El Primo Sanchez

In the window of a heritage Oxford Street pub is a shrine to a man known only as El Primo Sanchez, for whom the pub is named. Coming from the group behind Maybe Sammy (named Australia’s best bar four years in a row by the World’s 50 Best Bars), it prompts the question: where has this man been all my life?

Despite what its owners tell you, El Primo Sanchez is not a man, but merely just their Mexican-inspired bar and diner, designed for good times. From the walls to the DJ booth, orange tiles are abundant. As are Mexican film posters and long-stemmed red roses.

House cocktails, which were developed with input from the Maybe Group’s Mexican and Latin American staff, include a creamy, coconut-y Horchata Colada topped with roasted macadamia; and a Jaffa-esque Espresso Martini made with aged tequila and coffee liqueur. There’s also a list of agave-based spirits to sip neat, plus Mexican beers, lageritas and more.

The menu features recognisable Mexican dishes that often have a touch of the unconventional or unexpected. Think brussels sprouts tacos beside classic tacos al pastor, tuna tostadas with koji-habanero mayo and shiso, and dry-aged sirloin with Mexican-inspired jus.

In the compact karaoke room, you should absolutely push the “push for tequila” button, and belt out your favourite tune beneath the disco ball. The ceiling lights can cycle through a plethora of colours, changing the mood of the place with the click of a button.

But just when you thought this place couldn’t get any more fun, La Prima – the secret mezcal bar at the back of the venue – will call your name.