At Mestiza, mixology is much more than just a drink; it is a cultural experience that celebrates the deep roots of Latin American traditions. From ancient rituals of pre-Hispanic civilizations to the colonial influences that shaped our most iconic beverages, every cocktail at Mestiza honors the history and cultural richness of Latin America.
Pre-Hispanic Mixology: An Ancestral Journey
Inca and Mexica cultures, along with other pre-Hispanic civilizations, had a spiritual connection with nature and the earth. Ingredients such as agave, corn, honey, and tropical fruits were sacred in their rituals. At Mestiza, this heritage is reflected in every cocktail. Our mixology menu is inspired by these ancestral ingredients, elevating their flavors to new heights while staying true to their origins.
For instance, the Chaski cocktail combines pisco and yellow Chartreuse with pineapple and agave honey, evoking the fresh and exotic flavors of the Peruvian jungle. This cocktail is not only a tribute to the Incan messengers but also transports the guest to the ancient Andean lands with each sip.
The Fusion of Cultures in Every Drink
The arrival of Europeans to the Americas brought with it a blend of ingredients and techniques that gave rise to a unique fusion. Drinks like mezcal, tepache, and rum are a reflection of this cultural encounter. At Mestiza, we celebrate this diversity in our mixology.
The Tepache Twist, for example, is a drink that combines charanda (a traditional Mexican distilled spirit) with pineapple and tepache liqueur. This blend honors the mestizo heritage that characterizes Latin American cuisine and beverages while adding a contemporary touch.
Native Ingredients: The Essence of Mixology at Mestiza
One of the pillars of our mixology is the use of native Latin American ingredients. Hoja santa, kiwi, cacao, ají, and aromatic herbs are some of the key elements that bring our creations to life. These ingredients not only offer unique flavors but also connect with ancestral culinary practices.
In the Selva Verde cocktail, the combination of cachaça with Ancho Reyes Verde and hoja santa pays homage to the herbal and spicy flavors of traditional cuisine. This fusion of the old and the new is what defines Mestiza’s mixology.
A Ritual in Every Cocktail
For pre-Hispanic cultures, rituals were essential to connect with the gods and nature. The Influence of Latin Traditions in Mestiza's Mixology has brought this concept to our bar, where each cocktail is a kind of modern ritual. From preparation to presentation, our cocktails are designed to offer a complete sensory experience.
The Inti Pachamama cocktail is a perfect example of how mixology can evoke an ancestral ritual. Inspired by the Incan sun god Inti and the earth mother goddess Pachamama, this cocktail made with tequila, sake, and pineapple is designed to connect our guests with nature and the Andean worldview.
The Influence of Latin Traditions in Mestiza's Mixology
At Mestiza, we take pride in being a space where history and innovation meet in every drink. Our goal is for each cocktail to not only be delicious but also tell a story. Latin traditions are present in every ingredient, technique, and concept behind our mixology, making each drink a celebration of our roots.
If you’re looking for an experience that connects you with the essence of Latin American cultures, you can’t miss trying our cocktail menu. Each sip is an opportunity to travel back in time and enjoy the best of our traditions in a contemporary version.