Any one familiar with the Melbourne food scene will no doubt recognise the name – the southern capital has been lining up for Chingón’s authentic Mexican fare for years, even winning them a People’s Choice Award and a nomination for best new restaurant.
‘The first Chingón was started by our good friends the Balleau brothers in Melbourne in 2012. We loved what they were doing down there and thought it would be really cool to bring it to Brisbane,’ said Brooklyn Standard co-owner Adam Barton. ‘Plus we thought that it fit in well with the vibe of Brooklyn Standard and the upcoming Cuban bar – we want to make Eagle Lane a really awesome laneway precinct.’
Paying homage to the colours and design of traditional Mexican cantinas, the venue’s surrounds have been designed by the Brooklyn Standard team, with the same quirky edge you’ll find in the underground bar, while the fit out will be carried out by Bazel and Co.
In keeping with that of the Melbourne venue, the new Chingón’s simple menu emodies the authenticity of good Mexican street food, incorporating the traditional cooking styles and bold flavours the Balleau brothers experienced growing up in New Mexico. Diners can either dine in and enjoy the exotic cocktail list or experience the full menu takeaway for a quick CBD lunch option.
If its big sister venue in Melbourne is anything to go by, patrons can expect to be treated to a smorgasbord of thoughtful and inventive flavours like tender grilled garlic prawns, chipotle crema, and lime or char grilled achiote pork with pineapple and capsicum salsa, rolled up in a handmade soft corn tortilla. Battling everyone’s preconceived notions of Mexican cuisine, Chingón is the antidote to the chain store drudgery with a fresh and daringly refined approach to everyone’s favourite late night cravings.
And it doesn’t just stop with the food, the refreshingly brief drinks list demonstrates a sense of restraint and careful curation and showcases a selection of surprisingly sippable premium tequila and mezcals served with either sangrita or verdita to cleanse the palate between swigs. But if tequila is not to your liking then you can take comfort in the fact that there is also a selection of boutique beers and wines available behind the bar.
Chingón is now open in Eagle Lane, CBD.
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Website: www.chingonbrisbane.com.au