MCA x Patrón Pop-Up

Overview

Summer is headed for us in full force. And, we all know it's never too early to start planning how to spend the warmer months — especially the bits that involve sipping cocktails by the water and loading up on art and culture. Thankfully, the Museum of Contemporary Art is again combining two of our favourite pastimes for its fifth annual summer pop-up bar.

This year, the ground floor terrace has been transformed into an airy, garden-inspired bar, with top-notch tequila brand Patrón behind it. Plus, Patrón has partnered up with the MCA and is a sponsor of the gallery's retrospective exhibition of British artist Cornelia Parker, which is running from November 8–February 16 as part of the MCA's 2019/2020 Sydney International Art Series.

At the bar, you'll be sipping on negronis, highballs and old fashioneds, but all with a summery twist. Instead of using your usual gin or whisky, the bartenders will be shaking and stirring drinks with Patrón tequila. Or, you can opt for a Patrón, lime and soda or the signature cocktail inspired by Cornelia Parker: the Cold Dark Matter, made with Patrón reposado, blackberry liqueur, lime and ginger ale.

Not only will the pop-up offer modernised classic cocktails, but there'll be plenty of Mexican food to pair it with — think margarita-spiced popcorn and tostadas with pork, salmon or traditional mole. And those views across Circular Quay and the harbour add extra allure. Of course, there'll be entertainment in spades, too. Patrón and MCA have decorated the terrace with leafy decor, plus there'll be performances, installations, VR experiences for you to check out and tunes aplenty.

The Patrón Pop-up kicks off on Thursday, October 31 and is open 4–10pm every Wednesday through Friday; from 2–9pm on Saturdays; and from 2–8pm on Sundays until February 16 (excluding public holidays and New Year's Eve). Visit Patron's website for more details.

UPDATE: JANUARY 16, 2020 — The MCA x Patrón Pop-Up is now serving $15 cocktails every Sunday through Wednesday from 5–7pm as part of its happy hour.