Those in the know say it's a crime not to try the octopus torta at Salón Corona. The torta is built on a crusty bolillo roll, filled with tender octopus (cooked until completely soft), ripe avocado, white onion, and fresh chiles. Reviewers consistently flag this as the signature order.
Tips from diners
The octopus is stewed until it's completely tender — no chewiness. This is how it should be done.
Ask for it with cheese if you want richness — it's not on the menu but they'll add it.
Salón Corona opened in 1928, three years after Corona beer launched, so there's a natural pairing. The beer arrives ice cold, perfectly carbonated, and served in a frosty mug. It's the classic pairing with any of the food.
Tips from diners
Pair with tacos or tortas — cold beer and greasy food is the Mexican cantina tradition.
Simple but done with care — a quesadilla made with handmade tortillas, filled with good Mexican cheese, and fried until the exterior crisps. Reviewers note these as one of the dishes you'd be crazy to miss.
Tips from diners
Eat these immediately while they're crispy — the texture is half the appeal.
A staple done right. The pork is marinated in a blend of dried chiles and spices, cooked on a rotating spit, then shaved to order. Reviewers consistently praise the balance of meat quality, spice, and technique — this is how the dish should taste.
Tips from diners
Order at least three — they're small and you'll want more once you start.
The torta version of al pastor, on a crusty bolillo roll. Filled with shaved pork from the spit, creamy avocado, white onion, refried beans, and a selection of fresh chiles. This is handheld, satisfying, and affordable.
Tips from diners
Great if you want something more substantial than tacos but still quick and affordable.
Salón Corona opened its doors in 1928 on Bolívar, on the ground floor of an eighteenth-century mansion known as the Casa Borda (built in 1775 by mining businessman José de la Borda). Now with four locations all within Centro, the original location remains the flagship. It's a traditional cervecería where you can taste authentic Mexican gastronomy — tacos, tortas, seafood, and draft beer — in a space that hasn't substantially changed in nearly a century.
The original location on Bolívar is the most atmospheric — you're sitting in an 18th-century mansion. The other locations lack this charm.
Entire meal for two (two tortas, beer, and snacks) for around 500 pesos — excellent value in the historic center.
Open until 1-2am depending on the day, making it a solid option when other places have closed.
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