Mi Corazon

LOCATION
North of the city along Lygon Street, close to the corner of Albion Street.

PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIA
With its facade lying somewhere between a hacienda and a wild west saloon, Mi Corazon (or “my heart”) offers not only a stunning array of tequilas and a healthy respect to go with them, but also some enticing and authentic Mexican fare. The heavy wooden doors give way to a large bar and dining area full of colourful Mexican decor, with rich, ochre-coloured walls, Day of the Dead paraphernalia and the watchful eye of the Virgin Mary presiding over wall niches containing almost 60 different tequilas and mescals. From house tequila through to Don Julio and Herradura and to the aged Seleccion Supremia ($50 a shot), all drinks are accompanied with a shot of Sangrita (a spicy tomato and lime juice) and are best sipped slowly to appreciate the complexities of their flavour.

There are plenty of decent Mexican snacks to accompany your sipping, from quesadillas and nachos designed for sharing, through to main meals such as fajitas and enchiladas. The mole poblano is a seductive dark mass of chocolate-sauced chicken drizzled with sour cream, cheese and onion, or try the tacos campechanos with beef and chorizo and spicy dressing. Vegetarian options include the tacos de espinacas con papas y queso, corn tortilla tacos filled with spinach, mashed potatoes and cheese. If tequila’s not your thing there’s a Mexican beer selection that extends well beyond the ubiquitous Corona as well as a locally based wine list. Designated drivers might appreciate a virgin mojito or two, while winter blues are easily dispelled with a chilli laced hot chocolate.

Angela Costanzo