Don Julio brings the spirit of Día de Muertos to London

The Staff Canteen

Don Julio Tequila will bring the heart and soul of Mexico to London with Panadería Don Julio - a three-day cultural takeover of Toklas Bakery.

The immersive pop-up will run from October 31 to November 2 and will blend the warmth of a traditional Mexican bakery with the vibrancy of a tequila bar, transforming the central London venue into a celebration of life, legacy and love - the defining values of Día de los Muertos.

An authentic taste of Mexico in collaboration with Elena Reygadas

Created in partnership with Panadería Rosetta, one of Mexico City’s most revered bakeries led by Michelin-starred chef Elena Reygadas, the project marks the first-ever UK appearance of Rosetta’s famous Pan de Muerto - the sweet, orange blossom-scented “bread of the dead” traditionally baked to honour lost loved ones during Día de Muertos.

Elena said: “Día de Muertos is one of Mexico’s most meaningful celebrations, where life and death meet through memory, food and ritual. Pan de muerto is a gesture of care that connects us with those who are no longer here. Collaborating with Tequila Don Julio allows us to share this living tradition with the world, honouring the richness and creativity of Mexican culture.”

A sensory celebration of culture and craft

Throughout the event, Toklas Bakery will be transformed by candlelit ofrendas, marigold displays, and traditional decorations, inviting guests to experience the depth and artistry of Mexican heritage in an intimate London setting.

By day, visitors can take part in hands-on cocktail masterclasses, including Don Julio Reposado Paloma sessions, and explore a curated

bodega by Milagros - the Columbia Road boutique known for its hand-crafted Mexican homewares.

As night falls, the bakery will turn into an after-dark speakeasy, serving signature cocktails from Handshake Speakeasy, the Mexico City bar ranked World’s #1 Bar by 50 Best Bars. The bar will offer exclusive serves such as the Paloma Twist and Margarita Twist, accompanied by live DJs and collectives from Mexico’s underground music scene.

A celebration of love, legacy and modern Mexico

Bethany Western, Head of Tequila, Don Julio GB, said: “This holiday is a celebration of love, legacy and tradition, values that are at the very core of Tequila Don Julio. Through our collaboration with world-class partners like Panadería Rosetta and Handshake Speakeasy, we’re thrilled to bring this vibrant holiday to audiences around the globe once again, honouring Mexico’s rich cultural heritage and culinary artistry in a way that is both meaningful and extraordinary.”

The event is part of Don Julio Tequila’s global Día de Muertos series, designed to showcase Mexico’s creative energy and craftsmanship on the world stage - from its cuisine and design to its deep-rooted sense of community.

Honouring tradition, celebrating innovation

Panadería Don Julio is more than a pop-up; it’s an invitation to experience Mexico’s cultural heartbeat through craft, ritual and celebration. It celebrates flavour, memory, and modern Mexican identity - a showcase of how food and drink can connect generations and cultures through shared moments.

written by abi kinsella

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The Staff Canteen

The Staff Canteen

Editor 22nd October 2025

Don Julio brings the spirit of Día de Muertos to London