tickets for Tonal shows are usually available online through local Mexican ticket vendors or on the venue’s social media. For major concerts and club nights, it’s best to buy in advance. Many events will also sell tickets at Tonal’s box office (taquilla) before the show. Keep an eye on Tonal’s official website or Instagram for announcements on when tickets go on sale.
What is the capacity of Tonal?
Tonal is an intimate venue. It’s not a giant arena – it comfortably fits a few hundred people. Exact numbers aren’t published, but expect a packed concert to be around 150–200 guests. Because it’s relatively small, popular shows often sell out, so arriving early or getting tickets in advance helps ensure you get in.
Are there reserved seats or is it general admission?
Most events at Tonal are general admission. The upstairs hall is mostly standing room with a few high tables on the sides. If you want a good view or a spot to dance, it’s first-come, first-served. Occasionally special concerts may have limited seating or VIP areas, but standard club nights do not have assigned seats.
How do I get to Tonal by public transportation?
The closest metro station to Tonal is Chilpancingo (Lines 1 & 9), about a 10-minute walk. You can also take the Metrobus on Av. Insurgentes and get off at the Sonora or Plaza Luis Cabrera stop. Several city buses run on Álvaro Obregón or Insurgentes too. Many guests then walk from these stops to Álvaro Obregón 160 in Roma Norte. It’s a short and fairly straightforward walk through a lively neighborhood.
Is there parking available at Tonal?
Tonal itself has no private parking lot. Street parking is very limited around Álvaro Obregón, especially on weekend nights. There are a few pay parking garages a couple of blocks away (on Sonora or Aguascalientes streets). Many visitors prefer to arrive by Uber/taxi or public transit to avoid parking hassles. If you do drive, allow extra time to find a meter or lot.
What time do shows at Tonal usually start?
Evening events at Tonal often start around 9pm or 10pm, especially on Fridays and Saturdays. DJs usually begin their sets by 11pm. Keep in mind that Mexican nightlife runs late – concerts and parties can go on past midnight. It’s wise to arrive an hour early if you want a good spot or table. For special events (like theater or dialogues) start times can be earlier (e.g. 8pm).
Is there an age restriction for Tonal events?
Most nighttime events at Tonal have an 18+ age restriction, meaning you should be at least 18 to enter. On rare occasions Tonal hosts open community events that are all-ages, but check each event’s details. Always carry a valid ID – bouncers at the door will check IDs for age-verification.
What is the dress code at Tonal?
Tonal has a relaxed, stylish dress code. There is no strict requirement, but guests typically wear casual-chic or trendy urban attire. Think jeans or nice pants, a cool shirt or top, and comfortable shoes (you’ll likely be dancing). Avoid athletic wear or overly formal outfits. Layer up if you arrive early, since the air conditioning makes the venue cooler once the crowd settles in.
Are outside drinks or food allowed inside Tonal?
No. Tonal does not allow bringing outside food or non-medical drinks. The menu offers a variety of snacks and meals (often Mexican fusion or comfort food) and a full bar with cocktails, beer and non-alcoholic beverages. You’ll need to purchase drinks from the venue. Water bottles and free drinking water are provided during concerts. Feel free to bring a refillable water bottle, but not in sealed containers from outside.
Is Tonal wheelchair accessible?
Tonal does have an elevator to reach the second-floor performance area. However, keep in mind this is an older building, so there may be doorways and spaces that are snug for a wheelchair. An accompanying person can usually help. Restrooms upstairs are not wheelchair-accessible. If you have mobility needs, it’s a good idea to call ahead and confirm whether the layout will work for you. The staff is accommodating when given notice.
What forms of payment are accepted at Tonal?
At the bar and restaurant, both cash (pesos) and major credit/debit cards are accepted. Many people tip in cash, so it’s handy to have some bills. There is no ATM inside, so withdraw money beforehand if you’ll want to tip or buy merchandise. For cover charges or ticket sales at the entrance, card payments are often taken, but cash is always an option just in case. It’s best to carry both the fee and some extra cash before arriving.
Is Tonal suitable for families or kids?
Tonal’s evening events are geared toward adults, so children are usually not present at concerts or dance nights. Some daytime events (like cultural workshops or afternoon talks) could be family-friendly, but these are less common. If you want to dine at Tonal’s restaurant early in the day or evening before any show, kids are welcome then. For most visitors planning a night out of music and drinks, expect a young-adult crowd. Always check event listings: if an event has an age limit (usually 18+), it’s best to arrange childcare in advance.
Does Tonal offer a coat check?
Tonal is informal about coats and bags. There isn’t a staffed coat-check counter. Instead, there are simple coat racks near the entrance. On busy nights, these can fill up quickly, so plan minimal belongings. For larger bags or coats, it’s common to keep them under a table or on a chair near you. Avoid bringing valuables that you can’t keep an eye on. The venue does have staff security monitoring, but items are left at your own risk.
Can I take photos or videos inside Tonal?
Casual phone snapshots are fine, but professional photography or video recording without permission is discouraged. Artists or the house DJ will often request that people refrain from using flash or tripods. Some acts may forbid crowds from documenting the show. If you intend to film extensively, check with the event organizer first. Generally, small personal devices for social-media clips are acceptable. Respect staff or artists who indicate “no photos” during a performance. The atmosphere is meant to be enjoyed live!
Is there free Wi-Fi at Tonal?
No, Tonal does not advertise free Wi-Fi for guests. Most people use mobile data; cover is generally good upstairs. If you need to check in or buy tickets digitally, plan accordingly. Some customers wait to text or check their phone between sets. Considering the vibrant music, it’s usually best to put the phone away and enjoy the live performance!
