Tacocat

If you think you’ve tried it all when it comes to Mexican food in Melbourne, then think again. Tacocat is Windsor’s newest taqueria, serving Mexican-inspired street food but not as you know it.

Tacocat is located at 118 High St, Windsor in the space formerly occupied by Korean café 9 ¾, just a block or two from Chapel Street. Step inside and you’ll find rustic style tables, an open view into the kitchen and a Day of the Dead inspired wall mural painted by Melbourne Graffiti artist, Awes, of local studio 90 degrees.

With a firm grasp and grounding of the flavours and textures of Mexican cuisine, Tacocat’s menu is wonderfully inspired by Mexico's international neighbours. The result is a stunning menu which excites and delights. 

“Everything on the menu is inspired by a memory or experience I’ve had while travelling,” says owner Craig Dick who has turned his hand to the restaurant business after more than 20 years in the IT industry. Craig has travelled extensively but it was a round the world trip in 2016 through Central America, Iran and North Korea that he had the epiphany to fuse Asian textures and flavours in with his favourite cuisine, Mexican street food. “I just thought the two were a natural fit,” says Craig.

The menu is entirely Craig’s creation, while he leaves it up to his chef on how to bring his Mexican fusion dishes to life. Everything is made from scratch on-site (even the tortillas are made fresh daily) save for the roasted grasshoppers supplied by the Edible Bug Company. Coffee is by Atomica coffee roasters and condiments are from the Melbourne Hot Sauce Company.

We loved tasting our way through Tacocat's dinner menu. 

The tostadas were any absolute standout. We loved the Tostada de pulp which features tender confit baby octopus with marinated potatoes, black olive tapenade, pico de gallo and watercress. Simply stunning!

The tacos were similarly delicious. Our favourites included the carnitas taco which boasts a decadent amalgamation of the crispiest pork crackling, tender pulled pork, salsa verde and creamy guac. For the vegetarians (or anyone, really…) do not go past the mushroom taco. Think earthy and creamy white wine mushrooms, onion, garlic, bean sprouts, cheese, coriander and guac… it's heaven.

There are also more exotic taco offerings which include the Pho taco (highly recommended!) made with Beef, chilli, bean sprouts, spring onions, Vietnamese mint, coriander and Sirarcha sauce served with a side of Vietnamese pho broth. 

The excitement continues with dessert time. The Deep Fried Tequila Shot (included as Craig is an avid collector of Tequila) is sensational – Tequila soaked sponge cake, deep-fried and placed in a shot glass with lime zest, icing sugar and lemon sorbet. And then there are the churros. Moist and light on the inside with a crispy exterior, we loved dipping them in the luxurious dulce de leche.  

Location: 118 High St, Windsor
Phone: (03) 9048 0630
Link: https://www.tacocat.melbourne/