Uncover the World of Mezcal: What It Is and Where to Drink It in Mexico City

If you’ve ever sipped on mezcal, you’ve tasted more than just a drink—you’ve experienced a piece of Mexico’s history and culture. This smoky, complex spirit has been crafted for centuries, but in recent years, it has become a beloved drink worldwide, known for its artisanal production methods and bold flavours. And where better to explore mezcal than in Mexico City, home to some of the best mezcalerías in the country?

Let’s dive into what mezcal is, how it differs from tequila, and where you can sip on the finest selections in the city.

What is Mezcal?

At its core, mezcal is a distilled alcoholic beverage made from agave plants, much like tequila. However, the main difference lies in the types of agave used and the production process. While tequila is made only from blue agave, mezcal can be crafted from over 30 different varieties of agave, including Espadín, Tobalá, and Madrecuixe.

What truly sets mezcal apart is its traditional, smoky flavour. This comes from roasting the agave hearts, or piñas, in underground pits, often lined with wood and hot stones. The resulting spirit carries a unique earthy, smoky essence that varies depending on the agave type, region, and distilling techniques.

Mezcal is meant to be sipped slowly, often from small clay cups (copitas), to savour its complex flavour profile. You’ll also commonly see it served with a side of orange slices and sal de gusano (worm salt–we promise it’s not as gross as it sounds!) to enhance its flavours.

Where to Sample the Best Mezcal in Mexico City

Mexico City is home to a growing number of mezcalerías, bars dedicated to mezcal, where you can sample artisanal varieties from across the country. Here are some of the best spots to enjoy a mezcal experience:

1. La Clandestina (Roma Norte)
   This cosy mezcalería, tucked away on a quiet street in Roma, offers a fantastic selection of small-batch mezcals. It’s known for its relaxed atmosphere, knowledgeable staff, and the chance to try some lesser-known varieties. The rustic interior, with dim lighting and wooden furniture, makes it the perfect spot for an intimate mezcal tasting.
2. Mezcalería Mundana (Condesa)
   Located in the trendy Condesa neighbourhood, Mezcalería Mundana offers a well-curated selection of mezcal, often paired with small plates of food. The bartenders are more than happy to walk you through the different agave varieties, helping you find the perfect pour. It’s a great spot if you’re new to mezcal and want to learn the basics while enjoying a lively vibe.
3. Bósforo (Centro Histórico)
   Bósforo is a hidden gem near Mexico City’s historic centre. Known for its obscure mezcal selections from remote regions of Mexico, this bar offers a more adventurous experience for mezcal enthusiasts. With a dark, intimate setting, Bósforo is ideal if you want to try rare mezcals that are hard to find elsewhere.
4. Loup Bar (Roma Norte)
   While not a dedicated mezcalería, Loup Bar is known for its excellent wine and mezcal selection, making it an ideal stop if you want to experiment with food pairings. The bartenders can guide you through the menu, offering recommendations that complement both mezcal and their selection of gourmet snacks.
5. Xaman Bar (Juárez)
   If you’re looking for something a bit more eclectic and modern, Xaman Bar blends Mexican roots with a contemporary cocktail scene. They offer mezcal in creative cocktails that highlight its smoky essence while mixing it with unexpected flavours. It’s a great place to explore mezcal cocktails beyond the traditional sipping experience.

Join a Mezcal-Themed Food Tour in Mexico City

If you’re visiting Mexico City and want to dive deeper into the world of mezcal, why not book a mezcal and food tour? Mexican Food Tours offers curated experiences that will take you through some of the city’s best mezcalerías, where you’ll sample artisanal mezcals and learn the stories behind each variety. You’ll also have the chance to enjoy delicious Mexican dishes that pair perfectly with this iconic drink.

Whether you’re a mezcal aficionado or trying it for the first time, a guided tour is the ideal way to experience the rich culture and flavours of mezcal in Mexico City.