Hanky Panky Mexico City: The Ultimate Speakeasy Bar
Hanky Panky Mexico City is a one of a kind nightlife experience.This place is a hidden gem tucked away behind a Mexican restaurant. With its fashionable atmosphere, award-winning cocktails, and celebrity sightings, Hanky Panky has become one of the hottest spots in town. Recently ranked as the 16th Best Bar in North America and the 12th Best Bar in the World, this speakeasy bar has sparked a trend in Mexico City’s nightlife scene. Join me as we delve into the enchanting world of Hanky Panky and discover why it’s a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts and trendsetters alike.
When it first launched, Hanky Panky was more than just a bar; it was a hidden speakeasy concept reserved for founder Walter Meyenberg’s closest friends and family. As word spread and the demand grew, the owners recognized that they had stumbled upon something truly extraordinary. With a touch of reluctance, they decided to open their doors to a wider audience, while still maintaining the elusive and clandestine nature that defines a true speakeasy. Today, accessing Hanky Panky remains a thrilling adventure, as you navigate through the back of a street food vendor to uncover its secret entrance.
A little bit of History: What is a Speakeasy Bar and where did it Start?
A speakeasy, back in the day, was a sneaky bar where folks could get their hands on some boozy beverages during the Prohibition era in the United States, which went down from 1920 to 1933. These covert watering holes were usually tucked away in hidden or unmarked spots, making it quite the challenge to stumble upon one. To gain access, you’d typically need to know a secret password or give a special knock.
Fast forward to the Prohibition era in the US, and the speakeasy trend exploded. It all went down because enforcing the Eighteenth Amendment of the United States Constitution, which banned the making, selling, and transportation of alcohol, was an uphill battle. So, people took matters into their own hands and started running secret bars, dubbing them “speakeasies.”
These speakeasies were craftily stashed away in hidden nooks like basements, back rooms of other businesses, or even private homes. In order to gain entry, you’d often need to have the secret password or knock in a special way. The allure of speakeasies was simple: they provided a safe haven for folks to enjoy their drinks without worrying about getting thrown in the slammer.
Eventually, the speakeasy era came to a close when the Eighteenth Amendment got repealed in 1933. But guess what? The concept of speakeasies never really died out. In fact, it’s still pretty darn popular, and you can find these sneaky joints all around the globe.
Hanky Panky Highlights
Hanky Panky Mexico City: A Community of Friendship:
Despite its evolution, the spirit of friendship remains at the core of Hanky Panky. It has transformed into a vibrant community hub, where both old and new connections are fostered amidst the clinking of glasses and the enjoyment of meticulously crafted cocktails. This sense of camaraderie sets Hanky Panky apart, creating an inviting and welcoming atmosphere for all who enter.
The Cocktails at Hanky Panky
One of the hallmarks of Hanky Panky is its ever-evolving menu. The current offering, aptly named “Passport,” pays homage to the relationships forged by the bar’s team during their extensive travels. Each drink and ingredient is inspired by a different city or encounter, showcasing the diverse influences that have shaped their craft.
The talented mixologists, Gina Barbachano and Ismael Martinez, have ingeniously translated their sensations and memories from these destinations into captivating recipes. For instance, if you find yourself hailing from Oslo, prepare to embark on a sensory journey as your city is reimagined through a Mexican palate. With each sip, you’ll be transported to far-flung locales without ever leaving the classically designed confines of Hanky Panky.
Let’s explore some of the cocktail classics from Hanky Panky
- The Pornstar Martini: Indulge in the tantalizing combination of passion fruit juice, vanilla vodka, simple syrup, lime juice, and a splash of Prosecco. This delightful cocktail is a personal favorite among regulars.
- The Hanky Panky: Experience the charm of a classic cocktail made with gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet Branca. This timeless drink is a testament to the skill and craftsmanship of the bartenders at Hanky Panky.
- The Oaxaca Old Fashioned: For those seeking a twist on a beloved classic, the Oaxaca Old Fashioned offers a smoky mezcal base, balanced with bitters and sugar. It’s a delightful exploration of flavors.
- The Mezcal Negroni: Prepare your taste buds for a unique twist on the Italian classic. This version incorporates the rich and earthy notes of Mezcal, combined with the bitter complexity of Campari and the sweetness of vermouth.
The Exquisite Atmosphere:
Hanky Panky Speakeasy Bar exudes an air of intrigue, nestled within an unassuming building without any signage. Yet, once you unlock its secret, you’ll be enchanted by the warm ambiance, greeted by a friendly staff, and surrounded by stylish decor. The dim lighting casts an intimate glow, while the plush seating invites you to unwind and immerse yourself in the enchanting atmosphere.
The attention to detail extends beyond the menu, encompassing the entire experience at Hanky Panky. The bartenders, true masters of their craft, take pride in their ability to create personalized and unforgettable moments for each guest. From the perfectly balanced flavors to the artful presentation, every element is meticulously crafted to provide a sensory delight.
As you settle into the exquisitely designed room, the ambiance itself becomes a part of the journey. The retro-inspired decor, with its elegant touches and warm hues, sets the stage for an evening of sophistication and indulgence. Hanky Panky embraces the concept of timelessness, blending the charm of a bygone era with a contemporary twist. It’s a space where conversations flow freely, new connections are formed, and unforgettable memories are made.
As you settle into the exquisitely designed room, the ambiance itself becomes a part of the journey. The retro-inspired decor, with its elegant touches and warm hues, sets the stage for an evening of sophistication and indulgence. Hanky Panky embraces the concept of timelessness, blending the charm of a bygone era with a contemporary twist. It’s a space where conversations flow freely, new connections are formed, and unforgettable memories are made.
Sitting at the Bar in those Red Leather chairs is my favorite place to sit in Hanky Panky. You can watch the bartenders craft the cocktails in a very fun and interesting way and how skilful they are at making cocktails. For those that are not lucky to get a seat a the bar, there are 4 shared tables for you to enjoy the cocktails and food, if you are a very social person you wont mind sitting with strangers, you might make new friends.
The VIP area is one of my favorites especially when you are sitting with a big group of over 6 people, this is where they seat all artists and famous people and feels like a private room even if you are still at the bar because this VIP room is at the lower level of the Bar, this is a very difficult spot to get since it books very fast every night.
Special Nights at Hanky Panky:
Every once a month, Hanky Panky offers a special night that brings together guest bartenders from renowned bars around the world. These international award-winning bars, such as The Connaught Bar from London and Bar Paradiso, the current best bar in the world, join forces with Hanky Panky to create a unique experience for patrons. On these special nights, guests have the opportunity to enjoy signature cocktails from each of these esteemed bars.
The price fee for these events may vary, and it is essential to make a reservation to secure your spot for this exclusive occasion. It’s a chance to indulge in the craftsmanship and flavors that have made these bars world-renowned, all within the intimate and stylish setting of Hanky Panky. Don’t miss out on this extraordinary collaboration of talent and taste.
Celebrity Spotting and Exclusive Reservations:
Hanky Panky has become a magnet for celebrities and influencers, attracting the likes of Dua Lipa during their visits to Mexico City. The allure of this speakeasy bar lies not only in its exceptional cocktails but also in its exclusivity. Securing a reservation can be a challenge, with bookings often requiring at least a month’s advance notice. This exclusivity adds to the allure, making your visit all the more special and unforgettable.
Continued Accolades and Recognition:
As we step into 2023, Hanky Panky continues to climb the ranks of North America’s best bars. This year, it proudly claims the title of the 20th Best Bar in North America, solidifying its position as a leading destination for cocktail enthusiasts. The accolades and recognition received by Hanky Panky are a testament to its commitment to providing impeccable service.
Reservations at Hanky Panky
Trying to get a table at Hanky Panky just got trickier with their latest reservation update in 2024. Here’s what I found while attempting to book. You can secure a spot up to 3 months in advance, but on OpenTable, the only available times are 5 pm, 6 pm, 7 pm, and 8 pm.Beyond that, the reservation options vanish, prompting speculation about the need to make a direct call or if they operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Final Thoughts
Hanky Panky Speakeasy Bar in Mexico City is more than just a bar; it’s an immersive experience that combines stunning ambiance, expert mixology, and an air of exclusivity. From its trendy location to its award-winning cocktails, Hanky Panky leaves a lasting impression on its guests.Lately there’s been a lot of competition in Mexico City with other speakeasy bars gaining international recognition like Handshake among others, but Hanky Panky still has a solid brand recognition in Mexico and the World.
Whether you’re a cocktail connoisseur, a trendsetter, or simply looking for a night of unforgettable memories, Hanky Panky delivers. So, why not step behind the curtains, embark on a journey to Mexico City’s 16th Best Bar in North America, and discover the enchantment of Hanky Panky for yourself?
Youtube Video with my experience at Hanky Panky Mexico City
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