Places to Be

Great Mexican food is closer than you think.

Mexicans do a lot of things well. Oversized hats, small guitars and growing cacti. But one of the things they know how to do very well is put on a fiesta! Think burritos, nachos, enchiladas, fajitas and quesadillas. Not to mention the tequila, margaritas and cafe de olla.

The best thing, amigo, is you don't have to go to Mexico get a decent feed. In Sydney, try Mad Mex's easy 3-step menu featuring the freshest ingredients this side of the equator. And even more importantly, what might just be Sydney's finest margaritas.

In Brisbane, your best bet is El Torito. The $9.95 burrito/chimichanga/enchilada and a fanta/coke/diet coke/sprite lunch special speaks for itself.

If you're in Melbourne, try Trippy Taco. The menu touches on all the basic Mexican staples, but the desserts steal the show. The sweet corn tamale with banana, cinnamon, maple syrup and ice-cream is a must.

And in Perth, look no further than Zapata's for cheap pina coladas, $10 nacho deals and a mean Mexican sampler. Muchas gracias senor.

Mad Mex, 2/241 Crown St, Darlinghurst, Sydney (02) 9331 7788. Also at AMP Plaza, Circular Quay and Macquarie Centre, North Ryde. El Torito, 146 Boundary St, West End, Brisbane (07) 3844 5977. Trippy Taco, 48 Smith St, Collingwood, Melbourne (03) 9415 771. Zapatas, Shop 30, South Terrace Piazza, Fremantle, 1300 622 467.