Mosto Bar

What you need to know

Mosto is a mezcal and tequila bar on Valencia Street in the Mission with over 300 agave spirits behind the bar. The room is small, dimly lit, and packed with plants. It feels like drinking in someone’s well-curated living room in Oaxaca. The focus is on the spirits, and the bartenders know every bottle on the shelf.

What you’ll find

The collection spans the full range of agave spirits: blanco to extra añejo tequilas, espadín to tobalá mezcals, raicilla, sotol, and bacanora. If you don’t know the difference between a joven mezcal and a reposado, the bartenders will walk you through it without condescension. Flights are a good entry point: three pours organized by flavor profile or region.

The cocktail menu is short and agave-forward. Expect variations on the Paloma, Oaxaca Old Fashioned, and seasonal creations that lean on citrus, chili, and tropical fruit. Everything is built around the spirits, not masking them.

Bar snacks lean Mexican: chips with salsa, elote, and small plates that pair well with smoky mezcal. Nothing fancy, but executed well.

What to know

Mosto seats maybe 30 people comfortably, and the bar itself holds about 10. No reservations. First come, first served. Weeknights are manageable. Friday and Saturday after 9pm, expect a wait or standing room.

This is a sipping bar, not a cocktail lounge. The bartenders are passionate about agave spirits and will happily guide you through a tasting if you’re curious. Ask about the seasonal mezcals. They rotate stock that you won’t find at most bars.

The Mission location puts you in the center of the city’s best bar-hopping corridor. ABV, Trick Dog, and El Techo are all within walking distance.