7 Best Places to Shop in Coyoacán, Mexico City

Named for the late novelist and screenwriter Elena Garro, this huge bookstore occupies an early-20th-century mansion that's been enclosed within a stunning contemporary glass-walled, two-story addition. You'll find a terrific selection of literary and artistic titles as well as concerts, lectures, children's events (from puppet shows to storytelling), and other cultural programming. There's also a café with an enchanting garden seating area.

Although it's not as big as some of the city's other markets, this lively mercado just a couple of blocks from Frida Kahlo's house is one of the most popular with visitors, in large part because of the famous food stalls at its center doling out plates of delicious ceviche, octopus, shrimp, chicken tinga, picadillo, and other fillings for about MP40 to MP50 per portion. But you'll also find aisles of the usual fresh juices, produce, spices, candies, and other goodies typical of Mexican markets as well as a number of souvenir and homeware vendors (mostly near the northwest entrance) and many other food vendors. Arguably even better than the tostadas are the quesadillas sold from a tiny little stand at the west entrance, directly across from pretty Jardín Allende, a small landscaped park with benches and pathways; on weekends, artists sell their wares in the park and a DJ spins traditional Latin music, which locals of all ages dance to---it's great fun to watch. For a sweet treat, stop by Chocolate Mexicano Dulce Olivia, which serves sipping chocolates and carries a vast array of artisan chocolate bars produced by small, often family-run makers from throughout the country.

At this tree-shaded compound founded in 1964 and situated midway between Museo Frida Kahlo and Jardín Centenario, exquisite Japanese-inspired bowls, plates, vases, tea sets, and other ceramics are produced and sold at quite reasonable prices. Ceramics workshops are offered as well, and as you're browsing the wares, you can say hello to the owners' friendly cadre of xoloitzcuintlis (the distinctive hairless dogs that have been a part of Mexican culture for more than 3,500 years).

This cute family-run shop specializes in artisanal or handmade foods and some other products (soaps, jewelry, crafts) primarily from the state of Puebla. There's a selection of coffee beans and mezcals from small producers, plus mezquite honey, salsas, sweets, and other organic products. The shop also has a small coffee bar and a tortillería serving up handmade corn quesadillas filled with chicken and mole, nopales, mushrooms, and other tasty ingredients.

Located in a narrow courtyard along lovely Avenida Francisco Sosa, this lively market is devoted to locally made crafts, gifts, clothing, body-care products, and artisanal foods. Edible treats include homemade fudge, hand pies, chocolates, and mezcals. 

At this friendly boutique, artisans hand-craft gorgeous, stylish leather products, including backpacks, computer bags, wallets, purses, journals, and aprons. The level of quality is superb, and the goods have a timeless look.

Pick up an actual piece of Mexico at this colorful gem shop that specializes in both rough and polished minerals and stones from all around the country, including obsidian, jasper, lapis lazuli, rose quartz, amethyst, and more. Fossils and sculptures are also sold here, and prices are quite reasonable.