Regardless of how you feel about the term “mixology,” there is nothing quite like discovering a new fusion of flavors in a well-crafted cocktail. Today, we bring you a curated list of places to treat yourself to a high-end night out in an atmosphere that is the perfect blend of fancy and laid-back.
Flamel: Alchemy and mystery on calle 57
You would never imagine, while walking down 57th Street, that a mysterious and elegant bar sits behind such an unassuming façade. Once you’ve made your reservation (via OpenTable or WhatsApp), you will receive the exact location of Flamel and a symbol required for entry. Once inside, you’ll face a wall covered in buttons with various icons; it is here that you must select the correct one to gain access.
The hostess will greet you with a delicious mezcalita shot before guiding you to your table. Let yourself be enveloped by the dim, warm lighting and the smooth music of a live DJ. It’s the perfect intimate setting for a comfortable conversation. Flamel’s menu is inspired by the human lifecycle; for example, the "Reflexión" (Reflection) cocktail represents the decade between ages 40 and 50—a surprising fusion of tequila and vermouth with agave honey, rooibos tea, and the unique touch of a Ferrero Rocher chocolate. —R.Z.
Calle 57 x 54 y 56, Centro, Mérida
Tel. 9991 13 68 03
IG: flamel.bar
Lázaro Vermutería: A journey to the past through a refrigerator door
Simply entering Lázaro is an experience in itself. At the back of Malix de la 53 (a hot dog joint on calle 53), you’ll find a doorbell next to what looks like a refrigerator. To enter, you must ring it and provide the password received during your reservation (via Instagram or WhatsApp). Crossing that hidden door transports you to an authentic, old-fashioned speakeasy, complete with hardwood floors, wood-paneled walls, and retro artifacts like typewriters and oil lamps.
Lázaro specializes in vermouths and Mexican spirits. A highlight of the venue is the chance to learn directly from the bartender about the origin and craft behind your drinks. The star of the menu is the "Cilantro" cocktail, made with mezcal, chile ancho liqueur, sour orange, and a hint of cilantro syrup that provides a pleasant herbal finish and ties the flavors of every ingredient together. —R.Z.
Teléfono: 999 658 1678
Dirección: Calle 53 x 56 y 58, Santa Lucía, Mérida
El Gato: Literature and mixology at the heart of the Remate
Based on the eponymous novel by local author Juan García Ponce, El Gato is, in my opinion, perhaps most enjoyable during the week, when the quiet and smaller crowds allow you to appreciate the design details and enjoy your drinks in the comfort of your table.
It is on weekdays that this small lounge on the second floor of El Remate de Montejo is ideal for taking a break from the busy Calle 47 Culinary Corridor, offering pleasant ambient music and signature mixology. If you’re looking for their incredible party atmosphere instead, visit on the weekends, which are famous for their DJ nights.
Continuing the literary theme, every creation on the menu is named after a renowned Mexican author. Having tried much of their selection over the years, my own favorite continues to be the "Salvador Novo," consisting of mezcal, falernum and orgeat syrups, lemon, and passion fruit. My second choice would undoubtedly be the "Inés Arredondo," with a hint of orange and nutmeg. —R.Z.
Calle 47 #486 x 56-A, Remate de Paseo de Montejo, Centro, Mérida
Tel. 999 553 4271
IG: elgato.mx
Acervo Mezcalero del Sureste: The sanctuary of master distillers
Technically not a speakeasy, Acervo Mezcalero del Sureste is still one of those gems in downtown Mérida that might go unnoticed if you aren't paying close attention. This small (truly tiny!) but cozy bar houses one of the most interesting mezcal collections in the Yucatecan capital. Their specialty menu features artisanal mezcales from renowned master distillers and is updated roughly every six months, giving you a constant reason to return and discover new spirits.
If you aren't one for sipping mezcal neat, go straight for the cocktails! My favorite is the “Flamingo” (Campari, grapefruit, and basil), while Ari (one of the bartenders) recommends the “Oscuro Deseo” (Dark Desire), made with local bitter orange and served with a flaming sprig of rosemary. Each drink is approximately $160 pesos.
Check their social media if you’re interested in attending special events featuring guest bartenders or DJs. —C.A.
Calle 56 #463A x 55 y 53, Centro, Mérida
FB: Acervo Mezcalero del Sureste
Mon. 8 pm - 1 am
Wed. - Sat. 8 pm - 1 am
Fri. - Sat. 8 pm - 1:30 am
Anónima: Intention, Mixology, and the Art of Conversation
Anónima brings two clear concepts together at a single bar: thoughtfully selected Mexican wine and a cocktail menu that starts with the classics to build its own unique versions. As you walk through the door, the bar and the wine cellar immediately command your attention. Dim lighting and a playlist so soft it’s barely perceptible wrap around the space. The illumination is minimal, almost strategic, as if to remind you who the true protagonist of the night is: the conversation.
There is no better way to get to know a place than to sit at the bar and let the bartender work their magic—after all, he is the expert in his territory. At Anónima, the cocktails seem to emerge from a small mixology laboratory. Here, things change, evolve, and are constantly being tested. You could return a month later and there will likely be something new: a handcrafted cucumber rim, a tonic made from scratch (literally from scratch), or some detail that makes you think, “Why didn't I think of that before?”
If you’re up for it, the team will likely tell you the entire process behind the drink in front of you. That’s when you realize that great mixology isn’t just about mixing ingredients; it’s about curiosity, technique, and a bit of playfulness.
Among the recommendations, the “Tamara” stands out—featuring mezcal, tamarind, and apple, it balances freshness without losing the spirit's character. Then there’s the “Oro Verde” (Green Gold), a blend of tequila, green tomato, and cucumber that sounds unusual but surprises from the very first sip. House cocktails range between $160 and $180 pesos. —L.M. and E.Z.
Av. José Díaz Bolio x 12, Col. México, Mérida
Tel. 999 828 5980
IG: anonimamid
FB: Anonima
Kanché: A refuge of design and flavor in Izamal
You would never imagine that, literally just steps away from the monumental Kinich Kakmó pyramid in the Pueblo Mágico of Izamal, lies a space where contemporary design and Maya heritage converge with such elegance. Kanché, more than just a bar, is a secret terrace celebrating the relaxed sophistication of modern Yucatán.
The atmosphere captures you immediately: organic textures and subtle lighting on an open-air terrace that, in addition to being bioclimatic, has won several awards for its design. The vibe is vibrant yet intimate, ideal for enjoying the "Yellow City’s" warm climate while the music sets the perfect mood for an unforgettable night. Their mixology is a tribute to regional ingredients; if you’re feeling adventurous, try the cocktail of the day, made with local fruit from their elevated garden (known in Maya as a kanché), featuring spirits from different regions of México, such as mezcal, raicilla, tequila, sotol, gin, or the mystical xtabentún. —A.N.
Calle 28 x 25 y 27, Izamal
www.restaurantekinich.com/kanche-restaurante
IG: kancheizamal
Terraza Don Diablo: A Heavenly View in Valladolid’s Most "Devilish" Spot
If you are looking for the absolute best view in the Magical Town of Valladolid, the answer lies above. Located directly across from the city’s iconic San Servacio church, Terraza Don Diablo offers an experience that captivates the senses from the moment you arrive. Here, the relaxed elegance of an open-air rooftop blends with a bold design that pays tribute to Mexican folklore and wit.
The atmosphere here is never a letdown: as the sun sets and the main square’s lights begin to glow, the music and lighting create an electric yet welcoming vibe. But it’s the signature mixology that this is all about. You’ll be surprised by the house cocktails, which incorporate regional touches that will elevate any spirit, and which go great with their entrée options for an unforgettable meal. —A.N.
Calle 39 x 40 y 42, Centro, Valladolid
Almacén del Marqués: Valladolid’s very first speakeasy
If you’re looking for a cozier, more private atmosphere, the answer is not on the rooftop, but inside a storage room, or almacén. Follow the trail of horseshoes to discover Almacén, a hidden spot that offers a unique ambiance to enjoy a different, more artistic style of signature mixology.
Surprising cocktails are definitely the star here. There’s, for example, Trotón, which combines mezcal with lime, cilantro, and xcatic pepper syrup, or Rafaelita, a twist on the mango/tequila combination with a touch of chile ancho. Pair these with a careful selection of internationally-inspired snacks, including steak sushi, hummus with chipotle-roasted cauliflower, or a spicy shrimp tostada. —A.N.
Calle 39 x 40 y 42, Centro, Valladolid
By Carlos Argüelles, Luis Manzano, Alicia Navarrete Alonso, Ezequiel Zozaya, Regina Zumárraga
First published in Yucatán Today print and digital magazine no. 460, in April 2026.
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