By Amy G. Rothlin
Fond memories flood back whenever I think of La Mezcalería, a pioneer of the mezcal local scene that debuted nine years ago on Correo Street, I remember their Chile Güero Mezcalita it was like nothing I'd ever tasted before. I'm thrilled to report that La Mezcaleria has reopened in a new location in the former home of Venencia on Zacateros. They've merged concepts to create an even more enticing experience.
If you are craving a laid-back evening with friends or perhaps a casual vibe for date night, La Mezcalería delivers. Their intimate setting ensures a cozy atmosphere ideal for enjoying a summer night of delicious bites and a unique selection of one of Mexico's most emblematic elixirs – mezcal.
I am grateful for Oaxaca and its flavorful essence, I am also grateful for Mario Iribe, Chef and co-owner, for allowing us to savor its ingredients and the love for his land through his creations here in San Miguel. Originally from Juchitán, Mario honed his culinary skills in Oaxaca before opening Salón Oaxaca. Today, we are lucky to enjoy Mario’s flavor-soul creations at la Mezcaleria, and dear Insiders’ there is more, he also offers private Mezcal tastings, a “complete sensory immersion” in his words, where you will be able to delve into the enchanting world of the mystical spirit of mezcal.
The ever-evolving menu features a contemporary tapestry take on Mexican cuisine where sharing is encouraged. Vegetarian, vegan, and meat options cater to diverse palates. The guacamole with chapulines (grasshoppers sauteed with olive oil, onion-garlic confit, and dry chili mix) or the grilled cauliflower and broccoli with zesty hoja santa-epazote pesto dip and jocoque make the perfect appetizer.
A La Mezcalería must-try is the tlayuda (picture what is also kindly known as the "Mexican pizza"), a large-size crispy tortilla layered with black beans, cheese, lettuce and your choice of protein: Tasajo (Oaxacan dry-cured meat), sirloin al Chintextle (Pasilla chili paste), Cecina Enchilada (adobo-marinated thin and salted meat), or the vegetarian Maria Sabina (huitlachoche mushrooms in garlic and Guajillo chili sauce). My absolute star is the Pork Belly dish with rich, homemade Oaxacan mole, aged for two weeks before serving, the taste will wow you! Top off the evening with their selection of tempting desserts with that Oaxacan twist, like the delectable ‘Not a Cheesecake’. We will certainly be back to explore the rest of the menu.
The beverage selection is a highlight. They offer a delicious variety of mezcalitas and their take on mezcalgroni. We recommend trying the Mexican spirit flights or the rare and wild Arroqueño mezcal to open your appetite. Beyond agave spirits, you can also explore their selection of refreshing pre-Hispanic soft drinks like Pinole, Pozol, and Tejate.
La Mezcalería is located in the heart of Zacateros at 81B. A parking lot is available nearby. Hours are Monday to Saturday, 5:00 P.M. to 11:00 P.M. Occasional live music adds to the cool vibe. Learn more about Mario's mezcal tastings or make a reservation (recommended) at www.lamezcaleriasma.com – If you are looking for a unique group activity as a chance to create lasting memories, Mario offers a 10% discount on mezcal tastings for groups of six or more.
If you wish to invite the San Miguel Taste Insiders Team to visit your place, please contact Amy: amy.grothlin@gmail.comand follow on Instagram @sanmigueltaste
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