About Essex
Essex is a hip, upscale nightclub in Mexico City’s Colonia Juárez, near the Ángel de la Independencia and the Insurgentes roundabout . The club occupies a beautifully restored early-20th-century building (originally a brothel) and retains a historic 120-year-old bar . With a large dance floor at its center and bottle-service tables arranged around the DJ booth, Essex feels both intimate and energetic. Its on-site bar serves craft cocktails and drinks around the historic wooden counter . An advanced Martin Audio sound system provides high-quality sound praised by DJs and guests alike . Essex’s style is retro-chic: the club’s branding promises to “transport you to the 70s” with groovy disco, funk, house and afrobeat tracks . In practice, nights typically feature disco and house music sets from national and international DJs. This blend of vintage décor, modern lighting, and top-notch audio makes Essex notable as one of CDMX’s premier electronic music venues . Capacity is modest – it’s been described as a “small but lively” space – focusing on a quality dance experience rather than huge crowds. Overall, Essex’s combination of history, sound system, and curated music lineup give it a unique character in the local club scene.
Events and Programming
Essex hosts events most weekends, especially Thursday through Saturday nights. Many evenings are part of its regular “We Are LooLoo” series, showcasing house, techno and disco DJs. (In fact, Essex’s website promotes a weekly WE ARE LOOLOO party on Thu–Sat from about 11:00pm to 5:00am .) Lineups often include top local DJs and guest performers, and occasionally more mainstream or international acts have played Essex as part of Mexico City club tours. For example, past Essex nights have featured artists from Europe and Mexico such as Dennis Cruz, Four Tet, Jamie Jones, Maceo Plex and Nic Fanciulli . The club often runs themed dance parties (like disco or funk nights) alongside its core house/techno shows . Events can range from free-cover club nights to special ticketed performances. Ticket prices vary by event, but many standard club nights have no general cover charge ; table or bottle service reservations are the main expense. For headliner shows, prices can run from moderate to high depending on the act. Overall, Essex’s programming emphasizes high-quality dance music and a packed late-night schedule, making it a frequent stop for electronic music fans in CDMX.
Tickets and Booking
Most regular weekend nights at Essex do not require advance tickets – entrance is typically free (there is “no cover” on advertised nights ). However, the club strongly encourages reservations for bottle service tables (which guarantee a table and wait service). Reservations can be made by phone or through the club’s promoter. In fact, Essex’s reservation policy asks that groups book at least one week in advance, with no more than about 10 people per booking . This helps the venue manage capacity and VIP areas. On busy nights or special events, tables are limited, so early booking is recommended. When special ticketed events occur (such as big guest DJs or festivals), tickets are often sold via affiliated promoters or event partners – watch Essex’s social media or local club listings for announcements. For general admission, you can usually buy your entry at the door, but if it’s a sold-out show it’s safer to secure tickets beforehand. Keep an eye on Resident Advisor and local listings for Essex events; those sometimes provide online RSVP or ticket options. In summary, casual clubgoers may not need a ticket most nights, but serious fans should reserve tables or buy tickets early for hot shows.
Seating and Layout
Essex’s interior is basically one open floor. The central feature is the dance floor, which runs roughly from the main entrance toward the DJ booth at the back. Around the edges of the dance floor are raised seating areas with bottle-service tables, giving VIP guests a clear view of the DJ . Every table is oriented toward the DJ stage (the club slogans even boast a “perfect view of the DJ” from each table ). There is no separate balcony; all tables and seats are on the same main level. The 120-year-old wooden bar sits along one wall, serving all drink orders. In practice, Essex is primarily a standing-room club. Some high tables near the dance floor can be rented, but if you are not a table guest, you will stand on the floor among the crowd. Because of the speakers on both sides of the DJ, sound is powerful throughout; the acoustics are excellent (one fan review even calls it “perhaps the best audio in any club in CDMX” ). Sightlines are generally good: you can see the DJ from almost anywhere, but tables on the sides or just to the center front tend to have the clearest view. Avoid being too far back in the corner if you want to feel the vibe (the back wall is mostly for bar service). In short, Essex offers level viewing with a packed dance floor, cushioned by small VIP seating pockets along the perimeters.
Getting There and Parking
Essex is located at Londres 195 , Colonia Juárez, CDMX
Inside the Venue
When you enter Essex, be prepared for standard club security and ID checks. All guests must show valid ID (18+; no minors) . Bags may be checked or searched; some reviewers have noted thorough pat-downs at the door . Dress code is enforced – smart casual or clubwear is expected (the club’s info jokes “dress to impress” ). In general, avoid flip-flops, shorts, or athletic wear. Once inside, the atmosphere is lively and dark, with club lights and lasers over the crowd. The old brick walls and vintage bar give the place a slightly retro-chic feel. Note that Essex has a small indoor smoking area; smoking is not permitted on the dance floor itself (staff may have a designated smoking patio or lounge). The venue enforces a “Mujer Segura” policy – a zero-tolerance stance on harassment – with cameras (CCTV) and emergency lines on hand . There is coat check service (for a fee) at the coatroom near the entrance for jackets or large bags. Restrooms are down a short hallway, generally clean and monitored by staff. Throughout your night, you can order drinks from any of the main bars (there are multiple bar stations) or directly from servers if you have a table. Essex accepts both cash and credit cards for payments . Connectivity is typical: cell service inside is fine but there is no public Wi-Fi. In short, expect a standard upscale club experience: ID/CCTV, strict entry policies, on-site bar and restrooms, lockers or coat check available, and a high-energy dance atmosphere.
Nearby Amenities
Colonia Juárez and nearby areas have plenty of options for before- and after-party needs. For pre-show dinners or cocktails, the Avenida Chapultepec and Paseo de la Reforma corridors offer many restaurants (Mexican, Italian, Asian, etc.) within a 5–10 minute walk. Notable spots include Café El Azul (a popular traditional Mexican eatery on Columbus Street) and several upscale bistros in nearby Zona Rosa. If you venture a little farther, the Condesa and Polanco neighborhoods (north of Juárez) are full of trendy eateries and bars. Within minutes you can find taco stands, international bistros or cafes to eat. For late-night snacks, there are convenience stores around Insurgentes. Nearby bars and lounges include classic clubs and cocktail bars on Reforma, as well as local dive bars along Río Rhin or Atlixco. After the club, public transit options (Metro Poeta *Lázaro Cárdenas*, etc.) are limited late-night, so rideshares or taxis are the norm for the journey home. If staying overnight, hotels in Juárez (like the Smart or Hilton Reforma) or Polanco’s hotels are a short taxi ride away. In short, the area offers plentiful dining and drinking choices a short walk or drive from Essex, but plan your transportation as streets can be busy late at night.
What Makes This Venue Special
Essex stands out in Mexico City’s club scene for its combination of historic charm and top-tier production. Housed in a century-old brothel conversion, it retains period features like the vintage bar and brick walls . Inside, the club pays homage to disco’s past with split-rocking retro visuals, but the sound and lighting are fully modern. Many visitors praise its audio system – one review even calls it “maybe the best sound in any CDMX club” – making Essex famous for crisp, powerful music. Its programming also draws attention: Essex brought international house stars to CDMX and carefully curates a mix of disco, funk and deep house . Culturally, the club contributes to Juárez’s nightlife renaissance, attracting a stylish crowd and fueling the dance music scene. Artists and audiences both appreciate the large dance floor and table layout that keeps everyone close to the music. Although relatively small, Essex has hosted a wide range of notable acts over the years, as evidenced by alumni like Charli XCX, Four Tet, and Solomun . In summary, patrons love Essex for its intimate party vibe, sleek retro-modern design, top sound, and the sense of exclusivity – it feels like a hidden gem that nonetheless plays at a global standard.
Visitor Tips and Information
Essex is an 18+ club, so bring a valid photo ID (passport, driver’s license) to prove your age . The dress code is strict: upscale casual or elegant attire is expected (think collared shirts, stylish tops and nice jeans or slacks). No athletic wear, flip-flops or overly casual clothing are allowed. Bags are often checked at entry – it’s best to carry only essentials. The club can get very crowded on busy nights (especially Fri-Sat), so get there early for a good spot on the dance floor. Wait times at the door can be long after 11pm, so consider arriving closer to opening (10pm) if possible. Payment can be by cash or card ; tabs and tips are common for bottle service. Tip generously for table service (18–20% is normal). Since Essex is so late-night, book your ride share or know the taxi stand in advance: the Metro shuts around midnight, and the streets are dark after club close. The venue has a small smoking section, but smoking inside is otherwise prohibited. Respect staff and follow venue rules – note the strict “Mujer Segura” policy (zero tolerance for harassment) with security cameras everywhere . For loud music comfort, you might bring earplugs if you’re sensitive. As far as common mistakes: don’t underestimate drink prices (a beer can be ~130 MXN, cocktails ~200 MXN), and don’t count on much seating unless you reserve a table. Restrooms can line up, so a quick visit between acts is wise. Finally, remember to stay hydrated (water costs extra) and keep your phone secured. With these tips (and curbside pickup set up!), visitors can focus on the show and fully enjoy Essex’s famous late-night atmosphere.
What is the dress code at Essex Club?
Essex enforces a dress code: upscale clubwear is required . Men and women should dress smart-casual or better (no shorts, flip-flops, or athletic wear). Club staff expect guests to “dress to impress” . If you arrive too casually dressed, you may be turned away at the door, so it’s safest to wear neat, fashion-forward attire.
What is the minimum age to enter Essex Club?
You must be at least 18 years old with a valid ID to enter Essex . The club strictly checks ID at the door. So anyone under 18 or anyone without proper identification will be denied entry.
Is there a cover charge or ticket price for Essex Club?
For most standard event nights, Essex has no general cover charge . You can walk in at the door for free, though early arrival is recommended. Special events or guest DJ nights may require tickets or cover, in which case advance tickets will be announced. If you’re reserving a table or bottle service, there will be a minimum spend. Overall, for typical club nights the main cost is on drinks and table service, not an entry fee.
Where can I buy tickets or make reservations for Essex events?
Reservations for VIP tables can be made through the club’s booking contacts (often via phone or affiliated host). For general event tickets, Essex may publicize links on social media or club listings if needed. Many smaller nights allow pay-at-door. If a show is ticketed, watch Essex’s announcements; tickets could be sold by event promoters or on dance music sites. In any case, you typically don’t need to pre-pay for a regular weekend night entry, but for big events it’s wise to secure tickets early.
What payments are accepted at Essex Club?
Essex accepts multiple forms of payment. Both cash and credit/debit cards are accepted at the bars . It’s convenient to have a credit card, but you can certainly pay with cash for drinks or cover. Just note that if you reserve a table, you generally pay by card or cash upon arrival.
Where is Essex Club located?
Essex is at Londres 195 in Colonia Juárez, CDMX . It’s just west of the Ángel de la Independencia monument and the Glorieta de Insurgentes roundabout . In practical terms, look for Calle Londres one block south of Paseo de la Reforma.
What public transportation serves Essex Club?
The nearest Metro station is Insurgentes on Line 1 (the pink line), only a block away . There are also several nearby Metrobús stops at Glorieta Insurgentes (Line 1) and multiple bus routes along Reforma and Chapultepec. For late-night travel, keep in mind Metro service ends around midnight (Mon–Sat), so consider taking an Uber or taxi home after closing.
Is there parking at Essex Club?
Street parking around Juárez is very limited. Essex offers valet parking service (usually at a per-car fee during events) . If you drive, ask the host about the landing zone. Otherwise, it’s often easiest to use a rideshare or taxi and avoid looking for a parking spot altogether. Nearby public lots are few and tend to fill up on weekends.
What is the layout of Essex Club?
Essex has one main room with a large dance floor at its center. Tables for bottle service line the sides of the area, all facing toward the DJ stage . There is no upstairs or balcony – seating is on the same level. The DJ booth is at the back wall, with speakers on each side. The historic bar is along one wall for ordering. In general, the club is mostly standing-room in front of the stage, with some high tables around the dance floor. Capacity is moderate; there’s walking space but it’s usually a packed crowd.
Are tables reserved or is Essex general admission?
Most of Essex is general admission: guests stand on the dance floor or gather around tables. The club does offer a number of high-top tables along the perimeters that can be reserved as VIP bottle service. Only those with reservations (and typically a minimum spend) get those seats . On busy nights, any unreserved tables might still be occupied by dancing guests, so it’s safest to reserve if you want a guaranteed seat or space to sit. Otherwise, plan to stand and mingle.
Is Essex Club wheelchair accessible?
Essex is housed in an older building and may not be fully wheelchair-friendly. Entry has a small step and there is no elevator. The main club floor is one level once inside, but restrooms may be cramped. If mobility is a concern, it’s best to contact the venue in advance. There is an entrance ramp/stair and accessibility can be limited.
Are cameras or recording devices allowed inside Essex?
Personal photography is generally allowed at Essex (guests often take photos on their phones), but professional cameras or video recording gear might not be. Security may refuse large equipment since Essex is mainly a club, not a stage venue. If you plan to shoot video or bring a DSLR, ask permission at the door. Otherwise, jockey your phone discreetly.
Does Essex Club allow smoking?
Essex has a small designated smoking area but does not allow smoking on the main dance floor. Guests often go to the smoking lounge just inside or an outdoor patio if available. Generally, if you need to smoke, step into the smoking section; otherwise try to avoid lighting up inside the main club space.
Are there restrooms and other amenities inside Essex?
Yes. Essex has restrooms available down a hallway; reviewers note they are kept clean and tended by staff. There is also a coat check (for a small fee) at the entrance. Bars are scattered through the club so ordering drinks is convenient. VIP tables include stand-by service. However, there is no restaurant food – only bar snacks if available. No Wi-Fi is provided, so plan on using mobile data or just enjoying the music without phone distractions.
