Southern Comfort

New west-end local Reposado pays homage to the blue agave and its glorious nectar, tequila By Denise Balkissoon

Image credit: Aristea Rizakos

Concept: The still-hot Ossington strip strikes again, this time kneeling before Mexico’s national ambrosia, tequila. A reclaimed stained glass window forms a stately display case for the 28 brands on offer—with nary a sombrero or pinata in view to mar this neighbourhood hang’s understated western vibe. So forget the burning rotgut of your frat house past and come savour notes of vanilla, caramel and aged woods.

Crowd: An older breed of Queen West hipster, still artsy, but a bit more flush. Weeknights mean a musical mix of everything from the Ramones to Loretta Lynn; on weekends, a nook by the front window doubles as a mini-stage for live jazz acts.

Cocktails: Aside from an accomplished classic margarita, there’s a sweeter version kissed with Grand Marnier ($9), as well as nine per cent Delirium Tremens beer on tap ($6.50). Tequila flights ($12–$31) compare three tipples built around age, brand or price. House-made potato chips, ceviche or a plate of Spanish cheeses from Cheese Boutique provide the necessary base.

Reposado, 136 Ossington Ave., 416-532-6474. Monday and Tuesday 6 p.m. to 2 a.m., Wednesday to Sunday 8 p.m. to 2 a.m.

November 2007