Welcome to the Mexican bar, Ático

Bars, Drink, Melbourne, Sydney / 23 June 2013

Did someone say Tequila?

Fonda, the Mexican restaurant in Richmond has spread its wings and found a second home on Chapel Street in Windsor. This new Windsor location also has an attic upstairs that used to be filled with op shop wares and a serious amount of dust.
What shall we do with this they asked? Their answer was to make a new bar with cocktails and tequila a plenty. Well played. They’ve done a lot with the space they were given. Over two levels, the intimate bar manages to accommodate to many a bar-goers needs. There are quiet alcoves perfect for a date or a casual catch-up with friends and there are also communal tables and a small bar area perfect for mingling.
The drinks list is, no surprises here, tequila heavy. Classic cocktails like the Tommy’s Margarita, a mix of tequila, fresh lime juice and agave nectar is spot-on. Not in the mood for tequila, try a Spanked gin basil smash of gin, fresh lemon juice and basil ($14). They’ve also got a bar stoked with a range of tequilas and mezcals like the earthy Jose Cuervo Traditional Reposado and the luxurious Don Julio 1942 Anejo.
Mexico continues its influence into the beer list with the Pacifico, a Mexican pilsner or the Mexican lager Negra Modelo on offer. The wine list seems to support more local producers.  For reds try the 2011 Onannon Pinot Noir from the Yarra Valley, or the 2010 Tinto (Grenache blend) from McLaren. In the mood for a white, try the 2011 Hoddles Creek Chardonnay from the Yarra Valley.
Mexican snacks are provided courtesy of the kitchen downstairs. Bite size fish tacos and pulled pork burgers served in brioche will certainly keep you happy as you sip a tipple or two.
We’ll meet you in the attic.
144 Chapel Street, Windsor – upstairs at Fonda Mexican
(03)95212660
atico.com.au
Hours:
Daily from 5pm-late