With the FIFA World Cup 2026 on the horizon, Mexico City is preparing to welcome an extraordinary wave of international visitors. And if there’s one thing Mexicans take pride in, it’s being exceptional hosts. So if you’re in Mexico City already and expecting guests from abroad, consider this your curated guide to showcasing the city at its best—through its most memorable bars.
This selection blends design, tradition, and contemporary mixology, offering distinct atmospheres that reflect the many faces of CDMX nightlife. From mezcal sanctuaries to historic cantinas, each stop tells a different story about the capital.
Tlecan
If your goal is to introduce your guests to the world of mezcal, Tlecan is an impeccable starting point. Its minimalist interior carries subtle Oaxacan undertones—elegant and restrained, without excess. The menu prioritizes small-batch, artisanal labels and independent producers, transforming each visit into a conversation about origin, craftsmanship, and tradition.
It’s an intimate yet modern space, ideal for guests who appreciate authenticity and cultural depth.
Address: Av. Álvaro Obregón 228-Local 2, Roma Norte, CDMX
Mauro
For a Mediterranean-inflected atmosphere, Mauro blends contemporary cocktails with Italian aperitifs and a thoughtfully curated drinks selection. The sophistication here never feels rigid. Instead, it exudes an effortless elegance, where classic cocktails coexist with original creations that highlight balance and personality.
It’s the perfect setting to showcase a cosmopolitan side of Mexico City—one that embraces global influences while maintaining a distinct identity.
Address: Tabasco 149, Roma Norte, CDMX
Handshake Speakeasy
By definition, a speakeasy operates discreetly, almost in secret. Handshake Speakeasy honors that tradition while simultaneously earning global acclaim. Featured on lists such as The World’s 50 Best Bars, it stands as proof that Mexico City’s cocktail culture competes at the highest international level.
The experience begins at the entrance and unfolds within a dark, intimate interior designed for immersion. Each cocktail is a masterclass in technical precision and creativity. Bringing someone here guarantees a refined surprise—and a story worth retelling.
Address: C. Amberes 65, Juárez, CDMX
Licorería Limantour
Another essential name in Mexico City’s bar scene is Licorería Limantour. Also recognized internationally, it is a consistently reliable choice. You know exactly what you’re getting: high-caliber cocktails, impeccable service, and a menu that balances reinvention with respect for the classics.
Limantour has become a benchmark in the local scene and remains a mandatory stop for anyone eager to explore the city’s mixology culture at its finest.
Address: Av. Álvaro Obregón 106, Roma Norte, CDMX
La Ópera
For guests interested in history, La Ópera is one of the capital’s most emblematic cantinas. Its décor preserves a Porfirian-era grandeur, complete with marble, mirrors, and a ceiling said to still bear a bullet hole fired by Pancho Villa—a story that lingers as part of its mythology.
Beyond legend, the experience is uniquely tied to Mexico City’s past. Order traditional botanas, let the conversation flow, and allow the atmosphere to transport you to another era.
Address: Av. 5 de Mayo 10, Centro Histórico, CDMX
Kaito del Valle
If the night calls for something more playful, Kaito del Valle combines expertly crafted cocktails with private karaoke rooms. It’s an ideal icebreaker and a lively option for groups seeking a more intimate, uninhibited experience. Reservable private spaces make it perfect for celebrations or spontaneous performances without an audience of strangers.
Address: Hamburgo 70B, Juárez, CDMX
Ultimately, choosing among these must-visit bars in Mexico City isn’t simply about preference—it’s about storytelling. Each venue represents a different facet of the capital: its heritage, its sophistication, its creativity, and its electric nightlife energy.
As a host, the art lies in selecting the stage that best captures the experience you want to share.
