Paul Kushner
The Mezcal Café is smoky, rich, and just the right mix of bold and smooth. It brings together the earthy depth of mezcal with the roasted flavor of cold brew or espresso, often rounded out with coffee liqueur or a touch of simple syrup. Some versions may add a splash of cream or vanilla liqueur for extra softness. Served over ice or shaken and strained, it’s perfect for late-night sipping or as an after-dinner drink. The mix of smoke and coffee makes it warm, slightly edgy, and full of character without being too heavy.
This post may include affiliate links; for details, see our disclosure policy
Tasting Notes
The Mezcal Cafe is a bold and smoky cocktail that merges the deep, roasted notes of cold brew coffee with the earthy complexity of mezcal. Meletti Amaro adds herbal and caramel undertones, while demerara syrup enhances the richness with a subtle molasses-like sweetness.
The mole bitters bring in a hint of spice and chocolate, rounding out the drink with a velvety finish. The cold brew float not only enhances the layered presentation but also deepens the coffee-forward aroma.
Equipment and Glassware
To craft the Mezcal Cafe, gather a cocktail shaker, strainer, bar spoon, and a rocks glass to ensure a well-balanced and expertly mixed drink. Shaking the ingredients blends the flavors smoothly, while straining ensures a clean pour. Serving it over a large ice cube helps maintain the cocktail’s structure, keeping it chilled while minimizing dilution, allowing the smoky mezcal, herbal Meletti, and rich cold brew to shine. This setup ensures every sip is bold, complex, and perfectly chilled. With the right tools and attention to detail, this sophisticated cocktail becomes an unforgettable drinking experience.
Ingredients
- 2 oz Illegal Mezcal
- 0.75 oz Meletti Amaro
- 0.5 oz demerara syrup
- 2 dashes mole bitters
- 1 oz cold brew coffee (floated)
- Large ice cube
Instructions
- Mix the Base: In a cocktail shaker, combine mezcal, Meletti Amaro, demerara syrup, and mole bitters.
- Shake: Add ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
- Prepare the Glass: Place a large ice cube in a rocks glass.
- Strain: Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass over the ice.
- Float the Cold Brew: Slowly pour the cold brew over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect.
- Serve: Let the flavors meld together naturally, then sip and enjoy.
Pro Tips
- For a more dramatic cold brew float, pour slowly over the back of a spoon to maintain the layering effect.
- Use a high-quality mezcal such as Ilegal Joven, Del Maguey Vida, or Montelobos for the best smoky complexity.
- If you prefer a touch of extra sweetness, increase the demerara syrup slightly or use a vanilla-infused syrup.
- For an even richer texture, consider using a nitro cold brew instead of standard cold brew coffee.
When to Serve
The Mezcal Cafe is an excellent choice for those seeking a refined, smoky alternative to the classic espresso martini. Its deep, layered flavors make it a perfect after-dinner sipper, offering a smooth yet bold experience. The combination of mezcal’s signature smokiness, herbal Meletti, and the rich depth of cold brew creates a sophisticated nightcap that lingers pleasantly on the palate.
A touch of demerara syrup and mole bitters rounds out the drink, adding warmth and subtle spice. Ideal for coffee and mezcal enthusiasts alike, this cocktail delivers a distinctive and elegant twist on a classic coffee cocktail.
Which Liquor Brands to Choose
- Cold Brew Coffee: Stumptown, La Colombe, or homemade high-quality cold brew
- Mezcal: Ilegal Joven, Del Maguey Vida, Montelobos
- Amaro: Meletti Amaro (or substitute with Averna for a slightly different herbal profile)
- Bitters: Bittermens Xocolatl Mole Bitters, Fee Brothers Aztec Chocolate Bitters
Similar Cocktails
Ingredients
- 2 oz Illegal Mezcal
- 0.75 oz Meletti Amaro
- 0.5 oz demerara syrup
- 2 dashes mole bitters
- 1 oz cold brew coffee floated
Instructions
- Mix the Base: In a cocktail shaker, combine mezcal, Meletti Amaro, demerara syrup, and mole bitters.
- Shake: Add ice and shake vigorously for about 15 seconds until well chilled.
- Prepare the Glass: Place a large ice cube in a rocks glass.
- Strain: Strain the cocktail into the prepared glass over the ice.
- Float the Cold Brew: Slowly pour the cold brew over the back of a spoon to create a layered effect.
- Serve: Let the flavors meld together naturally, then sip and enjoy.
Notes
Pro Tips
- Use a high-quality, smooth cold brew for the best balance of flavor.
- To enhance the smoky notes, lightly torch a cinnamon stick and rest it on the glass as an aromatic garnish.
- Stir before drinking to blend the flavors or enjoy the layers separately for a unique tasting experience.
