CDMX Brunswick East

Overview

CDMX was an instant hit when the team opened its first site in Melbourne Central back in 2022. The birria tacos, which were and still are having a moment, became an instant cult hit. For the uninitiated: grilled corn tortillas are filled with birria-braised beef brisket, salsa, coriander, onion and melted cheese, and served with a side of birria consomme — a little pot of beef broth that you dip your taco into between bites. These are ridiculously good, and an absolute must-order.

But this Melbourne Mexican restaurant is no one-hit wonder. It serves up a heap of great tacos in the original CBD site, plus a much bigger menu of Mexican eats at the newer Brunswick East outpost.

Located at the top end of Lygon Street, CDMX Brunswick East has been designed to feel like a Mexico City taqueria, with metal chairs and tables, white and blue tiled walls and a big blue neon sign that lights up the front of the restaurant. It could use some more warm touches, but you're not here for the design. It's all about the food, which doesn't disappoint.

Kick things off with a round of miso-citrus marinated tuna tostadas served with crispy leeks and chipotle mayo, or house-made totopos with fresh guac. Then comes the hard part: choosing what tacos to order.

A birria taco for each person is essential. But you should also sample the marinated grilled shrimp tacos that come with grilled cheese, a house-roasted tomato-arbol salsa and pico de gallo. It's a spicy flavour bomb that's best paired with a frozen marg or ice-cold beer.

The taco selection also includes well-executed classics like battered barramundi, crispy fried pork belly, and two meat-free options. And on Wednesdays, CDMX goes vegan, with five fully vegan options available. There are a few hot sauces on each table for those wanting more heat, but it really isn't needed here. Everything we tried was seasoned to perfection.

A couple quesadillas and a basket of churros round out the CDMX food options — if you've got room for more.

The long, tiled bar is also whipping up a heap of classic cocktails, frozen margs, and cracking open Mexican beers.

It's got all the taqueria essentials. And should be on the hit list of any taco stan.