Barcrawling: NYC’s Top Micheladas

Some say a michelada is the Mexican equivalent of a Bloody Mary — both boast tomato juice and hot sauce — but this lip-smacking drink, a Mexican beer-based cocktail that includes various other ingredients such as Worcestershire sauce, serrano peppers, and lime, isn’t just a brunch beverage or a hangover cure. Micheladas are meant to be consumed morning, noon, and night. 

This spicy drink can be served in a variety of ways that range from extremely mild to hot Hot HOT. And, as we learned while researching this piece, there’s no truly wrong way to make a michelada (or, let's be honest…to down one). Headed to New York City?  These top spots in the Big Apple know what the michelada is all about…

Barrio Chino. 253 Broome Street.

Located on hip block between Broome and Orchard, Barrio Chino serves a perfect michelada (and the food is pretty divine, too). The bartender fills the cup with all the essential ingredients, and then hands over your Mexican beer of choice to the equation. Pour at leisure. Somehow this makes us feel like we're getting more for our buck. Well worth every buck, indeed.

Guayoyo. 67 First Avenue.

A home away from home serving up traditional Venezuelan dishes like Pabellón Criollo and arepas, as well as less traditional items like the Black Bean Mojo Burger, the decor and ambiance here evokes small beachfront eatery. The service is always pleasant and the micheladas are served with minimal hot sauce and more refreshing cerveza with a solid dose with lemon, and a salt rim. For those not into heat, this michelada is for you.

Rosa Mexicano. Various locations.

Don’t judge us for putting this chain restaurant on our list! While they do serve decent Mexican food at a higher price point, they also have a great selection of micheladas. Three different kinds, in fact. The mild La Chelita uses Tecate, fresh lime, and spices, La Sangrita highlights Negra Modelo and the house sangrita, and La Jengilada is made with Rogue Juniper Ale, silver tequila, ginger, and fresh lemon.

Cafe Habana. Various locations.

This restaurant, a NYC institution, holds a special place in our hearts for their delicious, homestyle Cuban cuisine. Their michelada is just as homestyle as it gets, and comes with a Corona, fresh lime juice, Tapatio sauce, and a salt rim. Irresistible in every sense of the word.

Taka Taka. 330 West Broadway.

Ever had Japanese food Mexican style? This spot is one-of-a-kind gem that also delivers a premium cucumber michelada that substitutes soy sauce for the usual Worcestershire, and Sapporo instead of the usual slate of Mexican varieties. Talk about innovation.

Caracas Arepas. Various locations.

The micheladas at Caracas Arepas are perfected with exact amounts of spice and flavor in every ounce. Their recipe features Pacifico, lemon, housemade spicy panela and salt. Though the large serving is ultra-filling, it’s near-impossible to have just one. Tip: they always taste better with a side of arepas. We say cheers to that!