Fonda Mexican - Bringing Chic To The Fiesta
Fonda Mexican is an impressive Mexican restaurant in Richmond that brings as much cool as it does colour. This is not kitch Mexican served up by dodgy restaurant chains with cheap plastic fittings and one dimensional cuisine. This culture, fashion and Melbourne food blog sees Fonda Mexican as ambient and arresting.
The building is classical architecture and the ambience enhanced by polished floor, coloured walls and retro tiles, large windows looking into Swan Street, some chic lighting including a funky red chandelier, and high ceilings.
Fonda Mexican is a place to come for the ambience as much as the food. Even on a weeknight I was amazed as Fonda Mexican began to fill before 6pm and had a convivial yet cosy feel. After all a fonda is a family home turned local restaurant. Dining extends to the street as well as an area out the back.
Walk in and the staff greet you and ask you to order at the counter when you're ready. I'm happy as I take the opportunity for a brief chat. Straight away you realise Fonda Mexican is casual and a place to relax.
Chef Ravi Presser has teamed with Mexican cooking sensation Lupita Manzo to create a menu of authentic Mexican flavours using Australia's premium fresh produce.
The menu is simple but interesting. When it comes to Mexican cuisine the trend is for fresh ingredients (when should it not be?). The Mexican street food Antojiyos were delightful with succulent fresh corn on the cob slightly charred and with chipotle aoli, ricotta salata, and lime. I always love it when Mexican restaurants supply lime not just lemon.
Street snacks also include Chipotle fat chips and Chicarons pork scratchings and guacamole.
What to have, Burritos v Quesadilla? I was told the Quesadilla's were wonderful and cheesy but I opted for the Chopped Beef Burrito with beef and pork burger, black beans, salsa roja, and chipotle aoli. I was taken with the thick fresh burrito that arrived and the quality of the salsa. I was also taken with the flavour combination with the crunch of the onion and the excellence of the beef, along with the softness of avocado and black beans. All with a bit of kick (which I like).
Next time I would like to try the Chicken Burrito or indeed the Kangaroo Burrito, and the Fish Tacos.
Drinks are lively and include home made Mexican beverages and 100% Agave Tequilas.
Many Melbourne food blogs are picking up on the Melbourne Mexican wave, including The World Loves Melbourne. Fonda Mexican is a great place to meet with friends for excellent Mexican cuisine and a funky ambience.