Sydney's Best Tequila Bars
There is no spirit with provenance like tequila. Interestingly the agave plant which is native to the central western highlands of Mexico is the only spirit with such a clearly defined geographic and agricultural footprint. That said, tequila may have been around for 250 years but only recently have we started to see what different things can be done to push tequila to its limits. With this city’s current crush on all things Mexican- Atención tequila lovers, we’ve got Sydney’s best tequila bars!
Tio’s Cerveceria - Surry Hills
With Sydney in midst of a Mexican revolution, ex Shady Pines boys Jeremy Blackmore and Alex Dowd are clearly on the bandwagon with their homage to tequila and Mexican culture. Long and short, Tio’s knows tequila, and with tequila comes a whole lot of fun. With more than 70 styles of quality tequila you can choose from their handwritten drinks menu penned on the back of postcards, why not try the ‘Herchata Fuerte’- tequila mixed with rick milk, orgeat syrup and cinnamon if you like it mixed or ask for a recommendation from the friendly staff. If drinking tequila in the presence of kitsch religious status, sleazy fluorescent chili lights and sombreros is your thing, then come and kick back at this chilled cantina-style bar.
Miss Marleys - Manly
A boutique tequila bar and restaurant hidden away in Manly, offers a unique take on a small bar concept where 1950’s style vintage meets the passion of Central and South America. And they know full well that you can’t do Mexican without good tequila; like their Mojito with tequila and sherry bitters, even their must-try cocktails are made with a tequila twist- Deliciosa!
Rock Lily - Pyrmont
Rock Lily might not be a Mexican tequila bar to take your sombrero, but they make up for their 120 tequila’s listed on their menu making it one of the largest selections in the country. Styling itself as a live music venue, they have for many years acknowledged the long-standing relationship between rock-n-roll and tequila. With such an extensive tequila menu Margaritas take front row on the drinks menu. Try their signature drink - a traditional 30’s style Margarita with Grand Marnier, shaken, frozen or stirred.
El Loco - Surry Hills
We all may have heard, tried and heard again how El Loco’s food might be the talk of the town- but the tequila’s here should not be overlooked either! In the heart of Surry Hills, this cantina is all about the olmeca tequila slushies. So kick back and celebrate with your amigos sipping on a ‘Pink Cuco’ served with fresh lime juices, homemade coriander and raw ginger syrup, or their ‘Salted Agave’ - fresh lime juice, coconut water and house-made salted agave syrup – also a stand out.
The Norfolk - Redfern
Just like El Loco, there’s a lot of reasons to love The Norfolk, other than their Taco Tuesdays and bloody marys, but the only thing better than tequila - is tequila happy hour! Grab your $5 tequila shots or a mean margarita for $10 on our favourite day of the week – Fridays between 6-8pm.
One tequila, two tequila, three tequila…more!
By Carla Figueroa Pavez
