Live Every Day Like It’s Taco Tuesday – 5 Joints to Get a Taco Fix

The origins of the taco are really unknown with many theories about where our favourite Mexican handful was first created.

One such theory is that tacos date back to the 18th Century and the silver mines in Mexico where the word ‘taco’ referred to the charges they would use to excavate the ore. These were pieces of paper that would be wrapped around the gunpowder and inserted into holes carved in the rock face.

When you think about it, a chicken taco with a really good hot sauce is kind of like a stick of dynamite!

Here are five joints to get a taco fix with amigos:

 

Like all good things, a table at Mamasita is definitely worth waiting for, so follow the crowd to this Collins Street establishment. This hugely popular eatery has been described as Melbourne’s first true taqueria and its smart wooden benches, banquettes and bar stools are full from lunch ’til late.

Charismatic staff add to the energetic vibe and a creative menu plays on authentic Mexican flavours which come fresh and far from cliché. Dishes are designed to share so all can enjoy multiple courses together; throw back a tequila and slow-roasted chicken tacos with salsa macha and jalapeño mayo.

 

Gorge on a fiesta of flavours at Loco Mexican, a vibrant hot spot to see and be seen in Victor Harbor on the upstairs level of the Harbor Mall. Radiating warm and lively colours, inside feels energetic with a wallpaper backdrop of orange and red apartments and tables in burnt orange, adding character, while a window gives a sneak peek into kitchen creations.

As much as possible is prepared from scratch in-house, including smoked meats, pickled vegetables, spice mixes and sauces to ensure fresh and zesty flavours tingle the tongue; think tacos such as crispy pork belly and green mojo, or chilli and garlic prawns with mango aioli.

 

For an intimate Latin-Mex street food experience head to Sydney’s harbourside suburb of Balmain to find Cantina Bar on Darling Street. With a menu drawing inspiration from street food vendors in Mexico, Spain, Portugal and Cuba and a bar selection laid out over 44-gallon drums; even the most-fickle gringo says arriba to tacos and tequila in funky surrounds of wall murals, exposed brick and recycled timber.

How does Wagyu beef sound in a taco? Wrap your hands around Wagyu flank steak in a soft tortilla, or chow down on slow-cooked shredded lamb barbacoa, with house slaw and pickled red onion. Those who can’t choose can opt for a taco tasting board with beef, lamb, prawn, fish, mushroom and chicken.

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Eat, drink and love tacos at Melbourne’s Mexican wonderland, Si Senor Art Taqueria on Swan Street in Richmond. As soon as you enter this new amigo on the block and sibling to Si Senor Balaclava and Si Senor Hampton, it is like stepping back into your Mexican holiday with large custom artwork on the wall and booth and table settings ideal for lazy afternoons with a Margarita in hand.

This fun and funky taqueria covers all cravings from tacos to chunky guacamole, burritos oozing cheese and mesmerising cocktails; say arriba to mouth-watering choices such as pulled beef brisket tacos, with caramelised onion, pico de gallo and cheese.

 

Creating signature flavours and personalised service, Ripponlea Food & Wine on Glen Eira Road is a modern restaurant in the heart of Ripponlea village. Expect comfort, style and a little bit fancy without the fuss at this dining destination where green velvet booths await, along with stools to perch on at the well-stocked bar with a cocktail in hand; there are also three different private dining spaces to create amazing memories for any special occasion.

Locals' favourite Taco Tuesday is back tonight featuring a fiesta of tacos and Margaritas, so grab your sombrero and amigos and head there for a Mexican meal to remember!