Metuchen, NEW JERSEY—In a spirited bid to enter the Guinness World Records, Meximodo, a local restaurant, has officially become home to the world's largest tequila and mezcal library.
According to Fox News, Meximodo surpassed the previous record with a grand collection of over 1,000 unique bottles of agave-derived spirits, marking a significant milestone in its brief history.
The restaurant, which opened its doors in November of the previous year, is located in the small yet vibrant borough of Metuchen in New Jersey. It quickly became an integral part of the community, celebrated for its unique approach to Mexican cuisine and spirits. TJ Pingitore, the senior vice president of LeMalt Hospitality Group, expressed that the idea to go for the record followed several high-profile accolades bestowed upon Metuchen, including the 2023 Great American Main Street Award.
According to Pingitore, the record attempt was inspired by Metuchen's growing recognition, including being named the birthplace of the American Girl Doll of the Year, Kavi Sharma. Such accolades provided the perfect backdrop for launching something unprecedented at Meximodo.
The extensive tequila and mezcal library was built over several months, aiming to create a collection that included well-known brands and rare finds from across Mexico. Each bottle was selected to represent the vast array of flavors and profiles that agave spirits can offer.
Guinness World Records certified this formidable collection on July 24, recognizing Meximodo for having the largest collection of tequila in the world. The previous record stood at approximately 600 unique bottles, making Meximodo's accomplishment particularly noteworthy.
"Being on the plaza, with the anchor business here about to open...we wanted to do something really special, not just for the community here, but also for the tequila enthusiasts all over the U.S.," Pingitore remarked during the celebration event.
Meximodo's culinary offerings result from extensive research and trips to various Mexican villages, bringing authentic flavors to Central Jersey. The restaurant has tailored popular dishes such as pollo con mole and barbacoa to pair exquisitely with specific tequila profiles, enhancing the dining experience.
"The pollo con mole is amazing. It's our chicken. The mole pairs very well with some of our milder, smoky tequilas," Pingitore said, illustrating the careful curation of food and drink.
"And then you have our barbacoa — which is delicious, served two different ways," Pingitore added, highlighting the versatility of their menu items. This approach has not only endeared the restaurant to locals but also attracted guests from around the region, eager to experience its unique offering.
The restaurant has been lauded for its vibrant décor and ambiance, described by NJ.com as the "most colorful new restaurant," adding to its allure and making it a must-visit destination in New Jersey.
Meximodo's distinction extends beyond just numbers; moreover, it is about celebrating the spirit of tequila and mezcal in all their varieties. In addition, Pingitore emphasized the restaurant's dedication to educating patrons about the spirits. "Our bartenders are all trained in suggesting the flavor profile out there," he pointed out.
Furthermore, the tequila library includes a diverse range of flavor profiles, from smoky to mild, and even some with a spicier kick, such as those infused with jalapeño or habanero, offering something for every palate.
Competition for the record was stiff, with the two closest rivals located in major international cities: Las Vegas in the United States and London in the United Kingdom. Nevertheless, Meximodo's unique approach and dedication to authenticity and quality allowed it to emerge as the new record holder.
Furthermore, as acclaimed on social platforms and reviews, visitors have continually praised the restaurant not just for its record-setting library, but also for its innovative dishes and welcoming atmosphere. For instance, "My new favorite Mexican spot! Everything is beautifully decorated from the minute you walk in, and we could tell there was a lot of love put into this place," remarked a Google reviewer.
In conclusion, Meximodo's story is one of inspiration, hard work, and a deep-rooted love for Mexican culture and tequila. From its status-bearing location in Metuchen to its record-breaking collection of over 1,000 tequilas, Meximodo sets a new standard for culinary and cultural excellence in Central Jersey. The restaurant not only fosters a greater appreciation for agave-derived spirits but also offers a vibrant spot for community gatherings and remarkable food that continues to draw patrons from near and far.
