Indicating that Melbourne's fondness for Mexican is yet to wane, the team from Fonda Mexican has just unveiled venue number four in Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn.
After flying out LA-based Mexican-American chef Gery Lopez to steer a menu tweak late last year, co-owner Tim McDonald reckons the quality and authenticity of the food offering has scored a major lift.
"When people used to ask me what they should order I'd always point them to the fish tacos and the chicken salad," he says. "Now I don't know what to say – everything's really good. We're loving it."
In a prime position alongside Glenferrie station, the spacious old corner site has had a suitably lively fitout via designers Wildhen and architecture firm Techne. Come April, the 120-seat venue will welcome an extra 80 seats thanks to a leafy, all-seasons courtyard at the rear and kerbside seating out front.
It's open daily 11.30am-late.
Fonda Mexican, 653 Glenferrie Road, Hawthorn, 8686 7360, fondamexican.com.au
Restaurant reviews, news and the hottest openings served to your inbox.
Sign up