Estimated reading time: 10 minutes
Australia’s foodie capital has more eateries, restaurants and cafés per capita than anywhere in the world. This Cosmopolitan state is also the street art capital of Australia and we were more than excited to be in town. As usual, when visiting somewhere new, all we wanted to do was hit the streets and those exciting little laneways and explore the amazing architecture while finding some hidden Mexican gems. We have compiled a list of the best Mexican restaurants in Melbourne that you just cannot miss out on if Mexican food is your thing. If you are new to the Mexican food scene, this is the perfect list to get you acquainted with some of the best!
1. Mamasita
Mamasita has been around for a few years and still has an hour-long lunch line. Their prawn tacos, BBQ octopus and roast pork belly are all absolute winners. The ‘little brother’ of this trendsetter can be found in Collingwood called Hotel Jesus. If you find yourself in this cute little tostaderia, you have got to try the pineapple tortillas. Mamasita is a sure win but get there early to avoid the rush.
2. Mesa Verde
In addition to their 10-page drinks menu, Mesa Verde cemented their place within the Melbourne Mexican culture with their scrumptious pork carnitas. We had to try them for ourselves and now we can vouch for the fact that you have to do the same.
3. Hello José
Hello Jose has gone the route of keeping their menu as small as a taco shell but their flavours sure do pack a punch. With sublime taco fillings to choose from you cannot go wrong. We gave the vegan chorizo (or cauliflower – for those wondering) a whirl and loved every scrumptious mouthful.
4. Taquito
Taquito aims to take you on a journey to Mexico City and, in our opinion, definitely succeeded. Mexican owner, Alec Villarreal is obsessed with authenticity and this translates into the food. The baja fish tacos transported us directly back to Mexico… and we didn’t want to leave.
5. Los Hermanos
In Brunswick we found Los Hermanos. This winning little hidden gem has some of the best Mexican food and a $5 taco special that you would be crazy to miss out on. We tried their cactus salad (which we couldn’t get enough of) as well as their barbacoa and fish tacos. Do yourself a favour and head on over.
6. South Of The Wall
Who knew Mexican fried chicken could steal your heart? It can! So can kingfish ceviche! The food at South Of The Wall is just asking for you to order more. And more. And more. This is the perfect spot for Saturday afternoons or after-work drinks. A Mexican Cantina you cannot miss out on.
7. Radio Mexico
This is Mexican fusion at its finest. We would have never thought a food truck could meet fine dining so well, but Radio Mexico has done it! This menu is jam-packed with only the most authentic Mexican dishes that you would never have guessed you needed in a Mexican restaurant. But guess what, you do! This has earned them a place as one of the best Mexican restaurants in Melbourne. The pork pibil tacos were dream-worthy and we can’t help but mention the carnitas.
8. Jalisco Mexican
If you are looking for traditional Mexican food, Jalisco Mexican needs to go into your calendar. Their steak fajitas were rich and had that ‘to die for’ Mexican flavour you can usually only get in Mexico. We also loved their stuffed peppers and street corn.
9. Village Cantina
This colourful little shop offers some of the best Mexican for a quick bite with friends or family that we came across in Melbourne. Village Cantina’s burritos were delicious, and their pulled pork burrito, especially, is one to be rivalled. Not at all harsh on the pocket either, we would definitely visit again!
10. Si Senor Art Taqueria
With the aesthetics of an Art Gallery from outside and a perfect courtyard – Si Senor Art Taqueria has our vote. Their motto of “Eat, Drink, Love Taco” is something we can get behind, especially when the food we are served looks like actual art. This restaurant is more than just a place to eat, it is an experience. The food not only tastes astounding but looks alluring. We loved every minute of our time here, as well as every dish we tried. Special mention to the carne asada tacos and pork burrito to name just two of many!
11. Fonda Mexican
Fonda Mexican is the perfect starting point for those trying to get a taste of the Mexican scene. This is Mexican street food at its best! Their chipotle chips are absolutely moreish. For mains, we decided to go the healthy route for a change and cut the carbs. We had a Burrito bowl, which melted in your mouth! There is so much to love about Fonda Mexican. All their food is the pick-it-up-and-put-it-in-your-mouth-immediately type of food. We could have sat there all day trying a little of this and a bit of that.
12. El Sabor
El Sabor is undoubtedly one of the best Mexican restaurants in Melbourne thanks to their authentic Mexican food. Their green and red enchiladas are some of the best we have ever tasted. Everyone should give them a try. We also suggest the flautas and the chicken sopes. You cannot go wrong at El Sabor. This two-level shop will leave you mesmerised, and probably a little over-full. We suggest you come hungry.
The Mexican restaurants we were lucky enough to discover in Melbourne were unimaginably impressive. Whether you are looking for some casual Mexican street food, a quick bite with family or friends or even a Mexican fine dining experience – I think we have you covered. If you have any amazing spots that we may have missed out on, please let us know for our next trip.
Check out our other articles you may enjoy in the links below.