In the heart of Mexico City’s vibrant Hipódromo neighborhood stands the Hotel San Fernando, an architectural gem that seamlessly blends modern Mexican design with historical Art Deco charm. The hotel is part of the renowned Bunkhouse Hotel Group out of Austin, Texas, known for its unique and culturally rich accommodations, whose spaces are often frequented by out-of-towners and locals alike. Nestled amidst tree-lined streets and historic buildings, the Hotel San Fernando is framed by the trendy and bohemian district and its famed green space, Parque México.
The hotel’s design is a testament to Bunkhouse’s commitment to creating immersive experiences. The building itself dates back to 1947 and originally served as an apartment building, named Edificio San Fernando after the patron saint of the Spanish Army Corps of Engineers. Its historic façade, though now painted a soft green, has been preserved, offering a glimpse into the past. Inside, however, guests are welcomed by a contemporary and eclectic interior that pays homage to Mexican art and culture. Vibrant colors, locally sourced furnishings, and curated artwork contribute to the hotel’s distinctive character. Original details kept intact juxtapose the modernity, creating balance, from casement windows and encaustic tile floors to wainscoting in the corridors and lobby and stained glass.
Check-in, and you’ll be presented with an (actual) key to your room, as well as a drink ticket to be redeemed at the Lounge Fernando—the hotel’s restaurant and bar. Walk over to the bar at opening time, and you’ll be rewarded by the smoky, herbaceous scent of palo santo being wafted by the bartender and the glow of taper candles jutting from a ceramic cactus at the far end of the counter.
Each of the hotel’s nineteen guest rooms and suites was thoughtfully designed to reflect the spirit of Mexico City, with modern amenities, hanging lanterns, and a punchy coral color palette. Furnishings were sourced from local CDMX-based studio La Metropolitana, and the accommodations are meant to feel somewhere between a hotel and an Airbnb, with a liveable feel and space to dine, cook, and lounge. Hanging in each room are specially designed colorful kimono-inspired robes, and the bathrooms are stocked with toiletries by Malin + Goetz.
Some things to keep in mind while planning your stay at Hotel San Fernando include the absence of an elevator in the historic building, which could make it tough for some to get up to their rooms on higher floors or to the rooftop for breakfast. Each room features a gorgeous stained glass window that connects to the hallway, but since the hallway lights stay on at night, it would be a good idea to bring an eye mask if you prefer a darker environment when drifting off to sleep. Make sure, also, to bring comfortable walking shoes to wear while exploring the picturesque surrounding neighborhood.
Top Takeaways
Location: Mexico City, Mexico
Rating: Four-Star
The vibe: Vibrant, Art Deco-inspired hideaway in one of CDMX’s most picturesque neighborhoods.
Food + Drink: Find Lounge Fernando, the hotel’s bar and restaurant, off the main lobby on the first floor. It’s open from noon through 11 pm and is a great place to grab coffee and post up with your laptop in the afternoon or to order a cheese and charcuterie board or rib eye tacos and a Mexican-inspired cocktail in the evening. The Rooftop Terrace is where breakfast is served each morning, providing you with some fresh air to get your day started on the right foot.
Amenities: In-room dining, bath amenities from Malin + Goetz, mini fridge, complimentary WiFi, in-room coffee, in-room Bluetooth speaker, complimentary rooftop breakfast, filtered drinking water.
Any personal neighborhood recs? Directly next door to the hotel, find Koku, a hip and stylish option for Japanese fare. Directly next to Koku, you’ll also find PLONK, a new-ish natural wine bar with inventive, tasty Mexican-Asian cuisine. Wine bars have been hot in Mexico City lately, and PLONK is one of our favorites so far.
Our favorite thing about the hotel: While Bunkhouse certainly modernized the building’s interiors and added its own flair, there are still tons of historic details to be admired as well—from stained glass windows to its central spiral staircase.
What’s nearby? Hotel San Fernando is just half a block away from Parque México, an enormous leafy park known for its spacious dog run. We definitely suggest starting your day on the rooftop with breakfast and then grabbing a coffee nearby and taking a slow stroll around the park, admiring the neighborhood’s cute pups and beautiful architecture along the way.
Rooms: 19 guest rooms and suites
Pricing: Rates start at 220 dollars/night
Closest Airport: Benito Juarez International Airport (MEX)
