After 7 Years, James St’s LOS Now Lives In The Crossroads Of Mexican And Thai Flavours

Tucked up an unassuming spiral staircase on Ada Lane, LOS (which stands for Land of Smiles) might be small in size but it’s big in spirit—and now the lively cocktail bar is going even bolder with a new cuisine in the spotlight. 

From Friday 1 May, LOS will be blending the depth of Mexican fare with the punchiness of Thai flavour in a brand-new food identity for the inventive sibling of Brisbane institution sAme sAme downstairs. 

“We have always imaged LOS as a Mexican fiesta in the back of a tuk tuk—a space that feels energetic, a little unexpected and full of personality," said Anyday co-founder Tyron Simon. “The back bar, with its deep collection of tequila and mezcal, has always pointed us in that direction, while the connection to sAme sAme below brings in a strong Thai influence. Now, the relationship between the two venues feels intentional.”

Image credit: LOS | Jessie Prince

In collaboration with Anyday culinary director Ben Williamson, sAme sAme’s head chef Arte Assavakavinvong is dishing up a new menu that draws on the deep history and fundamentals of both Mexican and Thai cuisine—resulting in a lineup that’s heavy on flavour while being remarkably cohesive as it highlights the natural  similarities between the two over the charcoal grill.

“The pork jowl taco was inspired by a recent trip to London, where Monte and I tried an amazing pork belly taco at a little Mexican cantina,” said Assavakavinvong. “We looked at each other and immediately thought how it could be elevated by incorporating a Thai favourite, pork jowl. It pairs perfectly with another dish from the menu: the corn ribs finished with nahm jim butter.” 

Image credit: LOS | Ethan Smart

Likewise, the cocktail program is getting playful with Mexican and Thai influences across spice, fresh aromatics and a whole lot of agave with over 360 bottles on hand. And while a cheeky marg at LOS never goes astray, it’s the Holy Mole that’s caught our attention using the Mexican-inspired sauce from the new menu’s beef barbacoa tacos combined with agave, hibiscus and chocolate for a umami-rich result. 

“The drinks are flavour-driven, easy to enjoy, and built for repeat rounds,” said sAme sAme and LOS’ general manager, Monte Mouat. “We offer a serious collection without the intimidation factor.” 

Image credit: LOS | Ethan Smart

As the Anyday portfolio grows in cuisine and locality with recent openings in the CBD like Le Royale, The French Exit and Golden Avenue, it only makes sense that its established venues like LOS keep up with the momentum—backed by seven years on the Brisbane scene. 

LOS is open on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 5pm and Fridays to Sundays from 1pm on a walk-ins only basis.

Main image credit: LOS | Ethan Smart