Mezcal Magic: Long Island’s Best Spots to Discover This Smoky Complex Cousin to Tequila

September 26, 2024 - by Lon Cohen

Mezcal, the smoky cousin of tequila, has become a rising star in the world of spirits, and Long Island is catching on to this trend in a big way. With its roots in Mexico’s Oaxaca region, mezcal is crafted from the heart of the agave plant, with its signature smoky flavor resulting from the traditional roasting process. Each sip brings an artisanal touch, offering complex flavor profiles that can range from earthy and spicy to fruity and floral. As its popularity grows, more Long Island restaurants are stepping up to feature mezcal in creative cocktails, making it the go-to drink for adventurous locals.

Mezcal has been gaining popularity in the U.S. since it became a legal export in 2006. On Long Island, mezcal can be found at various establishments, including specialty liquor stores and many restaurants like Ruta Oaxaca, Bayberry, and Post Office Café.

“I used to drink tequila a lot, but now it’s all about mezcal,” said Jose Castillo, owner of Ruta Oaxaca. “When you come in, I want to be the mezcal place.”

Castillo said his favorite depends on the flavor profiles—depending on the mood he’s in.

Approximately 90% of all mezcal is produced in Oaxaca, due to the region’s agave cultivation and unique terroir. While mezcal can also be produced in other Mexican states like Durango and Guerrero, Oaxaca is the heart of its production, earning its title as the “World Capital of Mezcal,” according to an article titled, “The Origins of Oaxaca Mezcal.”

Also, someone put a mezcal twist on the Long Island Iced Tea and we are here for it!

For those looking to dive into this exciting trend, here are three local spots that are serving up some of the best mezcal cocktails on Long Island.

Bayberry

Dive into the world of mezcal at Bayberry, Islip’s liveliest restaurant with an unmatched cocktail program. Nothing beats their signature “Pomelo De Fumar”—an exciting blend of mezcal unión, la familia camarena reposado, grapefruit juice, agave, grapefruit bitters, and lime juice, complete with smoked paprika rim. Not your style? Sip on Union Mezcal’s unique blend of Espadin and Cirial agave, experience Sombra’s bold high-altitude vibes, enjoy Los Siete Misterios’ double-distilled perfection, and get a taste of Wahaka’s artisanal magic crafted by a fifth-generation family. Where: 501 Main Street, Islip, (631) 210-0011, bayberryislip.com.

Post Office Café

Make your night one to remember at Post Office Cafe, Babylon’s cornerstone for a good meal and better cocktails. From their house favorite, Union, to the smooth vibes of Dos Hombres and Illegal, they’ve got your mezcal cravings covered. Don’t miss out on their must-try cocktail, “Smoke on the Water”—a delicious mix of Dos Hombres, blueberry simple syrup, pineapple, lemon juice, and a pinch of saline for that perfect flavor kick. It’s the drink your weekend’s been waiting for! Where: 130 West Main Street, Babylon, (631) 669-9224, postofficecafe.com.

Ruta Oaxaca

Ruta Oaxaca is all about mezcal, offering the richest selection from Oaxaca itself. Their menu features an endless list of mezcal cocktails. Owner Jose Castillo’s passion for mezcal is evident—he’s even planning a trip to Oaxaca to hand-pick bottles for the restaurant. With locations in Patchogue, Woodbury, and beyond, Ruta Oaxaca is the spot to dive into the cultural heart of mezcal. We went and tried the Sexy Oaxaca, made with Dos Hombres mezcal, Cointreau, grilled pineapple, mint, fresh lemon and worm salt. Where: Ruta Oaxaca, Patchogue, 30 E. Main Street, (631) 569-2233; Woodbury, 8025 Jericho Turnpike, (516) 515-9620; Brooklyn, 138 Smith Street, (718) 576-1507; Astoria, 35-03 Broadway, (929) 349-1228; rutaoaxacamex.com.

Some other spots to try mezcal include: