Mexico City is full of surprises at every turn. It’s what makes the capital city so magical, discovering new gems is an almost daily occurrence. This go around, we found Xaman, a bar in the Juarez neighborhood that on one hand is well-hidden and at the same time is a totally integrated in the megalopolis. If you look closely, you’ll see the sign at the bottom of the stairs.
This place stands alone from the rest of the street and is decorated with a desert theme and a shaman motif. It’s not your average Mexico City speakeasy either, with its peculiarly chill vibe and unique bar. You can head the lounge music in the background and the dim-lighting is akin to that of a spiritual cave retreat. There’s a rich collection of ingredients on the bar; vials of fragrant and aromatic tinctures and tonics. The mixologists here are French, Spanish, Mexican and English and they are true shamans of their trade, using their shakers and other tools to prepare mystifying and intense concoctions.
The libations are usually of a Mexican base, like Xoconostle, agave syrup, manzano peppers, hoja santa or guava. We suggest the Piedra del Mar, made with gin, wacame seaweed, Galiano, lime juice, Xoconostle, and lemon tea. It’s intrepid and balanced. There’s the Almond Old Fashioned, too, a take on the classic with bourbon, amaretto, agave syrup and angostura bitters.
There’s mezcal, spirits, craft beer, digestives, and liqueurs. Also, the cocktails are all served in a bigger size that’s meant to be shared or a smaller individual portion, 600ml and 360ml, respectively. To soak up the drinks, the bar offers a cheese and charcuterie tray.
Xaman is the eclectic offering that attracts a diverse clientele both local and foreign. Usually, the type of individual that is eager to discover the hidden gems of the city and have typically landed in Xaman as per a rumor or local tip. This is a spot to come thirsty and leave enchanted.