Fónico is one of Mexico City’s most exciting new destinations. Located in the fashionable Roma Norte neighborhood, Rayo and Fónico have quickly become essential stops for travelers eager to experience the best of CDMX’s bar and restaurant scene. Housed in a landmark heritage mansion, the two concepts combine inventive cocktails with contemporary Mexican cuisine in a stylish, welcoming setting.
Since opening just over a year ago, Rayo and Fónico have attracted significant attention across the industry. The venue has earned recognition on North America’s lists of top restaurants and bars, and the team has brought their offerings to U.S. audiences through pop-up events in major cities. These efforts, supported by local partners, aim to entice discerning food and drink enthusiasts to visit CDMX and explore the city’s culinary landscape.
© Courtesy of Rayo and Fonico
Roma Norte is widely regarded as one of CDMX’s trendiest districts. Over the last decade the neighborhood has drawn young Mexican professionals, expats from the U.S. and Europe, and international visitors who stroll along tree-lined Avenida Álvaro Obregón. The avenue is known for its lively bars and cafés, vibrant street art, and beautifully restored residential buildings. Among the refurbished mansions you’ll find cultural spaces such as Casa Lamm, while Mercado Roma offers a casual gourmet food-hall experience alongside the many beloved street-food vendors scattered through the neighborhood.
Fónico and Rayo share a multilevel mansion in Roma Norte: Rayo Cocktail Bar occupies the upper floor while Fónico sits below. The interior blends modern accents with period furnishings, creating an eclectic but cohesive atmosphere. Guests can even ride one of Mexico’s oldest elevators to reach Fónico on the lower level, adding to the venue’s historic charm.
© Courtesy of Rayo and Fonico
The kitchen at Fónico is led by executive chef Billy Maldonado, who brings experience from notable kitchens including the Bellagio in Las Vegas and Jean-Georges in New York. Maldonado developed Fónico’s concept and menus, crafting dishes that balance creativity with respect for Mexican ingredients. The menu changes seasonally and highlights sustainably sourced seafood and local produce from regions surrounding Mexico City, reflecting a commitment to quality and responsible sourcing.
Together, Rayo and Fónico offer a refined yet approachable experience that showcases both inventive mixology and contemporary Mexican cooking. Whether visiting for an immersive dinner, a night of cocktails, or a culinary discovery, the venue represents a standout addition to Roma Norte’s vibrant dining scene.