Tlecan: Mexico City’s Hottest New Bar on 50 Best Bars 2024

In the heart of Mexico City, where ancient Aztec ruins lie beneath bustling streets, a new star has risen in the nightlife scene. Tlecan, a bar that’s barely dried its paint, has already catapulted to fame by securing a coveted spot on the prestigious 50 Best Bars North America 2024 list in number 10. But what makes this newcomer so special? Let’s dive into the world of Tlecan and uncover why it’s become the talk of the town in such a short time.

Did you know Tlecan is one of the fastest bars to ever make the 50 Best list after opening? Now that’s something to raise your glass to! This remarkable achievement is just the beginning of what makes Tlecan a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts and culture seekers alike.

The Birth of Tlecan: A New Era in Mexico City’s Bar Scene

Tlecan isn’t just another bar – it’s a testament to Mexico’s rich cultural heritage and its innovative spirit. The founders of Tlecan had a vision: to create a space that honors pre-Hispanic traditions while pushing the boundaries of modern mixology. This unique concept sets Tlecan apart in Mexico City’s competitive bar landscape.

From the moment you step into Tlecan, you’re transported to a world where past and present collide in the most delightful way. The bar’s name itself is a nod to Aztec culture, evoking images of ancient rituals and sacred gatherings. But don’t expect a museum-like atmosphere – Tlecan pulses with energy, blending historical references with contemporary flair.

The bar’s rapid rise to fame isn’t just luck. It’s the result of meticulous planning, a deep respect for Mexican culture, and an unwavering commitment to quality. The team behind Tlecan has managed to create an experience that resonates with locals and tourists alike, offering something truly unique in a city known for its vibrant nightlife.

Signature Cocktails: Tlecan’s Liquid Masterpieces

At the heart of Tlecan’s success are its innovative cocktails. Each drink is a carefully crafted masterpiece, telling a story of Mexico’s past and present. Let’s explore some of their standout creations:

1. Margarita Kauil: This isn’t your average margarita. The Margarita Kauil takes the classic cocktail and gives it a pre-Hispanic twist. Named after a Mayan deity associated with drunkenness and ecstasy, this drink combines traditional tequila with unexpected ingredients that pay homage to ancient flavors. The result? A margarita that’s both familiar and excitingly new.
2. Mezcal with Pechuga from Iguana: For those seeking a truly unique experience, this drink is a must-try. The mezcal is infused with pechuga, a traditional Oaxacan technique where mezcal is distilled with a raw chicken or turkey breast suspended above the still. But Tlecan takes it a step further, using iguana meat instead, resulting in a mezcal with a surprisingly perfumed taste. It’s a conversation starter and a sensory adventure all in one glass.
3. Clarified Paloma with Mezcal: Tlecan’s mixologists have reimagined the popular Paloma cocktail with this clarified version. By using mezcal instead of tequila and employing clarification techniques, they’ve created a visually stunning and flavor-packed drink that challenges expectations.

Mezcal enthusiasts, take note: Tlecan is nothing short of paradise for aficionados of this complex spirit. The bar boasts an impressive selection of mezcals from various regions of Mexico, including rare and small-batch varieties that are hard to find elsewhere. Whether you prefer your mezcal neat or in an inventive cocktail, Tlecan’s knowledgeable staff can guide you through a mezcal journey that will expand your palate and deepen your appreciation for this quintessential Mexican spirit.

These signature cocktails are just the beginning. Tlecan’s drink menu is a journey through Mexico’s diverse flavors and rich history. The bar takes pride in using local and unique ingredients, sourcing from small producers across the country. From rare agave varieties to indigenous herbs and fruits, each ingredient is chosen with purpose and respect for its origins.

But it’s not just about the flavors – Tlecan is committed to sustainability too. The bar has implemented a zero-waste approach to bartending, finding creative uses for every part of their ingredients. Citrus peels become garnishes, unused fruits are transformed into syrups, and even the bar’s waste is composted or recycled. This eco-conscious approach adds another layer of depth to the Tlecan experience, allowing guests to enjoy their drinks with a clear conscience.

The Ambiance and Design: Crafting the Perfect Atmosphere

Stepping into Tlecan is like entering a modern-day temple dedicated to the art of mixology. The interior design seamlessly blends pre-Hispanic motifs with contemporary aesthetics. Earthy tones and natural materials evoke the ancient Aztec world, while sleek lines and innovative lighting create a decidedly modern feel.

One of the most striking features of Tlecan’s design is its layout. In a nod to traditional pre-Hispanic gatherings, the bar encourages a more fluid, social atmosphere. Here’s where things get interesting – and potentially challenging for some visitors: Tlecan has minimal seating. That’s right, for most of your visit, you’ll likely be standing up. This design choice is intentional, promoting movement and interaction among guests.

While some might find the lack of seating unusual, it actually enhances the experience in several ways. It allows for a more dynamic environment, where guests can easily mingle and move around the space. It also means you’re more likely to engage with the bartenders, watching them work their magic up close. And let’s be honest – if you do manage to snag one of the few available chairs, you’ll feel like you’ve won the lottery!

The lighting at Tlecan deserves special mention. Designed to mimic the warm glow of ancient fire pits, it creates an intimate atmosphere that evolves as the night progresses. Combined with carefully curated music that blends traditional Mexican sounds with contemporary beats, the overall ambiance is nothing short of mesmerizing.

Visiting Tlecan: What to Expect and How to Prepare

Now that you’re excited to experience Tlecan for yourself, here’s what you need to know:

Location and How to Get There: Tlecan is nestled in the heart of Mexico City’s trendy Roma Norte neighborhood. While I can’t provide the exact address (as it may change or be inaccurate), it’s best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date location information. The area is well-served by public transportation, including nearby metro stations and bus routes. Rideshare services are also readily available in the area.

Remember, due to its popularity and limited space, Tlecan can get crowded, especially on weekends. Arriving early in the evening can increase your chances of getting in without a long wait – and might even score you one of those coveted seats!

The Standing Experience: As mentioned earlier, be prepared for a standing experience at Tlecan. The minimal seating is part of the bar’s unique concept, encouraging movement and social interaction. While it might take some getting used to, many guests find that it adds to the dynamic atmosphere. If standing for long periods is a concern for you, you might want to plan for a shorter visit or try to arrive early to increase your chances of finding a seat.

Dress Code and Visitor Tips: While Tlecan doesn’t enforce a strict dress code, the bar’s upscale nature and its place on the 50 Best Bars list mean that guests tend to dress smartly. Opt for smart casual attire to fit in with the stylish crowd.

Here are a few more tips to enhance your Tlecan experience:

1. Come with an open mind: Tlecan’s unique concept and innovative cocktails might challenge your expectations. Embrace the experience!
2. Engage with the staff: The bartenders are knowledgeable and passionate. Don’t hesitate to ask questions about the drinks or the bar’s concept.
3. Pace yourself: The cocktails at Tlecan are potent and complex. Take your time to savor each one.
4. Try something new: While you might be tempted to stick with familiar flavors, Tlecan is the perfect place to step out of your comfort zone.
5. Respect the space: Remember that you’re in a bar that honors pre-Hispanic traditions. Treat the space and its concept with respect.

Recommended Tour: The Mexico City Bar Crawl

Even If Tlecan is not included in this tour, I want to recommend you one of the Tours I host in Mexico City where I take my guests to some of the best bars in Mexico City. Take a look into it and hope to see you guys in one of my Weekend Bar Crawl Tours

Final Thoughts of Tlecan Mexico City:

Tlecan isn’t just a bar – it’s a time machine, a cultural ambassador, and a mixology innovator all rolled into one. Its rapid rise to the 50 Best Bars North America 2024 list speaks volumes about its unique vision and flawless execution.

From the pre-Hispanic inspired Margarita Kauil to the perfumed Mezcal with Pechuga from Iguana, every sip at Tlecan is a journey through Mexico’s rich heritage. The standing-room concept might keep you on your toes, but it’s all part of the dynamic, immersive experience.

Next time you’re in Mexico City, put Tlecan at the top of your must-visit list. It’s more than just a night out – it’s a celebration of Mexico’s past, present, and future, served up in a glass. Salud!

Posts You Might Be Interested

Affiliate Disclosure:This blog post may contain affiliate links. This means that if you make a purchase through these links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. I only recommend products or services that I genuinely believe in and have personally used. Your support through these affiliate links helps me maintain and improve this blog. Thank you for your support!