What is the connection between Mezcal, Mexican food, and museums?
The first time I saw tascalate on a menu it was at Itanoni in Oaxaca. I immediately fell in love with the traditional drink. But finding a second cup – particularly at home in Chicago – was a lost cause. Now, years later, Ximena N. Beltran Quan Kiu has written an article about how tascalate has made its way onto bar menus. And that’s a reflection of a broader trend. It’s an everything-old-is-celebrated-again episode of Agave Road Trip!
Agave Road Trip is a critically acclaimed, award-winning podcast that helps gringx bartenders better understand agave, agave spirits, and rural Mexico. This episode is hosted by Lou Bank with special guest Ximena N. Beltran Quan Kiu.
Looking for Ancestral Agave Syrup? Click here for the sweet life!
Episode Notes
Check out Ximena’s articles! “An Ancient Drink Enters the 21st Century,” Punch, February 5, 2024
“Tacos Should Cost More, Here's Why,” Food & Wine, April 29, 2022
Visit Tlecan in Mexico City
Visit Maiz de Cacao, where our cover shot was taken, in Mexico City
Visit Museo de Arte Popular, the folk art museum of Mexico City
To learn more about Chef Enrique Olvera, click here