Dallas, known for its vibrant culinary scene, now boasts a new claim to fame with the inclusion of Ayahuasca Cantina on Esquire’s prestigious list of the best bars in America. Tucked away behind the unassuming facade of Xamán Cafe on Jefferson Boulevard in Oak Cliff, Ayahuasca Cantina offers a unique and immersive drinking experience that rivals its counterparts across the nation.
Described as a “moody mezcal bar in Mexico City” by writer Omar Mamoon, Ayahuasca Cantina exudes an air of mystery and allure. Despite its diminutive size, this hidden gem captures the essence of Mexican and Oaxacan culture, offering a curated selection of agave-based cocktails alongside sotol, rum, and whiskey concoctions. It’s not just a bar; it’s a journey into the heart of Mexico’s vibrant drinking culture.
Opened in 2020, Ayahuasca Cantina remains a well-kept secret, nestled down the hallway from its bustling coffee shop counterpart. According to former consulting chef Hugo Galvan, discovering the entrance feels akin to stumbling upon a hidden treasure. Once inside, patrons are greeted with a menu that reflects the rich culinary traditions of Mexico City and Oaxaca, featuring tantalizing dishes such as pork confit with salsa verde and bone marrow rib-eye tacos.
When it comes to libations, co-owner Mauricio Gallegos takes pride in crafting innovative cocktails that pay homage to traditional Mexican ingredients. The Ayahuasca, a signature drink made with mezcal, ginger, lime, and tepache—a pineapple-based fermentation—stands out as a crowd favorite. Equally impressive is the Pulqueloma, a cocktail infused with pulque, often revered as “the elixir of the gods.”
But how did Esquire uncover this hidden treasure? Mamoon explains, “We always try to seek out bars that are hidden and less obvious, as well as get recommendations from a city’s bar community.” Ayahuasca Cantina caught Mamoon’s attention during his research, and a local bartender’s recommendation sealed the deal.
With Ayahuasca Cantina now in the spotlight, reservations are becoming increasingly coveted. Whether you’re planning a night out or seeking a unique brunch experience, Ayahuasca Cantina promises an unforgettable journey into the heart of Mexican hospitality and culinary artistry.
As Esquire’s list extends its gaze to Texas, three more notable bars in Houston’s Montrose neighborhood make the cut. From the natural wine haven of Light Years to the sophisticated ambiance of Refuge, Texas continues to solidify its position as a destination for discerning cocktail enthusiasts.
So, whether you’re exploring the hidden alleys of Dallas or embarking on a bar crawl through Houston’s Montrose, one thing is clear: the best bars in America await your discovery.
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