Overview
It's bright, lively, neon-lit, and wholly unapologetic about blending colour, cocktails and Tex-Mex cuisine — and soon, the fast-growing El Camino Cantina will double its Brisbane footprint. After setting up shop in Bowen Hills last year, the chain will launch a second joint in Westfield Chermside on Friday, October 11.
It's the latest expansion for the brand, which also operates in Sydney and Melbourne, all under the guidance of Rockpool Dining Group (Sake, Burger Project and, of course, Rockpool Bar & Grill). For its first venue in Brissie's north, El Camino's new site will seat 220, taking over the space formerly inhabited by Hermosa.
If you've already been to the existing local eatery, then you'll know this casual dining venue takes its vibe seriously. Think loud and over-the-top, complete with giant margaritas, rock 'n' roll jukeboxes, fluorescent signage and a heap of Tex-Mex staples.
Menu-wise, all of the chain's favourites will make the jump to the new spot. Slushie machines will serve up brain freezes in margarita form, with El Camino's coming in multiple sizes and many renditions, including a tropical Red Bull flavour. Other options span a host of beers from near and far, and a sizeable collection of mezcals and tequilas.
The food lineup remains fun and casual, like the drinks. Think fiery buffalo wings, sizzling fajitas, plump burritos, soft shell tacos loaded with punchy flavour combinations, and unlimited complimentary corn chips and salsas. The brand's Bowen Hills specials will be available at Chermside, too — including $2 tacos on Tuesdays, ten-cent wings on Wednesdays and half-price fajitas on Thursdays.
El Camino Cantina will open at Westfield Chermside, Gympie Road, Chermside, on Friday, October 11.
Top images: El Camino Cantino Manly, Tom Ferguson/El Camino Cantino The Rocks, Kei Leishman/El Camino Cantino Fitzroy.
Updated October 9.