Handshake Speakeasy: Mexico City’s World’s Best Bar

A Rising Star in the Global Cocktail Scene

Mexico City has long been recognized as a vibrant cultural hub, but in recent years, it has also emerged as a powerhouse in the world of craft cocktails. At the forefront of this movement stands Handshake Speakeasy, a basement establishment that has captured international acclaim and fundamentally shifted perceptions of Mexican bartending excellence. This hidden gem, located in the historic Colonia Juárez neighborhood, represents a new era for sophisticated drinking culture in Latin America and beyond.

The establishment’s rapid ascent through global rankings demonstrates the exceptional quality and innovation that defines the modern cocktail industry. What began as a carefully conceived concept has evolved into an institution that sets standards for bartenders, hospitality professionals, and enthusiasts worldwide.

Unprecedented Recognition and Industry Accolades

The accomplishments garnered by Handshake Speakeasy represent a watershed moment for Mexican establishments within international beverage circles. In 2024, the bar achieved a groundbreaking milestone by becoming the first Mexican bar to claim the title of World’s Best Bar. This achievement transcended regional recognition and positioned Mexico City on the global cocktail map in an unprecedented manner.

Building on this foundation, the establishment has continued its dominance in regional rankings. The bar currently holds the distinction of being North America’s Best Bar for the second consecutive year, a remarkable achievement that underscores consistent excellence and unwavering commitment to quality. Additionally, it has been recognized as The Best Bar in Mexico, sponsored by Perrier, cementing its status as the country’s premier drinking establishment.

These accolades emerge from The World’s 50 Best Bars, an annual ranking that evaluates establishments across multiple continents. The fourth edition of this prestigious list in 2025 featured representation from across North America, including 26 bars from the United States, 14 from Mexico, 8 from Canada, and 2 from the Caribbean. Among this competitive field, Handshake Speakeasy’s consistent top placement reflects both the quality of its offerings and the professionalism of its team.

Location, Atmosphere, and Entry Experience

Part of Handshake Speakeasy’s mystique derives from its deliberately obscured location and speakeasy-inspired aesthetic. The establishment resides behind an unassuming black door marked with a silver number 13, situated in Mexico City’s Colonia Juárez neighborhood. This architectural choice harks back to Prohibition-era establishments, creating an atmosphere of mystery and exclusivity that has become central to its brand identity.

The basement location adds to the immersive experience, transporting visitors away from the bustling streets above into a carefully curated underground sanctuary. This design decision goes beyond mere aesthetic preference—it represents a philosophical commitment to creating a separate world dedicated to craft cocktails and refined conversation. The hidden nature of the establishment has paradoxically enhanced its reputation, as word-of-mouth recommendations and positive reviews have attracted a sophisticated clientele seeking authentic, unpretentious excellence.

Operational Timeline and Market Impact

Handshake Speakeasy opened its doors in 2023, making its meteoric rise through industry rankings particularly impressive. Within a remarkably short operational window, the establishment has achieved recognition that typically requires years of sustained excellence and industry networking. This rapid ascent suggests not only exceptional execution but also a clear understanding of contemporary cocktail trends and consumer preferences.

The timing of the bar’s emergence coincided with growing international interest in Mexican mixology and a broader appreciation for Latin American contributions to global cocktail culture. By positioning itself as the standard-bearer for this movement, Handshake Speakeasy has influenced discussions about geographical diversity in the hospitality industry and challenged traditional hierarchies that have historically favored North American and European establishments.

The Competitive Landscape

While Handshake Speakeasy occupies the top position, the broader Mexican bar scene demonstrates considerable strength within regional rankings. Mexico City maintains multiple representatives within the top rankings, including Tlecān at number three in North America’s 50 Best Bars. Beyond the capital, establishments from other Mexican cities have earned recognition, including El Gallo Altanero at number 8, Aruba Day Drink from Tijuana at number 22, Arca from Tulum at number 27, Selva from Oaxaca at number 29, and Bekeb from San Miguel de Allende at number 49.

New York City’s Superbueno retains the second position on the North American ranking, maintaining its title as The Best Bar in Northeast USA for consecutive years. This consistent placement reflects the establishment’s own commitment to excellence and demonstrates that elite-level cocktail culture exists across multiple North American centers. However, the presence of three Mexico City establishments within the top three rankings indicates a significant shift in regional dynamics.

What Sets Handshake Speakeasy Apart

The consistent recognition awarded to Handshake Speakeasy suggests several distinguishing characteristics that elevate it above competitors. While specific operational details remain proprietary, industry observers and patrons identify several factors contributing to its excellence:

• Technical Mastery: The bar’s team demonstrates exceptional skill in cocktail preparation, utilizing both classical techniques and contemporary innovations.
• Ingredient Quality: A commitment to premium spirits, fresh produce, and artisanal components ensures every drink meets exacting standards.
• Menu Curation: The selection of offerings reflects thoughtful consideration of balance, seasonality, and patron preferences.
• Service Philosophy: Staff members combine professional knowledge with genuine hospitality, creating memorable experiences for each guest.
• Atmosphere Design: The physical environment supports conversation and appreciation for craft beverages without unnecessary pretension.
• Cultural Context: The establishment authentically represents Mexican drinking traditions while embracing global cocktail evolution.

Regional Trends and Market Dynamics

The prominence of Mexican establishments within international cocktail rankings reflects broader industry trends. Mexico’s rich cultural heritage, diverse ingredient availability, and sophisticated tradition of hospitality provide natural advantages for creating exceptional drinking experiences. The country’s emergence as a premier cocktail destination also coincides with increased international travel and greater appreciation for non-European culinary and beverage traditions.

Mexico City, in particular, has positioned itself as a cosmopolitan center where traditional Mexican flavors and techniques intersect with global bartending standards. This fusion creates distinctive offerings that appeal to both international visitors and discerning local patrons. The city’s cultural vibrancy, architectural diversity, and growing reputation as a culinary destination have all contributed to its emergence as a focal point for craft beverage culture.

Visitor Experience and Industry Impact

For those seeking to experience Handshake Speakeasy, the hidden location and speakeasy aesthetic create a sense of discovery and exclusivity. Guests often describe the experience as transportive, noting how the underground setting and carefully crafted ambiance create separation from everyday urban life. The establishment has become a pilgrimage destination for cocktail enthusiasts, mixologists, and hospitality professionals seeking inspiration and benchmarking.

The bar’s international recognition has also elevated Mexico City’s profile within the global hospitality industry, encouraging investment in cocktail culture across the city. This recognition effect has positioned multiple Mexican establishments within top rankings, creating a virtuous cycle where increased reputation attracts talent, investment, and discerning patrons.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion and Future Outlook

Handshake Speakeasy represents more than an exceptional drinking establishment; it embodies a cultural moment where Mexican hospitality, craft expertise, and contemporary sensibilities converge. Its consistent recognition within international rankings affirms the quality of its operations while simultaneously elevating expectations for the entire Mexican bar industry.

As the establishment continues to operate and evolve, its influence on global cocktail culture will likely extend beyond direct patronage. Other bartenders, hospitality professionals, and entrepreneurs will study its model, seek to understand its methodology, and potentially apply similar principles to their own establishments. This ripple effect demonstrates how excellence in a single venue can catalyze broader industry transformation and elevate the status of entire regions within global markets.