There are certain addresses in the world where hospitality transcends mere accommodation, and Casa Polanco in Mexico City’s illustrious Polanco district stood as a shining example. Awarded the prestigious Two Michelin Keys, Casa Polanco had long held a reputation for its blend of refined luxury and sincere warmth. From the moment we swept through its stately doors, we understood why it had become the talk of discerning travellers and connoisseurs of understated elegance.
A Welcome Like No Other
Check-in at Casa Polanco was an event in itself. Diana, the front desk manager, greeted us. Her playful banter instantly set the tone: this was a place where service was delivered with personality and genuine charm, not polished detachment. The ease of the arrival process, paired with Diana’s wit, transformed a routine moment into a delightful memory.
The Grand Suite: Home Redefined
The Grand Suite, our sanctuary for the duration of our stay, was the kind of room one secretly hopes for but rarely encounters. Herringbone hardwood floors stretched beneath my feet, leading to oversized windows that bathed the space in natural light. The décor merged the mansion’s Spanish colonial roots with contemporary finesse: intricate mouldings, bespoke furnishings, and plush textiles whispered of old-world glamour, while modern touches, like a Bang & Olufsen speaker system and curated minibar, added a layer of thoughtful indulgence.
The sense of space was remarkable. Beyond the bedroom, a separate sitting area beckoned for evenings curled up with a novel from the downstairs library, and the marble bathroom invited languid showers after days exploring the city. Every detail, from the decanters of premium tequila on the bar cart to the locally sourced amenities, spoke of a property determined to anticipate every need and desire.
Designed to be more than just a place to rest your head, the bedroom embodied the philosophy that true relaxation is an art form. Upon turndown, each night, a new little quote was left on your pillow to brighten your thoughts before bed. My favourite was “Life is like a mirror; it smiles at you if you look at it smiling,” – Jim Morrison. The mattress, of the highest calibre, then offered you the perfect balance of support and plushness, ensuring a rejuvenating night’s sleep.
For those who might wish to indulge in a morning lie-in, the bed was perfectly positioned to take advantage of the suite’s oversized windows. As the morning sun filtered through, casting gentle shadows, it was easy to lose oneself in the tranquillity of the moment, making the decision to rise a reluctant one.
Afternoon Tea: A Mexican Epicurean Affair
Casa Polanco’s interpretation of afternoon tea was a revelation. Far from the English tradition of scones and sandwiches, this was a vibrant celebration of Mexican flavours and hospitality, hosted in the light-filled Veranda room. An epic array of canapés and nibbles awaited, each one a miniature masterpiece. There were tart ceviches, delicate tostadas, spiced nuts, and inventive cheeses, all arranged with painterly precision.
The drink options were impressive, ranging from freshly pressed juices to local wines and, most notably, the house Mezcalita, a smoky, citrusy cocktail served with a flourish. To sip it while gazing out onto the lush terrace was to experience Polanco at its most indulgent.
Breakfast in the Veranda: Morning Decadence
Each morning began with breakfast in the same sun-dappled Veranda, served by Regan, whose friendly attentiveness made every meal a pleasure. The buffet, though modest in size, brimmed with perfectly ripe fruit, flaky pastries, and artisanal yoghurts. Yet it was the à la carte menu that truly dazzled. French toast arrived, golden and yielding, adorned with berries and a whisper of vanilla and Bourbon. Pancakes, meanwhile, were elevated by a daring coffee and Tabasco sauce, an unexpected combination that married sweetness with a lingering, smoky heat.
Juan and Benjamin, the effervescent breakfast team, ensured there was never a dull moment, their jokes about adding tequila to our morning routine proving infectious. It was impossible not to laugh with them, and their energy made each breakfast feel like a family gathering rather than a formal affair.
A Fitness Sanctuary
Casa Polanco’s gym, though compact, provided a well-considered mix of equipment. I managed a satisfying workout each afternoon, aided by state-of-the-art machines and free weights. The space was immaculate and infused with natural light, making exercise feel less like a chore and more like a privilege. The thoughtful touches, chilled water, fresh towels, and a Bluetooth speaker were emblematic of the hotel’s approach to even the smallest details.
Attentive Service: The Casa Polanco Family
Throughout our stay, the staff’s commitment to genuine hospitality became ever more apparent. Roberto at the front desk surprised us with thoughtful amenities for the room when we realised we forgot certain things as a razor or toothpaste. As we prepared to depart, Raffael’s assistance with the bags and indeed with coordinating our transfer to the Kimpton underscored the team’s dedication to ensuring seamless experiences from beginning to end. It was this spirit of anticipation and care, delivered with warmth rather than formality, that distinguished Casa Polanco from its peers.
Casa Polanco in Mexico City was more than just a luxurious hotel; it was a destination that left a lasting impression. The intimate scale of the hotel, combined with the attentive service from staff members, created a familial atmosphere that made us feel uniquely cherished. In essence, Casa Polanco was a masterclass in understated luxury, where each moment was curated to provide comfort, joy, and a sense of belonging. It was a place where the lines between hotel and home blurred, leaving us with memories to cherish long after our departure.
Casa Polanco
Luis G. Urbina 84, Polanco
Polanco III Secc, Miguel Hidalgo
11560 Ciudad de México
Mexico
