An authentic Mexican experience right here on the Gold Coast.
An authentic Mexican experience right here on the Gold Coast.
Many curious Mexi-loving locals have been patiently waiting to find out what’s in store for Burleigh Heads since Margarita Cartel’s sign went up on the Lower Gold Coast Hwy a few weeks ago.
Well the wait is finally over with the new venue sliding open their doors this week to reveal an intimate, high vibe venue boasting an authentic menu filled with tasty variations of all your favourites and a cocktail list to rival any other.
Margarita Cartel has moved into the space where much-loved Willow Dining Room once lived and we have a feeling the newbie will be just as popular.
It’s every bit the Mexi-experience from the tall cactuses perched on either side of the entryway to bright seating, a stunning mosaic-style bar and a Sugar Skull mural painted across one wall. You need never pay top dollar to travel halfway across the world for a Mexican experience again.
Now as you know, there are very few people in the world who do not love margaritas so let’s begin there today.
The list as you’d expect, has quite the variety of margies on offer, from the Classic (made with orange liqueur though), to Coconut, Watermelon (five please), Cucumber and Chilli, Smoky Pineapple, Grapefruit and El Patron and we obviously suggest sampling one of each (maybe over the course of a week or so).
There is also a section of the list called Mexican Twist and that includes goodies like the Mexican Espresso (made with tequila), the Negronito, Sangria Bubbles and a Peppery Southside to name a few Mexi-infused favourites. Plus of course, you may indulge in the classics and an array of mojitos too.
You’ll need to visit a few times, see.
Eats-wise the dishes are being whipped up by none other than a Mexican and a Columbian-born chef so everything is absolutely flavour-packed with lots of char-grilled goodness incorporated and there are a few things on there we’re willing to bet you haven’t tried.
To start, we recommend the Coliflor – crunchy cauliflower with salsa cartel, Maiz La Parilla – char-grilled corn with queso fresco and cilantro salsa and Papas Y Chorizo – chunky skinned potatoes with chorizo and queso fresco. To die for.
Of course the taco versus burrito debate rages strong and Margarita Cartel’s selection won’t help with that. There are plenty of mouthwatering variations of both plus quesadillas and La Parilla – char-grilled meats in varieties like Black Angus Porterhouse, Chicken, Chilli and Lime Salmon and Agave Sticky Pork Belly. YUM.
So that’s about 45 reasons to book yourself in this very second and save a seat at your table for us pretty please.
LOCATION: 2/1840 Gold Coast Hwy, Burleigh Heads
HOURS: 5pm to 10pm
Words and photos by Kirra Smith