La Farmacia

The Verdict

If you live in Sydney, there’s no doubt you are a big believer in the margarita. You’ll also be a fan of a secret late-night locale and some damn good and deeply authentic Mexican fare. Enter La Farmacia.

From the crew that brought you Sydney’s institution of ice-cold brews and finger-licking good buffalo wings, Wings X Tins, La Farmacia is a hidden mezcal and tequila spot heroing authentic Guadalajara-style cuisine as well as about 20 variations of margarita. Interested? We bet you are. 

This after-dark spot is tucked behind Mrs Palmers Sandwich on Stanley Street, the sambo spot set up by Wings X Tins founders Anthony Macfarlane and Alfredo Perez in early 2020. Sandwich spot by day, margarita mayhem by night, the plan was always to open a down to earth, extra-authentic marg bar with real tacos, loud Mexican hip hop and an impressive menu of boutique Mexican spirits. La Farmacia is the result. 

On the 20-strong margarita menu, you’ll find the classic tequila, triple sec, lime juice, sugar syrup, salt rim margarita alongside more fruity deviations like passionfruit, watermelon and blueberry and mint.

There’s also a set of botanical-style margaritas like hibiscus and elderflower, and spicy margs like a strawberry picante with muddled jalapeno and strawberry concentrate. Feeling brave? The reaper margarita features Carolina reaper-infused tequila and a habanero rim. Our go-to, however, is the classic mezcal margarita with Los Agaves mezcal. 

And food isn’t a sideshow at La Farmacia—Macfarlane and Perez have made a point of steering clear of Tex Mex-style nachos and cheese. Expect bona fide Guadalajara staples like seasonal ceviche, grilled corn, queso fundido (melted cheese pots with chorizo), cactus salads and salsas.

Tacos come as DIY platters, stacked up with six corn or flour tortillas, coriander, onion and salsa, alongside your choice of fillings, like beef brisket, pork shoulder, flank steak or marinated mushrooms. Can’t decide? Let the chef feed you ($50 per person), or order single tacos ($5 each). 

If you want to sample it all, make sure you book yourself into one of La Farmacia’s monthly mezcal and taco degustations. This super special six-course feast will see you skill up on super-rare mezcals and tequilas while feasting on tacos, of course. Bookings are essential, and you can check the La Farmacia for details and up-coming dates. 

Tuesdays are Taco Tuesdays and you’ll be in for half-price tacos and $15 margaritas. 

Image credit: La Farmacia