13 Authentic Mexican Drinks You Must Try!

Mexico is renowned not only for its rich cuisine, but also for its unique and flavorful beverages. Here are some authentic Mexican drinks that you must try to get a taste of the country’s vibrant culture and traditions:

Mezcal

A smoky, distilled alcoholic beverage made from the agave plant, like tequila, but with a broader variety of agave species and a different production method, giving it a unique flavor.

How to Enjoy: Sip it neat to appreciate its smoky flavor. It’s often served with orange slices and a chili salt mix called sal de gusano (worm salt).

Pro Tip: Try different varieties, such as Espadín, Tobalá, or Pechuga, to experience the range of flavors.

Tequila

A distilled spirit made from the blue agave plant, primarily produced in the region surrounding the city of Tequila in the state of Jalisco.

How to Enjoy: Often sipped neat or as a shot with salt and lime. It's also the main ingredient in margaritas.

Pro Tip: Look for “100% agave” on the label for the best quality tequila.

Pulque

A traditional, milky-white alcoholic beverage made from the fermented sap of the agave plant, predating the arrival of the Spanish.

How to Enjoy: Served fresh and often flavored with fruits like guava, mango, or pineapple.

Pro Tip: Visit a pulquería (pulque bar) in Mexico City or Hidalgo to taste the freshest pulque.

Atole

A warm, thick beverage made from masa (corn dough), water or milk, and flavored with vanilla, cinnamon, and piloncillo (unrefined cane sugar).

How to Enjoy: Traditionally served during breakfast or alongside tamales, especially during holidays and celebrations.

Pro Tip: Try different flavors like chocolate (known as champurrado), strawberry, or pumpkin.

Agua de Jamaica

A refreshing iced tea made from dried hibiscus flowers, known for its tart and slightly sweet flavor.

How to Enjoy: Served cold, often with added sugar and a squeeze of lime.

Pro Tip: Rich in antioxidants, it’s a healthy alternative to sugary soft drinks.

Agua de Horchata

A sweet, milky drink made from rice, almonds, cinnamon, and vanilla. It's a refreshing beverage served chilled.

How to Enjoy: A great accompaniment to spicy street food, providing a cooling effect.

Pro Tip: Look for freshly made versions rather than bottled ones for an authentic taste.

Michelada

A beer cocktail made with beer, lime juice, assorted sauces (often Worcestershire, soy, or hot sauce), spices, and sometimes tomato juice. It’s served in a salt-rimmed glass.

How to Enjoy: Perfect for a hot day or as a refreshing drink at the beach.

Pro Tip: Experiment with different combinations of sauces and spices to find your favorite michelada style.

Rompope

A creamy, eggnog-like beverage made with milk, eggs, sugar, and flavored with vanilla, cinnamon, and rum or brandy.

How to Enjoy: Served chilled, often as a dessert drink during festive occasions like Christmas.

Pro Tip: Originally from Puebla, some of the best rompope comes from convents where it’s made traditionally.

Tepache

A mildly alcoholic drink made from fermented pineapple peels, sweetened with piloncillo, and often flavored with cinnamon.

How to Enjoy: Served chilled, usually in a large glass, perfect for a refreshing and slightly effervescent drink.

Pro Tip: Pair it with tacos or other street foods for a traditional Mexican experience.

Cerveza Artesanal (Craft Beer)

While Mexico is famous for brands like Corona and Modelo, the craft beer scene is booming, with unique local brews that often incorporate Mexican ingredients and flavors.

How to Enjoy: Visit a craft brewery or beer bar in cities like Mexico City, Guadalajara, or Tijuana to sample a variety.

Pro Tip: Look for beers flavored with ingredients like chocolate, chili, or agave for a unique twist.

Ponche Navideño

A traditional Christmas punch made with fruits such as tejocote, guava, apple, tamarind, and spices like cinnamon and cloves. It’s sometimes spiked with rum or brandy.

How to Enjoy: Served warm, it's a festive drink perfect for holiday gatherings.

Pro Tip: Make it at home during the holiday season to experience the full flavor and aroma of the spiced fruits.

Café de Olla

Traditional Mexican coffee brewed with cinnamon and piloncillo (unrefined sugar). It’s typically prepared in a clay pot, which adds a distinctive flavor.

How to Enjoy: Best sipped hot, perfect for a morning pick-me-up or with breakfast.

Pro Tip: Visit local cafes or markets to enjoy a fresh cup made the traditional way.

Carajillo

A coffee cocktail made with espresso and Licor 43, a sweet Spanish liqueur flavored with vanilla and citrus. It’s a modern twist on Mexican coffee drinks.

How to Enjoy: Served over ice, usually after a meal or as a late-night drink.

Pro Tip: Ask for a shaken carajillo to get a frothy texture on top.

These drinks showcase the diverse flavors and cultural heritage of Mexico, offering something for every palate, whether you prefer something sweet, smoky, or refreshing. Enjoying these beverages is a delicious way to immerse yourself in Mexican culture!