In Mexico, starting at midnight on October 31st, the worlds of the living and the dead unite, allowing ancestors to return — not to be mourned, but to celebrate life with their loved ones for Día de Muertos. The foods shared during this time not only nourish the living, but also symbolically sustain the spirits on their journey to Mictlán (a final place of rest). It’s a reminder that even in death, the bond of family remains strong, and the best way to honour that connection is through celebration, not sorrow.

On Monday, November 4th, La Mezcaleria will host a special four-course Día de Muertos Dinner inspired by the spirit of remembrance, celebration and connection – and paired with some seriously good tequila, thanks to a partnership with award-winning Master Distiller, Tony Salles (of El Tequileño Tequila).

The Commercial Drive restaurant has a good reputation for its strong affinity and enthusiasm for Mezcal and Tequila culture (as well as legit tasty Mexican food), which makes the collaboration with Salles – who is known for his expertise and lifelong connection to the heritage of tequila (Salles is the grandson of Don Jorge Salles Cuervo, founder of El Tequileño) – an excellent fit for the event.

Food plays a big role in Day of the Dead celebrations, and Chef Kevin Orozco has curated a unique four-course menu inspired by the symbolic journey of Día de Muertos, blending rich Mexican traditions with bold, modern flavours. The menu has been created as a metaphorical guide for diners through Mictlán, to the Living World, the In-Between, and Heaven. At the same time, during the meal, Salles will be leading guests through the tasting of three distinct tequilas. (Also of note: though not included in the ticket price, each course comes with its own cocktail suggestion, designed to even further enhance the dining experience.) Check it out below:

Día de Muertos Dinner Menu:

First Course
Grilled Black Bean Tamal / Ashes Mole / Watercress
Suggested Cocktail: Yohualli (Reposado Tequila, Crème de Cacao, Fernet, Ancho Reyes)

Second Course
Beef Barbacoa / Pasilla Pepper & El Tequileño Reposado Adobo / Pumpkin Purée / Zucchini Blossoms
Suggested Cocktail: Mulli Negroni (Tequila Mole, Campari, Sweet Vermouth)

Third Course
Hibiscus / Goat Cheese / Chicatana

Fourth Course
“Pan de Muerto” / Mascarpone & Rosemary Mousse / Orange Gel / Pumpkin Purée / Mandarin
Suggested Cocktail: Totonqui Xocolatl (Oaxacan Hot Chocolate, Marigold Syrup, Grand Marnier, El Tequileño Tequila)

Mezcaleria’s Día de Muertos dinner kicks off at 5pm (your stomach should be ready for dinner early on November 4th, since the clocks will have just fallen back an hour). Expect an evening of exceptional flavours, cultural celebration, and the rare opportunity to meet a Master Tequilero in person. Tickets are $90 per person (including four courses and all of your three El Tequileño tequila tastings). TICKETS HERE.

La Mezcaleria

Neighbourhood: Commercial Drive

1622 Commercial Drive

604-559-8226

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