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Selva

Oaxaca

If one were to distil and bottle the essence of Oaxaca, it would taste like a Selva cocktail. The bar’s mid-century modern decor is offset by selva and agave plants outside and painted onto the stuccoed walls, with elements of indigenous art complementing the design. Under beverage director Alexandra Purcaru, the establishment also aims to celebrate local flora and fauna in the glass. Each item celebrates a different market, plant or community found within the region, such as the signature Selva (mezcal, hoja santa, lemon, agave honey, chilli liqueur, quesillo, juniper bitters, basil).

Selva’s food offering is worth the trip itself. Fresh ingredients and unique combinations shine on the seafood-oriented menu through dishes such as shrimp aguachile with pasilla chilli paste, crispy beef, avocado, tomatillo and jicama, or delectable beef tongue tacos. The kitchen also offers a large selection of vegetarian options, including exemplary plates of coffee-roasted beetroot with cream cheese, pistachio and smoked avocado leaf oil.

Regardless of one’s preferences, Selva offers an oasis of genuine Oaxacan hospitality, from the beautiful, feline-filled courtyard to the team’s cat-like instincts for the perfect drink.

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