The powerful flavor of this agave-based spirit punches up cocktails across the Valley, blending with traditional Mexican mixers as well as unusual elixirs you'll have to taste to understand.
1. Smoke = Fire
Pennsylvania Rye Company
536 Hamilton St., Allentown | 484.929.2729 | paryeco.com
Relatively new to Allentown, this upscale neighbor-hood joint is primarily whiskey-focused with a library of small-batch labels and ambitions to expand into a distillery. They mix their mezcal with a classic combination of flavors: agave, jalapeño and lime. Pair it with a series of small plates from their colorful menu for a satisfying meal.
2. Guava Goddess
Torre
2960 Center Valley Pkwy., Center Valley | 610.841.9399 | torrerestaurant.com
Expect upscale Mexican food and show-stopping statement décor at this special-occasion hot spot located inside The Promenade Shops at Saucon Valley. With a tequila list longer than a CVS receipt, rest assured they know what to do with mezcal. The Guava Goddess combines this smoky liquor with fruit purée and fresh-squeezed lime juice, simple and a little sweet.
3. Amber Flames
Grille 3501
3501 Broadway, Allentown | 610.706.0100 | grille3501.com
From the creative flavors on the fusion menu to the towering beams of Grille 3501's loft area, this is a spot for impressive ambiance, known for great seafood and drinks. Their take on a mezcal cocktail employs an herbal liqueur, almond syrup, apple cider and lemon juice for a deep blend of powerful notes.
4. Naked and Famous
PA House
662 Front St., Hellertown | 484.851.6662 | thepahouse.com
Offering a pared-down yet perfected menu of wood-fired pizza, indulgent appetizers and mouthwatering cocktails, PA House in Hellertown serves fries with three dipping sauces and a mezcal concoction with the orange glow of a summer sunset. Yellow chartreuse and aperol join a squeeze of lime in this beautiful bevvy.
5. The Ole Beam
The Wilbur Mansion
201 Cherokee St., Bethlehem | 610.419.1101 | wilburmansion.com
This reclaimed historic mansion by Bethlehem's Hill to Hill Bridge specializes in the elevated experience, offering a beautiful setting for weddings, brunches and weekend getaways. Their bartender combines bourbon and mezcal with sweet vermouth, angostura bitters and maple syrup for a strong, full-bodied beverage.
Published as “5 Things” in the May 2024 edition of Lehigh Valley Style magazine.
