The nightlife of this beautiful city is undoubtedly attractive, but the diversity of options can be so overwhelming that sometimes you don’t know where to start. For this reason, we have prepared a brief guide with four bars that you have to know to make the most of a cosmopolitan night out. Places where you’ll discover unique cocktails inspired by herbal medicine, first-class jazz and soul scenes hidden in a mansion from the 1920s, or the largest wine library in the country.
Xaman Bar
Imagine tasting a botanical cocktail inspired by pre-Hispanic Mexico. It may seem a little strange, but that’s exactly what’s different and even daring about Xaman, one of the best kept secrets in Mexico City. Tucked away in the Juárez neighborhood, this herbal-inspired speakeasy offers a mystical experience that appeals to all your senses and plays with the elements of shamanism through the dimly-lit atmosphere and the cocktails, which recount the legends of our ancestors using not only their names but distinctly Mexican and Latin American ingredients.
For example, the Tlahuelpuchi is served in a luminous sahumador (vessel for burning incense) and is prepared with gin, beet, and jiotilla jam from a species of Mexican cactus. The Ahuizotl is inspired by the legendary creature from Mexican mythology and is made with 23-year-old Zacapa rum, Kalani coconut liqueur, plantain shrub, and chocolate bitters. The drinks are accompanied by a live DJ and create a complete sensory experience through music, design, aroma, and flavors.
Copenhague 6, Juárez, CDMX
T. 55 4813 0937
IG. @xamanbar
Wine Bar by Concours Mondial de Bruxelles
With the largest wine library in the country, this place is a paradise for wine lovers and experts. You’ll find the winning wineries from the Concours Mondial de Bruxelles, one of the most prestigious international competitions, at your disposal alongside an impressive collection of award-winning wines and spirits.
Discover and experience labels from over 50 countries among the five rooms of this bar, all ready to drink by the glass, bottle, or tasting. Also on offer are local mezcals, tequilas, whiskey and gin, among others. Occasionally the venue coordinates tastings, master classes, and promotional events based on regions from around the world so you can expand your knowledge of wine styles and trends.
Copenhague 23, Juárez, CDMX
T. 55 2211 0826
IG. @winebarcmb
Casa Franca
The Mexican capital offers a wealth of cultural activities, including its first-class music scene. For music fans, especially lovers of jazz, blues, and soul, Casa Franca is not to be missed. Located in an old mansion of Roma Norte, the decor is reminiscent of past elegance, moody lighting, 1920s meets hipster. The small but intimate stage hosts musicians, both soloists and bands, trios and quartets, from all over the world who come to perform and enjoy the inventive cocktails.
Casual enough for a night out with friends and intimate enough for a romantic date, they offer great pizzas and tapas alongside their famous cocktails. Try the Franca, served with arugula, mushrooms, sundried tomato, Serrano ham, and black olives. Reservations are recommended, particularly if you want to get up close and personal with the music.
Merida 109, Roma Norte, CDMX
T. 55 5208 2265
IG. @casa.franca
Toledo Rooftop
A visit to Mexico City would not be complete without enjoying some of its beautiful skylines. A perfect place to do so is from Toledo Rooftop – an oasis of greenery where you can eat and drink while taking in the radiant sunset or admiring the glittering night landscapes of Reforma, with a privileged view to the Castle Chapultepec. Beyond the culinary aspect, the bar itself embodies one of those modern “places to live incredible experiences within the city.”
The cocktail menu is top notch. Taste the Sevilla Over Toledo, made with Tanqueray Flor de Sevilla, Cachaca Pitú, mint, and raspberry, or a Tamango, with Topo-Chico, HS Tropical Mango, mango juice, orange, lime, and tamarind Smirnoff. The Bajamed menu, created by Oscar Valdez, is inspired by Mediterranean and Asian cooking, but never misses with its touch of Mexican flavor. Follow their social media so you don’t miss out on guest chefs and menu changes.
Av. Chapultepec 461, Juárez, CDMX
T. 55 5929 4343
IG. @toledorooftop
