5 Atlanta Spots For Mezcal Lovers
Written by Alana Ramsammy
We’ve fallen in love with the smoky intensity of mezcal–the perfect complement to any meal! And if you want to dig into more Latin inspired fare, check out our sister site, Pruebalo.us
Bone Garden Cantina
Owners of Atlanta’s Bone Garden, Kristen and Michel Benoit, no doubt have a passion for agave based spirits! After visiting the Mezcal capital of the world located in Oaxaca, Mexico, the pair brought back with them the knowledge of production and appreciation for the spirits they serve daily. The cantina offers a Smoked Pear Mezcal and tequila based cocktail guaranteed to impress. The cocktail’s combination of the mellow notes from the pair and bright flavor from the addition of fresh lime juice and apple bitters are a match made in Bone Garden Heaven!
Buena Vida Tapas
Avoid the headache of passport lines and take a trip with your taste buds instead. Amazing views and delicious food. This Spanish inspired beachy venue is gives restaurant goers a chance to enjoy the exciting cuisine of southern spain from the comfort of northeast Atlanta. With ingredients sourced from Spain exclusively, Buena Vida distinguishes itself from the pack of tapas restaurants around town. The cocktails are influenced primarily by the flavors of southern Spain, but the Mezcal-Me Maybe on the menu features Bahnez Mezcal, ginger beer, pomegranate juice, candied ginger and lemon to keep things fresh and light!
Casi Cielo
Located in Sandy Springs, Casi Cielo, is the place for Atlanta’s mezcal fans. Casi Cielo offers Oaxaca inspired dishes coupled with the culinary traditions of Mexican cuisine more broadly using locally sourced ingredients. Casi Cielo possesses the largest selection of Mezcal in Atlanta with over 80 options to choose from, the cocktail possibilities are limitless. When stopping by, make sure to check out the Smokey Old Fashioned! This Old Fashion with a twist features Agave de Corrtez mezcal, bourbon and then garnished with the traditional old fashioned orange peel and cherry! The cocktail is served in a smoke filled dome that accentuates the already present smokieness of the mezcal. Casi Cielo is a mezcal bar you do not want to miss!
Chido & Padres
With decor as bright and vibrant of the beautiful flavor combinations at Chidos and Pandres, this restaurant embraces the traditions of Puebla, Oaxaca and Sinaloa regions of Mexico.With themed vegetable plates, homemade masa dishes, and more this spot will satisfy any and all empty stomachs. The food is incredible and the cocktails are no exception with assorted margaritas, wine, beer, spirits and mixed cocktails there are exciting options for everyone. The Mezcal options are plentiful with over 20 variations to choose from. As for mixed drinks, the El Bad Bunny is a spunk and tasteful choice. The Bad Bunny combines jugo de zanahoria (carrot juice) and naranja (orange juice) with Xicaru Mezcal and ginger for an added kick! If you are looking for a Mezcal spot with an extra touch of flavor this is your place.
Mezcalito’s
Mezcalito’s is Grant Park’s very own taste of innovative and authentic Mexican cuisine. Mezcalitos offers an extensive array of traditional dishes such as Tamales, Chilaquiles, Red Pork Mole and more. Just when you thought things couldn’t get any better Mezcalito’s reels you in with a drink menu bursting with flavor! The restaurant offers mezcal mules, mezcal’ritas, Mezcal Old Fashioned and a boozy twist on the Spanish traditional christmas drink Coquito. The Mezcal Coquito cuts the richness of the creamy coconut and enhances the aromatic flavors of the nutmeg and cinnamon present with it. With authentic staples like these, Mezcalito’s is definitely worth a visit!
