Hanky Panky Speakeasy Bar
Mexico City is known for its vibrant nightlife and diverse culinary scene, offering a plethora of options for those seeking unique and memorable experiences. An establishment that has captured the attention of locals and travelers alike is Hanky Panky, a speakeasy bar hiding in plain sight in the heart of the city.
Location and Ambiance
Located just a stone’s throw away from the iconic Angel of Independence monument, Hanky Panky is a hidden gem that evokes the spirit of the Prohibition era. Once you enter a small, vividly-painted street-food style stall, you’ll head towards the kitchen, then go through a secret passageway where an employee will greet you and flip open a false wall to let you in. The speakeasy vibe is immediately apparent as you step inside, with dimmed red lights, vintage decor, and a subtle jazz soundtrack that transports you back in time.
Awards and Recognitions
Hanky Panky has earned its fair share of accolades in the competitive world of mixology winning Michter’s Art of Hospitality Award 2022 and a space on both North America’s and the World’s 50 Best Bars lists. Despite its secretive entrance and underground atmosphere, word of mouth has brought fame to this hidden gem.
Cocktails: Good, but Not Great
One of the main attractions at Hanky Panky is, of course, its cocktail menu, which offers a diverse selection of concoctions that pay homage to classic cocktails while incorporating modern twists. The bartenders at Hanky Panky are undoubtedly skilled. When it comes to taste, however, the cocktails tend to fall short of the high expectations I had having heard from friends who had visited. Ultimately, I found the drinks to be a bit underwhelming in terms of flavour and presentation. I only visited once, so maybe it was an off night, but I felt like the cocktails were not well-balanced and ultimately weren’t as creative as other well-respected establishments a short walking distance away.
Payment Policy: Cash-Only
As you indulge in your carefully crafted cocktails, you’ll need to make sure you have enough cash on hand to settle your bill. I hadn’t had any trouble paying with my card throughout most of the city, but even though other tables were paying with cards, as foreigners they demanded that we pay with cash (with a recommendation to tip handsomely, which I found a bit gauche after lackluster service). It’s important to come prepared if you plan to enjoy an evening at Hanky Panky without any payment-related surprises.
Staff: A Mixed Bag
The staff at Hanky Panky can be a mixed bag, with some patrons praising their attentiveness and knowledge of the menu, while others (like us) have encountered less-than-friendly service. While waiting over an hour to get a table (we arrived without a reservation – be sure to make a reservation), we bought a round of beers for the bar and made friends with others who were waiting for a table. The atmosphere upstairs was relaxed and enjoyable, but pulled a total 180 once we arrived in the cocktail bar itself. Some visitors may appreciate the (let’s be kind here) “aloofness” as part of the overall experience. Others, like myself, find it off-putting. For those seeking a warm and welcoming service, make sure to set some realistic expectations before entering Hanky Panky’s hidden world.
Should You Visit Hanky Panky?
Hanky Panky is undoubtedly a unique and intriguing speakeasy bar nestled in the heart of Mexico City. Its clandestine location, vintage ambiance, and creative cocktails make it a destination worth exploring. However, it’s crucial to be aware of certain aspects that set it apart from more conventional bars.
The cocktails at Hanky Panky may not deliver the taste experience that discerning patrons seek. The cash-only payment policy adds a layer of inconvenience that should be planned for in advance. Lastly, the staff’s demeanor can vary, with some visitors appreciating the mysterious atmosphere they contribute to and others desiring a more friendly and welcoming approach.
In the end, Hanky Panky offers a one-of-a-kind experience that appeals to those seeking a sense of adventure in CDMX. If you’re willing to embrace its quirks and appreciate the ambiance, it can be a memorable stop on your exploration of Mexico City’s vibrant nightlife scene. Whether you leave Hanky Panky enamored with its mystique or wishing for a bit more warmth, one thing is for sure – you’ll have checked off another of North America/ the World’s 50 Best Bars on your trip.
https://www.tiktok.com/@thatgirlcartier/video/7052832202152824070?_t=8gB93eCsbLC&_r=1