The Top 5 Bars in Oaxaca: A Mezcal Lover’s Guide to the City’s Best Spots
Oaxaca is a city full of life, especially when the sun goes down. Here, you’ll find bars for everyone—whether you want something chic and stylish or a place where you can relax and feel at home.
Some bars are perfect for a fun night out, while others are all about kicking back and enjoying good company. But one thing they all have in common is great mezcal, the local spirit that’s a must-try in Oaxaca.
And if you are looking for more things to do in this amazing city, don’t forget to check out My Ultimate Guide of Oaxaca, where I give you the 31 best things to do in Oaxaca!
Are you ready to discover the best bars in Oaxaca? Let’s get started!
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1. Sabina Sabe
Sabina Sabe is the place to be for great drinks and a friendly vibe. The young crew here knows their mezcal inside out. They’re super friendly and love to chat about it, so don’t be shy to ask questions!
Their cocktails are something special, both with and without alcohol, and they’re known for mixing them just right.
If you’re looking for a recommendation, try the Jamaicon—it’s a mezcal drink with a spicy kick from hibiscus flowers. Or if you want something cool and fresh, go for the Refresque Limonede, with lemon, herbs, and a fizz of soda.
And the food is just as impressive as the drinks. I had their tacos de lechon recently, and wow, they were delicious! I’ve been eating my way around Mexico for five years, so trust me, these tacos are top-notch!
After my visits, it’s no surprise to me that Sabina Sabe has earned international awards. They’re doing something really special here.
2. Mezcalogia
Mezcalogia is the cozy corner of Oaxaca where the night comes alive with friends, fine mezcal, and sometimes, live music. It’s snug, it’s intimate, and it’s the kind of place that makes you want to stay a while.
Here, mezcal isn’t just served; it’s celebrated with a collection that’s seriously impressive.
And it’s not just mezcal, either—they’ve got all sorts of Mexican spirits like rum, vodka, and whiskey. The bartender? He’s not just pouring drinks; he’s sharing his passion for mezcal, ready to answer all your queries with a smile.
When I walked in, the first thing I spotted was a couple deep in a mezcal tasting session, which says a lot about this place. And if you’re up for a real adventure, they organize tours to a palenque too. Definitely get in touch with them if that’s your kind of thing.
Mezcalogia’s got that magic touch that’s earned them a loyal following. It’s easy to see why it’s a favorite for locals and travelers alike.
3. La Selva Oaxaca Cocktail Bar
Stepping into La Selva is like taking a step back in time, right into the heart of the early 20th century, which is probably why I was instantly charmed. Its ambiance whispers tales of the 1920s to 1940s, reminiscent of an Agatha Christie novel.
With its elegant mix of plants, velvet, and leather, La Selva oozes class and style. It’s easy to imagine a character like Hercule Poirot sipping on his black currant liqueur in the corner, mulling over a mystery.
However, unlike the classic detective’s traditional tastes, the cocktails at La Selva are far from ordinary.
As I sat at the bar, the enticing aroma of fresh passion fruit filled the air. The bar showcases a treasure trove of local ingredients sourced from various Oaxacan communities, along with house-made bitters. Their mole amargo is a standout, offering a unique taste of the region.
And don’t miss the balcony view – it’s a stunning backdrop for photos and a perfect way to remember a night spent at this enchanting spot.
4. El Espacio Cocktail Bar
El Espacio Cocktail Bar is a spot where creativity shines, both in the atmosphere and in the glass. The decor is as unique as the drinks they serve, making every visit a great experience.
They really know how to add a playful touch to their cocktails. Take, for instance, the time my drink arrived adorned with an image that took me a moment to place—it was none other than Salma Hayek in her iconic role from ‘From Dusk Till Dawn‘. It’s these small, fun details that make El Espacio stand out.
This is the place to go when you’re in the mood for something different and exciting.
- Reforma 502a, RUTA INDEPENDENCIA, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax.
5. Amá Terraza
Amá Terraza sits atop one of Oaxaca’s oldest buildings, sharing its space with the charming Muss Café.
The atmosphere here is laid back yet chic, perfect for catching a beautiful sunset.
As the sun dips below the horizon, the terrace is the ideal setting to enjoy a signature cocktail. I sampled their Cocktail of the House with lemon juice, pennyroyal reduction, and a hint of morita chili oil.
Although the drink was nice, what really makes Amá Terraza shine is the atmosphere — it’s an unbeatable place to just be and take in the relaxed essence of Oaxaca.
- Miguel Hidalgo 911, Centro, 68000 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax.
Map: Best Bars in Oaxaca
Here are all the best bars of Oaxaca that I mentioned in the article:
Experiences for Mezcal Lovers
To deepen your knowledge of mezcal, you can also join this amazing mezcal tour (click here to book!) that takes you to an agave plantation and two mezcal distilleries, where you can learn about the mezcal making process and taste different high quality products.
Or join this mezcal tasting experience (click here to book!) that includes 3 wild mezcal varieties, each with a distinct flavor and aroma. You’ll also discover how agave is cultivated and turned into mezcal, and how this influences the outcome.
Where to Stay in Oaxaca – The Best Hotels in Oaxaca
- Viajero Oaxaca Hostel: A vibrant, social hostel with dorm beds from $19 and private rooms from $62. Highlights include a fun atmosphere, an amazing rooftop bar, and many tours and activities. It’s my top choice in Oaxaca, ideal for solo travelers and those looking to connect with others while exploring the city!
- NaNa Vida Hotel Oaxaca: A welcoming hotel perfect for families, with rooms starting at $142 per night. Highlights include a family-friendly atmosphere, vibrant decor, and a central location near all the main sights. It’s an ideal, affordable base for families exploring Oaxaca.
- Hotel Azul de Oaxaca: This boutique 4-star hotel, just a short walk from Santo Domingo Church, offers stylish rooms with a blend of contemporary design and traditional Mexican flair, starting at $305 per night. Highlights include a rooftop bar with stunning views, a delicious breakfast, an on-site restaurant, and a café serving freshly baked bread!
- Quinta Real Oaxaca: Located in a former convent from the 16th century, 500 meters from Santo Domingo Church and 700 meters from the Zocalo. Elegant room and romantic atmosphere, from 400 $usd per night. Strong points: the stunning architecture, the outdoor pool, the gourmet restaurant. This is my choice for a luxury stay in Oaxaca!
Rent a car in Mexico
Renting a car is for sure the best way to explore Oaxaca and make the most of your stay!
To rent a car, personally, I always use Booking.com Cars, for a few reasons:
- You can easily compare the rental cars prices between all the agencies: for sure the easiest way to find the best rate!
- Cancellation is often offered free of charge: no need to worry if you change your mind
- Booking Cars offers full insurance coverage at a lower price than the rental companies, so it’s an instant saving with no effort
Simply click on the green button to find your rental car at the best price:
How to find a cheap flight to Oaxaca
The airport in Oaxaca is also called Xoxocotlán International Airport. It offers domestic and international flights to places like Mexico City, Tijuana, Guadalajara, Dallas/Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Cancun, Merida, Guatemala City and more.
If you want to find a cheap flight to Oaxaca I suggest you use our flight comparison tool in partnership with Skyscanner. It will get you the best deal for sure!
🚗 Rent a car
🗽 Book entrance tickets and guided visits
🏄 Book your sports activities
🌍 Take a travel insurance
🙎 Book a tour
✈️ Book your flight
You’re traveling in Mexico? These articles will help you!
Discover all my articles about Mexico: All my articles to help you plan your trip to Mexico are listed there.
- Oaxaca: Top 31 Things To Do and Must-See Attractions!
- 1 Day in Oaxaca – A Quick-Start Itinerary
- 2 Days in Oaxaca – Exploring the Essential Highlights
- 3 Days in Oaxaca – The Complete Itinerary to See Everything!
- Where to Stay in Oaxaca: Complete Guide to the Best Hotels
- Monte Alban: what you should know before you go
- Oaxaca: the 7 Best Coffee Shops You Have to Visit
- Day of the Dead (Mexico): How to Celebrate Día de Muertos Like a Local
- Itinerary: 8-10 days in Mexico – From Mexico City to Oaxaca
- Itinerary: 10 days in Mexico – Mexico City, Chiapas and Yucatan
- Itinerary: 2 weeks in Mexico – Best itinerary to discover the Yucatan Peninsula and Chiapas!
- Itinerary: 3 weeks in Mexico – Mexico City, Puebla, Oaxaca, Chiapas, Campeche, Yucatán and Riviera Maya
- Itinerary: 1 month in Mexico – My Epic 30-31 Days Itinerary from Mexico City to Cancun
- Road trip in Mexico: The best itineraries for 10, 15, 21 days and a month
- Itinerary: 1 week in Yucatan – The Ultimate 6, 7 or 8 days Itinerary
- Itinerary: 10 days in Yucatan – Best Itinerary for 9, 10 or 11 Days in Yucatan
- Itinerary: 2 weeks in Yucatan – Epic Itinerary + All my Best Tips!
- Itinerary: 3 weeks in Yucatan – Best things to do in 20-21 days
- Itinerary: 1 month in Yucatan – Yucatan Peninsula in 29, 30 or 31 days from Cancun
- Road trip in Yucatan: The best itineraries for 7, 10, 15, 21 days and 1 month
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