Mexico City, a metropolis known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant nightlife, and delectable cuisine, is also home to a popular cocktail that has been tantalizing the taste buds of locals and tourists alike: the Hanky Panky. This classic cocktail, born in the early 20th century, has a fascinating history and a unique flavor profile that has made it a staple in many of Mexico City's top bars and restaurants. In this article, we will delve into the sizzling secrets of Hanky Panky in Mexico City, exploring its origins, ingredients, and the city's best spots to indulge in this delicious drink.
Key Points
- The Hanky Panky is a classic cocktail made with gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet-Branca, an Italian bitter liqueur.
- The drink originated in the early 20th century and was popularized by Ada Coleman, a renowned bartender at the American Bar in London's Savoy Hotel.
- Mexico City's bartenders have put their own spin on the classic recipe, incorporating local ingredients and flavors to create unique variations.
- The city's vibrant nightlife scene offers a wide range of bars and restaurants serving exceptional Hanky Panky cocktails.
- From upscale bars in the Polanco neighborhood to hidden gems in the historic center, Mexico City has a Hanky Panky spot to suit every taste and preference.
A Brief History of the Hanky Panky
The Hanky Panky cocktail has a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century. The drink was created by Ada Coleman, a legendary bartender at the American Bar in London’s Savoy Hotel. Coleman, also known as “Coley,” was one of the first female bartenders in London and was renowned for her exceptional mixology skills. The story goes that Coleman created the Hanky Panky in the 1920s for a regular customer, Sir Charles Hawtrey, who was a British actor and playwright. Hawtrey was known for his wit and charm, and the name “Hanky Panky” was reportedly inspired by his cheeky personality.
The Classic Recipe and Its Variations
The classic Hanky Panky recipe consists of gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet-Branca, an Italian bitter liqueur. The ingredients are combined in a specific ratio, with the gin and vermouth making up the base of the drink, while the Fernet-Branca adds a distinctive bitter flavor. In Mexico City, bartenders have put their own spin on the classic recipe, incorporating local ingredients and flavors to create unique variations. Some popular variations include the addition of citrus juices, such as lime or grapefruit, or the use of different types of gin, such as mezcal or tequila-infused gin.
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gin | 2 oz |
| Sweet Vermouth | 1 oz |
| Fernet-Branca | 1/2 oz |
| Orange bitters | 2 dashes |
Mexico City’s Best Spots for Hanky Panky
Mexico City’s vibrant nightlife scene offers a wide range of bars and restaurants serving exceptional Hanky Panky cocktails. From upscale bars in the Polanco neighborhood to hidden gems in the historic center, there’s a Hanky Panky spot to suit every taste and preference. Some popular spots include the acclaimed bar, Limantour, which offers a unique variation of the Hanky Panky made with mezcal and citrus juices, and the trendy bar, Barrio Altec, which serves a classic Hanky Panky with a twist of orange bitters.
Insider Tips and Recommendations
For those looking to experience the best of Mexico City’s Hanky Panky scene, I recommend visiting the Condesa neighborhood, which is home to a variety of bars and restaurants serving creative variations of the cocktail. Another insider tip is to try the Hanky Panky at La Opera Bar, a historic bar located in the heart of the city, which serves a classic version of the drink made with premium gin and vermouth.
What is the origin of the Hanky Panky cocktail?
+The Hanky Panky cocktail was created by Ada Coleman, a legendary bartender at the American Bar in London's Savoy Hotel, in the early 20th century.
What are the main ingredients of a classic Hanky Panky cocktail?
+The classic Hanky Panky recipe consists of gin, sweet vermouth, and Fernet-Branca, an Italian bitter liqueur.
Where can I find the best Hanky Panky cocktails in Mexico City?
+Mexico City's best spots for Hanky Panky cocktails include the acclaimed bar, Limantour, and the trendy bar, Barrio Altec, as well as the historic bar, La Opera Bar.
In conclusion, the Hanky Panky cocktail is a delicious and complex drink that has a rich history and a unique flavor profile. Mexico City’s bartenders have put their own spin on the classic recipe, incorporating local ingredients and flavors to create unique variations. Whether you’re a seasoned cocktail enthusiast or just looking to try something new, the Hanky Panky is a must-try drink that is sure to tantalize your taste buds. So why not venture out into the vibrant nightlife scene of Mexico City and experience the sizzling secrets of Hanky Panky for yourself?