Imma mad for Mexican in Melbourne
We all know, Melbourne is arguably — as coined by many — the food capital of Australia.
From hand pulled, flavour punching noodles, soul savouring European eats, to you guessed it — Mexican that makes my mouth melt *literally* I’m on a mission to hunt down and devour the best Mexican food in Melbourne.
If you’re following along on TikTok, ya’ll already know I’m literally obsessed.
Having recently *receipied* some pretty moreish Jalisco originating Birria Tacos — I thought ‘I’m no gatekeeper’ why not share my guide of spots?
So here it is, as it stands, my guide to the best Mexican in Melbourne.
Frankie’s Tortas & TacosRun don’t walk to Tortas and Tacos. This place pulls a crowd so get in early to avoid the wait. Side bar — if there is a wait — it is obviously SO worth it.
Having recently moved a mere few streets from their first born food truck in Collingwood to Johnston Street in Fitzroy, come for the traditional Mexican Torta sandwich, stay for the hand cut fried corn tortilla chips & guac.
So what is a Torta you might ask? AND why should I try it? Essentially it’s a sandwich with a Mexican inspired spin. Featuring a fluffy, crispy bun and fillings spanning anything from refried beans to tender beef brisket, avocado, cheese, peppers and more.
With flavours similar to a taco but a whole new texture dynamic — it’s an absolute MUST try when visiting and ordering.
La TortilleriaSome people say this is the best Mexican in Melbourne and look, it’s a strong contender. I would say with certainty that it’s the closest to what you’d get in Mexico when it comes to authentic street food.
If you live in or around Kensington well then aren’t you a lucky duck. Although, Baysider’s rejoice! They’ve just opened a sister venue ‘Chilpa’ serving their authentic Mexican street food and tortillas fresh out of the oven.
Wondering how to get the best bang for your buck and a taste of what is on offer? Their 8 course ‘Feed Me’ menu is $48 and it is great value for money. From this, you’ll get …
Beans & Salsa with Totpos (tortilla chips to share)
Encurtidos (pickled vegetables with tortilla chips to share)
Chilaquiles (fried corn tortillas cooked in salsa to share)
Tostadas (one per person)
Quesadilla (one per person)
Tacos (two per person)
Flan (one to share)
The flavours are incredible and each dish stands on its own. The only way I can describe it is …
You know when you go out to eat somewhere that has a lot of rich dishes and strong flavours like rich meats, creamy sauces and everything kind of blends into one?
Well this is quite the opposite. While packing all fullness / richness you could desire, while still being fresh and a unique combination of flavours.
Better yet, their handmade corn tortillas and tortilla chips are available for purchase at independent supermarkets, grocers etc.
I’ll be honest, if you’re not using these G.O.A.T products as part of your Mexican feast at home, then you’re missing an opportunity to level up your game.
Key takeaway based on the above? If you’ve not been to La Tortilleria, this is your sign.
Dingo Ate My TacoIf you haven’t seen this Food Truck somewhere around Melbourne, well, put frankly, you’re living under a rock.
Their tagline, ‘The Tacos You’ve Been Waiting For’ … is not wrong.
Popular for their Texas brisket, slow smoked chicken tacos, guacamole and tortilla chips. My main squeeze? Their Birria Quesatacos, topped with coriander, onion and a side of dipping consomé. FYI … the meat has been slow cooked in this for hours on end, so let me tell you, it’s pretty f*cking good.
Find them Thursdays at Dingo Kitchen on St Kilda Road, Wednesday through Sunday at the Mill Brewery in Collingwood and keep an eye on their website and socials for upcoming Food Truck locations.
MamasitaThis bad boy. You could call it a bit of an OG. One of the restaurants that put Mexican on the map in Melbourne.
Located up the Parliament end of Melbourne CBD’s iconic Collins St. go for a stroll, stumble in here and prepare to be wowed.
So many fresh flavours, a super vibey interior and the affordable prices to back it up.
Opting for lunch? Check out their $39 pp banquet where you get guac, their famous corn, family style tacos and green salad.
If we’re getting serious, it would be rude not to get one of their $22 Cucumber Jalapeño Margaritas with lime, jalapeño and a chilli salt rim.
As for other menu must-haves …
Elote (sweet corn on the cob with chipotle mayo, quest and spice mix) $8 pp
Flautas (braised squid, roasted potatoes, chives, jalapeño crema, red radish) $15
Kingfish Ceviche (grapefruit, haberno, onion, cucumber, coriander served with tortilla chips) $28
Braised Ox Tongue Taco (papilla salsa, pickled onion, carrot, jalapeño and coriander) $18
Showcasing innovative Mexican-inspired flavours since early 2010, as veterans of the cuisine, you won’t be disappointed.
