2

Handshake Speakeasy

Mexico City

• The Best Bar in North America 2025, sponsored by Amaro Lucano

A two-for-one hidden bar experience serving drinks with a culinary approach

Two notable changes made in 2021 have contributed to Handshake Speakeasy's success as a leader on the international cocktail scene: relocating within the enclaves of a hotel in Colonia Juráez, and Eric van Beek joining the team as drinks director. The shakeups paid off because Handshake was crowned The World's Best Bar in 2024, and also took the top spot in North America's 50 Best Bars for the past two years. Innovative cocktails and a warm approach to hospitality are served up across two bar experiences, and your first port of call is on the ground floor; open the theatrical curtains and receive a synchronised welcome from the whole team.

The décor – inspired by the Great Gatsby and the prohibition era, with low lighting and dark hues – and a 90s soundtrack create a sensual ambience for drinks lovers to savour cocktails prepared with a culinary approach, such as the piña colada, which is clarified and therefore refreshing rather than sweet and heavy. Then, head down to the basement for a more up-tempo experience with a hiphop soundtrack where you should order the iconic Fig Martini that's been on the menu since Handshake opened, or the Three Sips Martini, presented like a floral bouquet. Service is also a point of pride: every member of the team is a bartender, and they rotate, changing roles on a weekly basis to work in prep, as the maître or on the till. 

Contact