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El Convite Reopens in Mexico City, Pivoting to Alcohol-Free ‘Fonda Gourmet’ Service

The nearly 30-year Portales hub refocuses on daytime dining to stabilize finances following last month’s regulatory closure.

Overview

  • Doors reopened on November 20 with breakfast-and-lunch hours starting at 9 a.m., emphasizing its fonda gourmet identity.
  • Alcohol service is suspended, and the venue is operating as an alcohol-free space under the new model.
  • In-house live music is paused due to the financial hit from the closure, with owners planning to reprogram concerts in 2026.
  • The relaunch features a photography exhibition by Fernando Aceves and the return of the take-and-return book club for diners.
  • The Aguilar family continues the Jazzbook project with partners including the Fondo de Cultura Económica, Capital 21 and Radio Educación, with sessions at Centro Cultural Elena Garro and the Museo del Muralismo.