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Koko Miami and Bakan: Mezcal Meccas
Credit: Koko by Bakan
For a true mezcal experience, look no further than Koko Miami and Bakan. These restaurants, led by mezcal expert Lalo Durazo, are celebrated for their extensive mezcal selections, offering a unique opportunity to explore this storied spirit.
“Mezcal is truly one of the most authentic spirits, having been produced in Mexico since pre-Hispanic times. It's unique in that it still follows the same traditional, labor-intensive process today. Unlike mass-produced spirits, mezcal’s small-scale production allows each step to remain essential and ancestral, preserving its rich heritage. The natural fermentation, without any added agents to accelerate the process, makes mezcal one of the purest beverages you can drink. For someone new to mezcal, I’d recommend starting with one from Oaxaca, where the diverse types of agave create a broad range of flavors to explore.” – Lalo Durazo, Partner at Bakan and Koko in Miami.
One of the must-try cocktails at Koko is the Figure It Out, a bold yet balanced concoction of mezcal, fig, and ginger puree, finished with a bright splash of lemon juice. The combination of the smoky mezcal and the sweet fig is a perfect introduction to the spirit for newcomers.
The Oaxacan Old Fashioned is another fan favorite. This drink blends reposado tequila, mezcal, and Mexican xocolat bitters with guajillo cinnamon syrup, creating a smoky and spicy twist on a classic cocktail.