Drinking Cocktails at Handshake Speakeasy Bar in Mexico City
- EH
- Dec 26, 2025
- 12 min read
Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City is a must-visit bar, crowned Best Bar in North America for 2025 by The World’s 50 Best Bars.
Located at Calle Amberes 65 in the Juárez neighborhood, this hidden gem offers a reservation-only experience with expertly crafted cocktails, a stylish ambiance, and attentive service. Drinks range from $12–$20, with highlights like the Matcha Yuzu and Olive Oil Gimlet, paired with complimentary snacks. The bar’s strict door policy and elegant dress code ensure a polished, exclusive vibe.
Reservations via OpenTable are essential, and arriving on time is non-negotiable for entry. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or looking for an unforgettable night out, Handshake delivers sophistication and creativity in every sip.
Inside The Best Bar in North America 2024 - Handshake Speakeasy
Location and Access
Address and Neighborhood
You'll find Handshake Speakeasy at Calle Amberes 65, Col. Juárez, Cuauhtémoc, 06600 Ciudad de México (CDMX). Nestled in the heart of Colonia Juárez, this neighborhood offers a mix of old-world charm and modern flair. Positioned between Reforma, Centro, and Roma Norte, and just steps from the lively Zona Rosa, the area is a hub of activity. By day, Colonia Juárez feels laid-back, with its blend of historic architecture and trendy spots. By night, the nearby Zona Rosa comes alive as a vibrant center of LGBT nightlife. This dynamic backdrop sets the stage for Handshake’s intriguing and secretive entry.
Finding the Speakeasy Entrance
True to its speakeasy roots, Handshake's entrance is discreet and easy to miss. Look for door number 13 at Calle Amberes 65. Behind this unmarked door, located in a well-lit hotel hallway, staff monitor entry through a camera system. Even with a reservation, you might have to wait briefly as they confirm names, adding to the air of exclusivity. Once verified, you'll be guided into the underground bar.
"When we got there, we weren't sure where to go, and neither were several other people who had reservations at the same time. We all milled around and assumed we were probably at the right place until someone came out, checked off our names and lined us up."Stephanie Thurrott
Once inside, the experience becomes even more memorable. Depending on your reservation, you might be seated in the main bar or in a second, lower-level space. Both areas capture Handshake’s signature ambiance, but the entry process adds to the mystery.
"Upon entering, guests are greeted with warm shouts of 'welcome!', before being offered a hand towel to freshen up."Josh Ong, The World's 50 Best
Whether you’re exploring the main bar or the subterranean space, the attention to detail and warm hospitality stand out. Arriving on time and embracing the slightly unconventional process are part of what makes Handshake Speakeasy such a memorable destination.
Reservations and Entry Requirements
Booking Through OpenTable
If you're planning to visit Handshake Speakeasy, making a reservation through OpenTable is a must. Walk-ins are rarely accommodated, especially during peak hours, given the bar's immense popularity. Recognized as the Best Bar in North America for 2025 by The World's 50 Best Bars, its growing reputation means reservations fill up fast.
Time slots for reservations usually start at 6:00 PM and go until midnight or 2:00 AM, depending on the day. It's a good idea to double-check operating hours on OpenTable. Occasionally, additional slots or cancellations open up, so it's worth checking back if your preferred time isn't available. Booking early is key - weekends and holidays are especially competitive.
Punctuality is crucial. If you're late, you might lose your reservation since the bar adheres to a strict schedule to accommodate all guests. Plans changed? Cancel your booking through OpenTable to free up the spot for someone else and ensure smooth future reservations.
Once your reservation is confirmed, get ready to experience Handshake's polished and exclusive entry process.
Door Policy and What to Wear
Handshake Speakeasy takes its upscale ambiance seriously, and this is reflected in its strict door policy. Even with a reservation, you'll go through a quick verification process at the entrance. This helps maintain the intimate speakeasy vibe and ensures the venue doesn't get overcrowded.
The dress code is "Smart Casual" with a touch of "Casual Elegant." Gym attire, flip-flops, or overly casual clothing won't make the cut. The bar's dim lighting and Art Deco-inspired interiors set the tone for a sophisticated night out, so your outfit should match the setting.
"Overall vibe is upscale, so I'd recommend business casual at the minimum."Colton, OpenTable reviewer
For men, think collared shirts paired with dress pants or dark jeans and closed-toe shoes. Women can opt for cocktail dresses, blouses with slacks or skirts, or chic separates. The idea is to look polished while complementing the bar's refined atmosphere.
During busy times, the door policy becomes even stricter. Without a reservation, your chances of entry are slim, especially during peak hours. And even with a booking, arriving on time is non-negotiable if you want to keep your spot.
The Cocktail Menu and Drinks
Featured Cocktails and Preparation Methods
At Handshake Speakeasy, cocktails are treated like works of art, crafted with care and precision under the guidance of head bartender Javier Rodríguez. Each drink is approached like a well-thought-out dish, with layers of flavor built using house-made tinctures and other carefully selected ingredients.
The menu offers a mix of signature creations and refreshed takes on classic cocktails. One standout is the Matcha Yuzu, a drink that blends the earthy notes of Japanese green tea with the bright zest of citrus, creating a perfectly balanced flavor profile. Another highlight is the Olive Oil Gimlet, which reimagines the classic gin and lime cocktail by adding a touch of high-quality olive oil. This addition gives the drink a smooth, silky texture that's both surprising and delightful.
For those who lean toward familiar flavors with a twist, the Fig Martini offers a refined spin on the traditional martini, while the Butter Mushroom Old Fashioned takes a bold step into savory territory, introducing rich umami flavors to a typically sweet classic. Even the Piña Colada gets a sophisticated upgrade here, with techniques that elevate the tropical pineapple and coconut notes into something truly special.
Every cocktail is prepared with precision and care. Bartenders openly share their process, from achieving the right dilution to ensuring ingredients are at their ideal temperature. Watching them work feels like witnessing a masterclass in cocktail-making, where every detail - timing, technique, and balance - matters.
This attention to detail and craftsmanship results in a menu that feels intentionally curated and effortlessly sophisticated.
How the Menu is Organized
The cocktail menu at Handshake is all about simplicity and quality. Instead of overwhelming you with endless options, it offers a carefully curated selection designed to showcase a range of flavors and styles.
The "HANDSHAKE CLASSIC" section is a highlight, featuring drinks that have become staples over the bar's three-year history. These cocktails have earned their place on the menu through a combination of guest favorites and critical praise, making them a defining part of the bar's identity.
Each drink comes with detailed tasting notes, giving you a clear sense of what to expect. Whether you prefer something bright and citrusy, rich and spirit-forward, or layered with complex, savory flavors, bartenders are on hand to help guide your choice. This thoughtful approach encourages you to explore and discover new favorites.
Interestingly, the menu doesn't rely on seasonal rotations or limited-time offerings. Instead, the focus is on perfecting a core lineup of cocktails that embody the bar's philosophy. This consistency ensures that every drink you order has been fine-tuned to perfection.
To complement these expertly crafted cocktails, the bar also offers a selection of snacks that elevate the overall experience.
Included Bar Snacks
One of the thoughtful touches at Handshake is the inclusion of complimentary bar snacks with every cocktail. These aren't just an afterthought - they're carefully chosen to complement the flavors of your drink and enhance the overall experience.
The snacks are served alongside your cocktail, offering a light and satisfying way to cleanse your palate between sips or add a bit of texture to the experience. They’re subtle enough not to overpower the drink but still provide a delightful contrast to its liquid elements.
Considering the price range of $12–20 per cocktail, the addition of snacks feels like an extra layer of hospitality. It ensures you’re not just paying for a drink but enjoying a more complete and thoughtful experience without needing to order additional food.
Just like the cocktails, these snacks are selected with care and precision. They reflect the same attention to detail, ensuring they enhance rather than compete with the flavors in your glass. This pairing approach is a testament to the bar’s commitment to delivering an experience that’s as cohesive as it is memorable.
Ambiance and Service Style
Interior Design and Two-Bar Layout
Handshake Speakeasy masterfully combines a retro-modern vibe with a touch of elegance, creating an intimate yet theatrical setting. The clever two-bar layout enhances the experience, starting with a welcoming front area bathed in soft, refined lighting. As you move deeper into the space, you’re led to a more exclusive, hidden back area that feels like a secret waiting to be uncovered.
This design isn’t just about aesthetics - it’s about creating a journey. Transitioning between the front and back areas adds an element of mystery, perfectly aligning with the speakeasy concept without feeling overdone. The secluded back bar feels like the heart of the venue, where the atmosphere becomes even more immersive and intentional.
The space itself is designed to feel cozy and personal, steering clear of anything that might feel cold or impersonal. That said, it’s worth noting that as the bar fills up, the energy ramps up too. The lively buzz of conversation and the theatrical flair of the bartenders in action can make the space quite animated. For those seeking a quieter evening, the peak hours might feel a bit overwhelming. However, for many, this vibrant energy is part of what makes the experience so memorable.
Every detail of the ambiance is carefully curated, and it’s matched by a team of experts who elevate the experience with their craft.
Bartender Knowledge and Presentation
The bartenders at Handshake Speakeasy, led by the talented Javier Rodríguez, bring cocktail-making to an entirely new level. Their approach isn’t just about mixing ingredients - it’s an art form, executed with the precision and creativity of a chef.
What sets them apart is their eagerness to share their craft. They don’t just serve you a drink; they walk you through the story behind it, from the ingredients to the techniques they use. This isn’t done in a flashy or overwhelming way - it’s genuine passion that makes you savor the drink even more. They’ll explain details like dilution, temperature, and timing, turning each cocktail into a mini-lesson in mixology. Watching them work feels like witnessing a carefully choreographed performance, where every step is deliberate and every detail matters.
The drinks themselves are served with impeccable timing - perfectly chilled or at the right temperature, depending on what the cocktail calls for. Garnishes aren’t just there for decoration; they’re thoughtfully chosen to enhance the drink’s flavor or aroma. The bartenders’ ability to articulate the reasoning behind each element transforms the experience into something more than just enjoying a drink - it becomes a moment to learn and connect.
The service strikes a perfect balance between professionalism and approachability. Whether you’re a cocktail aficionado eager to dive into the technical details or someone who just wants a great drink without any fuss, the staff tailors their approach to suit you. Rodrigo Urraca, who has played a key role in shaping the bar’s evolution, ensures that every guest is treated with the same level of care and attention.
This blend of technical expertise, warm hospitality, and a genuine willingness to share knowledge creates an experience that’s as unforgettable as the cocktails themselves.
Visitor Information
Hours and When to Visit
Handshake Speakeasy welcomes guests daily starting at 6:00 PM, with closing times varying throughout the week. Here's the breakdown:
Monday through Thursday: Closes at 1:00 AM
Friday and Saturday: Stays open until 2:00 AM
Sunday: Wraps up at midnight
Day | Operating Hours |
Monday | 6:00 PM - 1:00 AM |
Tuesday | 6:00 PM - 1:00 AM |
Wednesday | 6:00 PM - 1:00 AM |
Thursday | 6:00 PM - 1:00 AM |
Friday | 6:00 PM - 2:00 AM |
Saturday | 6:00 PM - 2:00 AM |
Sunday | 6:00 PM - 12:00 AM |
To avoid long waits, arriving early is key. For walk-ins, showing up right at opening time on a Saturday may result in a wait of less than 30 minutes, though this isn’t guaranteed. The bar's popularity often means that even early arrivals could face delays or find the venue fully booked. Weekdays (Monday through Thursday) tend to be slightly less busy, but making a reservation is always the safest bet.
Cocktail Prices
Cocktails at Handshake Speakeasy are priced between $12 and $20 (MXN 250–400). Each drink is paired with complimentary bar snacks, thoughtfully designed to elevate the tasting experience. For reference, enjoying three cocktails will cost around $36 to $60. Considering the bar has been recognized as the Best Bar in North America for 2025 by The World's 50 Best Bars, the pricing reflects not just the quality of the drinks but the overall experience.
Planning Your Visit
To make the most of your visit, planning ahead is crucial. Reservations through OpenTable are highly recommended, especially during peak hours, as slots fill up quickly.
A few key details to note:
Reservations are limited to 90 minutes, with last call typically 40 minutes before closing, giving you time for two to three cocktails.
Arrive a few minutes before your reservation; the staff strictly enforces the door policy and will check your booking before guiding you through the entrance.
Before heading out, double-check the bar's hours and reservation availability on OpenTable, as schedules can sometimes change.
With this information in hand, you're all set to enjoy the exceptional atmosphere and craft cocktails that make Handshake Speakeasy a standout destination.
Awards and Guest Feedback
Industry Awards and Press Coverage
Handshake Speakeasy has earned the coveted title of Best Bar in North America for 2025, awarded by The World's 50 Best Bars. This honor highlights the dedication and creativity of head bartender Javier Rodríguez and his team, who have consistently delivered exceptional craftsmanship.
In addition to this prestigious recognition, Handshake has been prominently featured in respected outlets like Travel + Leisure and Jigger Daily. These publications have spotlighted the bar's journey, often through interviews with Rodrigo Urraca, who has shared the story behind the bar's innovative, culinary-inspired approach to cocktails.
These accolades underscore Handshake's expertise and have cemented its reputation as a must-visit destination for cocktail enthusiasts from all over the globe. For anyone passionate about world-class mixology, Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City has become a name that stands out.
What Guests Say
The glowing reviews from guests further validate Handshake's acclaim. Visitors frequently commend the bar's inventive cocktails, the technical precision behind each drink, and the thoughtful addition of complimentary bar snacks. Every cocktail feels like an experience, blending education and artistry. The meticulous attention to detail - whether it's in the house-made tinctures or the expertly balanced flavors - consistently leaves a lasting impression.
Service also earns high praise, with many guests applauding the staff's attentiveness, expertise, and ability to create a warm, inviting atmosphere. Despite the bar's exclusive vibe, the team ensures a welcoming experience for all.
That said, some feedback highlights areas where opinions are divided. The pricing, ranging from $12 to $20 per cocktail, reflects the premium quality and international acclaim, but a few guests feel it's steep for Mexico City, even considering the exceptional experience. Another topic of debate is the strict door policy, which some appreciate for maintaining an exclusive atmosphere while others find frustrating, especially during peak hours when even reservations don't guarantee seamless entry.
The ambiance also garners mixed reactions. Many guests love the intimate and theatrical setting, but as the night progresses, the lively energy and higher noise levels can be a drawback for those seeking a quieter, more relaxed experience. While the vibrant atmosphere reflects the bar's popularity, it may not suit everyone.
Despite these occasional critiques, Handshake maintains strong ratings across platforms like OpenTable, TripAdvisor, and Google. Most visitors agree that the exceptional cocktails and unique experience more than make up for any minor inconveniences.
Conclusion
Handshake Speakeasy has firmly established itself as one of Mexico City's standout cocktail destinations, earning the title of Best Bar in North America for 2025. With head bartender Javier Rodríguez at the helm, the bar combines meticulous mixology with a touch of theatrical flair, creating an experience that feels both sophisticated and welcoming.
Yes, the strict door policy, required reservations, and cocktail prices ranging from $12–20 might not appeal to everyone. And the lively atmosphere may not suit those searching for a quiet escape. But these factors are all part of what makes Handshake Speakeasy so distinctive - it’s a place that prioritizes quality and exclusivity at every turn.
The glowing reviews from both guests and critics speak volumes about the experience Handshake delivers. From the attentive service to the inventive cocktail creations, every detail reflects a dedication to excellence. Whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or just in search of a memorable night out in Mexico City, Handshake Speakeasy is a destination that promises to impress. It’s a place where artistry and exclusivity come together to redefine what a cocktail experience can be.
FAQs
What makes the cocktails at Handshake Speakeasy unique?
The cocktails at Handshake Speakeasy are celebrated for their bold and unexpected flavor pairings, as well as the care that goes into making each one. These drinks aren't just mixed - they're crafted. Some recipes involve advanced methods and rare ingredients, with preparation times stretching up to 48 hours to achieve perfection.
What sets this bar apart is its on-site laboratory, where mixologists push boundaries by experimenting with fresh ideas. This commitment to creativity and precision has put Handshake Speakeasy on the global map, making it a bucket-list spot for anyone passionate about cocktails.
How can I secure a reservation at Handshake Speakeasy, and what happens if I arrive late?
To snag a spot at Handshake Speakeasy, your best bet is to book ahead on OpenTable, as spots can fill up quickly. This bar's popularity means reservations are highly recommended if you want to guarantee entry.
Running late? Don’t stress too much - Handshake Speakeasy gives you a 15-minute grace period. After that, your reservation might be marked as a no-show. So, make sure to arrive on time or give them a heads-up if you're held up.
What should I wear when visiting Handshake Speakeasy in Mexico City?
While Handshake Speakeasy doesn’t enforce a strict dress code, its refined and cozy ambiance naturally calls for dressing up a bit. Semi-formal or cocktail attire is a great choice to complement the elegant atmosphere. Wearing a polished, well-coordinated outfit will make you feel perfectly in sync with the sophisticated charm of the venue.
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