Queen of the South Modern Mexican
Mature, modern Mexican is here! Holy Guacamole! Pardon the pun but the guacamole at Prahran’s newest Mexican hotspot, Queen of the South, is good. Seriously good. Melbourne has been hanging out for this level of Mexican cuisine; mature and refined dishes that are a refreshing reprise to mediocre tacos and dreary bean salads.
Vibe:
Modernism and minimalism are conveyed with the concrete floors balancing slick black furnishings of high tables and stools, with a corner of canary yellow booths down the back adding a bright pop of colour. Mexican portraits and lush green plants add intrigue, while the restaurant nicely hums to an informal yet polished beat.
Eat:
There’s no shortage of friendly service here with the staff brilliantly explaining the share style menu. From excellent bite sized morsels of Nopales Tostada- cactus salad with chilli pequin to more generous plates of moreish slow braised lamb shoulder with pomegranate and salasa, the flavours are authentic, punchy and full of life. Oh and that guacamole. Silky smooth in texture with bursts of citrus zing- it’s one dish that you will definitely need a double serving of. Vegans are well catered for with meat free delights aplenty, along with a smart bar menu where you can knock back a plate of Mexican steak tartare with your tequila of choice.
Guacamole $12
Avocado, pico de gallo & corn chips
Oceano Trucha $18
Trombo blanco & ancho cured ocean trout with corn puree, avocado crema & soused fennel (bottom image: Queen of the South Insta).
Camarones en Mantequilla Caliente $14
Spencer Gulf king prawns with lime, achiote & habanero butter.
Nopales Tostada $7
Cactus salad, peanut de arbol sals, queso fresco & chilli pequin (image: Queen of the South Insta).
Drink:
It’s no surprise that the Tequila and Mezcal game here is strong. Mouth-watering Tequila Sours and boozy Tommy Margaritas refresh and delight along with a smart list of local craft beers and wine.
Queen of the South
201-209 High Street, Prahran, VIC 3181
Ph: 03 9005 2308