These are the best bars in Oaxaca for a tasty tipple with everything from artisanal mezcal to creative cocktails and scenic views.
Oaxaca de Juarez is a vibrant destination where culture, history, and culinary delights come together, and its bar scene is an essential part of that experience. From traditional mezcalerias that honor centuries-old methods to chic rooftop bars offering natural wine and stunning views of the city, Oaxaca’s diverse drinking spots provide something for every taste.
The city is deeply rooted in mezcal culture, with Oaxaca being one of the most important regions for this revered agave spirit. Mezcal is more than just a drink here—it’s a cultural symbol, with each bottle representing the unique craftsmanship of local producers.
For the seasoned mezcal aficionado eager to explore the complexities of the spirit, a cocktail lover looking for innovative drinks, or simply someone who enjoys a cold beer in a casual setting, Oaxaca’s bar scene delivers a wealth of experiences.
In this guide, we highlight the best bars in Oaxaca City, each offering a unique way to sip and savor the spirit and flavors of Oaxaca.
All listings featured on The Mexico Edit are carefully sourced and selected by our editors who live in/have spent ample time in that area of the country and know the destination well. If you book through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission. Thank you for supporting TME.
The Best Bars in Oaxaca City
Selva
Selva, a standout cocktail bar in Oaxaca City, has earned a coveted spot on the prestigious “50 Best Bars in North America” list, a testament to its creative mixology and vibrant atmosphere. Owned and co-founded by international bar director Alexandra Purcaru, Selva brings together the rich cultural heritage of Oaxaca with innovative cocktails that highlight local ingredients and mezcal, the region’s iconic spirit.
With its lush, jungle-inspired decor and a menu that brings modernity to Oaxaca’s bar scene, Selva is a must-visit for anyone seeking an elevated drinking experience in the heart of the city. Take a seat on one of the two highly sought-after balcony tables for cocktails with views of Santo Domingo Temple.
Sabina Sabe
At Sabina Sabe, mezcal takes center stage in a vibrant, creative setting that embodies the spirit of Oaxaca. At one of the best bars Oaxaca has to offer, voted one of the best in North America, it’s all about celebrating the complexity and depth of the region’s iconic spirit. With a vast selection of mezcal sourced from small producers, Sabina Sabe is the perfect place to dive deep into the world of agave.
The bartenders here are passionate about sharing their knowledge, making every sip an exploration of flavors and tradition but this isn’t a spot for just tasting mezcal, the cocktails here are inventive, delicious, and a must when in the city.
Whether you’re new to mezcal or a seasoned enthusiast, Sabina Sabe offers a welcoming space where each drink tells a story—rooted in the heritage and craftsmanship of Oaxaca.
Terraza Escondido
Terraza Escondido, the relaxed rooftop bar at Escondido Oaxaca, offers a laid-back yet stylish escape in the heart of Oaxaca City. Perched above the chic Escondido Oaxaca hotel, this hidden gem provides stunning views of the city’s vibrant streets and surrounding mountains.
With its minimalist design and breezy atmosphere, Terraza Escondido is the perfect spot to unwind with a refreshing cocktail or a glass of mezcal at Escondido Oaxaca. The bar focuses on simple, well-crafted drinks that celebrate local ingredients, making it a go-to destination for those looking to enjoy a tranquil pre-dinner drink under the Oaxacan sky.
Expendio Tradición
At Expendio Tradición, the art of mezcal meets expertly crafted cocktails in a lively and modern atmosphere. This bar-restuarant hybrid is dedicated to showcasing Oaxaca’s rich mezcal heritage while offering a refreshing twist on traditional drinks.
The cocktail menu features a well-curated selection of mezcal-forward creations, blending local ingredients with contemporary techniques. Each drink is thoughtfully designed to highlight the smoky complexity of Oaxaca’s signature spirit, making Expendio Tradición a must-visit for anyone looking to experience mezcal in a new, exciting way- fried grasshopper topped mezcalita?
Whether you’re indulging in a classic cocktail or a more adventurous concoction, the bar here is all about celebrating mezcal’s versatility with style and flair.
Casa Oaxaca
The bar at Alejandro Ruiz’s Casa Oaxaca offers a serene and sophisticated setting for enjoying a pre-dinner drink, with stunning views from the rooftop terrace overlooking the iconic Santo Domingo church.
Known primarily as one of the top restaurants in Oaxaca, Casa Oaxaca is also a fantastic spot for a perfectly crafted cocktail or a glass of mezcal before dinner. The relaxed yet elegant ambiance makes it an ideal place to soak in the beauty of the city while savoring the flavors of Oaxaca.
Whether you’re there for the renowned food or simply a drink, the bar at Casa Oaxaca promises an unforgettable experience with one of the best views in town.
Hotel Los Amantes Rooftop Bar
The rooftop bar at Hotel Los Amantes offers one of the most picturesque spots in Oaxaca City, with sweeping views of the city’s historic center and the majestic Santo Domingo church. This elegant bar combines a sophisticated space with an ambiance that’s relaxed and laid-back. The menu offers a carefully curated selection of mezcal-based cocktails, local wines, and beers in a stylish, open-air setting that is perfect for enjoying a sunset drink while taking in the vibrant atmosphere below.
With its luxurious yet relaxed vibe, Hotel Los Amantes Rooftop Bar is a great spot for anyone seeking a refined drinking experience with some of the best views in town.
Amá Terraza
The rooftop bar at Casa Antonieta, is a bit of a hidden gem in Oaxaca City, with a tranquil and stylish atmosphere perfect for wine lovers. Known for its impressive natural wine list, Amá Terraza focuses on showcasing unique, organic wines from Mexico and beyond.
The colonial yet chic design of the rooftop provides a serene escape from the bustling streets below, making it an ideal spot to unwind with a glass of wine in hand. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or just looking to explore something new, Amá Terraza promises a delightful experience in a beautifully relaxed setting, with the added bonus of panoramic views of Oaxaca’s charming skyline.
Pollos Bar
For a laid-back, authentically Oaxacan experience, head to Pollos Bar in the Xochimilco neighborhood. This unpretentious cantina captures the city’s vibrant, no-frills charm with its lively atmosphere, cold beers, and lively crowd.
The jukebox fills the space with cumbia beats, setting the perfect backdrop for a night of casual drinks and local flavor. Be it for the affordable drinks or to soak in the energy of the neighborhood, Pollos Bar offers a slice of real Oaxaca that’s all about good vibes and great people-watching.
The Best Mezcal Bars in Oaxaca
In Situ Mezcaleria
In Situ Mezcaleria is one of the best mezcalerias in Oaxaca for anyone eager to dive deep into Oaxaca’s mezcal culture. This cozy spot is renowned for its extensive selection of over 180 varieties of mezcal, carefully sourced from artisanal producers across the region.
Founded by mezcal experts Ulises Torrentera and Sandra Ortiz, In Situ is dedicated to preserving the traditional methods of mezcal production, offering a genuine, educational experience with every sip.
The knowledgeable staff is always ready to guide you through tastings, sharing insights into the history, process, and flavor profiles of each mezcal. For a true Oaxacan mezcal adventure, In Situ is the perfect place to explore the soul of this iconic spirit.
Be sure to visit IN SITU Bodega, the boutique sister location of the mezcaleria. More shop than bar, this charming spot allows you to pick up your favorite bottles to take home, offering a curated selection of artisanal mezcals that capture the essence of Oaxaca.
Read more: 19 Must-Visit Local Boutiques for Shopping in Oaxaca City
La Mezcaloteca
For a deep dive into the world of mezcal, La Mezcaloteca is a must. This intimate, reservation-only bar and mezcal library offers a curated selection of over 100 mezcals from Oaxaca and other regions of Mexico. Dedicated to educating its guests, La Mezcaloteca provides guided tastings where you can explore the nuances of different agave varieties and production methods.
The knowledgeable staff will walk you through each pour, making it an immersive and enlightening experience for both mezcal enthusiasts and newcomers alike. It’s the perfect spot to broaden your mezcal knowledge in a cozy, personalized setting.
Cuish
Cuish Mezcal Bar is a top spot for mezcal in Oaxaca City, offering a unique experience for mezcal enthusiasts. Run by a cooperative of rural producers, Cuish is dedicated to preserving traditional mezcal-making methods and showcases a wide variety of agave species from different regions of Oaxaca.
Located just under a mile from the city center, Cuish provides a more off-the-beaten-path experience with an impressive selection you won’t find elsewhere.
La Mezcalerita
La Mezcalerita is another top laid-back mezcal bar in Oaxaca City that offers a fun, casual environment for sampling a diverse range of mezcals and craft beers. Known for its friendly atmosphere and rooftop seating, La Mezcalerita is a perfect spot to unwind with friends while exploring Oaxaca’s rich mezcal traditions. Their extensive menu features both well-known and rare mezcal varieties, sourced from small, local producers.
For those looking to switch things up, they also serve an excellent selection of artisanal Mexican beers. With its relaxed vibe and great rooftop views, La Mezcalerita provides a welcoming space to enjoy Oaxaca’s beloved spirits in one of the best bars in Oaxaca.
Save on Pinterest
