Uncovering the Secrets of the World’s Most Captivating Pubs
As a self-proclaimed connoisseur of all things beer and spirits, I’ve traversed the globe in search of the most captivating pubs and bars. From the cozy, centuries-old taverns of Europe to the modern, craft-focused haunts of the Americas, my love for exploring the world’s drinking establishments has taken me on some truly unforgettable adventures.
The Up & Under Pub has long been a favorite haunt of mine, a place where I can indulge in expertly poured pints and engage in lively conversations with fellow pub enthusiasts. But today, I’m going to take you on a journey beyond our local watering hole, unearthing the secrets and stories of the world’s most charming pubs.
A Pilgrimage to the Heart of Scotch Country
My love affair with Scotch whisky is well-documented, so it should come as no surprise that one of my most cherished pub experiences took place in the quaint Scottish town of Craigellachie. As I learned from a local expert, Craigellachie is responsible for roughly 70% of the world’s single malt Scotch production, making it a mecca for any true Scotch enthusiast.
Upon arriving in this picturesque town, I immediately made my way to the Craigellachie Hotel, a centuries-old establishment with a basement pub that has become a hub for whisky pilgrims like myself. There, I met Matthew Cordiner, the Global Malt Whisky Ambassador for the Craigellachie Distillery, who was eager to introduce me to the magic of the local Scotch.
Over a comically large plate of fish and chips, Cordiner regaled me with tales of the Spey River, a freshwater artery that has played a pivotal role in the proliferation of whisky production in the region. “I’ve canoed down the Spey with many groups from around the world,” he told me, “It’s a great way to experience the area, taking in views that would be impossible to see any other way.”
Intrigued by the prospect of an aquatic adventure, I eagerly agreed to join Cordiner on a canoe trip down the Spey. As we navigated the rapids, I couldn’t help but marvel at the sheer beauty of the surrounding landscape, with its lush green hills and sheep-strewn meadows. And when we reached our destination, a wee beach beneath the iconic Telford Bridge, Cordiner surprised me with a true treat – a dram of 31-year-old Craigellachie Scotch, sipped straight from the source.
“For a truly special moment, you need a dram to match,” he reasoned, pouring the robust, almost meaty whisky into my Glencairn glass. As the complex flavors danced on my tongue, I felt a profound sense of connection to the land and the people who had devoted their lives to crafting this magnificent spirit. In that moment, I understood why Scotch enthusiasts make the pilgrimage to Craigellachie – it’s not just about the whisky, but the entire immersive experience.
Discovering the Soul of Patagonia, One Pint at a Time
While Scotch may be my personal vice, I’ve also developed a deep appreciation for the burgeoning craft beer scene around the world. And one of the most unexpected hubs of brewing brilliance I’ve encountered is in the southern tip of South America – Patagonia.
As I learned during my visit to the lively town of Puerto Natales, the Patagonian region, with its mere 2 million inhabitants, is home to a thriving community of passionate beer makers. One of the standout breweries, Baguales, has been at the forefront of this movement, crafting award-winning ales that seamlessly blend the flavors of the north and the south.
I still remember the feeling of pure contentment as I took my first sip of Baguales’ Mate 101, a beer infused with the popular Patagonian herb yerba mate. “It represents the flavors of the region and served as a tribute to the 101st anniversary of Puerto Natales,” the brewery’s co-founder, Daniel Darrigrandi, proudly shared.
But Baguales is more than just a producer of exceptional beer; it’s a testament to the power of friendship and the pursuit of passion. Darrigrandi and his two partners, including a chance acquaintance they met while rock climbing in California, came together to create something truly special – a brewery that not only crafts incredible libations but also fosters a warm, inviting atmosphere for all who enter.
“To keep employees passionate and motivated, everyone in the company gets a chance to help out in the brewery,” Darrigrandi told me. “With this experience, the entire team can feel proud of the beer that they made together and can pass on this knowledge to the customers.”
As I sipped my second Mate 101 and soaked in the lively energy of the packed Baguales bar, I couldn’t help but feel a deep appreciation for the way this brewery has woven itself into the fabric of the Patagonian community. It’s not just about the beer – it’s about creating a space where locals and travelers alike can come together, share stories, and connect over a shared love of the region’s unique flavors.
Unlocking the Mysteries of Mexico City’s Vibrant Pub Scene
While I may be a Scotch and beer enthusiast at heart, I’ve also developed a newfound appreciation for the world of craft cocktails, thanks in no small part to my recent adventures in Mexico City. As I discovered during my visit to this captivating capital city, the pub and bar scene is not only thriving but also downright magical.
One of the highlights of my trip was visiting three of the bars that have made it onto the prestigious “World’s 50 Best Bars” list. First, there was Baltra Bar, a cool and neighborhood-y establishment that had me feeling right at home, like I was in the heart of Williamsburg, Brooklyn. Then came Brujas, a women-owned and -operated bar with drinks inspired by the mystical world of witchcraft – spooky and delicious, to say the least.
But the real showstopper was Licorería Limantour, ranked fourth on the global “World’s 50 Best Bars” list and holding the number one spot for any bar in the Americas. “Don’t miss out on their unique al pastor margarita, inspired by the popular street taco,” I was told. “This sweet and sour concoction is as delicious as it is intriguing.”
As I sipped my way through these exceptional establishments, I couldn’t help but be struck by the sheer creativity and passion that permeated the air. These weren’t just places to grab a drink; they were portals into the vibrant, ever-evolving culture of Mexico City, where the boundaries between food, art, and libations blurred in the most tantalizing of ways.
But the true heart of Mexico City’s pub and bar scene, in my opinion, lies in the unassuming gems that may not (yet) have global recognition, like Expendio de Maiz sin Nombre. This restaurant, which takes no reservations and has no menu, “really felt like we were in on a secret,” I mused, as dish after mouthwatering dish was brought out to our table.
By the time we reached our twelfth course, I was utterly stuffed but blissfully satisfied, having experienced a level of culinary artistry that truly deserved a Michelin star (which, as I learned, the country is set to receive very soon). And the best part? The entire feast, including drinks, came out to a mere $80 – a true testament to the incredible value that Mexico City’s pub and bar scene has to offer.
Raising a Glass to the World’s Most Captivating Pubs
As I reflect on my adventures in Craigellachie, Puerto Natales, and Mexico City, I’m struck by the common thread that binds these disparate destinations together – a deep-seated passion for crafting exceptional experiences through food, drinks, and genuine hospitality.
Whether it’s the robust, muscular Scotch of Craigellachie, the award-winning ales of Patagonia, or the boundary-pushing cocktails of Mexico City, each of these pubs and bars has found a way to truly capture the essence of their respective regions, offering visitors a glimpse into the soul of the local culture.
But beyond the liquid delights, what truly sets these establishments apart is their ability to foster a sense of community and connection. From the Craigellachie Hotel’s basement pub, where whisky enthusiasts come to share stories and savor the fruits of the local distillery’s labor, to the lively Baguales bar, where locals and travelers alike gather to celebrate the region’s unique flavors, these pubs have become more than just watering holes – they’re hubs of human experience, where the act of sharing a drink becomes a gateway to deeper understanding and appreciation.
So, the next time you find yourself with a thirst for adventure, I encourage you to set out on a pub-hopping pilgrimage of your own. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless allure of Scotch country, the rugged beauty of Patagonia, or the vibrant energy of Mexico City, you’re sure to uncover a world of captivating pubs, each with its own unique story to tell.
And who knows, you just might stumble upon your own personal slice of pub paradise, a place where the drinks are expertly crafted, the atmosphere is electric, and the sense of community is palpable. After all, as the founders of Baguales so eloquently put it, “It’s like us – something hard to find.”
