Casa Hoyos opens cocktail bar inspired by pre-Hispanic traditions
Casa Hoyos in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico, has unveiled Tonana, a rooftop cocktail destination inspired by pre-Hispanic traditions.
Named after Tonantzin, the Aztec mother goddess associated with creation, the concept explores Mexico’s ancestral knowledge through contemporary mixology.
The project brings together a multidisciplinary team led by Casa Hoyos founder Vianney Torres, alongside bartender Oscar Valle of Licorería Limantour and co-founder of Despacho Margarita in Mexico City, and interior designer Andrés Gutiérrez of AG Estudio.
Spanning 270sqm, the rooftop combines volcanic stone, sculptural forms and saturated tones to create a space rooted in Mexico’s material heritage. Tezontle, a deep red volcanic rock, features throughout the walls and floors, while handcrafted furniture, carved stone, stainless steel accents and shimmering tile create a contemporary counterpoint. References to indigenous cosmology appear throughout, from crocodile-shaped benches inspired by Cipactli to firepits and water features that evoke ancient rituals and deities.
Helmed by Valle, the cocktail programme draws on Mexican herbal traditions, indigenous ingredients and techniques passed down through generations. Infusions of aromatic plants, smoky distillates and botanical essences are combined with hyperlocal ingredients including garambullo, pulque, ancho chile, copal and palo santo.
Signature serves include the Carmesí, a mezcal cocktail with beetroot and raspberry; the Recia del Sur, combining sesame oil fat-washed pisco, habanero honey and membrillo liqueur; and the Maximiliana Milk Punch, made with raicilla and finished with volcanic salt.
The food menu complements the drinks with dishes inspired by Mexico’s pantry and indigenous ingredients, including wood-fired street corn, tuna tostadas, roasted mushroom al pastor tacos and grilled beef.
“Tonana was built to feel deeply connected to memory, ritual and ancient Mexico,” says Valle. “For the cocktails, I kept returning to ingredients and traditions that have existed in Mexican culture for generations, then reworking them in a way that feels contemporary and alive. Every drink is meant to feel layered, aromatic and full of energy.”
