It is impossible to ignore this colorful new cantina that has popped up on Darlinghurst Road – not least because of the larger-than-life graffiti-art mural of Frida Kahlo (by Argentine artist Skullavera) gazing out over laughing groups of curb-side diners. Inspired by the idyllic Mexican beachside city of Playa del Carmen, Playa Takeria lives up to its namesake with an intimate and vibrant 30-seat interior and a fun, infectiously buzzy energy.

What sets Playa Takeria aside from the many other Sydney Mexican establishments is its authenticity. Chef Alejandro Urbina has insisted that the food should be based on the traditional taquerias of Mexico – grilled chicken burritos with puebla rice and chipotle salsa, Tulum tostaditas with fish ceviche and huitlacoche (a kind of Mexican corn truffle) were highlights.

To wash it all down, the drinks menu features beer and wine from Argentina, Spain, Chile and Mexico, and a dizzying array of tequilas and mezcals with a creative and considered selection of specialty cocktails. The Paloma – tequila blanco, soda, salt rim and lime – was recommended by the friendly waitress. And whilst not advertised, they have also been known to serve an epic 10 liter margarita in a giant cocktail glass – something that is not to be attempted without many of your amigos!

www.playa.net.au/

Playa Takeria Sydney
132 Darlinghurst Road, Darlinghurst NSW 2010, Australia
+61 2 9332 4206

Nikita is Melting Butter’s Sydney contributor who openly admits she’s continually distracted by design. She writes about design for Trendland, her own design blog, which is fittingly named Distracted By Design and also manages communications at an architectural firm. She’ll be transporting you to Sydney and beyond and showing us the coolest, most inspiring design hotspots she’s uncovered.Read about Nikita’s favourite hotspots here.

(All images by Al Naturale)

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