Dinner at Hacienda Mexican in Southgate Melbourne
Is this Melbourne’s best Mexican restaurant? Hacienda restaurant is a revelation in Melbourne’s dining scene, a journey of culinary artistry in Southgate Melbourne that shatters Tex-Mex stereotypes, drawing us into an elevated experience that feels like stepping into Mexico itself.
Acclaimed chef Ross McCombe (Tetsuya’s, The Ledbury, and Mexico’s own Quintonil) has brought his authenticity and artistry to Melbourne.
The modern fit-out—complete with neon signs—sets the stage, with sweeping views over the Yarra adding to this truly sensory Mexican experience.
Service here is impeccable, both warm and knowledgeable. Mezcal lovers, this is your place; their cocktail menu celebrates the spirit in unique, playful ways. The Tepache Sour, infused with homemade tepache, hits all the right notes, while La Quemada is a smoky mezcal masterpiece with added flair.
Elotes—grilled corn with chapulines and a rich, creamy sauce—is Mexican street food perfection. The tacos, with Western Plains pork and crackling, are generously packed and exploding with flavor. Grilled oysters come plump and succulent, topped with chorizo butter—a tangy delight with a squeeze of lemon.
The Pulpi Zarandeado brings tender Fremantle octopus to the table, perfect for wrapping in house-made tortillas. And if you crave depth, don’t miss the Tuetano, where bone marrow, adobo, and tortillas make for a decadent feast.
The Crab Tostada was a crunchy, creamy delight with fresh crab and coconut emulsion. The Costilla Beef Short Rib, slow-cooked to perfection, melted in salsa borracha bliss.
Dessert is equally indulgent: the Dulce de Leche Volcan with lime sorbet is rich, while the Burnt Basque Cheesecake with mango and yellow chili adds the perfect balance of creamy with a hint of spice.
Hacienda is a tortilla, tostada, taco and mezcal-fueled, flavor-packed adventure you won’t soon forget. Grab a Gracias a Dios Pechuga Artisanal mezcal to top off your meal—it’s an adventure worth savoring.