Introduction to Botonica
In Houston, we take pride in our diversity, and this is reflected in our vibrant food scene. With the opening of Botonica, a new River Oaks spot, Houstonians can now explore Latin American culture in a unique and exciting way. Owner Alexis Mijares has created a space that showcases her Mexican American heritage through the art of cocktails.
The Story Behind Botonica
Mijares has a rich background in the hospitality industry, having honed her skills at several bars and created her own pop-ups, including the Cursed Cauldron and Jingle Bell Bar. With Botonica, she aims to put Latin excellence at the forefront of conversations, through drinks that educate guests on the vital role her culture played in the history of cocktails. The bar’s mission is to tell a "liquid story" that highlights the importance of Latin American culture in the world of cocktails.
The Menu
Botonica’s menu is divided into three sections: the house menu, la huella liquida (the liquid footprint), and el camino de la margarita. The house menu features thoughtful options for all customers, including boozy stirred drinks, citrusy and refreshing takes, and alcohol-free options. The menu introduces guests to unique Latin spirits, such as Singani 63, a Bolivian brandy, and combines them with familiar ingredients. The Desert Dove, for example, is a twist on the Moscow mule, made with Singani 63, Ketel One, St. Germain, guava, grapefruit, lemon, and ginger beer.
Exploring Latin American Culture
La huella liquida is the largest menu, featuring over 50 classic cocktails that showcase Latin America’s influence on the drinks. The menu takes guests on a journey through time, from the 1600s to the present day, and includes familiar cocktails like the Paloma and mojito, as well as lesser-known drinks like the Pisco sour. El camino de la margarita is a menu-within-a-menu that explores the evolution of the margarita, with nine different cocktails that showcase the drink’s history and versatility.
Food and Design
Botonica’s food menu blends comfort with pan-Latin inspiration, featuring dishes like caviar and chicharrones, rajas con crema, and mini Sonoran dogs. The bar’s design is a unique blend of gothic, moody, and vintage elements, with greenery and plants, dubbed "tropic-goth." The name Botonica is a play on the word "botanica," with the second half changed to include "tonic," as a pun on its purpose as a cocktail bar.
The Future of Botonica
As Botonica settles into its River Oaks neighborhood, the plan is to add additional programming, including live jazz, bossa nova, and burlesque, as well as Tini Tuesday. Mijares has been working towards this moment for nearly seven years, and is excited to finally see her dream come to fruition. With the success of her pop-ups, including the Cursed Cauldron and Jingle Bell Bar, Mijares is confident that Botonica will become a staple in the Houston bar scene.
Conclusion
Botonica is a unique and exciting addition to the Houston bar scene, offering a chance to explore Latin American culture through cocktails and food. With its thoughtful menu, unique design, and commitment to storytelling, Botonica is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the best of Latin American culture. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast, a foodie, or just looking for a new and exciting experience, Botonica is sure to deliver.
