Mamasita is a Mexican sensation off Collins Street. The name Mamasita means “hot babe” in Spanish. And dare I say it lives up to its name. It has become hugely popular because it delivers a creative refreshing and authentic expression of Mexican food. People are prepared to line up for an eternity on occasions to get in to this place. The wait is worth it.

Mamasita is a taqueria or taco shop and tequila bar. The fare is simple but creative and flavourful. It’s different. Mamasita brings the bedazzlement of the Mexican sun to Melbourne.

The entrance is non descript. Just a small signage on Collins Street. Walk up the stairs into the world of Mamasita. It’s like walking into a party. There’s a buzz. This place pumps with ambience. It’s loud. It’s colourful. The space used to house a Recorded Music Salon. It has modern décor and interesting spaces for dining and conversation. And opens well into the night!

The fit out is chic with cool artwork and great use of timbers.

If you can get a table that’s great! Another great experience is to pull up a stool at the bar and watch the largely South American staff at work. Even lunchtimes are packed so I was happy to get a stool. Bedazzled by the open kitchen! Or grab a spot out by the windows overlooking Collins St.

I briefly checked out the menu while the music playing Spanish beats resounded in my head… What to order? The waiter tells me he can order for me – I just said get me a selection of tacos. The tortillas for the tacos are hand made. I could have gone for the slow cooked chicken mole and cactus salad. Or the now famous corn cob covered in cheese.

But as it is known as a taco shop I was keen for the selection of tacos. I was bedazzled by the fish tacos. Oh fish tacos! A standout on my trip to Mexico. In Mexico you can get fresh tasty cheap fish tacos on the streets. Consume with a slice of lime and it’s so good! Mamasita brings this street experience to the sophistication of Collins St.

Love the chorizo tacos. The world has gone chorizo crazy. And rightly so! The chorizo here was finely sliced.

The prawn tacos were fantastic. Bite into big juicy prawns and don’t forget a squeeze of lime and some chilli.

Mamasita exudes a sense of the convivial. You feel like standing on top of the table and shouting! It’s joy! It’s fiesta!!! As I say a touch of Mexican sun in Melbourne…

Mamasita, Level 1, 11 Collins St, CBD – Mexican – Food 9.5 Ambience 9.5