Mexico City is a sprawling metropolis known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and world class food. It is also home to an extraordinary bar scene that combines traditional flavors with modern mixology. This guide delves into the five best bars in Mexico City, where creativity and tradition merge to offer unparalleled drinking experiences. From sophisticated speakeasies to bars that pay homage to Mexico's indigenous heritage, these establishments are must-visits for any discerning drink enthusiast.
686 Bar
686 Bar stands out for its laid-back atmosphere and innovative approach to casual drinking. This modern speakeasy, nestled in Mexico City's trendy Polanco neighborhood, offers a refreshing addition to the area's upscale dining scene. With its minimalist furniture and dim lighting, 686 Bar is a blank canvas on which creativity flows as freely as the drinks. The cocktail menu is a playful mix of classic and contemporary, featuring everything from craft beers to creative concoctions that challenge the palate in the best possible way. We recommend trying their Mezcal Negroni - a perfect riff on a classic cocktail that pays homage to one of Mexico's premier liquors.
Address: Tonalá 133-2do Piso, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 CDMX
Hours: Mon, Thurs-Sun 19:00-2:00
Café Tacobar
Café Tacobar is a unique fusion of cafe culture and cocktail craftsmanship, located in the Roma Norte neighborhood of Mexico City. By day, it serves as a cozy spot for coffee aficionados, but as night falls, Café Tacobar transforms into a lively bar specializing in coffee-based cocktails. This dual identity makes it a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The signature drink, an Espresso Martini with a Mexican twist, perfectly embodies the bar's innovative spirit. With its relaxed ambiance and commitment to quality, Café Tacobar offers a distinct experience that celebrates Mexico City's dynamic drinking culture.
Address: Av Oaxaca 12, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 Ciudad de México, CDMX, Mexico
Reservations: Walk-ins only
Hours: Tues-Sat 15:00-1:00
Handshake Speakeasy
Hidden behind an unassuming façade in the bustling Juárez district, Handshake Bar offers an intimate and exclusive drinking experience. With a reservation-only policy and a penchant for privacy, Handshake Bar caters to those in the know. Inside, the ambiance is reminiscent of a Prohibition-era lounge, complete with plush seating and dim lighting. The cocktails are masterpieces of precision and flair, with bartenders employing both classic and innovative techniques to create drinks that are as memorable as they are delicious. It is hard to choose which drink is a must since every single one was phenomenal, but the Olive and Apple stood out for its uniqueness. Tequila blended with Olive Oil and then strained? We were skeptical too but this creation must be tasted to be believed.
Hours: Mon-Thu, Sun 18:00-1:00; Fri-Sat 18:00 pm-2:00 am
Licorería Limantour
Situated in the fashionable Roma Norte neighborhood, Licorería Limantour has been a beacon of innovation in Mexico City's cocktail culture for over a decade. Known for its avant-garde approach to mixology, Limantour blends international techniques with local ingredients, resulting in a dynamic and ever-evolving cocktail menu. The bar's interior, a stylish blend of Art Deco elegance and contemporary chic, sets the stage for an evening of sophisticated enjoyment. Signature cocktails, such as the Margarita al Pastor, showcase the bar's commitment to Mexican flavors, making Limantour a top destination for cocktail aficionados.
Hours: Mon-Wed 18:00-00:00; Thu 18:00-02:00; Fri-Sat 15:00-02:00; Sun 15:00-00:00
Tlecan
Tlecan is more than just a bar; it's a celebration of Mexico's rich indigenous heritage and its myriad of traditional spirits. Located on the border of Hipódromo and Roma Norte, Tlecan's ancient Mayan décor and dim lighting invite guests to explore the depth of Mexico's ancestral beverages. The bar's name, derived from Nahuatl, reflects its dedication to authenticity and tradition. Here, patrons can savor drinks made with lesser-known spirits like raicilla, bacanora, and sotol, each cocktail telling a story of Mexico's diverse regions and cultures.
Address: Av. Álvaro Obregón 228-Local 2, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, 06700 CDMX
Reservations: Walk-ins only
Hours: Mon-Sun 18:00 - 2:00
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