El Camino Chermside

Overview

It's bright, lively, neon-lit, and wholly unapologetic about blending colour, cocktails and Tex-Mex cuisine — and now, the fast-growing El Camino Cantina has doubled its Brisbane footprint. After setting up shop in Bowen Hills last year, the chain has launched a second joint in Westfield Chermside.

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 seats 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 make the jump to the new spot. Slushie machines 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 are available at Chermside, too — including $2 tacos on Tuesdays, ten-cent wings on Wednesdays and half-price fajitas on Thursdays.