Mixteca, a Mexican agave bar from a James Beard Award-winning duo, is planning to open in Philadelphia
Philadelphia Inquirer
Last updated: June 9, 2026
A James Beard Award-winning cocktail team from New York is launching an agave-focused bar concept, Mixteca, in Philadelphia's East Kensington neighborhood. This new venture aims to highlight tequila, mezcal, and Mexican drinking culture, offering a more food-centric experience than its New York counterpart.
- Mixteca, founded by industry veterans Jeff Bell and Euclides “Victor” Lopez, is opening in the former Martha space at York and Martha Streets.
- The project represents the Philadelphia debut for Mixteca and its parent company, Apres Cru Hospitality, which initially considered a different restaurant concept for the location.
- The Philadelphia Mixteca will feature a revamped layout accommodating approximately 75 indoor guests and 50 on the patio, with a new balcony for private events.
- Design elements will be inspired by Puebla, Mexico, incorporating Talavera tile and ceramic details, with a signature arched back bar.
- Mixteca's concept originated from Bell and Lopez's discussions about agave spirits and Lopez's Mexican heritage, with a focus on showcasing Lopez's cocktail expertise.
- A signature offering is "La Bandera," a three-shot tequila ritual.
- The Philadelphia location will emphasize food more heavily than the New York original, with a menu including house-made tortillas, tacos, guacamole, esquites, and larger dishes, along with desserts and a children's menu.
- The neighborhood's residential nature influenced the shift towards a more balanced drinks-to-food ratio (around 55/45 or 50/50).
- Cocktails will remain central, featuring popular elements like "Margarita Hour" and Philadelphia-inspired agave interpretations of local classics.
- A substantial nonalcoholic beverage program is also planned.
- Mixteca intends to be a cocktail-forward gathering place, functioning as both a bar and restaurant, aiming to integrate with the local community.
