Hilel Bistre is a visionary restauranteur of premier havens in Mexico City. KILL BILL unfolds as an unforgettable Omakase fine dining experience, enhanced by a resplendent jazz listening bar, and MADAI is a zestful bar which continues the mastery of Omakase in CDMX. For fairy-tale-like mornings, Another restaurant serves a dazzling brunch and specializes in blending the perfect cup of coffee for its devoted patrons, while nightfall brings fresh, seasonal dishes, divine cocktail favorites, and a supreme list of natural wines.
Whitewall had the opportunity to speak with the inspiring Bistre about the feast for the soul and the senses that is Mexico City.
Portrait courtesy of Hilel Bistre.
Courtesy of Kill Bill sushi, Mexico City.
WHITEWALL: What is the best spot to find inspiration in CDMX?
HILEL BISTRE: There’s a special kind of magic in watching the sunrise paint the sky as you travel through the chinampas of Xochimilco.
“There’s a special kind of magic in watching the sunrise paint the sky as you travel through the chinampas of Xochimilco,”
Hilel Bistre
Harvesting fresh vegetables, still damp with dew, and knowing you’ll soon be enjoying a delicious breakfast is truly inspiring. Another place that fills me with joy is a vibrant produce market. The friendly vendors, the array of colors, the sweet smells—it’s a feast for the senses and a wonderful source of inspiration.
WW: What is the best off-the-beaten-path place to see art in CDMX?
HB: I’m drawn to the dynamic art scene here. The exhibitions at Casa Gilardi in San Miguel Chapultepec are always fresh and exciting.
“The exhibitions at Casa Gilardi in San Miguel Chapultepec are always fresh and exciting,”
Hilel Bistre
Plus, the Roma and Juarez neighborhoods are treasure troves of creativity, with their charming local galleries.
WW: What is the best-kept secret in CDMX?
HB: There’s something about the old cantinas… they just get under your skin. Each one is a world unto itself, a unique blend of location, service, the comforting aroma of traditional food, and the lively, yet familiar, hum of conversation. I wouldn’t dare say one is better than another. They’re all special, each a little jewel waiting to be discovered in the heart of the neighborhood. It’s a shame so many visitors miss out on these authentic experiences.
Mexico City Insider Hilel Bistre’s List of Favorites:
1. Casa Gilardi
Gilardi House, Mexico City, 1975–1977. Swimming pool and dining area access.
Photo by Armando Salas Portugal.
The Gilardi House was commissioned by advertising executive Francisco Gilardi to be built on a plot in a densely populated area of the capital, south of Bosque de Chapultepec park and not far from Barragán’s own residence.
After first considering a refurbishment of the extant dwelling on the site, the client ultimately decided to construct an entirely new structure suited to his personal needs and wishes. A bachelor with an active social life, he wanted appropriate spaces for entertaining guests and an indoor swimming pool for his daily use. The resulting design became one of Barragán’s most appreciated works. – Source
2. KILL BILL
Courtesy of Kill Bill sushi, Mexico City.
Omakase fine dining experience, and a jazz listening bar too. – Source
3. MADAI
Courtesy of MADAI.
OMAKASE bar in Mexico City. – Source
4. Another restaurant
Courtesy of Another restaurant.
Courtesy of Another restaurant.
DAY: Brunch and specialty coffee, NIGHT: seasonal plates & natural wines, classic cocktails. – Source
