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Handshake Speakeasy

Mexico City

• The Best Bar in North America 2025, sponsored by Perrier
• The Best Bar in Mexico 2025, sponsored by Perrier

Handshake might have new digs – the secret speakeasy is now ensconced within the NH Hotel in the achingly cool Colonia Juárez district – but the world-leading ethos and design creds have remained. What was formerly a shoe store has been transformed into a newly minted rendition of original Handshake, black and gold accents and slick, prohibition vibes that echo The Great Gatsby included. The main bar is small, serving just 32 guests in 90-minute sittings, which given the bar’s popularity and its No.1 ranking in The World’s 50 Best Bars 2024, sparked the addition of a new space in the basement of the hotel to accommodate extra visitors.

This second space takes the form of a Japanese Izakaya, replete with high-tech embellishments such as a long cold line down the bar that keeps drinks frosty for every sip. Despite the 1920s and Japanese influences, the cocktails here are pure Mexico. Bar director Eric van Beek’s carefully crafted drinks list shines. Many of the maestro’s creations look simple enough but, upon sipping, one is treated to an explosion of unexpected flavours. Agave sotol, tequila and mezcals from local producers line the back bar while cocktails feature fruit, herbs and proteins sourced from markets and growers across the country and the onsite lab is used every day to clarify juices, create new syrups and infuse cordials.

The magic is evident in every glass – take the Once Upon a Time in Oaxaca, which is inspired by Mexican master distillers and made with Siete Misterios Doba-Yej Mezcal, eight-hour-infused mint and absinthe, or the curiously tropical and savoury Mexi-Thai that combines tequila with makrut lime, coconut basil oil and tomato.

Handshake Speakeasy is again named The Best Bar in Mexico and The Best Bar in North America, sponsored by Perrier, for a second year running.

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