Courtesy of Balta bar in CDMX
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Mexico City’s vibrant bar scene has some of the world’s best cocktails 

Mexico City’s talented bartenders are redefining the art of mixology, infusing classic cocktails with local flavors and innovative techniques. 

The city is also home to what is known as “the best bar in the world.”

The Handshake Speakeasy was recently awarded the top spot at the prestigious World’s 50 Best Bars award ceremony in Madrid, and a handful of other fancy watering holes in CDMX also made the list.

Mexican favorites like tequila, mezcal, and Pulque will always be the heart and soul of mixology in Mexico. But there is no denying locals are quickly developing a taste for a broader range of liquors like whisky, cognac, and bourbon.

Here’s a look at some of the best bars in town where you can experience the cocktail renaissance.  

Handshake Speakeasy

The bar’s name suggests its exclusive nature. It is designed to evoke the atmosphere of Prohibition-era speakeasies, with dim lighting, plush velvet curtains, and a vintage aesthetic. Not bad for a bar that first opened its doors in 2021. As it is now officially the “best in the world,” you will need a reservation. 

Licorería Limantour

A perennial favorite on the World’s 50 Best Bars list, Licorería Limantour has been a pioneer in Mexico City’s cocktail scene. This stylish bar offers a meticulously crafted menu of classic and contemporary cocktails, emphasizing Mexican spirits like mezcal and tequila. Limantour often invites guest bartenders who compete to create their own inspired libations. 

Baltra

Located in the trendy Condesa neighborhood, Baltra is a sophisticated bar focused on seasonal ingredients. The bar’s cocktails showcase the best of Mexican produce, from locally sourced herbs and spices to artisanal spirits. Their signature Mezcal Mule is a smoky spin on the classic Moscow Mule.  

Hanky Panky

This intimate speakeasy-style bar is a hidden gem in the Juárez neighborhood. Hanky Panky offers a curated selection of classic cocktails crafted by skilled bartenders. The cozy atmosphere and vintage decor create a nostalgic ambiance, perfect for sipping on a well-made Manhattan or Old Fashioned.  

Casa Franca

This stylish bar in the Roma neighborhood is known for its live jazz and creative cocktails. Casa Franca’s menu features a range of drinks, from mezcal-based concoctions to refreshing fruit-infused cocktails. The bar’s staff can help you choose the perfect drink to suit your taste.

There are a plethora of great bars to explore in CDMX, and too many to list, so get exploring and find your own favorites.

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