Mex Cartel

It’s no secret we have a passionate love affair with Mexican cuisine, and if you’re anything like us, then you need to make your way to Burleigh’s Mexican newcomer, Mex Cartel. Formerly Margarita Cartel, the revamped new venue boasts a boldly colourful fit-out, top-notch Mexican eats and impressive cocktails to boot.

The vibrant venue first captures your attention with an eye-catching street art mural, then look closer and you’ll notice curated details like the beautiful talavera Mexican tiles lining the bar, the pops of hanging greenery and a smattering of calaveras, or traditional Mexican skulls. 

Once you’ve lusted over the interior, cast your eyes to the expansive menu which stars hand crafted tacos (eleven inventive flavours, to be precise), small bites, share plates and desserts. While you’ll be tempted to try everything on the menu, the char-grilled corn ribs with whipped queso crema and paprika salt are an absolute must-try, before you move onto the top-tier tacos. 

The 24-hour slow-cooked pulled pork is sublime and the wild forest mushrooms with truffle oil and smoked gouda ticks all the boxes for our vegetarian friends. Larger share-style meals include delights like the signature birria tacos and caramelised pork belly with pineapple chilli jam, and be sure to save room for the traditional Mexican desserts. 

Of course, it would be foolish of us not to mention the cocktails. Tequila is the star, with an impressive 22 tequilas to choose from, as well as plenty of margs, rum, liqueurs, beer, wine and classic cocktails. You'll have to visit Mex Cartel plenty of times to work your way through the extensive tequila list. Win-win.

Image Credit: Mex Cartel