In The List 2011 we share some of our favourite spots to drink! Whether you are looking for a classy cocktail, a potent fernet or just a pint with a bit of footie, it's all here...
Inevitable end to night: Por Aca (followed by a cheeky pancho) by Amanda Barnes
There is only one way to end your night in Mendoza. After the inevitable bar crawl through Aristides' myriad of bumping bars, when the barmen ring their metaphorical bell, Por Aca is THE place to go (and coincidentally the ONLY place to go...
– nightclubs are a mood wrecking 30min taxi ride away). Dark, grimy and crowded, with cheesy music and even cheesier dancing – this place is pure 3am gold.
Music is directed to more tourist tastes, but that's not to say the locals don't love it – they are usually the ones dancing on the radiators to Franz Ferdinand. After you roll out (probably steaming) the 'piece de resistance'is to make the short crawl across the road to the inevitable meaty nightcap – a pancho. Por Aca, Aristides Villanueva 557
Bar man's fantasy: Anna Bistro By Amanda Barnes
Everyone loves a good cocktail and Anna Bistro's barmen know how to shake it as you like it. This is one of our top romantic restaurants and there is no better way to woo your woman than by kicking off with a karma sutra: a fresh, spicy and boozy cocktail with hints of ginger whose aphrodisiac properties are sure to awaken the senses and maybe even the neighbours. Anna Bistro, Juan B Justo 161. (261) 425 1818.
Top spot for a pint and some footie: Irish Bar By Amanda Barnes
Sometimes a man (or woman) just needs a decent pint and a game of football. The Irish Bar is, naturally, the place to go. With actual beer on the tap and a proper bar, you can watch your all-important football game in peace and leave the Mrs at home. Believe Irish Bar, Colon 241
Most mind boggling wine list: 1884, Francis Mallman By Amanda Barnes
If wine is your tipple of choice, you will either be delighted or daunted at the prospect of facing over 600 different wine labels at Francis Mallman's restaurant in Godoy Cruz. With over 12,000 bottles in stock, you are sure to find at least one that you like! 1884 Belgrano 1188, Godoy Cruz, (261) 424 2698
One stop shop (Wine Flight): The Vines By Amanda Barnes
If your time in Mendoza is limited, or you just love trying different wines, indulging in a wine flight at The Vines is essential. With special line ups of different varietals (both classic and reserva lines) or simply all Malbecs, you can sniff and swirl your way through five glasses of fab wines and discover some of Mendoza's best bodegas from the comfort of their tasting room. For a real splurge go for their Icon wine line-up and try some of the best of the best from Mendoza! The Vines, 567 Espejo, (261) 438 1031. Starting from $75AR.
Top Tip: If the wine bug hits you, ask about their special blending lab where you can handcraft your own wine with The Vines' sommelier.
Where to get a good cuppa: Filippa By Amanda Barnes
If you really miss tea or decent coffee, there is a new teahouse in Chacras that is roasting everyone's beans with its tea party design, wide range of Patagonian and British teas, and a great list of the all-important boozy coffee. Settle down in one of the patterned sofas to a platter of cakes and sandwiches with a proper cuppa! Filippa, Viamonte 5263, Chacras de Coria (261) 496 0230
Bar to be seen in: PH vs Bar Latina? By Amanda Barnes
Last year the 'it' bar was PH, but this year we think local favour has slightly shifted towards Bar Latina this year. Both bars are always packed out and even in the depths of freezing winter evenings, punters prefer to sit outside where they can be seen better. If you can't make up your mind over which one to be seen at, don't worry – being almost directly opposite each other, you can practically see everyone at the other bar anyway. PH 282 Aristides; Bar Latina 245 Aristides
New kid on the block: 8va By Amanda Hall
If you think Aristides is all crowded bars with bumping sound systems, think again. This new wine bar and vinoteca has a softer vibe catering to a more relaxed clientele who come for their good range of boutique wines to either take away or enjoy with a picada in their handsome bar area. Finish off with a proper espresso, or a scotch and cigar! Octava Vinos, Aristides Villanueva 768, (261) 425 5465
