Tlecan

"Tlecān, named after the Náhuatl word for “place of fire,” is a mezcaleria that celebrates Mexican heritage with its menu and decor. It features earthen hues and clay pottery, evoking the wild desert landscapes where agave grows. The bar showcases a deep reverence for Prehispanic culture with the iconic Disc of Death sculpture and artisanal agave distillates from small, independent producers across Mexico. Co-owner Eli Martínez designed a drink menu that highlights differences in distillates through neat pours and inventive cocktails. Signature drinks include the Paloma Blanca and Tascalate Sour. Reservations are suggested." - Lauren Mowery

"If you’re looking for mezcal cocktails, or drinks made with less common agave spirits like lechuguilla or bacanora, Tlecan is your spot. All of the drinks are made with Mexican ingredients like chile or hoja santa, and they have a great, albeit small, food menu, too. We like the tuna tostadas and their take on burrata, which is actually made of queso oaxaca and requesón. It’s (mostly) standing-room only with just a few stools, which is a great excuse to bop around the bar and chat with some strangers." - guillaume guevara

"If you’re looking for mezcal cocktails, or drinks made with less common agave spirits like lechuguilla or bacanora, Tlecan is your spot. All of the drinks are made with Mexican ingredients like chile or hoja santa, and they have a great, albeit small, food menu, too. We like the tuna tostadas and their take on burrata, which is actually made of queso oaxaca and requesón. It’s (mostly) standing-room only with just a few stools, which is a great excuse to bop around the bar and chat with some strangers." - Guillaume Guevara

"It wasn’t until January 2023, over a long weekend in Mexico City, separated from work by thousands of miles, that we could finally focus. A few mezcals deep at Tlecan." - Bettina Makalintal