Tequila might not be the answer…but it’s worth a shot!
Is there any better way to enjoy blue agave juice than bottoms up? Get ready to party Mexican-style as we prepare to celebrate National Tequila Day on Sunday, July 24.
Tequila’s precursor, a milky frothy concoction known as ‘pulque’ dates back to circa 1000 BC, when indigenous Mexican tribes would harvest and ferment it. It wasn’t until around the 16th Century AD when tequila as we know it was produced – Spanish aristocrat Don Pedro Sànchez de Tagle opened the world’s first tequila factory in Jalisco, the state where the modern city of Tequila is located.
More than a century later in 1795, the world’s most successful brand was born when Don Jose Antonio de Cuervo founded the first Vino Mexcal de Tequila de Jose Cuervo.
Get set to lick, sip and suck on Sunday at some of our favourite Mexican venues around the country:
Celebrate all things taco and tequila at Lime Mexican in Coffs Harbour, Surfers Paradise, Nelson Bay and The Entrance. These fun and funky venues draw inspiration from the ‘Day of the Dead’, with vibrant graffiti-style artwork and skulls, setting the scene for tapas and cocktails.
Don your sombrero and settle in for Happy Hour on Sunday with an icy $12 Margarita in hand, to delve into plates like braised lamb nachos, jalapeños, pico de gallo, cheese and sour cream; or join amigos over char-grilled sizzling chipotle beef fajitas, with Spanish onion, warm tortillas, guacamole and sour cream.
Drop by Life’s Too Short back vintage bar on Victoria Parade in Melbourne this Sunday for a very special tequila grazing event with the Australian importer of La Cofradia Tequila. Experience four top-shelf tequilas with matched gourmet Mexican canapés; think chicken and vegetable quesadillas, tequila and lime-cured salmon avocado tostadas and fully loaded nachos.
Tucked away in the old bluestone cellars of the original Victoria Brewery, this petite luxe wine bar specialises in back vintage drops, paired with Australian artisan produce, fine beers, ciders and bespoke cocktails.
Expect a city experience in the Melbourne burbs at hip dining and drinking destination Lovesick Bar on Kenswick Street in Point Cook. Find an extensive spirit list, contemporary and craft beer alongside snacks, salads and share plates at this cocktail and wine bar; in moody surrounds of blue suede walls, booth seating and statement wooden lights.
To celebrate National Tequila Day, say arriba to a Lovesick Sour – premium silver Tequila, fresh batch strawberry and rosemary emulsion, egg white and citrus – best enjoyed with crispy pork belly cubes, sticky black vinegar sauce, apple and cashews.
Those wanting to take the tequila party home during the month of July can get a 20% discount on Mr Consistent Margarita Mix at The Fox and Hen on Shannon Avenue in Geelong. An ever-changing wine list that pairs perfectly with a seasonal grazing menu has locals and visitors returning time and again to this trendy venue.
Pouring coffees and delicious sweet treats to start the morning, attention turns to wine and food as the day progresses – stop in to pick up a bottle to take home and peruse shelves stocked with products such as chutney, relish and chilli jam.
Remember…’I hate tequila’ said no one – ever! Click here to find a Mexican venue near you.