Cool vibes the old books give the place character. We had a few beers, some shots and mixed drinks…read more The drinks were good. They had a few TVs with some sports on which is why we chose this place. Service was friendly, and quick to take your initial order but after that it was kinda hard to order a second or third drink you really had to flag them down. We came back on a second visit and they were out of some of the beers we ordered the previous visit. On the plus side the beers were ice cold. Much colder than out of the refrigerator which made it so easy to drink.

Stopped in here for a brief pre-dinner drink. The ambiance is really nice and the service is…read morefriendly. The bar area is stunning with plenty of seating. There was no live music when I was there but I did see a stage presumably for that purpose. Prices are decent, domestic beers in the $60-70 pesos range. Lots of tapas on the menu as well but I didn't partake in any food. Bathrooms were clean and spacious. They take Apple Pay which is a nice convenience (I lost my card). They were very accommodating about this. English-friendly too if it matters. I heard lots of English being spoken among the patrons and the staff was all fluent.

Normally I would find this sort of place via yelp, but apparently nobody here had heard of yelp…read moresomehow, so I actually don't remember how I even found out about it (I would have had to - it's not like you'd ever know it was there from the outside, being a little sign on a door in the inside of the lobby of a small hotel). I'm really glad I did, though, because they absolutely *need* to be on yelp so more people like me can find it, because it was a. absolutely fantastic, some of the best cocktails I've had, and for a great price, and b. literally empty all night the night I was there (which was, to be fair, a Monday, but still - we were literally the only people there other than the two bartenders, both for like an hour earlier in the day, and then when I came back around 10:30 that night for another drink because I was leaving the next morning and I really wanted to try one more drink because they were that good). English is spoken haltingly at best, though (at least when I was there), which could partially explain the lack of fame among tourists (my wife speaks a bit of Spanish, but the Google Translate app was also helpful in both directions.) It's a cozy sort of place, and they were playing great music. too - neat blend of like 80s music and remixes of 80s music. Awesome decor, too. Most cocktails on the pre-defined menu are $130 (so under $8 US), and I did start with a couple of those, to confirm they knew what they were doing, which they totally did. First the Free Verte - basically a traditional absinthe ceremony in a glass, with ice with a flower frozen into it. Tastes fantastic if you like absinthe (you can taste the flame!), and it's a show to make. Then the El Santo, with a liquor base of "pox", which I'd never heard of, so he gave me a little to try - it tastes sort of like a cross between mezcal and white rum. The drink was a typical (dangerous!) tiki type drink, super creamy and delicious, plus I love the glasses they use for it. I also tried one of their 50-peso "shots" cause I was curious, with rum, coconut cream, mango/pineapple juice, melon liquor and india nut. Sort of like a painkiller, but flavor up to 11 with the nutty kick. (I obviously didn't actually shoot it - that would be a waste of deliciousness.) Having confirmed the overall quality of the place, I then tried their custom cocktail ability ($140!). This is where Google Translate really helped, obviously. Started by asking for a custom mezcal drink that really brings out the mezcal and wasn't too fruity. Not exactly what I meant, but an amazing drink nonetheless, and I could still taste the mezcal pretty well. Fresh berry (strawberry, cranberry, raspberry) juice, jamaica, mezcal, and a rosemary lit on fire. It was fan-freaking-tastic. That as all the drinking I was planning on doing that day, but that creation was so good, I had to try a second experiment - I told them mezcal again, and this time, do what you like, but make it spicy. They gave me a drink with mezcal, simple syrup, lemon and a house-made spice/cinnamon liqueur. It was really good, but I said please make it a little spicier, so they pulled out an unlabeled jar with jalapeno slices infusing in it - heck yes. That and a couple dashes of scrappy firewater bitter, all poured over a mango-infused ice ball with an actual slice of fresh mango frozen in the middle. This is a fantastic place, did I say that yet? So anyway, I cut myself off at that point, but on the way out, I asked what all the little cubbies by the bar were, and they said they all contained little packets of different herbs and stuff, including saffron(?). So later that night, I said to my wife, I *have* to go back and see what they can make with that saffron, so I did. Anyway, it was actually safflower, not saffron, but it was still a fun drink. Received a drink with lemon, vermouth flash-infused with safflower (turned a gorgeous bright yellow) and gin of my choice from their selection (I said Hendrick's - most of their gin was traditional dry gin, and I prefer bolder gins), plus lavender bitters, still just 140 pesos. It was pretty delicious - almost tasted a bit like really good bubblegum(?). There were two guys bartending when I was there earlier, but just one was there when I was back at 10:30 (thankfully for me, the one who spoke a bit of English). I didn't think to get the first guy's name, but they were both awesome bartenders. I did ask when I came back - the second guy's name was David. They were both awesome, though. Only weird thing is, for some reason, even though they said they were open until 1 AM, at 11 they closed the POS system and said it was going to be cash only? Not sure why. Anyway, this place needs some serious attention from craft cocktail lovers, because it is awesome. (Or maybe it doesn't, so if I'm ever back in CDMX, it'll still be crazy cheap for the quality!)

It's a beautiful bar. Very unique, small and cozy but their cocktails leave a lot to be desired. If…read morethey are marketing themselves as a specialty cocktail bar they should at least have fresh juice and not store bought carton juices. A little turned off unfortunately.

I almost don't want to give away the location because finding it, even with the address known, is…read morepart of the fun. Just confidently walk into the storefront food shop with a large table and chairs and ten then you have a reservation! They were very friendly and waved us in off the sidewalk as we were a bit bewildered (and didn't have reservations; just hoping and praying). Once inside the dark, very busy space with a couple rooms, long bar and some booth seating, the friendly, English speaking, knowledgeable staff will explain the large cocktail menu (many which can be made without alcohol if that's your thing). There is a creative beverage for every palate and there is a section dedicated to collaborations with mixologists from all over the world. Will definitely return to sample several more of these unique drinks. And also the food, which were didn't try as we came after dinner.

Hanky Panky is a popular speakeasy located in Mexico City, known for consistently being on the list…read moreof North America's 50 Best Bars. It's considered the "OG speakeasy" of the city and focus on creative cocktails from around the world. We didn't realize that the storefront was a simple looking restaurant so we kept walking back and forth. The entrance to the bar was in the back leading us to a completely different space. We made reservations and it's pretty much required to have one to be seated. Depending on your table size you might also have to share a table with others but they also have bar counter space. Their main menu of 12 cocktails were all made by the bartenders there. Part of the menu also contained cocktails from other bars around the world. The end of the menu was rounded out with classic cocktails with a Hanky Panky twist. Our party of five ordered most of the 12 main cocktails and some of the others. My favorites were the il fresco (peachy and coffee-y), grand bazaar (most spirit forward drink they have), and hanky panky (fat-washed with cacao nibs and menthol from fernet branca). All of the drinks were great though. The hot dog was also delicious! When we left we walked out of a Modelo "fridge" which was unique. The space and the vibes really were the definition of "speakeasy" because it was such a cool space. The environment was so fun and we had such a good time here.

We tried 4 different mezcal cocktails at this cute little bar, which is located on the second floor…read moreabove the famous restaurant Azul. We had a very nice bartender who was new at making cocktails she said, but nevertheless made some very tasty cocktails. Our favorite was the Morena, and we also liked the mezcalina a lot. They have two little tables on the verandas looking out at the street below. Most of the cocktails were well priced at 79 pesos, so if you're in the mood for a beer or a mezcal, you should give it a try

Hidden gem near the chaotic historic center. Hidden away within a hotel building, it was quite a…read morechallenge to find this place from the entrance, there is no sign for it until you go upstairs towards the shops. Get a table at the balcony to look out on the street, there are outlets to charge your phone. Great place to take a break from the historic center action. The 2x we went there a handful of people.

Epic, legendary, welcoming and real musical talent! It's underground which transports you into a…read moredifferent area. The space is small but the way your seated only makes it that much more intimate. The gentleman at the door who came out to help us translate was originally from Downtown LA. So that was pretty cool being that I too am from LA. The theme of the night as far as music was all soul and the singer did a killer James Brown impersonation. I feel like we found a hidden gem in the centro of Mexico City! Please make it part of your visit. You will be far from disappointed, promise!

The owners of this place are fantastic, and the vibe is perfect. Recommended for a chill hang out.read more

Such a cool cocktail bar! The inside was warm and inviting but we got a table outside which was…read morealso nice with a lot of people watching. The servers were super friendly and brought out our drinks fast. I went with the avocado based cocktail and it was SO GOOD. I've never had anything like it and I'm glad it caught my eye on the menu 10/10 recommend.

This was a smaller mezcal bar that had been recommended to us time and time again so we decided to…read morestop in. We quickly found a table in the main bar area at a small high top so we lucked out with that! The vibe was sexy and very cool for a stop in the evening. I'm not a huge mezcal person and don't like spicy flavors so struggled to find something I loved but my boyfriend tried a mezcal flight and a spicy cocktail and he loved it all! The staff was also very friendly and happy to try to recommend a cocktail that would fit my preferences. For the vibe alone, this is worth a visit!

This is such a cool authentic mezcal bar with a fantastic atmosphere. It immediately gave me…read morespeakeasy vibes, with its intimate setting, moody lighting, and authentic Mexican feel. Definitely not a touristy place, this is where locals go. There are so many mezcal options to choose from, whether you want to try it straight or in one of their cocktails. And be warned--the drinks are strong, as mezcal cocktails should be! They also bring out some complimentary snacks to enjoy with your drinks, which is a lovely touch. Service was excellent--everyone was friendly, welcoming, and happy to help with the mezcal selection. This place fills up FAST. We went on a Monday around 10 PM and managed to grab a couple of high stools at one of the side tables, but not long after, the place was packed and it was difficult to even walk through. Given how popular it is even on a Monday night, I can definitely see why. We walked here, which I'd recommend if you're staying nearby, or consider taking an Uber rather than trying to deal with parking in the area. A fantastic little bar for mezcal lovers and anyone looking for a unique, intimate night out. The atmosphere alone makes it worth visiting!

Overall, liked my experience here. Came here with a friend on a weekend night and it was packed,…read morebut we didn't have to wait more than 5-10 minutes to get "seated". I say seated with parenthesis because most people end up standing here but we got lucky that a couple was leaving as we were right next to them after being asked our drink orders. It's kind of a weird system that they have and I think the staff didn't realize we didn't have our drink orders taken yet and asked the people behind us for theirs which was slightly annoying. It was a bit chaotic so I can see why it happened, but I do think they need a slightly better system. Anyways, the drinks were excellent and I love that they gave us a little small snack that included crickets (which I hadn't tried before yet). The vibes in here are really nice too. I love the dim lighting and the almost rock/clay atmosphere. The bathroom area is smaller than I was expecting but it was ok. I'd definitely return!

Why 5 stars if service sucks? Because the food is worth it. Now the service isn't complete garbage…read morebut it is slow. I feel this is definitely a hole in the wall, local place. Their doubles are served more like quadruples yay them! My fiancé appreciated his whiskey pour. BEST CEASER SALAD I HAVE EVER TASTED. Our appetizer was great (the name was funny so not sure) it was Argentinean cheese on the grill with baguette and tomato. I've never tasted any cheese like this, my fiancé thought it was chicken. Did I say they have the BEST CEASER SALAD EVER (add the chicken it's delicious). Oh and I'm normally not a fan of ceaser. However full disclosure, the dressing is made like it was created, oil, egg, dijon and anchovies (no you can't taste the anchovies)! The burger was just the icing on the cake - chef's kiss x 100!

Incredible! I loved this place so much. Our servers Miguel and Oscar were super welcoming and cool…read more If you want to listen to good music while eating and drinking with friends this is the place. You might get lucky and meet the owner Antonio who is also very chill and a good time. Plan to spend at least a few hours here. Come with an open mind and good attitude and you will have a great time. All the tapas I had were also delicious but the vibes where immaculate!

Loved my experience dining here during the World Cup!…read more Azul was recommended by one of my colleagues from Mexico City and had great reviews, I decided to stop by since I stayed nearby. I came on a weekday and was seated very quickly. My lovely waiter explained the menu and highlighted some popular items. I ordered the guacamole, tortilla soup, duck dumpling mole, and tres leches for dessert. Everything was phenomenal, and the guac was out of this world! I enjoyed the presentation and the decor in the restaurant, I'd love to come back!

From the moment we walked up the Hostess was not polite, lacked communication and was dismissive. I…read morewill add we speak fluent Spanish. She stated they open at 1:00 and it would be about a 15 min wait. She then asked us to sit and wait to be seated, stating others were waiting. Then later a couple other people come in and I see she takes their name and number of patrons. So I went back up and ask if she was taking names? She said yes and just looked at me. I had to ask to have our name put on the list. Then informed additional patrons to do the same as the two ladies arrived after us and were seated before us. Once seated, it took 20 minutes for a waiter to come offer drinks, still waiting on menu's. We were not happy, but hungry so we ordered off the very limited menu. It took an additional 20 minutes for a Salad and Tamal to be served and let's just say it was a disappointment from start to finish. There are many options that taste great and cost less, being served with polite, kind, and professional service. To say we were disappointed is an understatement.

Decided to check out one of the oldest bars and it did not disappoint. Not only was the service…read moregreat but the inside was so cool. The lights inside were warm but it was still bright enough to see all of the interesting decor and structure of the bar. I started with a dirty martini and a cosmopolitan. Both fairly priced imo ($8USD). I didn't order any food but was given some chips and bean dip to snack on while sitting at the bar. I also got lucky and was able to see a mirachi band perform a few songs. When I come back to CDMX I will definitely be making a stop at Bar La Opera.

Omg the ceiling! Omg the bar! Omg! So much to see! Loved this spot. Stopped in while waiting…read more(forever) for an Uber and had their Taquitos which were really good! Also loved their beans! They have a full bar and a full food menu. I bet it's super romantic in the evening. I have no complaints. We stopped in and it was very busy but the waitstaff got us in and out flawlessly.