Tequila and mezcal have become much more than just base spirits for cocktails; they are now revered for their depth, complexity, and cultural significance. Across the USA, a growing number of bars are dedicated to showcasing the craftsmanship behind these agave spirits. Whether you’re in the mood for a classic margarita, an adventurous mezcal flight, or a rare bottle to savor, these top tequila and mezcal bars deliver. Here’s a guide to some of the best places to sip agave spirits, from coast to coast.

1. Bakan – Miami, FL

Bakan offers an immersive mezcal experience in Miami’s vibrant Wynwood neighborhood. With over 200 mezcals from ten Mexican states, Bakan is a treasure trove for mezcal enthusiasts. Its signature Mezcal Margarita and curated mezcal flights make it a standout spot for discovering this smoky spirit. The vibrant Oaxacan-inspired dishes, like escamoles, perfectly complement the rich mezcal offerings.

Image Credits: Bakan

2. Bar Sótano – Chicago, IL

This late-night speakeasy from celebrated chef Rick Bayless specializes in agave spirits and modern Mexican bar food. Bar Sótano’s cocktail menu is inspired by Mexico’s traditional markets, and features house-blended mezcals. Its chic, underground setting makes it a must-visit for anyone seeking craft cocktails with a focus on mezcal and tequila.

Image Credits: Bar Sótano

3. Mezcalería Tobalá at Whisler’s – Austin, TX 

A hidden gem tucked above Whisler’s bar, Mezcalería Tobalá offers a curated mezcal menu, with pours served in clay copitas or veladora glasses. Sip on small-batch mezcals from renowned producers while enjoying mezcal-infused chocolates for a truly unique experience in Austin’s eclectic nightlife scene.

Image Credits: Mezcalería Tobalá at Whisler’s

4. Mezcalito – San Francisco, CA 

At Mezcalito, the mezcal altar of 100+ bottles sets the tone for a journey into the world of agave spirits. Try their custom mezcal tastings or drop by for Tequila Tuesday to dive into tequila-based cocktails. With its dynamic setting and passionate bartenders, Mezcalito offers an educational yet fun drinking experience.

Image Credits: Mezcalito

5. La Doña Mezcaleria – Denver, CO

La Doña is a mezcal lover's paradise, offering themed tasting nights featuring bottles curated around regions or mezcaleros. Whether you’re sipping under the Colorado sun on the patio or enjoying a cozy night inside, this Denver hotspot delivers both atmosphere and variety with its extensive mezcal menu.

Image Credits: La Doña Mezcaleria

6. Guelaguetza – Los Angeles, CA

This iconic Oaxacan restaurant is known for its mezcal collection, which evolves seasonally and is exclusive to the venue. Guelaguetza’s expert staff guide guests through mezcal tastings, which are paired with traditional Oaxacan dishes like mole and sal de chapulines. It’s a prime spot to dive deep into mezcal culture.

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7. Damian – Los Angeles, CA

Chef Enrique Olvera’s sleek, modern Mexican restaurant in LA also houses an impressive mezcal collection. Damian's mezcal flights, featuring seasonal and small-batch bottles, offer guests the chance to explore nuanced differences in flavor based on production techniques. Try the frozen yuzu margarita for a refreshing take on mezcal cocktails.

Image Credits: Damian

8. Maestro – Pasadena, CA 

Maestro boasts over 250 tequila and mezcal bottles, with expert recommendations to match your taste. The bar also features inventive cocktails like the Campfire mezcal negroni. With live mariachi on Thursdays and a vibrant food menu, Maestro is a top spot for agave spirits in Old Pasadena.

Image Credits: Maestro

9. Barcoa Agaveria – Phoenix, AZ 

Barcoa offers a dual experience with its lively cantina upstairs and a more intimate, reservation-only mezcal bar downstairs. Known for its focus on education, Barcoa’s bartenders provide in-depth knowledge on tequila and mezcal, making it the perfect spot for both newcomers and aficionados.

Image Credits: Barcoa Agaveria

10. Madre Oaxacan Restaurant & Mezcaleria – Los Angeles, CA 

Home to over 500 mezcal bottles, Madre is a love letter to Oaxaca. Guests can explore mezcal through custom flights, including one highlighting bottles exclusive to the restaurant. With agave spirits from 15 Mexican states, Madre stands as a leading destination for mezcal in the U.S.

Also Read: Mezcal's Evolution in the Spirits World Plus the Top 15 Mezcals for Bartenders

11. Adiós – Birmingham, AL Adiós – Birmingham, AL 

Adiós started as a margarita bar but expanded its concept to feature a diverse selection of Mexican-inspired cocktails. Its creative drinks, combined with a laid-back atmosphere, make it a popular choice for those seeking tequila and mezcal in Birmingham.

Image Credits: Adiós

12. La Piña – Milwaukee, WI 

Opened in 2023, La Piña is Milwaukee’s go-to tequila bar, offering over 70 tequilas and a robust mezcal selection. Its welcoming ambiance, tequila tasting events, and knowledgeable staff make it an excellent spot for agave lovers in Wisconsin.

Image Credits: La Piña

13. Mama Rabbit – Las Vegas, NV 

Located in Park MGM, Mama Rabbit boasts the largest selection of tequilas and mezcals in Las Vegas. The vibrant 4,400-square-foot space, live entertainment, and a multi-page menu dedicated to agave spirits make Mama Rabbit an unforgettable drinking destination.

Image Credits: Mama Rabbit

14. La Cava del Tequila – Orlando, FL

Tucked away inside Epcot at Disney World, La Cava del Tequila offers one of the most extensive tequila collections in the U.S. With over 200 tequilas, this unique location provides guests with tequila tastings led by certified experts, adding a sophisticated touch to the theme park experience.

Image Credits: La Cava del Tequila

15. Ámbar Restaurante – El Paso, TX 

Boasting around 800 agave spirits, Ámbar is home to the largest collection in North America. Located in the historic Plaza Hotel, this luxurious bar offers an unparalleled selection of tequilas and mezcals, paired perfectly with its upscale Mexican cuisine.

Image Credits: Ámbar Restaurante

16. Chispa – Napa, CA 

As Napa’s first dedicated tequila bar, Chispa takes center stage with its impressive selection of 80 tequilas and 40 mezcals. Its creative cocktail list, developed by bar director Marco Garcia, blends classic agave drinks with innovative twists, making it a standout in California’s wine country.

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17. The Pony Room – San Diego, CA 

The Pony Room at Rancho Valencia Resort offers a luxurious setting for tequila lovers. With its expansive tequila list, including house barrel-aged spirits and inventive cocktails like the 'Palomino,' this equestrian-themed bar is a standout destination for craft tequila cocktails.

Image Credits: The Pony Room

Whether you’re a seasoned aficionado or just beginning to explore the world of tequila and mezcal, these bars across the USA offer exceptional experiences. From intimate mezcalerias to sprawling tequila bars, each venue brings its own flavor, education, and passion for Mexico’s iconic spirits. So grab a glass, sip slowly, and enjoy the journey through the rich and diverse world of agave.

Header image sourced from La Doña Mezcaleria.

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