MEXICO RISES

We might be a little biased about Celebrate Mexico Now—OK, a lot biased—but it’s Mexico’s Independence celebration so we gladly say salud by indulging in the very best of Mexico’s contemporary arts and fine foods. Writer Paco Ignacio Taibo II kicks off the festival with a reading from Mexico City Noir at King Juan Carlos Center. Other highlights include performances by pop-alt songstress Natalia Lafourcade at Joe’s Pub and rock queen Ely Guerra, who returns after a three-year absence for a gig at (le) poisson rouge. And our favorite Mexican restaurants, such as Café El Portal, Café Frida, Hecho en Dumbo, and Pampan, will be taking part in the New York Authentic Mexican Restaurant Week.