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Sydney

Cantina OK! is a micro mezcal bar located in a converted garage in Sydney's CBD. Known for its standing-room-only setup and a capacity of approximately 20 guests, the bar specializes in agave-based cocktails, particularly margaritas made with hand-shaved ice and hand-pressed limes. The owners, Alex Dowd and Jeremy Blackmore, along with manager Alex Gilmour, have curated a selection of rare and unique agave spirits imported from Mexico. The bar has received numerous accolades, including being ranked 41st in The World's 50 Best Bars in 2023.

Discover Cantina OK The Heart Of Sydney's Agave Cocktail Scene

Tucked away on Council Place, Cantina OK! transforms a humble converted garage into Sydney's premier destination for lovers of tequila, mezcal, and craft cocktails. This intimate micro bar, with a standing-room-only capacity of around 20 guests, delivers an authentic Mexican-inspired drinking experience right in the city’s bustling CBD. The rustic-chic vibe complements a remarkable menu of margaritas and cocktails crafted with rare, imported agave spirits, hand-shaved ice, and freshly pressed limes.

Why Cantina OK Stands Out in Sydney's Bar Scene

Cantina OK! isn't just another cocktail bar—it's a hidden gem celebrated for its cozy ambiance and world-class bartenders. Visitors rave about the bar’s creative mixologists who skillfully blend rare agave spirits into cocktails that are both imaginative and true to Mexican roots. Whether you’re winding down after a busy day or kickstarting a night out, Cantina OK offers an unforgettable experience that melds exceptional drinks with a warm, welcoming atmosphere.

Expect a thoughtfully curated cocktail list that changes regularly, showcasing treasures like the peanut-flavoured "Jumbo OK" and the lively "Enzoni OK." Their margaritas are famous for using hand-shaved ice and fresh lime juice, served alongside authentic Tecate beer. The bartenders' flair turns every drink into a story, complete with unique artwork drawn on coasters, making each visit a memorable adventure in taste and culture.

 - Hidden in a back alley on Council Place, Sydney’s CBD.

 - Standing-room-only, accommodating around 20 guests for an intimate social vibe.

 - Accepts NFC mobile payments, credit, and debit cards; no cash only.

 - Cozy, rustic-chic, with a friendly staff praised for making every visit special.

Frequently asked questions about Cantina OK

What are the operating hours of Cantina OK?

 Cantina OK! operates daily from 4:00 PM to 2:00 AM.

Is there seating available at Cantina OK?

 The bar is standing-room-only, accommodating approximately 20 guests.

 No, Cantina OK! operates on a first-come, first-served basis and does not accept reservations.

 Guests must be 18 years or older to enter.

 Cantina OK! accepts NFC mobile payments.

Community sentiment and why locals love Cantina OK

Locals and visitors alike celebrate Cantina OK! for its intimate setting and exceptional drink craftsmanship. The bar's knowledgeable staff and unique selection of agave spirits elevate every visit, making it a standout for Sydney’s cocktail aficionados. Many patrons highlight the warm, welcoming vibe and the personalized service that turns first-time guests into regulars. Whether you're a tequila enthusiast or a curious newcomer, this bar delivers a memorable slice of Mexico in the heart of Australia’s largest city.

Australia

Nestled in a hidden alleyway in the heart of Sydney, **Cantina OK!** is not just a bar; it's an experience waiting to unfold. This compact yet vibrant venue specializes in tequila and mezcal-based cocktails, making it a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in authentic Mexican flavors. The moment you step inside, the rustic-chic decor and the lively atmosphere invite you to unwind and savor the moment.

Cantina OK! is renowned for its **signature margaritas**, particularly the $12 happy hour special that has patrons raving. Each margarita is crafted with precision, using freshly squeezed lime juice and premium tequila, ensuring a refreshing burst of flavor with every sip. Another standout is the **Bongo cocktail**, a delightful concoction that blends tropical fruits with a hint of spice, leaving a lasting impression on your palate.

What truly sets Cantina OK! apart is its **passionate mixologists**. Each drink tells a story, often illustrated on coasters, adding a personal touch to your experience. The bar's intimate setting encourages conversation and camaraderie, making it a perfect spot for both locals and travelers. The cocktail menu changes frequently, ensuring that there's always something new to try, keeping the excitement alive.

Conveniently located at Council Place, Cantina OK! is surrounded by some of Sydney's most iconic attractions. Just a short stroll away, you can explore the vibrant streets of the CBD, visit the historic **Sydney Opera House**, or take a leisurely walk through the **Royal Botanic Garden**. This prime location makes it an ideal stop for those looking to unwind after a day of sightseeing.

 It is known for its creative tequila and mezcal cocktails, particularly the margaritas and the unique Bongo cocktail.

 It offers a cozy atmosphere, exceptional service from talented mixologists, and a unique cocktail menu that changes regularly.

 You can easily visit the Sydney Opera House and the Royal Botanic Garden, both within walking distance.

Whether you're a local or just passing through Sydney, make sure to stop by Cantina OK! for a memorable evening filled with exceptional cocktails and a warm atmosphere. Don't forget to share your experience with friends and family!

Compact, rustic-chic bar specialising in margaritas & cocktails with handmade agave spirits.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2ci1fNmV3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ-Qt3yf2vEmsRANnmSLtYU0Y/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUN2ci1fNmV3EAE

Cantina OK! is an absolute gem in the heart of Sydney! Located in such a back alley, hidden from site,  you may miss it  if you don’t keep your eyes open! It's the perfect spot to unwind after a long day or kickstart a night out. Despite its intimate size, this place packs a punch with its cozy and welcoming atmosphere.
But what truly sets Cantina Go apart are the bartenders. They are, without a doubt, the best in the world! Their skill, creativity, and friendly personalities make every visit a memorable experience.
I made Cantina Go my daily stop for the week I was in Sydney, and I couldn’t imagine my evenings without dropping by to enjoy the incredible ambiance and outstanding service. Highly recommended for anyone looking for a world class evening out in Sydney.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2MmRHa1Z3EAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ-Qt3yf2vEmsRANnmSLtYU0Y/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUR2MmRHa1Z3EAE

Honestly the coolest bar in Sydney. Happy hour $12 margarita is insane. The bongo cocktail was fire and service is fantastic. Drinks only but so worth a trip!

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIcF8yTk5nEAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ-Qt3yf2vEmsRANnmSLtYU0Y/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSURIcF8yTk5nEAE

DO NOT MISS!!! We walked past this tiny bar. It was packed and looked super fun, so we decided to check it out. Thought that we were going to have a drink and call it a night, but ended up trying so many different types of tequila and mezcal. What an amazing and memorable experience! The team at this bar was really fun and accommodating. Every drink had a story, which was drawn on a coaster! I was mind blown. They serve Tecate beer, which is always a good sign that it's an authentic Mexican establishment, and the margaritas were delicious. What a night, what a team, what an experience! We absolutely loved it and highly recommend heading over for a few drinks when you're in Sydney.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQcGM3US1RRRAB&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ-Qt3yf2vEmsRANnmSLtYU0Y/reviews/ChdDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUNQcGM3US1RRRAB

Visited in Nov 2024

What a fantastic little cocktail bar this is. Specialising in Tequila & Mezcal based cocktails, Cantina OK is one of the coolest cocktail bars I’ve been to in 2024. The mixologists here are some of the nicest people you’ll ever meet at any bar.

The cocktail menu seems to change every week/month and hence there is no point looking at the online menu. During my visit the weekly menu comprised a couple of margaritas and four other cocktails. Really loved the peanut flavoured “Jumbo OK” and the “Enzoni OK” cocktails. If the Jumbo OK is on the menu when you visit, strongly recommend ordering that one.

There is no seating at the bar and it’s a “stand at counter, order and drink” system. If you’re in Sydney, this watering hole is a must visit.

https://www.google.com/local/review/rap/report?postId=ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3MFBfWmNREAE&d=17924085&t=1

places/ChIJ-Qt3yf2vEmsRANnmSLtYU0Y/reviews/ChZDSUhNMG9nS0VJQ0FnSUQ3MFBfWmNREAE

Everything about this place is just perfect! A great little hole-in-the-wall bar with a small but incredibly creative tequila / mezcal based menu. Loved every drink that we ordered.

Experience Cantina OK! – Sydney's Cozy Tequila Bar

Cantina OK! opened in March 2019, transforming a small garage space into a renowned micro mezcal bar in Sydney's CBD. The founders, Alex Dowd and Jeremy Blackmore, along with manager Alex Gilmour, traveled extensively in Mexico to source unique agave spirits, leading to the bar's distinctive offerings. The bar has been recognized in The World's 50 Best Bars, ranking 41st in 2023.

History of Cantina OK in Sydney CBD Bar Scene and Mezcal Culture Evolution 

Established in March 2019, Cantina OK! is a remarkable story of transformation and passion in the heart of Sydney's CBD. What once was a small garage space has been ingeniously converted into a rustic-chic micro bar that specializes in 

margaritas and cocktails crafted from handmade agave spirits

, offering a unique taste experience inspired by extensive travels across Mexico. The founders, Alex Dowd and Jeremy Blackmore, along with bar manager Alex Gilmour, embarked on journeys through Mexico to discover rare agave varieties and authentic mezcal production techniques that now define the bar's distinctive drink menu.

Cantina OK's Rise to International Acclaim

Since its inception, Cantina OK! quickly earned a reputation far beyond Sydney’s vibrant bar scene. The bar's unwavering commitment to quality and innovation led to its recognition among the world's elite cocktail destinations. It steadily climbed The World's 50 Best Bars rankings over the years, marking a meteoric rise in global prestige. These accolades reflect the venue's dedication to delivering an authentic and exceptional mezcal and tequila experience, standing out amongst international peers.

 Cantina OK! opened in March in Sydney's CBD, starting its remarkable journey.

 Ranked 28th in The World's 50 Best Bars, announcing its arrival on the global stage.

 Climbed to 23rd place, further cementing its international acclaim.

 Ranked 44th, maintaining strong presence among the world’s best bars.

 Achieved 41st place, continuing to be a must-visit cocktail bar in Sydney and beyond.

Cantina OK! embodies the spirit of Sydney’s dynamic nightlife — intimate, innovative, and authentically connected to global cocktail culture. The bar is celebrated for its expert mixologists who craft cocktails that tell stories of Mexico’s rich agave tradition with every sip. The venue’s compact size enhances its cozy atmosphere, making it a beloved spot for locals and visitors seeking a sophisticated yet unpretentious drinking experience. By combining handcrafted cocktails with a deep respect for traditional mezcal and tequila, Cantina OK! has shaped itself into an essential destination for anyone exploring Sydney’s vibrant beverage scene.

A selection of agave-led cocktails and daily specials crafted with hand-sourced, hand-imported spirits.

Margarita OK!

Fuzz OK!

Silk OK!

Teal

Toreador OK!

Mani OK!

Radar OK!

Sang OK!

Green and Gold!

Som Tum OK!

Mondrian OK!

Tamil OK!

Tlecan OK!

Paddys OK!

Cheesecake OK!

Hanoi Highball!

Market OK!

Cantina OK! Menu

Cantina OK! menu overview in Sydney Australia

Nestled in the heart of Sydney's bustling Council Place, Cantina OK! invites you to explore a curated selection of agave-focused cocktails and tantalizing daily specials. This compact, rustic-chic bar is celebrated for its handcrafted margaritas and innovative tequila and mezcal concoctions made from hand-sourced, imported spirits that offer an authentic Mexican flair with a modern twist.

Cantina OK! shines brightest with its vibrant and imaginative cocktails. The signature Margarita OK! blends tequila, mezcal, lime, and a hint of orange oil, creating a zesty, smoky classic that captivates the senses. For the adventurous, the Fuzz OK! mixes tequila with sour mango, fresh lime, and pineapple fuzz for a tropical tangy burst. The Silk OK! seduces with tequila, milk pudding, almond, red cinnamon soda, and hand-shaved rose ice, offering a silky, aromatic indulgence.

 - a refreshing fusion of tequila, citron, nigori sake, and lemon with a cooling lemon ice.

 - combines peachwood tequila with vin d’apricot, lemon, and delicate coconut bubbles for a light, tropical sip.

 - an intriguing blend of tequila, hojicha, peanut sorbet, palm sugar, and chili oil, bringing rich and spicy notes.

 - features tequila paired with carrot soda, blood orange, and a unique orange and turmeric jelly for a vibrant flavor profile.

For those craving a sweet finale, the Cheesecake OK! cocktail offers an indulgent mix of tequila, white chocolate, strawberry seltzer, cheesecake foam, strawberry gèlee, and digestive biscuit crumble, reimagining dessert as a drink with a delightful creamy finish.

 - a refreshing mezcal-based drink infused with ginseng, rhubarb, and a hint of hot mint.

 - tequila mixed with hibiscus fino sherry, guava, lime, and shaved mango for a fruity and complex profile.

Discover Cantina OK! in Sydney, a vibrant bar offering a lively atmosphere and unique drinks. Enjoy an unforgettable experience in the heart of Australia!

Cantina OK! Bar in Sydney - Vibrant Drinks & Vibe

Council of the City of Sydney Municipality

Cantina OK!

A variety of cocktails featuring tequila and mezcal as primary ingredients.

Agave-led cocktails

A curated selection of rare and unique agave spirits imported from Mexico.

Hand-sourced agave spirits

Discover Cantina OK in Sydney's Hidden Council Place Alleyway 

Tucked away in an unassuming back alley on Council Place, Cantina OK! is Sydney's ultimate gem for lovers of handcrafted cocktails and authentic agave spirits. This compact, rustic-chic bar specializes in margaritas and inventive tequila- and mezcal-based drinks that bring a true taste of Mexico to the heart of New South Wales.

Exceptional Cocktail Craftsmanship and Ambiance

Despite its intimate size and hidden location, Cantina OK! delivers an unforgettable experience through its cozy, welcoming atmosphere and world-class bartenders. Renowned for their skill and creativity, the mixologists here craft a rotating menu featuring unique margaritas and signature cocktails like the peanut-flavored “Jumbo OK” and the intriguing “Enzoni OK.” Every cocktail tells a story, often illustrated on its coaster, making each visit both delicious and memorable.

 – Expertly crafted drinks featuring tequila and mezcal as the star ingredients, priced at around 16 AUD. 

 – A curated collection of rare agave spirits imported directly from Mexico, available for those seeking an authentic and distinctive flavor experience, also priced around 16 AUD.

Why Cantina OK Is Sydney’s Must-Visit Cocktail Bar

Cantina OK! isn’t just another bar — it’s a destination for anyone who appreciates top-tier mixology in a laid-back, intimate setting. The lack of seating encourages a lively, stand-at-the-counter vibe where conversations flow as smoothly as the cocktails. The bartenders’ welcoming personalities and flair for storytelling turn every visit into a unique adventure.

 – Nestled in a hidden alley on Council Place, a true local secret in Sydney’s CBD.

 – Cozy, rustic, and intimate with a buzzing vibe that’s perfect for winding down or starting your evening.

 – Friendly, highly skilled bartenders who transform every drink into a work of art.

If you’re searching for the best cocktail bar in Sydney that offers a genuine Mexican flair with innovative twists and a welcoming vibe, Cantina OK! should be at the top of your list. Whether you’re a local looking for your new regular haunt or a traveler eager to sip authentic agave cocktails, this hidden treasure is guaranteed to impress.

New South Wales

Discover Cantina OK! in Sydney—a cozy tequila bar known for exquisite margaritas & unique agave cocktails. Join us for an unforgettable night!

Experience Cantina OK! - Sydney's Best Tequila Bar

Explore tips for visiting Cantina OK! in Sydney—delight in handcrafted cocktails, no reservations required! Experience the magic of agave spirits.

Plan Your Visit to Cantina OK! - Sydney's Hidden Gem

Learn about Cantina OK!, a top-rated mezcal bar in Sydney's CBD, renowned for its unique cocktails and intimate atmosphere. A must-visit for cocktail lovers!

Experience Cantina OK! – Sydney's Cozy Tequila Bar

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