Places to go South of the Border in Canberra
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There’s just something transformative about South American food.
Perhaps it’s the vibrancy, the loaded ingredients filled with endless, rich flavours. Before you know it, the air fills thick with dust and the smell of Patagonian cypress trees—colour and sun, a culinary tango.
And while Canberra’s own South American hospitality scene may be small, it’s increasingly robust—allowing us to momentarily feel the warmth of the south sun, time and time again. And without the need for a passport!
Loquita
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Tucked away in the heart of the city centre, Loquita is more than just delicious South American-inspired food—it’s atmosphere and character and has the cocktail list to match.
The faded sun-kissed pink walls are reminiscent of Brazil; earthy, relaxed and inviting. We recommend making your way there on a Thursday night for their ‘spicy deals’—including four tacos for just $20, margaritas for $12 a pop, 1L jugs of sangria for just $30 and 20% off all wine. Spicy indeed.
17 Garema Place, City | loquita.com.au
Cartel Taqueria
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Recently planting its delicious roots in Queanbeyan, it’s safe to say Cartel Taqueria has a strong hold over us all. Boasting warm service and picturesque waterfront views, it’s easy to see how it’s quickly becoming the hottest summer destination.
Not to mention the signature tacos effortlessly bridges the gap between light and hearty—think a delicious multitude of fillings including guacamole, melt-in-your-mouth brisket, and oozing cheese. Top it off with a refreshing sangria. Yes, please!
Ray Morton Park, 6 Trinculo Place, Queanbeyan East | @cartel.tacos
Mr Papa
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For authentic Peruvian street food, you can’t look past Mr Papa. Known for their perfectly crisp empanadas with a warm and perfectly spiced filling, this charming eatery is proof that humble dishes can kick a big flavour punch.
For a sweet finish, we recommend the crème Volteada, gooey, sticky caramel magic, Peruvian style. Naturally, it sells out incredibly quick—run, don’t walk.
70 Barrier Street, Fyshwick | mrpapa.com.au
Beach Burrito
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Quietly yet consistently making its presence known in the city centre, Beach Burrito serves up healthy and deliciously fresh food that will cure all of your Mexican food cravings (well, it gets very close).
Reimagining authentic dishes with striking colours and drool-worthy flavours, Beach Burrito does not disappoint. We recommend finishing off your tacos, nachos or burrito with cinnamon and sugar-coated Churro—we won’t blame you if you order more than one (in fact, we won’t hear a word against it).
181 City Walk, City | beachburritocompany
Mochachos
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Honouring the multifaceted layers of Mexican food, Muchacho encourages guests to experiment with this diverse cuisine beyond the realms of guacamole and corn chips.
Menu items include fresh ensaladas, plato ligero, Fajitas on soft flour tortillas, and their popular homemade chimichanga, fried shut to a crispy golden perfection. Yum!
34 Eyre Street, Kingston | mochachos.com
INKA
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If anyone can seamlessly melt together Japanese cuisine with Peruvian influences, it’s INKA. Managing to create a delicious dialogue between these two cultures, menu items such as the ceviche frito, with aji romesco, salsa criolla, and sweet potato, marry the simplicity and precision of Japanese culinary techniques with signature Peruvian tubers, chilli and seafood. A fusion you didn’t know you needed until you try it for yourself.
Shop B11A/148 Bunda Street, City | inka.com.au
Meat & Wine Co
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The brainchild of South African-born hospitality guru Bradley Michael, Meat and Wine Co pays beautiful homage to the authentic flavours of African and South American cultures. Guests can expect paddock-to-plate dining, bringing to life dishes such as Monte ribeye, aged on the bone for six weeks in flavoured butter and traditional dishes such as tender South African beef sausages Boerewors. The food is incredible, Bradley’s vision peerless, and the experience unforgettable.
220 London Cct, Ground Level Constitution Avenue, City | themeatandwineco
La Empanada
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Did someone say all-day South American Breakfast? Yes, that’s right, La Empanada offers an authentic dining experience that will momentarily transport you across the world. The minute you walk inside, the sweet scent of toasting cheese arepas perfumes the air, alongside popular menu items such as the chori pan, with specially selected chorizo served in a crusty bun with chimichurri. All washed down with a rich, warm brew of Colombian coffee. Heaven!
109 Hibberson Street, Gungahlin | laempanada.com.au
Black Fire
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While we can’t all hop on a plane and travel to the heart of the Mediterranean, Black Fire is perhaps the next best thing. Allowing us to vicariously transcend borders through their wildly creative menu—all cooked on an open fire for that rustic and sunburnt flavour hit. From their seafood guazzetto to sautéed organic mussels with crispy sourdough, white wine and saffron-infused fennel and fresh chorizo, honestly, the menu speaks for itself.
45/38 Mort Street, Braddon | blackfirecanberra.com.au
Café Blanco
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Oh, Café Blanco, how you have our hearts. Bringing authentic Latin American cuisine to the heart of Kambah, Café Blanco is unexpected for this tiny neighbourhood but most definitely eagerly embraced.
In fact, we never want to let it go, especially when a classic menu such as French toast becomes elevated with dulce de leche and hazelnuts to a chorizo and egg roll with provolone and salsa. A distinctly Latin degustation experience that will leave you happy, fulfilled and anything but hungry.
Shop 1/3 Carleton Street, Kambah | @cafe___blanco
Jar Ochos
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If this travelling food van known as Jar Ochos is in your area in Canberra (check Insta for updates), we highly recommend you make your way there. Simply let your nose guide you to the aromatic scent of delicious Mexican food filling the air.
It’s perfect for those who need a quick pick-me-up or to be transported momentarily on a workday. It’s fresh, traditional and injects something a bit different into Canberra’s hospitality scene. Delicioso!
Feature image: Cartel Taqueria via Instagram.
