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Recommended Reviews - Tlecan
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The wait: Got in line at 8:52 PM on a Saturday, got a standing spot at 9:05 PM. Not many seats so be ready to stand! The drinks: + ocelóyotl (carajillo) - top highlight + margarita kauil - highlight #2 + martini papantla - highlight #3 + Tascalate sour - good + pulque colada - good + negroni cacao - skip The verdict: Drinks are a 4, vibes and service bring it to a 5. Jonathan was the best!
this bar specializes in mezcal! I got the TASCALATE SOUR, very interesting and unique. I've never had a mezcal cocktail like this before. It's creamy and tangy. the NEGRONI CACAO is quite strong, but the chocolate really changes everything. So cool the PULQUE COLADA is light and easy to drink this bar is very very small and a bit claustrophobic. we luckily didn't wait long, but majority is standing room. So expect to stand. Workers are nice and the bartenders did some cool tricks! Free snackies that come with Chapulines aka Mexican grasshoppers!!
This was one of the spots I had to try on my most recent CDMX trip and was willing to actually wait in line for it. We came on a Saturday night around 10 and there was a bit of a line and it took maybe 30-40 minutes before we were inside and able to order. This is definitely a cool, modern meets ancient cave like bar and I felt much too old to be here but also most folks looked around my age. The staff were all really nice and we had no difficulties with our mostly English and super broken Spanish. They have QR codes for English menus so it made it easy to order. I ended up trying 2 of their cocktails the negroni cacao and the tascalate sour. I really enjoyed the negronia and it came with a little piece of chocolate (the real reason I got this). It had a nice smokiness from the mezcal and overall felt like a balanced drink. The tascalate sour was very refreshing and I liked that it looked like a sunny side up egg. I didn't do any mezcal tastings, though this is a mezcal bar but maybe that'll be a next time deal. This was definitely an experience and maybe its gotten too big and popular for the space but I'm glad I was able to check it out and try some of their cocktails. I'd definitely return but maybe for a pre-dinner drink so I can enjoy my drink with a little more breathing room.
Great bar for fans of mezcal! We visited on a Thursday evening and got in right away. The interior was small, with dim red lighting and cool vibes. I decided to order the Pulque Colada, but can't say I was a big fan. Mezcal is not my liquor of choice and this cocktail just wasn't up my alley. However, my friend ended up getting a more creamy drink later in the night, which I thought was much tastier. I loved watching the skilled bartenders actually making the drinks, and we even managed to snag a spot at the small bar. Overall, highly recommend for mezcal-lovers.
Stumbled into this mezcal bar in CDMX and honestly... obsessed. The drinks are phenomenal--super rich, smoky mezcal flavors that taste like someone actually cares about what they're pouring. The vibe is dark, cozy, and effortlessly cool, with that local, tucked-away energy that makes you feel like you found a secret. Fair warning: it gets busy. Like, really busy. If you don't snag a seat early, you might be posted up standing with your drink--but honestly, even that feels part of the charm. If you love mezcal or just want a spot with killer drinks and moody ambiance, this place hits the mark. Total must-visit.
So happy I went to this place! The servers were so friendly and really helped me order. I tried two types of mezcal and, even though I forget the names, the flavors were totally different as described. One was super earthy and the other had a smoky finish. Really fun to compare them. The tascalate sour was honestly one of the best cocktails I have ever had, no joke. It was creamy, rich and, fruity. I would go back for that drink alone! The space is on the smaller side with standing room and a few spots at the bar. 10/10 recommend
Step into Tlecān, and you'll immediately feel like you've crossed a threshold not just into a bar, but into a temple of craft, culture, and controlled chaos. The space is intimate, maybe fifty people packed into an earthen chamber carved from volcanic stone, glowing with soft amber light. It's small, it's crowded and it's absolutely alive. The air hums with conversation, mezcal, and anticipation. The bartenders here aren't just mixing drinks they're performing alchemy. Each cocktail feels ritualistic, precise, and soulful. The gold bar cocktail (literally served with a shimmering gold chocolate block) is a masterclass in balance and symbolism minimal yet monumental. Every pour, garnish, and gesture feels intentional, reverent even. Tlecān oozes modern Aztec minimalism stripped down, elemental, spiritual. It's not trying to impress; it just is. The staff's quiet confidence and deep respect for the craft elevate the whole experience into something transcendent. It's no wonder this bar ranks among the Top 50 in North America it's not just a drink, it's a journey through Mexico's ancestral spirit in liquid form.
Great place! Drinks and snacks were great! Not a mezcal fan, they have a nice pineapple drink (Pulque Colada) that is mild on the mezcal. The Tascalate Sour was also really good! All the snacks were tasty...the crickets were nice and crunchy. The staff were great. Had to stand half of the time since it was so busy but eventually got a seat at the bar. The place is pretty small and there was a line out the door when we left. Go a little early if you don't want to wait in line.
Came here as it is in the world's top best bars, so how could I not? We came a little after it opened and it was already jam packed. This isnt a place you want to come if you need to be seated as they are very limited and probably all taken. Your orders are taken while you are standing, which I thought was interesting. Though the drinks somehow do make it into your hands! The service was good and we have no complaints there. If you do manage to get a seat you are offered a glass of water and a little snack to much on which is nice. The vibe was cool as it was a bit dark with minimal lighting to set the mood. I think its a good place to meet people as everyone is standing, you kinda are close to everyone. The drinks were good and presented beautifully. Though we didn't stay long after we finished our drinks as we were tired from walking all day and didn't want to keep sharing one seat. I am still glad we went to see and experience Tlecan!
One of the top 50 world's best bars and it was close to my hotel, so I had to check it out. I got there around 7:30pm (they open at 6). It was busy when I arrived but not too bad. There's a few chairs to sit but most people stand. I stood by the bar and got my drinks. To start, I got the pulque colada. My drink came out rather quick. For taste, I give it a 7/10. The drink was refreshing but a tad too sweet for my liking. I could also tell it was premixed as all the alcohol was sitting at the bottom. For my next drink I got the margarita Kauil. This drink was awesome! The mezcal was smoky and flavorful. The tartness from the drink mixes balanced well. The much preferred this drink over the pulque colada. To finish, I got a shot of mezcal, can't remember which one but it was delicious. The service was great and the staff was friendly. I was able to get a complimentary coat check since it was pouring rain outside. They also offer some free snacks while you drink. This included nuts, chips, and chapulines.
I found out Tlecan is the Nahuatl word for "place of fire" which makes a lot of sense considering their drinks were fire! They are a mezcaleria so they specialize in mezcal cocktails, but despite this, they still have some non-alcoholic options. My friend who is not a fan of mezcal enjoyed Tlecan's take on pulque and tepache which were light and refreshing. I tried the oceloyotl (carajillo) which was mezcal infused with spices, cold brew, chocolate, and elote liquor which was so flavorful. The entrance is low key, but there's usually a line going out the door. And although it's a small bar, there was a steady flow of people coming in and out. The staff was great and the bartenders were quick with orders. And the complimentary bar snacks were tasty! Definitely recommend a stop to Tlecan for drinks if you're in the area!
This dive bar is pretty cool and the music is great! The mezcal was very good and I got to try something from Jalisco called raicilla. It was very similar to tequila and mezcal and great and smooth! I also had the pulque colada was very good. The bartenders were super nice and great at making the drinks and suggestions. The service is very smooth and they're very attentive and polite.
I can see why this made the world's best bar list! I'm not usually a mezcal fan, but the drinks here are super balanced and takes the smokiness/ bitterness away from the spirits. We got 7 drinks here between two people in a span of an hour and were quite buzzed after. Got here at 555pm right before they opened and we were second in line. Got seated right away at the bar and had a great time watching the bartenders in action. Their snacks include some deep fried critters so definitely let the servers know if you have dietary restrictions. My favorite drink is the pulque colada. It's super refreshing and not too sweet. We liked it so much we ordered it twice so we could end our night with that drink. The spicy margarita is my second favorite, followed by paloma Blanca. Everything else on the menu is spirit forward. The Negroni is worth trying as well even tho it's pretty strong. It comes with a chocolate bar which pairs extremely well with the drink and completely changes the flavor. I'm pleasantly surprised and highly recommend coming early to snag a spot!
This ranks among the top ten bars in North America and as a group of 6, we probably waited for 25 minutes to get in. There are no seats, this is a standing bar except a few uncomfortable bar stools. Drinks were good, but I expected more. I got the colada and it was good, not too sweet. Almost clarified colada. Everything was very spirit forward which few of our friends really liked. This felt like a one time visit for me in CDMX read more
Solid cocktails with interesting ingredients, highlighting traditional ingredients like pulque, tascalate, mezcal. Everyone enjoyed their orders, which we didn't experience often in CDMX, which we've found tends to lean sweeter. Non-smoky options available! for those afraid they won't enjoy a mezcal-centric bar. Tascalate sour $220 - my personal fave, bright yet earthy with a dusting of fermented cacao so the flavor changes as you sip Paloma blanca $220 - clear refreshing Paloma, maybe the least interesting of what we tried.. the thick salt rim was kinda awful, and I usually enjoy a salt rim Pulque colada $240 - great riff on the piña colada. My friend got the handshake speakeasy rendition and did NOT enjoy theirs, but loved this one. Oceloyotl (Carajillo) $250 - second fave of the night! Martini papantla $250 - booziest of the bunch as a martini is, but delicious Initially tried to come Sunday night, and the wait for was 20 mins or so. Small space, no reservations. Then we came a little after opening on Monday and was able to head on in, though wasn't able to get seats despite staying for a couple drinks. They seem to have snacks behind the bar I was intrigued by. The bartenders also put on a show with their long pours. Great drinks with intention and history, great service, and great music! read more
The wait: Got in line at 8:52 PM on a Saturday, got a standing spot at 9:05 PM. Not many seats so be ready to stand! The drinks: + ocelóyotl (carajillo) - top highlight + margarita kauil - highlight #2 + martini papantla - highlight #3 + Tascalate sour - good + pulque colada - good + negroni cacao - skip The verdict: Drinks are a 4, vibes and service bring it to a 5. Jonathan was the best! read more
3 months ago
this bar specializes in mezcal! I got the TASCALATE SOUR, very interesting and unique. I've never had a mezcal cocktail like this before. It's creamy and tangy. the NEGRONI CACAO is quite strong, but the chocolate really changes everything. So cool the PULQUE COLADA is light and easy to drink this bar is very very small and a bit claustrophobic. we luckily didn't wait long, but majority is standing room. So expect to stand. Workers are nice and the bartenders did some cool tricks! Free snackies that come with Chapulines aka Mexican grasshoppers!! read more
This was one of the spots I had to try on my most recent CDMX trip and was willing to actually wait in line for it. We came on a Saturday night around 10 and there was a bit of a line and it took maybe 30-40 minutes before we were inside and able to order. This is definitely a cool, modern meets ancient cave like bar and I felt much too old to be here but also most folks looked around my age. The staff were all really nice and we had no difficulties with our mostly English and super broken Spanish. They have QR codes for English menus so it made it easy to order. I ended up trying 2 of their cocktails the negroni cacao and the tascalate sour. I really enjoyed the negronia and it came with a little piece of chocolate (the real reason I got this). It had a nice smokiness from the mezcal and overall felt like a balanced drink. The tascalate sour was very refreshing and I liked that it looked like a sunny side up egg. I didn't do any mezcal tastings, though this is a mezcal bar but maybe that'll be a next time deal. This was definitely an experience and maybe its gotten too big and popular for the space but I'm glad I was able to check it out and try some of their cocktails. I'd definitely return but maybe for a pre-dinner drink so I can enjoy my drink with a little more breathing room. read more
Great bar for fans of mezcal! We visited on a Thursday evening and got in right away. The interior was small, with dim red lighting and cool vibes. I decided to order the Pulque Colada, but can't say I was a big fan. Mezcal is not my liquor of choice and this cocktail just wasn't up my alley. However, my friend ended up getting a more creamy drink later in the night, which I thought was much tastier. I loved watching the skilled bartenders actually making the drinks, and we even managed to snag a spot at the small bar. Overall, highly recommend for mezcal-lovers. read more
Stumbled into this mezcal bar in CDMX and honestly... obsessed. The drinks are phenomenal--super rich, smoky mezcal flavors that taste like someone actually cares about what they're pouring. The vibe is dark, cozy, and effortlessly cool, with that local, tucked-away energy that makes you feel like you found a secret. Fair warning: it gets busy. Like, really busy. If you don't snag a seat early, you might be posted up standing with your drink--but honestly, even that feels part of the charm. If you love mezcal or just want a spot with killer drinks and moody ambiance, this place hits the mark. Total must-visit. read more
6 months ago
So happy I went to this place! The servers were so friendly and really helped me order. I tried two types of mezcal and, even though I forget the names, the flavors were totally different as described. One was super earthy and the other had a smoky finish. Really fun to compare them. The tascalate sour was honestly one of the best cocktails I have ever had, no joke. It was creamy, rich and, fruity. I would go back for that drink alone! The space is on the smaller side with standing room and a few spots at the bar. 10/10 recommend read more
Step into Tlecān, and you'll immediately feel like you've crossed a threshold not just into a bar, but into a temple of craft, culture, and controlled chaos. The space is intimate, maybe fifty people packed into an earthen chamber carved from volcanic stone, glowing with soft amber light. It's small, it's crowded and it's absolutely alive. The air hums with conversation, mezcal, and anticipation. The bartenders here aren't just mixing drinks they're performing alchemy. Each cocktail feels ritualistic, precise, and soulful. The gold bar cocktail (literally served with a shimmering gold chocolate block) is a masterclass in balance and symbolism minimal yet monumental. Every pour, garnish, and gesture feels intentional, reverent even. Tlecān oozes modern Aztec minimalism stripped down, elemental, spiritual. It's not trying to impress; it just is. The staff's quiet confidence and deep respect for the craft elevate the whole experience into something transcendent. It's no wonder this bar ranks among the Top 50 in North America it's not just a drink, it's a journey through Mexico's ancestral spirit in liquid form. read more
Great place! Drinks and snacks were great! Not a mezcal fan, they have a nice pineapple drink (Pulque Colada) that is mild on the mezcal. The Tascalate Sour was also really good! All the snacks were tasty...the crickets were nice and crunchy. The staff were great. Had to stand half of the time since it was so busy but eventually got a seat at the bar. The place is pretty small and there was a line out the door when we left. Go a little early if you don't want to wait in line. read more
Came here as it is in the world's top best bars, so how could I not? We came a little after it opened and it was already jam packed. This isnt a place you want to come if you need to be seated as they are very limited and probably all taken. Your orders are taken while you are standing, which I thought was interesting. Though the drinks somehow do make it into your hands! The service was good and we have no complaints there. If you do manage to get a seat you are offered a glass of water and a little snack to much on which is nice. The vibe was cool as it was a bit dark with minimal lighting to set the mood. I think its a good place to meet people as everyone is standing, you kinda are close to everyone. The drinks were good and presented beautifully. Though we didn't stay long after we finished our drinks as we were tired from walking all day and didn't want to keep sharing one seat. I am still glad we went to see and experience Tlecan! read more
One of the top 50 world's best bars and it was close to my hotel, so I had to check it out. I got there around 7:30pm (they open at 6). It was busy when I arrived but not too bad. There's a few chairs to sit but most people stand. I stood by the bar and got my drinks. To start, I got the pulque colada. My drink came out rather quick. For taste, I give it a 7/10. The drink was refreshing but a tad too sweet for my liking. I could also tell it was premixed as all the alcohol was sitting at the bottom. For my next drink I got the margarita Kauil. This drink was awesome! The mezcal was smoky and flavorful. The tartness from the drink mixes balanced well. The much preferred this drink over the pulque colada. To finish, I got a shot of mezcal, can't remember which one but it was delicious. The service was great and the staff was friendly. I was able to get a complimentary coat check since it was pouring rain outside. They also offer some free snacks while you drink. This included nuts, chips, and chapulines. read more
1 year ago
I found out Tlecan is the Nahuatl word for "place of fire" which makes a lot of sense considering their drinks were fire! They are a mezcaleria so they specialize in mezcal cocktails, but despite this, they still have some non-alcoholic options. My friend who is not a fan of mezcal enjoyed Tlecan's take on pulque and tepache which were light and refreshing. I tried the oceloyotl (carajillo) which was mezcal infused with spices, cold brew, chocolate, and elote liquor which was so flavorful. The entrance is low key, but there's usually a line going out the door. And although it's a small bar, there was a steady flow of people coming in and out. The staff was great and the bartenders were quick with orders. And the complimentary bar snacks were tasty! Definitely recommend a stop to Tlecan for drinks if you're in the area! read more
This dive bar is pretty cool and the music is great! The mezcal was very good and I got to try something from Jalisco called raicilla. It was very similar to tequila and mezcal and great and smooth! I also had the pulque colada was very good. The bartenders were super nice and great at making the drinks and suggestions. The service is very smooth and they're very attentive and polite. read more
1 year ago
I can see why this made the world's best bar list! I'm not usually a mezcal fan, but the drinks here are super balanced and takes the smokiness/ bitterness away from the spirits. We got 7 drinks here between two people in a span of an hour and were quite buzzed after. Got here at 555pm right before they opened and we were second in line. Got seated right away at the bar and had a great time watching the bartenders in action. Their snacks include some deep fried critters so definitely let the servers know if you have dietary restrictions. My favorite drink is the pulque colada. It's super refreshing and not too sweet. We liked it so much we ordered it twice so we could end our night with that drink. The spicy margarita is my second favorite, followed by paloma Blanca. Everything else on the menu is spirit forward. The Negroni is worth trying as well even tho it's pretty strong. It comes with a chocolate bar which pairs extremely well with the drink and completely changes the flavor. I'm pleasantly surprised and highly recommend coming early to snag a spot! read more
Number 20 in the World according to World's Best Bars! Definitely love the vibe and atmosphere of this place. The red lighting showcasing the bartenders is a vibe. The bartenders here are fantastic and so talented. We got here early enough to get bar seats. They don't take reservations so plan accordingly! The mezcal is highlighted at this bar and I enjoyed all of my drinks. The Negroni Cacao is a great spirit forward drink that makes a lovely night cap. Overall, this is my kind of bar and would love to go back!! read more
3 months ago
I think what makes this place stand out the most comptroller other hip and trendy places was the staff! They were all friendly with smiles on their faces and happy to help keep the flow of things running smoothly. We went on a Monday so the wait was not bad. The drinks were well made and the bartenders put on a bit of a show while making them. It is definitely a tourist hot spot with many of the patrons around us speaking English. We had a great time and would not hesitate to return. read more
3 months ago
Another perfect example of social media overhyping. In my opinion, this was an okay place. We came later in the night, had to wait close to 30 min to get a drink. It is an extremely small place. Although not a mezcal fan, we wanted to see if it truly was all it was made out to be. The drink I ordered (a type of pisco sour variation) was very good. It was fun watching the skilled bartenders make, shake and pour drinks. We finally got a seat at the bar, but no one really acknowledged us or offered some of the bar chips (?) we noticed other had. With many options in the area, I can't say I would choose to return. read more
6 months ago
10 months ago
This place used to be THE PLACE. It is now on the top 50 bars list, so expect a long wait, and for it to be packed. Drinks used to be really really strong, last time we were here had three drinks and we barely felt anything. Cocktails are still spectacular and delicious. Last time I was here they were doing a takeover of Bar Madonna in Williamsburg, Brooklyn. It was completely full of hipsters. Needless to say it has been gentrified and become so popular you cannot even get a seat at the bar, standing room only. read more
I had a great time at Tlecan. My friends and I were walking by the area and we just happened to be nearby, so we decided to check it out. For a Thursday night, we did not have much of a wait, maybe about 15-20 minutes before we were able to place our order. I appreciated that we were given a sample of mezcal while we were waiting. I liked the vibe of the bar, with good music and ambient lighting. It was super cool to watch the bartenders do their work. We got the paloma blanca, pulque colada, and the Tascalate sour. All of them were pretty good, but I probably would've enjoyed them more if I were a bigger fan of mezcal. I would recommend the pulque colada out of the drinks we tried. Overall, I would recommend checking out Tlecan! read more
1 year ago
This location is so comfortable and tucked in the busy streets of Mexico but the drinks that were created were fantastic and delicious. Wonderful presentation and amazing service, the options are only what's on the menu so you have limited selection but unique choices! read more
3 months ago
3 months ago
This is a must! It's small and intimate and BUSY! When I tell you I brushed up on everyone on the walk to the bathroom I'm not joking! It was late Saturday evening and we were waiting to get in. While we waited someone took our order. Eventually people left and we were able to move to the bar. The bartenders were awesome and the drinks were by far my favorite! I saw pots in the back and asked a worker what they had and he brought me all the snacks, one of which included the traditional chapulines grasshoppers and they were seasoned well. I don't know if this place takes reservations but it's worth the wait! read more
Amazing bar!! Vibes are on-point. Appreciate that they take walk-in (standing room only), so a more casual atmosphere. Space can be a little limited, can be crowded during peak hours. But worth the check-out. Some of the best mezcal drinks I've ever had! read more
8 months ago
This was the one bar I was most excited to visit, but I left feeling disappointed and wanting more. The atmosphere felt more like a crowded college bar from back home than a top cocktail spot. It was packed, with limited seating that left many people standing and holding their drinks with nowhere to set them down. I didn't enjoy my cocktail, though the service was quick and the music was definitely the highlight of the night. read more
1 year ago
5 months ago
If you like mezcal this is the perfect bar for you! Great Aztec vibes inside. It can get crowned but luckily we had a spot at the bar. We tried 4 of the drinks on the menu and they were all very unique and delicious! The bar tenders put on a show as they are making the drinks! read more
We were able to walk in early around 8 pm on a Saturday night and snag a spot for two, which was a nice surprise. The vibe here is definitely a highlight--cool and fun with a smoky, dark, and intimate vibe. The space is small but filled with unique, interactive art pieces that add to the experience. We started with some complimentary spicy peanuts seasoned with red mole, which paired perfectly with our drinks. For cocktails, we tried: 1. Tascalate Sour - This drink had a delightful egg foam on top, with a delicious cinnamon flavor and just the right amount of sweetness from cacao. 2. Margarita Kauil - A spicy take on a classic margarita with very good salt on the rim and refreshing citrus notes. The service was good and attentive, though as the night went on and the place got more crowded, it became a bit harder to track down our server. Overall, while the drinks were good, it's the vibe that makes this place. The unique atmosphere makes it a spot worth visiting on trip to Mexico. read more
VERY COOL place!! Couldn't be more my vibe. Was a little too packed to enjoy the ambiance but nevertheless we were excited to try. Enjoyed the music and ambiance and watching the bartenders make drinks. Only reason for rating is that we ordered 5 different cocktails and none were actually spectacular. We love all mezcal with a passion (frequent Oaxaca and purchasing mezcal bottles), but a few of our drinks visually looked similar (weird) and tasted like 90% mezcal 10% juice/soda water. The alcohol was super strong and very unbalanced, kind of cringed trying to finish them. One had a little Chile and was the most acceptable, but overall we were hoping for more. No lovely Oaxacan style cocktail crafting here. Like have been that we picked just the wrong drinks, but with a limited menu just not sure what else we could have done. Would return once they adjust their cocktails to be more balanced. Asked server for the bill but he proceeded to chat w a group next to us.. sharing instagrams, leisurely talking while we were trying to leave. Had to flag down someone else who then got the server to finally make his way to get our bill. But server had a cool aesthetic vibe/style that fit in with the place, just wish he would have moved a lil faster. read more
10 months ago
We went early and got seated right away. Our waitress was knowledgeable and had a few recommendations. My Paloma was excellent. read more
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7 months ago
Tlecan - bars - Updated May 2026
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