Overview
During lockdown, Tacos Muchachos transformed a Surry Hills cafe into a pop-up Mexican restaurant, serving up exciting Mexican street food dishes to anyone within five-kilometres of the shop.
It proved a hit with locals — people flocked to their quesabirria tacos, takeaway margaritas and al pastor nights. Following lockdown, the cafe took back custodianship of the Surry Hills space, so Tacos Muchachos went looking for a new home.
Now, they've settled on the ground level of Chippendale's new Mexican-inspired boutique accommodation, Hotel Hacienda.
While the setup may be unconventional — the check-in area flows straight into the dining room and the team is cooking from the former hostel's breakfast kitchen — owner Daniel Hanssen is determined to bring the electric atmosphere of the Surry Hills pop-up to their new home. Hanssen has big plans for the venue, with the hotel's rooftop being earmarked as an openair dining space.
Despite the new look, the most important thing from the pop-up has already been transferred over to Chippendale — the food. Hanssen, who quit his corporate job and trained at Bush to open his own restaurant, is joined by a seasoned head chef who brings experience spanning fast food joints through to Michelin-star restaurants across his home country in Mexico, as well as Spain, Brazil and Sydney.
The menu has stayed consistent with the pop-up: nachos, consommé, street-style burritos and quesabirria tacos. These tacos are what will keep you coming back. The rich and cheesy showstopper are a must-try. And, Sydneysiders are sure to be excited by the unique flat and crispy burrito packed filled with refried beans, sautéed onions, jalapenos, cheese and your choice of fillings.
An exciting rotation of weekly specials are continually popping up, with tortas and al pastor to be added to the menu soon. The Tacos Muchachos crew sourced their al pastor machine from Mexico and marinate their pork shoulder in achiote, pineapple juices and citrus.
They hope to introduce more Sydneysiders to the beloved street food dish with Hanssen describing it as the perfect marriage of Australia's love for both Mexican food and kebab shops. "We love kebabs and we love Mexican food and yet nobody's kinda doing it right," he says.
As for the drinks, a classic margarita or agua fresca spiked with tequila are currently on offer as well as a selection of beers and Jarrito sodas. Head in between 5–6pm and you'll be treated to a happy hour special on drinks, with more cocktails soon to be offered.
Tacos Muchachos is located at 179 Cleveland Street, Redfern. It's currently open 5.30pm until late Thursday–Saturday.