Hanky Panky in Mexico City is more than just a bar; it’s a destination for cocktail aficionados seeking an authentic and innovative drinking experience. At the heart of this acclaimed speakeasy is Gina Barbachano, a talented bartender whose passion and expertise elevate the art of mixology. Let’s delve into a conversation with Gina to uncover the secrets behind Hanky Panky’s allure and the cocktails that make it a must-visit spot in Mexico City.
Gina Barbachano expertly crafting cocktails at Hanky Panky, a celebrated speakeasy in Mexico City.
Gina’s journey into the world of bartending is a testament to how passion can transform a career path. Initially drawn to the industry during her tourism business administration internship, Gina found herself captivated by the energy and creativity behind the bar. “I started at the bar because of my studies in college,” Gina explains, “I had to make an internship in all the areas including my practice, touristic business administration. So I entered to a restaurant in my hometown (Morelia) that made me go through all the services. When I got to the bar I fell in love.” This initial spark in her hometown of Morelia led her to participate in macro events with Morelia en Boca, further fueling her ambition. Seeking new challenges, Gina moved to Mexico City, initially aiming for a career in event management. However, her bartending skills proved indispensable, and she quickly excelled in a boutique hotel bar. Fate intervened when a friend connected her with Hanky Panky. “One day I got a call from a good friend telling me that at Hanky Panky they were looking for a girl to work full time behind the bar,” Gina recounts. Despite initial nerves, the interview was a success, and Gina has now been an integral part of the Hanky Panky team for four years.
When asked about a classic cocktail she loves to showcase, Gina introduces the Alerbrije. This vibrant concoction features 60ml of Casamigos Mezcal, 20ml of Mole syrup, 10ml of Ancho Reyes, and 15ml of Suze. The Alerbrije perfectly embodies the spirit of Mexico, blending the smoky depth of mezcal with the rich, complex flavors of mole and the subtle bitterness of Suze and Ancho Reyes. It’s a drink that tells a story, much like Hanky Panky itself.
Gina’s dream bar is a reflection of her approach to hospitality: intimate and personal. “My dream bar is very simple. Something small, a simple place with good drinks and an easy vibe. I would love to have like a neighbourhood bar where you know all the clients and they know you too.” This vision aligns perfectly with the speakeasy atmosphere of Hanky Panky, where guests feel a sense of belonging and personalized service.
In her downtime, Gina appreciates the simple pleasures of life. “I like to stay home with my dog and invite friends over to dinner. I love taking photos too,” she shares, revealing a balanced life outside the bustling bar scene.
Mezcal holds a special place in Gina’s heart as her spirit of choice. “Mezcal is the one because you have so many agaves that you can use to add or enhance different flavours, so it’s very versatile.” This versatility allows for endless creativity in cocktail making, a quality Gina clearly embraces.
For Gina, the essence of a good cocktail lies in “balance and creativity.” This philosophy is evident in her creations, which artfully combine unexpected ingredients to achieve harmonious flavors. One such ingredient she particularly enjoys using is tea. “I would say tea. It’s an easy way to add so many different flavours without the need to add sweetness,” Gina explains. Tea infusions offer a delicate yet complex layer to cocktails, showcasing Gina’s innovative approach to flavor profiles.
To demonstrate her signature style, Gina presents the Tapatio. This cocktail is a sophisticated mix of 50ml of Casamigos Tequila, 2 dashes of Hoja Santa Bitters, 100ml of Riviera Maya Milk Punch, topped with Champagne. The Tapatio is a celebration of Mexican spirits, blending the crispness of tequila with the unique herbal notes of Hoja Santa and the creamy richness of Riviera Maya Milk Punch, all elevated by the celebratory fizz of Champagne. It’s a testament to Gina’s ability to craft cocktails that are both refined and deeply rooted in Mexican flavors.
Looking ahead, Gina recommends fellow bartenders to seek out for inspiration. In Mexico, she suggests visiting Gabriela Lozada from Brujas, and internationally, Esteban Varela from Tres Monos in Buenos Aires. These recommendations highlight Gina’s connection to the global cocktail community and her appreciation for fellow innovators in the field.
Gina Barbachano’s dedication and creativity shine brightly at Hanky Panky Mexico City. Her passion for mixology, combined with the unique ambiance of Hanky Panky, creates an unforgettable experience for anyone seeking exceptional cocktails in Mexico City. Make sure to add Hanky Panky to your list for your next visit to experience Gina’s cocktail magic firsthand.
