9 Speakeasy Bars in Mexico City to Uncover Some of the City’s Best Kept Secrets
Looking for the best speakeasy bars in Mexico City? I’ve got you!
Speakeasy bars sprawled all over Mexico City during 2020, and people loved them so much that the city became a mecca for them!
In this article, I’ll take you on a tour of some of the best speakeasy bars in Mexico City that are worth checking out so you can uncover some of the city’s best-kept secrets.
Best Speakeasy Bars in Mexico City
1) Hanky Panky Cocktail Bar
This bar is all about the excitement of discovery. It’s located in the Juarez neighborhood and the entrance is so discreet that you might even miss it if you’re not paying close attention.
Inside, the ambiance is beautifully cozy with a touch of mystery. Dim lighting sets the mood, and the decor gives off a kind of retro-chic vibe that instantly transports you to another era.
The menu offers a wide range of options, with each drink packed with unique flavors. I tried a few of their signature cocktails and found the experience absolutely delightful.
Location: Turín 52, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City
2) Xaman Bar
Xaman is one of my favorites when it comes to speakeasy bars in Mexico City because it’s quirky and tons of fun! I recently met the owner and could 100% understand why it’s so cool!
He owns a creative agency and they create some of the coolest events in Mexico, so it only made sense that he was able to create Xaman.
This bar actually started out as a true speakeasy when Mexico City was locked down during 2020.
The bar is well-known for its superb mixology, offering drinks that blend traditional Mexican flavors with modern twists. Each cocktail is a work of art with ingredients you wouldn’t expect but that combine beautifully.
It’s the kind of place where you can try a new blend every time and still be surprised.
Location: Copenhague 6, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City
3) The Midnight Monkey
Stepping into The Midnight Monkey feels like entering a secret world hidden in plain sight. in the Roma neighborhood.
It’s a cozy spot that sits quietly among the bustling streets and the entrance might be easy to miss if you don’t know where to look.
Once inside, the eclectic decor sets the scene for a memorable night. You’ll love their creative cocktail menu, which offers a playful twist on classic drinks.
It’s not just about the drinks, though; the atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for a low-key night out or a relaxed catch-up with friends. It doesn’t get too crowded, which is always a plus in my book.
Location: Plaza Río de Janeiro 54, Roma Nte., Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City
4) Rumores Butcher Shop
Nestled behind an unassuming facade that mimics a traditional butcher shop, this is one of my favorite speakeasy bars in mexico City. It’s also much lesser-known than some of the ones mentioned above, so it’s perfect if you’re looking for a “hidden gem” in the speakeasy scene.
Once you step through the covert entrance, you’re transported into a sophisticated and intimate setting that seamlessly blends vintage charm with modern elegance.
The cocktail menu at Rumores Butcher Shop is nothing short of spectacular. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic concoction or an adventurous new flavor, you’ll find it here!
Plus, in addition to its impressive drink offerings, Rumores Butcher Shop also features a selection of gourmet small plates that complement the beverage menu.
Location: Av. de los Insurgentes Sur 1839, Guadalupe Inn, Álvaro Obregón, Mexico City
5) Funky Lee
This is another of my favorite speakeasies in Mexico City, but there’s more to Funky Lee than just its speakeasy allure; it’s also a top-notch Japanese restaurant with must-try dishes. Among the favorites are the Roca Shrimp and the Kanji Roll with clarified butter.
To enter Funky Lee, you need to pass through a hidden doorway concealed behind a bookshelf in the restaurant Diego y Yo.
Once inside, you’ll be greeted by an excellent atmosphere, great music, and delightful drinks, featuring both playful cocktails and classic beverages.
Location: Av. Pdte. Masaryk 123, Polanco V Secc, Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City (Inside Diego y Yo restaurant)
6) Handshake Speakeasy
Tucked away in the Juárez neighborhood of Mexico City, this place is all about old-school charm mixed with a modern twist. It was also ranked the best bar in North America on the 50 World’s Best List, so there’s that!
It’s honestly not my favorite in comparison to a few other speakeasy bars in Mexico City (that I listed below, of course), but many people love it and the mixology here is great.
The menu offers a diverse selection, ensuring that whether you’re into something classic or more adventurous.
One thing to keep in mind is that Handshake only allows you to visit for 90 minutes due to the high number of reservations, so make sure you arrive in time and have another plan (perhaps another speakeasy?) if you want to continue the evening.
Location: C. Amberes 65, Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City
7) Maleficio by Doncella
Love all things Disney and villains? This is the speakeasy in Mexico City for ya!
Hidden behind a magical mirror within Café Doncella—a themed café famed for its Disney princess decor and menu—Maleficio plunges you into the darker side of the fairytales.
Upon crossing the mirror, you’ll step into a fantastical world inhabited by villains like Maleficent, Ursula, and Cruella de Vil.
Inside, you’ll be served four themed cocktails in rounds, each accompanied by a musical set and narration that sets the mood perfectly.
These aren’t just ordinary drinks; they are thematic concoctions inspired by the “bad” characters from the movies, and they couldn’t be more aesthetically pleasing.
Location: Ezequiel Montes 73, col. Tabacalera, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City
8) Testarossa
Nestled in the heart of Polanco, Testarossa is a speakeasy that takes the clandestine concept seriously.
To gain entry, you must make a reservation through their Instagram account and wait for them to send you a secret code, which you’ll need to provide at the entrance (the door is hidden away inside a restaurant).
Once inside, you’ll immediately sense the mysterious atmosphere of this unique experience, enhanced by red neon lights and captivating music.
Both the classic and signature cocktails are exquisite, and the snacks are great too! You can opt to have dinner first at the restaurant (Colmillo) to pair the experience!
Location: Aristóteles 124, Polanco, Miguel Hidalgo, Mexico City
9) Salón Bach
This speakeasy is housed in the basement of the Bach building, which has been around since the late 19th century. It’s got an eye-catching Art Decó style that blends history with a modern vibe.
It’s a fantastic spot to unwind with a beer or cocktail while enjoying live music. Whether it’s rock, electronic, or some smooth jazz, you’ll love the music here.
What makes Salón Bach special is its dedication to preserving the concept of a traditional cantina.
The space had been closed for over 50 years and is now fully restored. Its unique setting and lively atmosphere make it the perfect place to relax and have a few drinks.
Location: Calle de Bolívar 20, Centro, Cuauhtémoc, Mexico City