Hotel Mexico
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If you’ve ever wished you could bottle up the warmth, flavour and energy of a Mexican holiday and enjoy it without the airfare, Hotel Mexico in Yarraville might be the next best thing. Housed inside the reimagined Mersh Hotel, this lively cantina-bar hybrid serves up a playful blend of Melbourne cool and authentic Mexican heat—with premium agave spirits, DJ sets and flavour-packed street food all part of the experience.
From the moment you step through the candy-coloured entry arch, the vibe is laid-back and sun-drenched, with palm-lined courtyards, communal tables and tequila bottle-lined shelves inviting you to settle in for the long haul. The drinks list is serious business, boasting over 50 premium tequilas, mezcals and raicillas sourced directly from Mexico. Whether you’re dropping in for $10 margaritas on Taco & Tequila Thursdays or sipping rare spirits neat, the agave program is front and centre.
But it’s the food—fun, fiery and built for sharing—that truly seals the deal. You might start your night with the pescado tacos, where crispy battered fish meets a refreshing crunch of shredded lettuce, house-made pico de gallo, jalapeños and a drizzle of creamy aioli in a warm corn tortilla. Then maybe you spot a sizzling birria quesadilla heading to another table, its slow-cooked pulled beef and molten cheese folded between crisped tortillas and served with a rich, deeply savoury birria dipping sauce—it’s irresistible.
Larger groups or those settling in for an extended grazing session gravitate toward the Taco Feast, a hands-on spread where diners build their own creations with adobo-marinated chicken, more of that succulent pulled beef, shredded cheese, fresh corn, sour cream, chipotle mayo and jalapeños. It’s festive, fun and ideal for a round of tequila tastings or a few cold beers.
Then there’s the Mexican parmigiana—a cheeky nod to the pub classic, featuring crumbed chicken breast smothered in birria sauce and melted cheese, served with slaw and golden fries. It’s a dish that captures the essence of Hotel Mexico perfectly: familiar, bold and impossible not to love.
Even dessert gets the Mexican treatment, with a spiced chocolate brownie that balances heat and sweetness, served warm with vanilla ice cream and a generous pour of caramel. It’s a sweet finish that lingers long after the last spoonful.
Whether you’re there for happy hour, a Saturday night dancefloor session with the in-house DJ, or simply to unwind with tacos and friends, Hotel Mexico offers more than just a meal—it delivers a mini escape. And in true cantina style, no reservations are needed. Just rock up, order a margarita, and let the good times unfold.
Location: 238 Whitehall St, Yarraville
Phone: (03) 9000 5858
