Reforma Street: New Merchant Arrivals Announced

Oaxaca‘s writing/Quadratín

Oaxaca Recovers Historic ‘Scarf Garden’; Merchants Relocate too Reforma Street

july 13, 2025

The City Council of Oaxaca de Juárez has announced the prosperous recovery of the “scarf garden” adjacent to the Temple of Santo Domingo, a space that had been occupied by merchants.This move, aimed at reclaiming historical, cultural, and public areas, signifies a commitment to enhancing the urban landscape and fostering community life.

the rescued garden is slated to become a hub for artistic and cultural activities, integrated harmoniously within the heritage-rich setting of the Historic Center. This initiative directly addresses public demands to reclaim occupied public spaces and improve the city’s image, particularly in its historical heart.

In collaboration with artisans and vendors, a temporary relocation to Reforma Street has been arranged. This new site has been designed to be safe, accessible, and orderly, adhering to civil protection and mobility guidelines. On Reforma Street, a handmade corridor will be established, with half of the space dedicated to exhibiting artisan crafts and the remaining half kept clear for pedestrian traffic and emergency vehicle access.

city officials emphasized that this rearrangement is being conducted through dialog and mutual respect, ensuring dignified spaces for all participants. This action is part of a broader commitment by President Ray Chagoya to recover common spaces, strengthen community bonds, and protect local traditions with order and respect.

The decision to relocate the vendors has been met with mixed reactions, as some segments of the population have voiced concerns about previous concessions made to groups that they felt impacted the cultural heritage site’s image.This relocation is intended to balance the needs of merchants with the preservation and public enjoyment of Oaxaca’s valuable historical zones.

What impact do the new businesses have on the street’s overall atmosphere and economic vitality?

Welcoming a Wave of Fresh Businesses to Reforma Avenue

reforma Street, a cornerstone of mexico City’s vibrant commercial landscape, is experiencing a surge in new merchant arrivals. this influx of businesses promises to diversify the shopping and dining experiences available to residents and visitors alike. From boutique retailers to innovative culinary concepts, Reforma Avenue is solidifying its position as a premier destination for commerce and culture. This article details the latest additions, what they offer, and how they contribute to the evolving character of this iconic street.

New Retail Experiences on Reforma

Several new retail establishments have recently opened their doors, catering to a wide range of tastes and preferences.

Artisan Collective “Raíces Mexicanas”: This new store showcases handcrafted goods from across Mexico, including textiles, ceramics, and jewelry. Supporting local artisans and preserving conventional crafts is at the heart of their mission. Expect unique, high-quality souvenirs and gifts.

Lasting Fashion Boutique “EcoChic”: Responding to the growing demand for ethical and environmentally conscious fashion, EcoChic offers clothing and accessories made from sustainable materials. They focus on slow fashion principles and obvious supply chains.

Tech Gadget Store “Innovate Mexico”: A haven for tech enthusiasts,Innovate Mexico features the latest smartphones,laptops,and smart home devices.They also offer repair services and tech workshops.

Specialty Bookstore “Letras vivas”: Beyond mainstream bestsellers, Letras Vivas specializes in autonomous literature, poetry, and art books. They host regular author readings and book clubs.

Expanding Culinary Delights: New Restaurants & Cafés

Reforma Street’s culinary scene is also undergoing a transformation with several exciting new restaurant and café openings.

“Sabor Ancestral” – Traditional Mexican Cuisine: This restaurant focuses on reviving ancient Mexican recipes and ingredients, offering a unique dining experience rooted in culinary history. They source ingredients directly from local farms.

“Café Floresta” – Specialty Coffee & Pastries: A cozy café specializing in single-origin coffee beans and artisanal pastries. Perfect for a morning pick-me-up or an afternoon treat. They also offer coffee brewing workshops.

“Fusion Asia” – Pan-Asian Restaurant: Bringing a diverse range of Asian flavors to Reforma, Fusion Asia offers dishes inspired by Thai, Vietnamese, and Japanese cuisine.

“verde Vida” – Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurant: Catering to the growing plant-based community, Verde Vida offers a creative menu of vegan and vegetarian dishes using fresh, seasonal ingredients.

Benefits of Increased Merchant Diversity

the arrival of these new merchants brings several benefits to Reforma Street and the surrounding community:

Enhanced Shopping & Dining Options: Greater variety caters to a wider range of consumer preferences.

Economic Growth: New businesses create jobs and contribute to the local economy.

Increased Foot Traffic: More diverse offerings attract more visitors to the area.

Revitalization of the Street: New businesses contribute to a more vibrant and dynamic streetscape.

Support for Local Artisans & Sustainable Practices: Several new arrivals prioritize ethical and sustainable business models.

Reforma Street: A Past Perspective

Reforma Avenue’s history as a commercial hub dates back to the late 19th century, when it was designed as a grand boulevard inspired by European capitals. Initially catering to the elite,it gradually evolved into a more accessible and diverse commercial district. Throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, Reforma street has adapted to changing economic and social conditions, consistently attracting new businesses and reinventing itself. The current wave of new arrivals represents the latest chapter in this ongoing evolution. The street’s central location and accessibility via public transportation continue to make it a prime location for businesses.

Practical Tips for Exploring the New Arrivals

Check Social Media: Follow the new merchants on social media (Instagram, Facebook) for updates on promotions, events, and new menu items.

Utilize Online Maps: Use Google Maps or other online mapping services to locate the new businesses and plan your visit.

Consider Weekday Visits: Weekdays are generally less crowded than weekends, allowing for a more relaxed shopping and dining experience.

Explore Beyond the Main Avenue: Don’t be afraid to venture into the side streets off Reforma, where you may discover hidden gems.

Support Local Businesses: Prioritize spending at locally owned and operated businesses to contribute to the community’s economic well-being.