Mochilero Kitchen in Peoria (Peoria.MochileroKitchen.com) is making waves in a sea of Mexican food spots. This isn’t just another restaurant—it’s a farm-to-table haven where fresh, vibrant ingredients meet the rich traditions of Mexican cuisine. Sibling duo Meliza Miranda and Jorge Cota had a vision: to create a place where the familiar comfort of classic dishes meets the excitement of something new, all made from scratch with a touch of love.
But it’s not just the food that’s turning heads. Mochilero’s drink menu is a showstopper in its own right. The bar is a playground for mixologists to shake up the ordinary and serve the extraordinary. Each season, they unveil a new lineup of creative cocktails that keep locals returning for more. And this fall, they’ve outdone themselves. We're thrilled to share a few of this fall's showstopper cocktails.
The Brujerita is a Bewitching Fall Cocktail
"As we transition into fall, we’re excited to introduce the Brujerita, inspired by Halloween and Día de los Muertos," shares Jorge Cota, co-owner of Mochilero Kitchen. "This cocktail is a bewitching blend of lime juice, blood orange-infused tequila, and charcoal-infused agave. Our drinks are always Tequila-focused, staying true to our Mexican roots, but with seasonal twists that add a unique flair."
The Brujerita is a fall twist on the classic margarita. This cocktail combines the bright flavors of lime and agave with the deep, fruity notes of blood orange-infused tequila and the earthy depth of charcoal-infused agave. A few dashes of orange bitters bring it all home.
“Our customers love a good margarita, and the Brujerita is no exception,” says Jorge. “It’s familiar, yet different—perfect for fall.”
The Dulce Vida is a Warm Embrace
One standout from the fall menu is the Dulce Vida. This drink is a warm embrace in a glass, combining blanco tequila with the earthy warmth of ginger and turmeric juice. Fresh citrus adds a crisp, refreshing kick, while orange bitters tie it all together. Topped with sparkling apple cider and garnished with apple slices and a dusting of pumpkin spice, the Dulce Vida is fall in a brandy glass.
“The Dulce Vida is like a cozy fall sweater—spicy, sweet, and perfect for sipping,” says Meliza Miranda, co-owner of Mochilero Kitchen. “Our customers can’t get enough of it.”
Mas Mole Offers Chocolatey Goodness
Then there's the Mas Mole—a cocktail that’s as intriguing as it is delicious. Crafted with Cazadores reposado tequila and Cazadores café liquor, this drink layers rich flavors with sweet vermouth, honey, and chocolate bitters. It's almost too pretty to drink, topped with frothy foam and served in a martini glass with a house-made red-mole rim and Abuelita chocolate shavings.
“This is the kind of cocktail that surprises you,” says Meliza. “Mole in a drink might sound unusual, but trust me—you don’t want to miss it.”
At Mochilero Kitchen, the menu evolves with the seasons, always ensuring something new. Stop by 6791 W Happy Valley Road #100, Peoria, this fall to experience the Dulce Vida, Mas Mole, and Brujerita.
Dishes Not to Miss
Order some of these favorites to go with your cocktails:
- Agua Chile: marinated shrimp and scallops, jalapeño, serrano, lime, cucumber, red onion, avocado, and micro cilantro
- Pulpo Achiote: Octopus a la parrilla marinated, grilled, and served with crispy potatoes, onion, and aioli Morita
- Campechana: Fresh shrimp and scalloped poached, house cocktail sauce, avocado, cilantro, peppers, onions, tomatoes, and micro cilantro
- Ahi Tostada: Fresh diced Ahi tossed in salsa cahca, served with guacamole and pickled onion
- Duck Mole: Confit duck served with a house-made negro, pickled escabeche, peanuts, and crispy plantains
- Carne Asada Salad: Carne Asada, mixed greens, grilled onion, cabernet dressing