Mexico City's Best Cocktail Bars

Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City is tucked behind a black door marked with number 13, offering an intimate setting where seating is limited. The welcoming atmosphere, friendly service, and good music make it a relaxed spot to enjoy a drink. Reservations are recommended to guarantee a table.

Recommended by

Gennady Jozefavichus

Food Writer

Under number 13 Some handshakes are allowed even in the pandemic times: hidden behind the solid black door (with number 13 on it) Hanshake Speakeasy is one of those. It’s small — just community table for maximum dozen people, counter and couple of low tables, that’s all. So you will be informed what the time you are going to spend drinking those cocktails with blue cheese (yes!) or mushrooms (another yes!) is limited. Service is perfect, music is good, atmosphere is great too. And yes (third time!), mini-cocktails (US$5 each) are quite dangerous, they are like bonbons — while you sure you just opened pack it’s already empty. Booking is essential.

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Baltra Bar in Mexico City is known for its welcoming atmosphere and standout drinks. Locals often mention the relaxed vibe and friendly setting, making it a popular destination for a laid-back evening out. It’s a comfortable spot to catch up with friends or unwind after a busy day.

Recommended by

Ali Kurshat Altinsoy

Brand Director

One of my favourite places to drink in CDMX - super drinks, super vibe. Tuesdays are ‘martes martinis’ ie delicious martinis for 100 pesos …

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Bar Las Brujas is a cocktail bar in Mexico City’s Roma Norte, run by an all-female bartending team. There’s a comfortable bar counter for those who like to watch their drinks being made, a few tables for snacking, and a large street terrace where you can relax and enjoy the neighborhood vibe. It’s a welcoming spot to spend an evening with friends or on your own.

Recommended by

Kenneth Nars

WoM co-founder & creative director

A nice cocktail bar in Roma Norte run by an all female bartender team. Great bar counter for cocktail nerds, a few tables for bar snackers and diners and a large street terrace for hanging out.

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Hanky Panky Cocktail Bar is a hidden speakeasy in Mexico City with an intimate, dimly lit setting. Skilled bartenders craft imaginative cocktails behind the bar, adding a dash of theater to each visit. The vintage decor and careful attention to detail create an inviting spot for a unique night out.

Recommended by

Gilberto Briceño Gómez

Chef

Hanky Panky: Mexico City's Hidden Cocktail Haven Nestled discreetly in the heart of Mexico City, Hanky Panky is more than just a bar—it's a clandestine adventure. This hidden speakeasy transports you to another era with its impeccable creativity and theatrical flair. Finding Hanky Panky is half the fun. Once inside, you're greeted with an intimate, dimly-lit atmosphere that feels both exclusive and welcoming. The bartenders here are true artisans, crafting cocktails that are as imaginative as they are delicious. Each drink is a work of art, meticulously prepared with unexpected ingredients and served with a flourish that adds to the mystique. The ambiance is enhanced by the bar’s attention to detail. From the vintage decor to the eclectic playlist, every element is designed to create a memorable experience. Whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or simply looking for a unique night out, Hanky Panky delivers on every level. Hanky Panky is a testament to the creativity and passion of Mexico City's bar scene. It's a place where every visit feels like a secret worth sharing, and every sip transports you to a world of elegance and intrigue. For those in the know, this hidden gem is a must-visit destination.

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Lava in Mexico City is a music-focused bar opened by Edgar Núñez from Sud 777. It offers a relaxed setting with good food and carefully made drinks. Guests can enjoy a casual atmosphere where music and conversation go hand in hand.

Recommended by

Jorge Vallejo

Chef at Quintonil

Edgar Núñez from Sud 777 has opened a great music listening bar and the food is really good. They serve super nice cocktails and I think it’s worth a visit because it’s kind of gastronomic, as they do really good snacks like sardines in a can and croquettes etc.

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Maizajo in Mexico City offers a welcoming, street food-inspired atmosphere on the ground floor and a more polished dining space upstairs. It balances tradition and modern techniques under one roof, letting you experience two sides of Mexican cuisine. The inviting setting makes it an appealing choice for anyone curious about the city’s culinary scene.

Recommended by

Gilberto Briceño Gómez

Chef

Walking into Maizajo, you immediately sense something special. The ground floor greets you with the irresistible aroma of street tacos, a bustling atmosphere that feels authentically grounded in Mexico’s vibrant street food culture. But don’t stop there. Climb the stairs to the second floor, where the experience transforms entirely. Here, Maizajo presents a more refined, yet still deeply rooted, approach to Mexican cuisine. Each dish is a thoughtful exploration of traditional flavors, elevated with modern techniques and a touch of culinary artistry. The contrast between the two floors is striking yet harmonious, a testament to the versatility and depth of Mexican food. Maizajo manages to capture the essence of street food while offering a sophisticated dining experience upstairs. It’s a journey worth taking, each floor offering its own story, each bite a reminder of why food is one of life’s greatest pleasures.

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