Discover the Ancient Drink of Pulque in Mexico City

Pulque might just be the most ancient thing you’ll drink in Mexico City. Thick, slightly fizzy, and often flavoured with everything from guava to celery, this fermented agave drink has been a part of Mexican life for thousands of years. If you’ve never heard of it before, you’re not alone. Pulque is lesser known outside of Mexico, but here in CDMX, it’s having a real revival—and there’s no better place to try it.

Wandering through the city, especially in older neighbourhoods like Centro or Santa María la Ribera, you’ll spot timeworn signs that read “Pulquería”. These are no-frills, often tiled-wall bars where pulque flows from large barrels and conversations are loud and lively. Step inside and you’re transported—not just to another era, but to another rhythm entirely. The drink has a long connection to Indigenous traditions, once reserved for ceremonies and high priests in pre-Hispanic times. It was believed to be sacred, tied to the goddess Mayahuel and drunk during important rituals.

But after centuries of being overlooked in favour of beer and tequila, pulque is enjoying a second life among younger generations and curious travellers. The texture might take you by surprise at first—viscous, foamy, and unlike any alcoholic drink you’ve likely had before—but it grows on you fast, especially when paired with snacks like botanas or spicy peanuts.

One of the best things about pulque is the range of curados—flavoured versions that cut through the natural tanginess of the drink. You’ll find seasonal fruit mixes, nutty concoctions, and even savoury options. Some pulquerías experiment with ingredients like pine nuts, beetroot, or oatmeal, while others keep things classic with mango, strawberry, or guava.

So, where should you try it in Mexico City? You could start with Pulquería Las Duelistas in the Centro Histórico, known for its colourful murals and broad selection of curados. For a more traditional experience, head to Pulquería La Pirata in Iztapalapa, where the vibe is more neighbourhood cantina than trendy bar. And if you’re in the mood for something with a hipster twist, Pulquería Los Insurgentes in Roma Norte mixes tradition with a rooftop terrace and live music on weekends.

Tasting pulque is more than just sampling a new drink—it’s tapping into the cultural memory of Mexico. When you experience it as part of a food-focused day out, the story really comes to life.

That’s why we always encourage curious travellers to discover pulque as part of a guided food tour. It’s easy to be overwhelmed by choice—or to miss the good spots entirely if you don’t know where to look. On a tour, you’re led by locals who know the best pulquerías, the tastiest pairings, and the deeper stories behind every sip. Plus, it’s way more fun to try something new when you’ve got fellow adventurers around you.

Pulque might not be for everyone, but it’s definitely for the curious—and if you’re exploring Mexico City, you owe it to yourself to give it a go.

Ready to dive into Mexico’s oldest drink and the stories that come with it? Join one of our Mexican Food Tours in CDMX and discover pulque, tacos, and more as part of a delicious, off-the-beaten-path adventure.