A Flash of Yellow on Hoddle Street
You may have spotted The Happy Mexicanβthen quickly dismissed itβwhile idling in one of Hoddle Streetβs infamous traffic jams. With its buttercup-yellow facade decked out in sombreros, maracas, and cartoonish cacti, it doesnβt exactly scream authenticity. But give it a shot.
The Story Behind the Flavour
Owner Julian Romero was born in Colombia and moved to Los Angeles at 16, making regular visits to Mexico City to see friends and family. What he brings to The Happy Mexican is a genuine, no-frills take on traditional Mexican fareβreminiscent of the much-loved (and now-closed) Los Amates in Fitzroy, and still found at Kensingtonβs La Tortilleria, which supplies the tortillas here.
Taco Tuesdays and Beyond
The star of the show is the tacosβespecially on Tuesdays, when theyβre half price. Standouts include the carnitas, made with pork marinated in orange juice and spices before being slow-cooked to tender perfection; the rich and fatty lengua (beef tongue), given depth with smoky pasilla chillies; and a vegetarian option that layers roast pumpkin with potato, capsicum, black beans, and guacamole.
California Style, Melbourne Bite
Fans of Cali-style Mexican should head straight for the burritos. Wrapped in flour tortillas the size of a Pringles can, theyβre stuffed with green rice, corn, black beans, cheese, salsa, and your pick of roast chicken, slow-braised pork, or sautΓ©ed mushrooms.
More Than Just Tacos
There are also hearty tortas (Mexican sandwiches), filled with fried chicken or steak milanesa, layered with refried beans, lettuce, tomato, onion, and chipotle mayo.
A Warm and Welcoming Vibe
The bright yellow dining roomβwith its weathered wooden tables and vintage photosβserves up tap beer, $10 margaritas on Fridays, and a solid selection of mezcal and tequila to round out the experience.