Riviera Nayarit Takes Over Mexican Mixology with Two Nominations at the 2025 Shaker Awards
Riviera Nayarit is shining on the national mixology scene, securing its place as one of Mexico’s most sophisticated and creative tourist destinations. At the anticipated 2025 Shaker Awards, two Nayarit bars have been nominated in the “Top 10 Best Hotel Bars in Mexico” category, recognizing their excellence and innovation in the world of cocktails.
The nominees are The Tree Top, located in the luxurious One&Only Mandarina, and El Bar del Patrón, an emerging gem on the rooftop of Hotel Sayulinda, in the charming Pueblo Mágico of Sayulita. These nominations highlight not only the quality of their creations but also the strength of their concepts, settings, and sensory experiences.
Riviera Nayarit: Mexico’s New Mixology Hotspot
The Shaker Awards are among the most prestigious recognitions for mixology in Mexico and Latin America. They celebrate the best bartenders, bars, and brands that are transforming the industry through creativity, technique, sustainability, and service.
Having two Nayarit bars among the country’s top ten is no coincidence—it’s a reflection of the region’s tourism boom and its commitment to offering authentic, gourmet, and sophisticated experiences in uniquely natural and cultural environments.
El Bar del Patrón: Cocktails With a View in Sayulita
One of the standout nominees is El Bar del Patrón, located on the rooftop of Hotel Sayulinda, just 100 meters from the beach. With its tropical-chic atmosphere, infinity pool, curated music, and menu of sustainable cocktails, it has become a must-visit in Sayulita.
From this rooftop, you can enjoy 360° views of the Pacific Ocean, the jungle, and the town. Each cocktail is inspired by local ingredients, contemporary techniques, and a storytelling approach that celebrates Nayarit’s coastal heritage.
With just four years since opening, El Bar del Patrón has become a regional reference in mixology, thanks to a clear vision: sharing memorable moments through the art of fine drinking.
International Talent and Hotel Leadership
The bar’s success is largely due to its talented team. Henry Mahecha, bar manager, brings experience from top culinary and cocktail venues like El Chato (Bogotá) and the renowned Licorería Limantour (CDMX). His approach combines sustainability, high-level training, and global hospitality standards.
Supporting him is Luis Eduardo Ortiz, head bartender and production lead, who brings creativity and technical expertise to every menu. Under the direction of Pedro Fernández del Valle, general manager of Hotel Sayulinda and a graduate of the prestigious Ecole Hôtelière de Lausanne, the bar has become a key destination for travelers, surfers, and locals alike.
Guest Events, Special Takeovers, and Community Building
El Bar del Patrón has hosted exclusive events, including takeovers by world-renowned bars like Baltra Bar, Rayo, Bijou, and of course, Limantour. It has also welcomed guest bartenders such as Andrey Jaramillo and Alan Uresti, and organized tastings, masterclasses, and public experiences.
More than just a bar, this space has elevated cocktail culture in Sayulita, helping position Nayarit as a high-profile gastronomic destination.
Shaker Awards 2025: Vote for Your Favorite
The 2025 Shaker Awards ceremony, organized by the Comunidad de Bartenders Bajío (CBB), will bring together the best of national and international mixology, with workshops, meetups, and inspiring experiences.
