Whiskey is a distillate that enjoys worldwide fame. It has a special place in the world of cocktails, and in popular culture. Its variety is extensive. From a prohibitively expensive special edition bottle, aged for decades, resulting in subtleties only detectable to the most acute palates to aptly named “moonshine” – a homemade liquor prepared clandestinely and smuggled under the cover of night. There are many iterations in between, and even more variations by country or region.
Whisky? Or whiskey? Although it has no denomination of origin, in general “whisky” is used in Scotland, Japan, and Canada, while “whiskey” is used in Ireland and the US. Such is the affection for this drink that there is even an International Whisk(e)y Day (March 27) and World Whisky Day (third Saturday in May).
If you are looking for places in Mexico City to enjoy good whiskey – straight, on the rocks, single barrel, or blended – these are our recommendations.
Le Tachinomi Desu
Le Tachinomi Desu boasts a dizzying array of Japanese whiskys. This refined and minimalist space – on a corner in Colonia Cuauhtémoc – is hidden from view of unsuspecting pedestrian behind a sliding door. Keeping a low profile, with sparse signage, it has a speakeasy feel…for those “in the know”.
This spot is also recommended for innovative cuisine and relaxed atmosphere, emulating Japanese bars where office workers go after work to have a standing drink. That’s right, there are no chairs here.
Río Pánuco 132-1a, Cuauhtémoc, Cuauhtémoc
T. 56 3035 4220
IG. @letachinomidesu
Wallace
Specializing in Scotch whisky, but with plenty of other offerings and a helpful and informed staff to assist in choosing the right drink, Wallace opened their doors in 2012 and is a comfortable space with dim lights and vintage decor. Don’t be fooled by the solemnity of the space, they frequently host parties, DJ sets, and takeovers, and are self-proclaimed “good vibes enthusiasts”.
Tamaulipas 45, Condesa, Cuauhtémoc
T. 55 5256 3534
Diente de Oro
The concept for his space is tried and true, with a twist. Start with a comfortable neighborhood bar, add an impressive whiskey collection, make it accessible to people who, in the words of the proprietors, “Would not spend over 5000 pesos on a bottle just to see what it tastes like”, and add tasty snacks. Open Monday to Sunday from 6 pm to 2 am, bartenders will be happy to recommend the ideal drink for you. And don’t forget your furry friends – the bar is also pet-friendly.
Iztaccihuatl 36-B, Hipódromo, Cuauhtémoc
T. 55 5264 4617
IG. @dientedeoro
Hanky Panky
The history of whiskey is inevitably linked to speakeasies, the prohibition era, and bootlegging. Hanky Panky, considered one of the 50 best bars in the world by 50 Best, fits the bill to a tee. While this place does not specialize in whiskies, it has a fabulous cocktail bar that in true speakeasy form is only accessible through a secret entrance behind a refrigerator inside a humble eatery. Highly recommended for a blast from the past, roaring 20s style.
Turín 52, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc
T. 211 311 1910
IG. @hankypankydf
Limantour
Licorería Limantour takes its cocktails seriously. Bespoke offerings balance sweet, sour, bitter, and dry – customized cocktails that are mixed according to each visitor’s taste. The whiskey drinker will not be disappointed with the array of flavors that accompany and complement their favorite spirit. Limantour has occupied a top spot on The World’s 50 Best Bars for eight years and counting.
Álvaro Obregón 106, Roma Nte, Cuauhtémoc
T. 55 5264 4122
IG. @limantourmx
