Seeking the perfect concoction to sip in the name of World Tequila Day, 24 July? Take a look at this line-up of tequila-based beauties in Melbourne and Sydney, ready to turn your day from nay to yay.

Tequila has inspired songs, fuelled bold karaoke choices, and become a non-negotiable at bottomless brunches across the country. It’s long been the life of the party, and this month, it finally gets the recognition it deserves.

And what better way to celebrate than with a seriously good tequila cocktail? Whether you like it smoky, spicy, smooth or citrusy, these five options have you covered. Salt rims optional, good vibes essential.

Saturday Morning Coffee - The Wilmot Bar (Sydney)

With a moody, 1930s vibe, The Wilmot Bar is a cosy and sophisticated spot in the heart of Sydney’s CBD that is perfect for colder months. A setting this smooth deserves a cocktail to match. While tequila usually brings light, summer vibes to mind, Saturday Morning Coffee takes things in a richer direction. Think butter-washed, coffee-infused Casamigos tequila, Licor 43, Cointreau and orange bitters, all shaken into one velvety, spiced number. It’s like an espresso martini’s more mature, well-travelled cousin. www.kimptonmargotsydney.com/eat-and-drink/the-wilmot-bar

Yuzu & Chilli Margarita - Luc-San (Sydney)

Thinking of dipping into the spicy marg world but not ready for the full flaming spice? Luc-San’s Yuzu & Chilli Margarita, served in the vibey, red-hued surrounds of Japanese-French fusion restaurant and bar, Luc-San in Potts Point, is the perfect gateway. Bright, citrusy yuzu brings a zesty freshness, while the chilli adds a gentle warmth rather than an overpowering burn. It hits that sweet spot, vibrant, refreshing and just adventurous enough. Even better, it’s just $12 during happy hour (Thursday to Saturday, 4pm to 6 pm), best enjoyed with $4 oysters or $6 pork, chicken or mushroom skewers, made in a kitchen helmed by celebrity chef Luke Mangan.
www.luc-san.com.au

Elijah Who? - La Madonna Bar (Melbourne)

Inspired by Who is Elijah?, the Australian fragrance brand turning heads around the world and worn by it-girls like Sofia Richie, this cocktail is stylish, fragrant and oh so unique. Smoky meets smooth in this blend of cardamom-infused Tequila Cazadores, Alipus mezcal, house-made vanilla, lime and milk clarification. Finished with a golden mist spray of the famous fragrance, it’s pure main character energy in a glass. Sip it in the moody and elegant La Madonna bar with views of Melbourne city, and consider your best life officially underway.
nexthotelmelbourne.com/drink-and-dine/la-madonna-bar/

Margarita two ways - The Sussex Hotel (Sydney)

In a central spot in Sydney’s CBD with the city’s largest beer garden and a Med-inspired rooftop bar, The Sussex Hotel is the kind of place where one drink easily turns into three. And when it comes to tequila, they keep it classic. Choose between a sharp and zesty Classic Margarita with tequila, lime and triple sec, or the smoother, stripped-back Tommy’s with tequila, lime and agave. Can’t decide? Order both, in the name of research.
www.thesussexhotel.com.au