Volga

It’s named for the road it’s on, which is in turn named for the most famous river in Russia, and is one block over from the Paseo de la Reforma. And if there’s something a bit Eastern Bloc about this concrete tower, it’s probably down to the associations of Brutalism, or maybe the Tarkovsky-like tableau of its minimalist interior atrium garden. But Volga, the hotel, is a pure expression of today’s Mexico City — a city that’s as cosmopolitan as it is unique.

Volga is full of contemporary art, from large-scale installations to small framed works. And its architecture and design, rather than recede gallery-like into the background, provide aesthetic interest of their own. The rooms are thoughtfully furnished and subtly luxe, with spa treatments available en suite. And while it’s no resort, Volga does feature a lovely little rooftop pool.

Nor is it a hotel that refuses to interact with its setting. Volga’s events include art-world happenings as well as all manner of cultural gatherings. And the restaurant is a perfect example of the hotel’s international approach: Elora is a Mediterranean concept by the Japanese-Mexican restaurant group Edo Kobayashi.