The Excelsior Hotel

The pop-up phenomenon continues at this inner-city pub with El Loco, the Merivale group's first foray into Mexican. It's casual, loud and the food's great and cheap, which makes the place insanely popular. Scream yourself hoarse ordering $5 tacos and a drink from the margarita-dominated list. The carne asado taco is an addictive mix of tangy lemongrass beef with salsa verde and salad. Grilled marinated pork from the spit is stuffed into a soft bun with salad, mayo and pico de gallo salsa in a slightly heartier, no less delicious snack. Only big-ticket items such as the juicy scotch fillet with salsa come on a plate.