¡Salud! A Guide to Ordering a Beer in Mexico

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By
Wesley
November 29, 2023
4 min read

Navigating a foreign culture can be intimidating, especially when it comes to ordering food or drinks. But if you're looking to try the local beer in Mexico, don't worry! Mexico has a rich brewing history and a wealth of delicious beers for you to choose from. In this article, we'll take you through the process of ordering a beer in Mexico so that you can confidently enjoy one of the country's favorite beverages.

You can discover more in our country guide to Mexico. Not only do we cover food and drinks but you'll also be able to navigate this country with ease.

Basics of Ordering Beer in Mexico

If you're planning on ordering a beer in Mexico, there are a few things you need to know. When you're ready to order, you can say "¿Me pone una cerveza, por favor?" which means "Can I have a beer, please?"

Or if you want to be more specific, you can ask for a particular brand. For example, "¿Me pone una Corona, por favor?" (Can I have a Corona, please?) If you want to order two beers, you can say "Dos cervezas, por favor." And if you're feeling extra thirsty, you can add "¡Y rápido!" for "And quickly!"

If you are in a fix and have a menu but don't know exactly how to say the name of what you want then you are in luck! Just point to what you want and say "este" (es-tay) - which means "this" in Spanish. 👈

It's always good to be polite too, so don't forget to say "gracias" (thank you) when your server brings your drinks. Enjoy your beer!

Basic Spanish Phrases for Ordering a Beer

Me puedas dar un cerveza - Can you give me a beer

Una cerveza de (brand) - A beer of (brand)

Otra cerveza - Another beer

Por fa, Por favor - Please

Gracias, Muchas gracias - Thank you, Thank you very much

La cuenta, por favor - The bill, please

Salud! - Cheers!

Bonus: Una chela - slang for beer in Mexico.

Types of Beer: Mexican Brews

You'll be pleased to know that Mexico has a diverse range of beer types for you to choose from. If you prefer lighter beers, then you'll find lagers, pilsners and Vienna-style light beers that are perfect for quenching your thirst on a hot day. But, if you're after something with a bit more complexity, then try a Munich-style dark beer or a Vienna-style dark beer.

For those who love trying new things, local microbreweries in Mexico produce a small selection of unique beers that you won't find anywhere else. Some of the most popular Mexican beer brands include Corona, Modelo, Pacifico, Victoria, Sol and Dos Equis. And if you're looking for the best beer in Mexico, the seasonal Cempasuchil from Victoria is a must-try. So, whether you like your beer light and refreshing or dark and chocolatey, there's a beer for everyone in Mexico. Cheers!

Mexican Style Beers

The story dates back to the Spanish conquest of the Aztec Empire, where European-style beers were introduced to Mexico. However, the original beers brewed in Mexico were essentially Vienna Lagers made by German and Austrian immigrants after the Mexican War of Independence. Fast forward to 1890, Cerveceria Cuauhtémoc, the first large-scale brewer, started producing a Czech-style Bohemian Pilsner. Today, Mexico has a deep brewing history and is one of the world's top beer-producing countries, with a large range and variety of beers. Mexican style lagers can refer to many different beers and have been controversial, but they continue to hold a special place in the hearts of both Mexicans and beer lovers worldwide.

Types of Beer You Will Find In Mexico

Lagers: This is perhaps the most common type of beer worldwide. Lagers are brewed using bottom-fermenting yeast at low temperatures, which results in a clean and crisp taste. They tend to be golden or pale in color and have a milder flavor compared to other beers such as stouts or IPAs.

Ales: Unlike lagers, ale is fermented at higher temperatures using top-fermenting yeast strains. This results in a fruity or spicy flavor profile that's more robust than lager beers.

Pale ales: These have been around for centuries, originating in England during the 1700s. They typically have a golden to amber color with moderate hop bitterness and malt sweetness. The hops used in pale ales provide flavors and aromas ranging from floral to citrusy, making them easy drinking but still flavorful beers.

IPAs (India Pale Ales): These beers were first brewed in England as well but gained popularity in America during the craft beer boom of the 1990s. They have become known for their high hop bitterness, strong alcohol content, and bold flavors ranging from piney to fruity.

Pilsners: Pilsner is a type of beer that originated from the Czech city of Pilsen in the mid-19th century. It quickly became popular throughout Europe and eventually made its way to North America. The beer is characterized by its light color, crisp taste, and carbonation.

Dark beer is a type of beer that has a dark color and often a rich, malty flavor. There are various types of dark beers, each with its own unique characteristics. Some common examples include stouts, porters, brown ales, dunkels and schwarzbiers.

Stouts: These originally brewed in Ireland in the 18th century and has since become famous worldwide. Stout is characterized by its roasted malt flavor and hints of chocolate or coffee. It also tends to have a thick and creamy texture due to the use of nitrogen instead of carbon dioxide during the carbonation process.

Porters: These are another well-known type of dark beer that originated in England in the 18th century. Its name comes from its popularity among porters who would drink it as they carried goods around London's markets.

Vienna Styles: The key ingredient in Vienna style beer is Vienna malt, which gives it its distinct flavor and aroma. This malt is kilned at a slightly higher temperature than traditional pale malts, resulting in a richer, darker base for the brew. Other ingredients typically include noble hops, which provide a subtle bitterness and floral notes to balance out the sweetness of the malt.

One of the most notable examples of Vienna style beer is Negra Modelo, a Mexican lager that has gained popularity around the world.

Best Places to Drink Beer in Mexico

If you’re looking for the best place to drink a beer in Mexico, you won’t have to look far! There are plenty of cervecerias – local breweries and bars – all over the country. From small-town pubs with wonderful staff who can recommend the tastiest brews, to modern hipster joints where people come together to enjoy a pint and some conversation, there’s sure to be the perfect spot for you. Whether you’re in Mexico City, Cancun, or anywhere else on your travels, don’t forget to check out the local cervecerias or any bar you come across. You’ll likely find amazing beers, friendly people, and an atmosphere that can’t be beaten.

It Begins and Ends with Salud!

Ordering a beer in Mexico is no different than ordering one anywhere else. As long as you know what type of beer you want, the process is simple and easy. Don’t be afraid to ask for help or advice if you’re feeling unsure about what to order.

With a little practice and by following the tips outlined in this article, you will be ordering a cerveza in Mexico with ease. To your health! Salud!

If you're looking for how to order food, we have you covered. Just check out the article here on ordering food in Mexico. Also, if you're looking to know how much to tip your bartender or waiter, head on over to our art of tipping guide.

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Written by:

Wesley
I consider myself a world-travelling nomad and a foodie at heart. Born in Germany and raised in East Tennessee, my passion for exploration has taken me all over the planet - exploring unfamiliar lands and cultures is what truly inspires my soul!
Sidra
I live outside of Doha and consider myself an inside expert on all things Qatar. I love exploring all the country has to offer and look forward to giving you valuable insights of where I call home!
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