Business Details
Latin American Soul in the Heart of Paddington
We are a vibrant Latin American restaurant nestled in a restored Victorian terrace in Paddington, reimagined from the beloved Tequila Mockingbird. Our culinary philosophy merges the rich traditions of Central and South American cuisine with seasonal Australian produce, creating dishes that celebrate fire, flavour, and storytelling. Led by Michelin-rated Executive Chef Jos Garcia, our menu reflects his Venezuelan heritage and expertise gained at Buenos Aires' acclaimed Fogn Asado, offering smoky wood-fired meats, flame-grilled seafood, and reimagined street food classics.Our three-level space features a moody cocktail bar, a lush courtyard, and an intimate rooftop terrace, designed to evoke the warmth and vibrancy of Latin American culture. We maintain a commitment to hospitality rooted in friendship, creativity, and an unpretentious atmosphere that made our predecessor a local fixture for nearly a decade.
Services
Latin American cuisine
Private functions
Home delivery
Cocktail bar
Breakfast service
Brunch events
Group reservations
Wine cellar
Rooftop dining
Courtyard events
Highlights and features
- We offer Michelin-rated culinary expertise rooted in Latin American traditions.
- Our menu combines seasonal Australian produce with authentic South American techniques.
- We maintain a heritage-listed venue transformed into a multi-level dining experience.
- Our cocktail program features Latin-inspired creations by experienced bar executives.
- We provide versatile private event spaces for groups up to 34 guests.
Services
Latin American cuisine
Our Latin American cuisine features wood-fired meats, flame-grilled seafood, and reimagined street food classics inspired by childhood memories and coastal traditions. Dishes incorporate seasonal Australian produce while maintaining authentic South American techniques. The menu celebrates the depth and diversity of regional culinary traditions through modern interpretations.
Private functions
Private functions accommodate 20-34 guests across three distinct spaces: a rooftop terrace, enclosed courtyard, and upstairs lounge. Each venue offers unique features including retractable roofs, air conditioning, and custom lighting. Group bookings require advance notice and tasting menu selections to ensure smooth service execution.
Home delivery
Home delivery covers Eastern and Western Sydney suburbs with a minimum order requirement. Available options include signature cocktails and full meals prepared fresh daily. Delivery hours align with standard trading times, with special arrangements possible for private events through direct inquiries.
Cocktail bar
Our cocktail bar features Latin-inspired creations alongside curated wine collections. Signature cocktails use premium spirits and fresh ingredients, available in single or multi-serve portions. The beverage program complements the restaurant's culinary themes while offering standalone experiences for casual patrons.
Breakfast service
Breakfast service operates Saturday and Sunday mornings with a menu featuring both traditional and Latin-influenced dishes. The space transforms from daytime dining to evening service seamlessly, maintaining its heritage character throughout operational changes. Weekend brunches include bottomless options for extended celebrations.
People
Jos Garcia
Executive Chef
Michelin-rated Venezuelan chef with expertise from Buenos Aires' Fogn Asado. Specialises in wood-fired cooking techniques and reimagining traditional Latin American dishes with Australian ingredients. Leads Tequila Mockingbird's culinary direction while maintaining cultural authenticity.
Mark Crawford
Group Bar Executive
Experienced bar professional crafting Latin-inspired cocktail programs. Develops beverage pairings that complement the restaurant's culinary themes while curating Atticus Hospitality's wine collection. Maintains focus on creative drink solutions for diverse guest experiences.
Questions
What type of cuisine does tqm. serve?
We serve Latin American cuisine featuring wood-fired meats, flame-grilled seafood, and reimagined street food classics using seasonal Australian produce.
Can I book a private event at tqm.?
Yes, we offer private event spaces for 20-34 guests across three levels, including a rooftop terrace, courtyard, and upstairs lounge with customised menus and service.
Do you deliver to my area?
We deliver to Eastern Suburbs (Paddington, Darlinghurst, Potts Point, Woolloomooloo, Elizabeth Bay, Surry Hills, Woollahra, Edgecliff, Darling Point, Bondi Junction, Moore Park) and Western Suburbs (CBD, Pyrmont, Ultimo, Balmain, Rozelle, Birchgrove, Lilyfield, Drummoyne, Leichhardt, Annandale, Forrest Lodge, Glebe, Haberfield).
What are your group dining requirements?
Groups of 8+ require advance notice and must select from our $72–$92 per person tasting menu to ensure kitchen preparation capacity and service quality.
Can I order cocktails for home consumption?
Yes, we offer shake-at-home cocktails available in single or multi-serve portions, requiring purchase with a food item for delivery or pickup.
What are your opening hours?
We're open Tuesday 4:30pm–10pm, Wednesday 4:30pm–10pm, Thursday 4:30pm–11pm, Friday 4:30pm–12am, Saturday 8am–12am, Sunday 8am–6pm, closed Mondays.
Videos
Reviews (7)
Duncan Michaelis
Jan 26, 2022
Report
Totally worth going for the tasting menu and signature cocktail Unbelievably tasty food and lovely service too. Highly recommended.
Marshall Segan
Jan 10, 2022
Report
Brilliant!!
Wow what a great restaurant. Friendly staff, edgy tasty food, nicely presented, generous serve sizes, cooked from fresh, great side dishes on offer, decent wine list, a great eating experience
Worth a few more visits!
Wow what a great restaurant. Friendly staff, edgy tasty food, nicely presented, generous serve sizes, cooked from fresh, great side dishes on offer, decent wine list, a great eating experience
Worth a few more visits!
Luca Foodporn
Dec 22, 2021
Report
All very good and tasty and the service was excellent! We tried the Set Menu! Atmosphere of a classic South American Pousada.
Ernesto Foodie
Dec 09, 2021
Report
Omg, the ceviche tacos might be one of the closest experiences to feel heaven in your mouth... I booked Tequila Mockingbird by mistake as I wanted to book Esteban, however it is one of those honest mistakes you love to have. Great atmosphere, latin music that makes u feel like dancing, tequila in every single imaginable cocktail, exceptional service and the food... well I can't express enough how glad I was to be there... Keep it up guys
Parker Hertz
Nov 25, 2021
Report
Overall a fantastic experience. A great tequila/mezcal menu and all the food was amazing. The Queso Fundido is an absolute must!
Edison Chen
Nov 10, 2021
Report
Great service and vibe, very tasty food. We had 6 people and ordered the banquet menu, the food portions were very generous. Also the tequila themed cocktails are worth trying.
Mandy Bayou
Oct 20, 2021
Report
Incredible food, friendly staff, and all round great ambiance in this restaurant. Could not fault any dish ordered. The slow cooked lamb shoulder was to die for!!