Café Pacifico

Tequila. It's not just a means to waking up with your naked, shaking body Glad Wrapped to a telegraph pole by fellow buck's party invitees. Die-hard fans – like Pacifico owner and world-recognised Tequila guru Phil Bayly – realise the earthy spirit is a rich, complex beverage which deserves to be appreciated in the way Cognac is. Bayly's tequila obsession assists Pacifico's charm: the bar sells over 70 kinds of the spirit. CP's also known for its rambunctious atmosphere, with Mexican beer ads and Dia de los Muertos-themed murals presiding over screeching, blue agave-fuelled merriment. But on a Tuesday or Wednesday it's quiet enough to enjoy a civilised, undisturbed chat with your date over a choice of seven different kinds of Margarita, a refreshing Sangria or, for something a bit left-of-centre, a Michelada: a Frankendrink marriage of Bloody Mary and Mexican beer, and a fine hangover remedy. Food is in the Californian-Mexican vein, favouring fresh flavours (avocado, lemon, lettuce) rather than gluggy, bean- and chilli-heavy fare. Mains are south of $30 and amply sized. With generous, gut-filling servings, Pacifico is a fine starting point for a big night out, but on some nights it can be difficult to leave.