Hola, everyone! My name is Kentaro, and I’ve been living in Mexico City for three years. As a dancer and the founder of ISM Dance Studio, I’ve had the incredible opportunity to immerse myself in the vibrant salsa and bachata community here. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned dancer, Mexico City has something for everyone. Let me share my experience and insights into this dynamic social scene.
In Mexico City, the dance floor is alive with variety, but some styles dominate the scene:
Salsa on 1 (LA Style)
Salsa on 1 is the most widely danced style here. It’s energetic, linear, and perfect for showcasing intricate spins and sharp footwork. If you’re used to dancing on 2 or Cuban salsa, you might need to adjust, but it’s a style that’s fun to learn and easy to pick up in the socials.
Cuban Salsa (Casino)
Cuban salsa, with its circular movements and playful energy, is also hugely popular. Dancers often incorporate partner work with dynamic breaks, turns, and even some Rueda de Casino (a group dance format). The joy and spontaneity of this style add a unique flavor to any social night.
Sensual Bachata
Sensual bachata has taken over the dance floors, with its flowing body movements, dramatic dips, and deep connection between partners. This modern style appeals to many dancers, especially those who love a more emotional and expressive dance.
Our most popular ISM Salsa and Bachata Social takes place every Wednesday and Thursday at Busan Restaurante, located at:
Av. Tamaulipas 63, Colonia Condesa, Cuauhtémoc, 06140 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
Wednesday is the highlight for bachata lovers. The night kicks off with classes at 7:30 PM, offering four different levels to suit dancers of all abilities. The social dancing begins at 9:00 PM, drawing around 200 passionate bachateros to the dance floor every week!
Thursday offers a mix of Salsa LA and Bachata, making it a fantastic option for both salsa enthusiasts and those who enjoy bachata.
If you’re a beginner, Thursday is a great choice! We have three levels of classes, ensuring that even if you’ve never danced before, you’ll feel comfortable and supported.
No partner? No problem! We rotate partners during classes and socials, so everyone gets a chance to dance.
Mexico City is a paradise for salsa enthusiasts, and two standout venues—Mama Rumba and Babalú—offer unforgettable experiences for dancers of all levels.
Located in the heart of the city, Mama Rumba is an iconic salsa venue that has been a staple of Mexico City’s dance scene for years. Known for its electric atmosphere, this club features:
This is the place to go if you want to immerse yourself in the essence of salsa culture.
For a more modern yet equally exciting experience, Babalú offers a fresh take on salsa nightlife:
Babalú’s upbeat atmosphere and focus on salsa and Latin music make it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Both venues are for Cuban salsa. Their events are usually Tuesday and Thursday. Mama rumba has also Salsa party on Fridays and Saturdays but they are more for not social dancer. just for fun.
So what should I do if I am a Bachatero and I want to dance on Friday – Monday? it is really depends. sometimes there are events, and you have to check Facebook page or instagram..