Born from blue agave, then fermented and distilled into the fiery drink we know today, tequila is one hell of a way to have fun, and we've found out where in London serves up something special. From shot bars to Mexican restaurants that also know their way around mezcal, these are some of the best spots for a tequila in London, whether to you it's a party drink, or you're proud of its roots.
Bar Arriba delivers the taste of Mexico in more ways than one. A bright and buzzing rooftop spot in the heart of Olympia, it serves up authentic dishes and all kinds of tasty tipples.
The mezcal and tequila list here is nothing short of extensive. You can taste your way through everything from Blanco, Reposado, Anejo and Extra Anejo to Rosa tequilas aged in the Napa Valley.
Santo Remedio Marylebone is the tequila lover's dream come true. Nestled in one of London's most elegant neighbourhoods, this vibrant cantina offers a refined tequila experience with a comprehensive selection of tequilas, from smooth sips to bold varieties.
Their private cocktail bar and event spaces make it an ideal venue for hosting tequila-fueled celebrations - whether it's a birthday bash or a corporate gathering, you can sip in style while enjoying authentic Mexican cuisine. They also offer an agave pairing evening, where you can enjoy a guided tasting of premium spirits complemented by light dishes.
Giving it some serious welly in the Mexican department is cult cocktail classic, Barrio in Shoreditch and beyond. Not only do its interiors scream South America, but its roster of tequila and mezcal behind the bar is also sure to impress even the most hardened of fans.
One of London's most exciting spirits events is coming to Glaziers Hall in May for The Tequila and Mezcal Show – The Ultimate Agave Tasting Experience.
Part of a series of events run by The Whisky Exchange, some of the biggest names in the world of spirits will be brought together to present 250+ tequilas, mezcals and agaves to sample. Tickets also include a complimentary cocktail, access to expert talks and a tasting glass to take home.
A lively Mexican restaurant in Notting Hill, Trejo's Tacos is as popular for its sensational spirits as it is its authentic dishes. From entrepreneur and actor Danny Trejo, this place serves up everything from burritos and tacos to soups, salads and rice bowls.
If you're here for liquid refreshment, there's just as much loveliness up for grabs. The mezcal and tequila flights pack in a choice of three top notch shots, including the likes of El Rayo Plate, Cazcabel Blanco, Ojo de Tigre and Amores Cupreata.
The Perception at W London is a hotel bar with its own voice, calling itself Soho's Home of Agave – and rightfully so. Responsible for Soho's most extensive agave list, guests can flick through pages of options spanning five different variations, including tequilas and mezcals, and over 100 distinct expressions. The agaves are used in the signature cocktails and unique, house-made small-batch infusions can be served neat for a true exploration of the ingredient.
The interiors make for dramatic drinking sessions, with low lighting, black and gold furnishings and a fire pit. you can pair your drinks with international plates, from bao buns and tacos to charcoal burgers and curries. Don't miss out on the live entertainment – with DJ sets filling the space with deep house and disco.
This Mexican restaurant in Camden takes its tequila and mezcal very seriously. Try out this awesome London tequila bar for some of the best selections in the capital.
Shedding the spirit of Mexico over Chelsea, Ixchel is a modern eatery and tequila bar inspired by the Mayan goddess of the moon, with fresh ingredients and classic-dishes-turned-contemporary at the helm. From succulent buttermilk chicken tacos to steak tacos containing honey cured beef and scotch bonnet salsa, plus a raw bar and bold signature plates from sea bream zarandeado to smoky beef short rib, this is the place to feast.
The drinks menu is made up of creative margaritas – including an avocado-based blend – alongside other house cocktails and an after-dinner horchata. They host a range of dining experiences, plus a weekly set lunch menu offering three courses for £28.
Searching for fabulous haunts for nights out? NYX Hotel London Holborn & Sabine Holborn is a real stunner as it features quirky interiors and plush seating. It also doesn't hurt that it has a killer cocktail selection and a tequila library that boasts over 20 mezcals.
London Cocktail Club Oxford Circus is themed to be a Gangster Tequila Paradise. With plenty of Mexican and California influences, it is an interesting party place. The bar has a main focus on tequila and whisky to create extravagant and delicious cocktails. For a late night party place, something a bit different than you're used to.
As the name suggests, Tequila Mockingbird absolutely adores the agave-based spirit. So much so, that it offers some seriously stunning margaritas and slammers, with a bunch of incred happy hour deals to boot. Find it all across London, including Clapham, Covent Garden and more.
If February needs a little heat, The Star of Bethnal Green is bringing it, with salt, lime and a whole lot of tequila. This lively pub is transforming into a mini Mexican fiesta, pouring over 20 types of tequila and mezcal from standout agave brands.
Tickets start at just £6.60 and include a complimentary margarita, making this one of London's best-value drinks events of the month. There'll also be mariachi music, half-price karaoke and expertly mixed cocktails.
A celebration of all things Mexico in Marylebone, Cavita is the place to head for top tier tequila. There's plenty up for grabs, from tipples best served neat to those all mixed up in creative house cocktails.
There's plenty more agave amazingness here too. A mezcal or two is a must for any visit. Feeling peckish? Grab a quesabirria before you go.
