When you think of Mexican cuisine, your mind probably jumps straight to tacos, guacamole, or spicy salsas. But here’s a secret: Mexican drinks are just as rich and flavorful as the food. From refreshing fruit-based aguas frescas to world-famous tequila and mezcal, Mexican beverages reflect the country’s culture, history, and love for vibrant flavors. Whether you’re planning a trip to Mexico or just curious about authentic options to try at home, this guide will walk you through the most popular Mexican drinks worth sipping.
Traditional Non-Alcoholic Mexican Drinks
Aguas Frescas: The Everyday Refreshers
If you’ve ever strolled through a Mexican street market, you’ve likely seen big colorful jars filled with aguas frescas. These light, fruit-infused drinks are made by blending water with fresh fruit, sugar, and sometimes lime juice. Popular flavors include:
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Agua de Horchata (sweet rice water with cinnamon)
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Agua de Jamaica (hibiscus tea, tart and refreshing)
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Agua de Tamarindo (tamarind-based, tangy and sweet)
These are perfect for cooling down on a hot day and are often enjoyed with lunch or street food.
Champurrado: The Chocolate Comfort Drink
On chilly mornings, many Mexicans turn to champurrado, a thick, warm drink made with masa (corn dough), chocolate, milk, and cinnamon. It’s like hot chocolate’s hearty cousin and pairs beautifully with tamales.
Tepache: A Fermented Pineapple Classic
Tepache is slightly fermented pineapple water sweetened with brown sugar and flavored with cinnamon. It’s lightly fizzy, mildly alcoholic, and often sold by street vendors.
Popular Alcoholic Mexican Drinks
Tequila: Mexico’s Gift to the World
You can’t talk about Mexican drinks without mentioning tequila. Made from the blue agave plant, tequila comes in different varieties:
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Blanco (Silver) – unaged, crisp, and great for cocktails.
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Reposado – aged a few months for a smoother taste.
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Añejo – aged longer, offering a richer flavor for sipping neat.
Classic cocktails like the Margarita and Paloma highlight tequila’s versatility.
Mezcal: The Smoky Alternative
Often called tequila’s “smoky cousin,” mezcal is made from various agave plants and roasted in underground pits, giving it a distinct earthy flavor. Traditionally, it’s served neat with a slice of orange and worm salt.
Michelada: The Mexican Beer Cocktail
If you enjoy beer but want a little kick, try a michelada. It’s essentially a Mexican beer mixed with lime juice, hot sauce, Worcestershire sauce, and spices. Think of it as a spicier, lighter cousin of the Bloody Mary.
Pulque: The Ancient Drink
Pulque is a traditional pre-Hispanic drink made by fermenting the sap of the agave plant. It has a slightly sour taste and a thick, milky texture. While less common today, you can still find pulquerías in Mexico City serving flavored versions.
Modern Mexican Drink Trends
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Craft Tequila & Mezcal Bars: Across the U.S. and Europe, mezcalerías and tequila bars are popping up, offering tasting flights and artisanal brands.
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Mexican-Inspired Cocktails: Mixologists are blending classic Mexican ingredients like tamarind, hibiscus, and chili into creative cocktails.
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Healthier Aguas Frescas: Low-sugar and natural sweetener versions of aguas frescas are becoming popular among health-conscious drinkers.
FAQs About Mexican Drinks
Q1: What is the most popular Mexican drink?
Aguas frescas and tequila-based cocktails like margaritas are among the most common and widely enjoyed.
Q2: Is horchata Mexican or Spanish?
Horchata originated in Spain, but Mexico has its own version made with rice, milk, cinnamon, and vanilla.
Q3: Can you buy traditional Mexican drinks outside Mexico?
Yes! Many Mexican restaurants worldwide serve horchata, aguas frescas, and tequila cocktails. Specialty stores may also carry bottled tepache or Mexican sodas like Jarritos.
Q4: What’s the difference between tequila and mezcal?
Both are agave-based spirits, but tequila comes specifically from blue agave and is produced mainly in Jalisco, while mezcal can be made from many agave varieties and has a smoky flavor.
Conclusion
Mexican drinks are as diverse and colorful as the culture itself. From refreshing aguas frescas to bold tequila cocktails and traditional favorites like pulque, there’s a beverage for every taste and occasion. Next time you’re enjoying Mexican food, pair it with one of these authentic drinks for the full experience.
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