Any trip to Mexico is incomplete without enjoying your fair share of artisanal mezcal and refreshing micheladas. But many travelers are unaware that craft cocktails have also taken the Mexican capital by storm. In the most fashionable spaces, the city’s mixologists are exploring their art with a fresh eye, using unique combinations of flavorful ingredients and colorful presentations. Here are the five best cocktail bars in Mexico City.

Xaman

This under-the-radar bar is always filled with an edgy crowd and the smell of incense. The bohemian atmosphere is complemented by a selection of local ingredients on display, ready to be stirred into the fancy cocktails. The mixologists work in full speed behind the bar concocting out-of-the-norm, delicious drinks.

the 5 best cocktail bars in mexico city

Try: Piedra del Mar

Licorería Limantour

With now two locations, the original Licorería was deemed a key player in setting the scene for Mexico City’s cocktail movement. The menu boasts a variety of over 30 cocktails that use an extensive selection of spirits as well as flavors from Mexico and other parts of Latin America. The Art Deco-inspired bar feels chic without being pompous. Stop in on a night that the famous Mafer Tejada is behind the bar — the first woman to win Mexico’s World Class Bartender of the Year.

Try: The (cocktail) ode to Mexico’s one-and-only taco al pastor — Margarita al Pastor

Fifty Mils

Breaking the mold of traditional hotel bars, this sophisticated yet unpretentious space inside the Four Seasons hotel is home to head bartender, Mica Rousseau, and his team of talented mixologists. Using locally sourced ingredients, these world-class professionals shake up fanciful creations behind their eye-catching 20-foot long marble bar. Here classic meets contemporary in its curated menu.

the 5 best cocktail bars in mexico city

Try: Inside Manhattan, Billy the Kid, or Bugs Bunny

Baltra

From the creators of Limantour comes a more laid-back space with no servers or hosts, inspired by the world of Charles Darwin. The candle-lit bar is small with a concise menu spotlighting both classic and unique cocktails that are elegantly served. The mixologists are knowledgeable and passionate about their work, and the crowd is young, trendy, and beautiful. Seasonal options are available apart from the regular menu.

the 5 best cocktail bars in mexico city

Try: Any combination with mezcal or the spicy Bloody Mary served on Recovery Island Sundays

Hanky Panky

This bar channels the famous speakeasy concept like no other. Located in La Juárez, you cannot find its exact address online, merely a phone number on their Facebook page. Once you succeed at making a reservation by phone, the cozy space will woo you with its dimmed lights, sleek black floors, and exclusive vibe. Every night there is a line-up of guest bartenders creating delicious mixtures.

the 5 best cocktail bars in mexico city