Taco joint Benzina Cantina revs up Preston

Taco joints are no novelty in Mexican food-loving Melbourne, but Benzina Cantina pulls no ponchos in bringing something new to the table.

Bruno Carreto, of popular Brunswick taqueria Los Hermanos, and motorcycle stuntman "Lukey Luke" Follachio have revved things up with what is surely Melbourne's – and definitely Preston's – first motorbike-themed Mexican eatery.

There's plenty going on in and around this compact shipping container-turned-taqueria. Carreto and Follachio have gone full throttle with the motoring connection, joining the Cantina to Lukey Luke's already humming motorbike workshop next door. Decor is dark and industrial, Colombian music booms, and there's a nifty rooftop so diners can enjoy tacos and tequila under the twinkle of fairylights and stars.

Alongside tasty tacos covering all the food groups (beef, lamb, fish, chicken, and three vegie options, all spiked with smoky sauces and salsas) there's an array of favourite Mex dishes, familiar to Los Hermanos fans, with multiple vegan and gluten-free options to boot. Graze on guac, gorditas (filled corn meal pockets), cactus salad or churros, washed down with tequila-based cocktails, Mexpresso martinis and mezcal. Or a beer.

It's loud, it's raucous, it's a good time. And sure to be a hot spot this summer.

Open weekdays 4pm-11pm, Sat 4pm-1am, Sun 4pm-11pm.

84 High Street, Preston, 03 9480 2244 benzinacantina.com.au