
Mexican cuisine is filled with a variety of flavours that make it an instant favourite for anyone, no matter their tastes. As the cultural capital, it comes as no surprise then, that Melbourne is host to several of the top authentic Mexican restaurants in Australia. Whether you’re craving a burrito for lunch or feeling a bit more adventurous, these cantinas are sure to serve something that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more. Let us introduce you to the new wave of Mexican Cantinas that have recently emerged throughout the city and begin your culinary journey.
If you’re still searching for something more, don’t forget to visit our full guide to the best Melbourne restaurants serving Mexican food.
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1. Mejico Melbourne
1 Pink Alley, Off Little Collins Street, Melbourne CBDCelebrate the vivacious flavours of Mexican cuisine at Mejico, right in the heart of Melbourne. Enjoy a feast any time of day with a menu that spans from breakfast right through to dinner. There is a mix of the classic like your taco's, with small bites of street food to big plates of pulled pork and sides. Kick up your heels with the zesty beverage menu known for its lively cocktail creations.
Mejico Melbourne is suitable for functions for over 100 guests.
Tuesday to Saturday 12pm until late
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Professing to be Melbourne's first true 'taqueria', Mamasita Restaurant is a spicy CBD hotspot. If you can stand the wait for a table, the fresh, vibrant tacos and authentic Mexican share plates will definitely make it worth your while. If you're hungry, utter "feed me" for six courses of Mamasita's best at a great price.
Lunch Thursday-Friday and dinner daily
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Tres a Cinco is a colourful Mexican bar and cantina in downtown Melbourne. Try the Kingfish aguachile ceviche or taco with marinated pulled pork shoulder. There is a notable list of spirits, and of course some killer margaritas on the cocktail list.
Open for lunch Thursday-Sunday and dinner Wednesday-Sunday
Photography: Jake Roden
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Head down the stairs to discover a glowing basement of vintage Mexican film posters and a buzzing crowd at Melbourne's Bodega Underground. True to the Melbourne bar scene this is a place that exudes character and fun, with over 80 varieties of mezcal and tequila, the cocktail list is impressive, to say the least. Bar snacks are fusion food creations like dumpling tacos, paying homage to its Mexican heritage and the Chinatown location.
Open for lunch Friday-Sunday and dinner daily -
Los Pollos specialises in Mexican-style pollo asado - flame-grilled chicken, offering full-on flavour. Serving classic Mexican street food with a Southern Californian twist, the menu includes burritos, tacos, quesadillas, and nachos. Fully licensed, they offer a variety of drinks including beer, wine, and cocktails. With an extensive menu and drink options, Los Pollos is perfect for a casual meal with friends or family.
Photography: Courtesy of Los Pollos
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Located right next to Luna Park, just 400 metres from St Kilda Beach, Bay City Burrito treats diners with authentic and delicious Californian/Mexican street fare. Known for its signature margaritas, and best of all, delicious, genuine burritos and tacos, Bay City Burrito is sure to please the whole family with its laid back, Mission-inspired feel.
Open for lunch and dinner daily
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Benzina Cantina is where Mexican flair meets urban cool in the heart of Preston. Crafted from shipping containers, this vibrant restaurant and bar offer indoor and outdoor heated dining for year-round enjoyment. Neon lights set the stage for a fiesta of flavours, with street-style Mexican cuisine stealing the spotlight. Savour hot tacos and ice-cold margaritas on the rooftop terrace, or dine in their spacious hall and main bar. From custom tacos and burritos to a stellar lineup of tequila and mezcal, they’ve got your cravings covered.
Photography: Courtesy of Benzina Cantina
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Tucked behind the Novotel in Kingsway, The Black Toro is the venture from former Ezard chef, Garen Maskal - a chef who believes that simplicity and respect for quality produce is the key to great cooking. The Hispanic-themed restaurant offers guests with a Mexican and Peruvian inspired menu, serving innovative dishes which showcase a range of skill and technique.
Open for lunch Thursday-Friday and dinner Tuesday-Saturday
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From the popular kitchen of Mamasita comes the lively and Mexican inspired Hotel Jesus in trendy Collingwood. Come and try the much-talked-about and Melbourne cult status dish of Mexican-meets American inspired tacos and invigorating cocktails. A visit to the hotel alone to see the interior design is worth the trip alone, with it's 1950's ice-cream store inspired decor of white tiled walls, bright baby blue finishings, coke signage and neon signs. A fun and bubbly neighbourhood favourite.
Open for lunch Friday-Sunday and dinner Tuesday-Sunday
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Chido Chido Bar and Cantina in the Mercure Hotel in Doncaster serves up modern authentic Mexican favourites using Australian produce and great 'south of the border' cocktails. The rooftop terrace offers views- perfect during Happy Hour!
Open daily for lunch and dinner