Sydney isn't lacking Mexican joints — we've recently acquired a Chica Bonita in the CBD, Rosa Cienfuegos opened a permanent tamaleria in Dulwich Hill in 2018 and Carbón is pumping out some great bottomless taco brunches in Bondi. But, still, it's gotten yet another dose of unapologetic neon-lit Tex-Mex thanks to El Camino Cantina's fourth Sydney outpost, which has opened in Moore Park.
El Camino already has spots in The Rocks, Manly and Cronulla — and now Brisbane and Melbourne, too — and is part of Rockpool Dining Group, which also owns Sake, Rosetta, Burger Project and, of course, Rockpool Bar & Grill. If you've been to the venue already, you'll know this casual dining venue is loud and filled with over-the-top with giant cocktails, rock 'n' roll jukeboxes, lively Tex-Mex fare.
The new El Camino — which is located opposite Fratelli Fresh in the Entertainment Quarter — consists of a rowdy 220-seat neon-lit dining room, as well as an outdoor area that has room for another 130 to spill out around the restaurant.
Slushie machines signal big nights and brain freezes. El Camino's margaritas come in multiple sizes and renditions, including a tropical Red Bull flavour, which really says it all. Other options include a host of beers from near and far, and a 100-plus collection of mezcals and tequilas.
The food lineup is as fun and casual as 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. It'll also have El Camino's signature specials, including $2 tacos on Tuesdays, ten-cent wings on Wednesdays and half-price fajitas on Thursdays.
Given its location, it'll make a good option if you've got tickets to see Cirque du Soleil's new show at the Entertainment Quarter, or you're heading to a gig at the Hordern or maybe a game at the SCG.