In underground bars across the world, a revolution is taking place. Mezcal, the potent Mexican spirit, is going global. As the agave based drink becomes more popular we bring you our top recommendations of where to drink mezcal in London. Experience the hype surrounding tequila's long lost cousin and find out for yourself by visiting London's best mezcal bars and events.
The kind of hidden gem you always dream of stumbling across, El Camion's clientèle are happy to keep it a secret. Low level lighting, a giant selection of mezcal and tequilas, late night DJs and a licence until 3am – this is the perfect recipe for a good night. As if that wasn't enough, you can even order a full meal to your table, courtesy of the restaurant upstairs.
Situated in Holborn is one of the most stunning bars in London, NYX Hotel London Holborn & Sabine Holborn. Along with a cracking list of food and cocktails, you can head to its tequila library, which fronts over 20 different types of mezcal.
From the mind of Danny Saunders, the man behind Leyton Calling, Chop Shop Tavern has quickly gained a reputation for its craft, character and curation. Whatever tipple you tuck into in its candlelit booths, you can be sure its place on the drinks list took careful consideration.
That's certainly true of the many mezcals on offer here, under the railway arches on Tilbury Road. Whether you take it as it comes or all mixed up in a cocktail creation, it's most certainly going to leave an impression.
For those of you who fancy a taste of the smoky stuff, head on over to Tequila Mockingbird. Found in Shoreditch, Tooting, Covent Garden and more, it's whipping up a stellar selection of cocktails laced with moreish mezcal.
Located in the heart of Central London, Miradora Rooftop Restaurant Tequileria is a stunning spot for all things Mezcal. Not only can you look out over the sights of the West End from their rooftop terrace, but they've also got one of the most impressive cocktail selections around.
Sip on classic margaritas, neat mezcal or the signature Mezcal Mist, while appreciating the views? Feeling peckish? They're also cooking up everything from fried buttermilk chicken to spicy shredded beef bowls and marinated salmon.
Located in London Bridge, Santo Remedio is an authentic Mexican bar and restaurant serving mezcal margaritas, sangria and a whole lot of tequila. This venue also does bottomless brunches every single weekend, as well as traditional dishes throughout the week.
A bright and buzzing rooftop spot in the heart of Olympia, Bar Arriba brings a true taste of Mexico to West London. High above the city streets, it serves up refreshing cocktails and delicious dishes, from tacos to quesadillas.
If you're looking for mezcal, you're in the right place. There's plenty of tipples to taste here, whether you take it neat, on the rocks or all mixed up like in the Jalisco Old Fashioned.
For mezcal lovers, Santo Remedio Marylebone offers an exceptional escape. With a dedicated Cantina featuring a curated selection of the finest Mezcals and Tequilas, this Mexican restaurant doubles as one of London's most stylish mezcal bars.
Sip on rare, smoky spirits while indulging in classic Mexican dishes, and if you're planning an event, the upstairs Salón Santo offers an exclusive private bar and space for up to 60 guests. It's the perfect place for mezcal-fueled celebrations. Their agave pairing evenings also give you a great opportunity tot taste some delicious spirits, matched with authentic Mexican dishes and a friendly atmosphere.
A mecca to Mexican amazingness in Marylebone, Cavita is the place to go a mezcal or two. Its tipples come anyway you want them - neat, on the rocks or all mixed up in creative signature serves.
Be sure to taste the tequila while you're here too. Feeling peckish? There's all kinds of grilled greatness waiting to fill a hole.
Known for being London's first ever dedicated agaveria, Hacha is all about tequila and mezcal. Their mirror margarita is well worth a try, while food comes in the form of tasty tacos. If you fancy a few tastings? You'll find all sorts of bottles that are sure to wet your whistle.
Happiness Forgets, an unforgettable name for an unbelievably good cocktail bar in Hoxton. This über cool speakeasy is not just about moustaches, braces and jazz fusion. The bartenders are serious creatives with a passion for mixing up mezcal and other spirits with a variety of tingling spices and aromas that will leave you intensely satisfied and cosy in this intimate venue.
A must on the mezcal scene is Dalston's Doña bar, a stunning pink and red space that's plush as they come - complete with candles, feather boas above and below the bar, and even the odd smattering of cacti. Sip your way through mexcal negronis, hibiscus-laced numbers and whole flights of the spirit while listening to live music across this inclusive space.
KOL Mezcaleria is located in Marylebone, serving up mezcal and all kinds of cocktails from fig leaf martinis and negronis to a chamomile old fashioned. You can nab a tasty Mexican meal here too, including empanadas, quesadillas and churros with caviar.
A snug little basement bar, Chamuco's Clubhouse quickly fills up with eager drinkers wishing to try the huge range of premium tequilas and mezcals. Styled like a 'Day of the Dead' parade, think sombrero-wearing skeletons dressed like matadors, plucking at guitars, the atmosphere truly is buzzing. This devilish drinking den serves up some of the best mezcal in London along with refreshing classic cocktails and thirst quenching cervezas.
Tucked away in Fitzrovia, No. 23 is the ultimate destination for expertly crafted mezcal cocktails. Whether you're unwinding after a lively night in Soho or looking for a pre-dinner drink, this intimate 23-seat mezcalería, brought to you by the creators of Carousel, offers a distinctive menu focused on agave spirits. The cocktails, curated by Matteo Vaccargiu (formerly of Sager and Wilde's Equal Parts Bar) and Carousel's Joshua Bratt, are a true celebration of mezcal.
Sip on mezcal-infused versions of classic drinks, like a Manhattan made with Lost Explorer agave, Carousel's signature ten-year vermouth, Motivo, and fino. To complement your drink, indulge in a selection of Central American-inspired bar snacks, such as totopos and tostadas, crafted by chef Ollie Templeton.
