TaLA is now open.
TaLA is now open.
Today we find ourselves in Mexico, which is absolutely a place we’re happy to be (if only metaphorically), because in Mexico, there are tacos and there are margaritas. You know where else there are tacos and margaritas? The Collective in Palm Beach.
More specifically, the recently launched TaLA, a fresh new LA-inspired taco bar that is an absolute delight for the tastebuds.
TaLA opened on Tuesday 8th September (unsure how it’s September but here we are) and it’s perfectly at home amongst Luckie’s American Diner, Mazi’s Greek Kitchen, Umami’s Asian Fusion and The Italian Job’s pizzeria.
It’s a revamp of the previous Mexican venue at The Collective, with a whole new vibe and menu inspired by the Southern Californian-style of Mexi-eats.
LA taco bars have a history of ensuring the use of quality ingredients, brought to life with authentic Mexican recipes and experimental modern twists.
Delightful.
For example TaLA is serving up 16 (!) impressive taco creations, all of which are completely gluten-free.
With flavours like Dukka Lamb Rib with hummus, pomegranate and rocket and Pork Belly with pineapple curry and toasted coconut, you’re absolutely going to find something you love.
Veggie lovers are also well taken care of with options like Southern Fried Shimeji Mushroom with wasabi ranch and radish and Vegan Harissa Eggplant with parsley pesto and rocket.
How good do all of those sounds friends.
In keeping with The Collective’s share-plate vibe, there are of course, many incredible dishes to share too.
Popcorn Halloumi for one. It’s tempura battered haloumi with a red pepper sauce, Street Paella with chilli lime marinated squid, chorizo, sweetcorn, pickled onion petals, spiced mexi rice and grilled lime.
Umm, both of those please.
Of course there are many margaritas to order from the bar and if you ask us, that’ pretty much the best time you can have.
See you there every day of the week forever.
LOCATION: The Collective Palm Beach, 1128 Gold Coast Hwy, Palm Beach
HOURS: Monday from 5pm until late, Tuesday to Sunday 12pm until late
Words and photos by Kirra Smith
New things are happening on the Gold Coast friends and that means our beloved dining scene is coming back to life. Which brings us (and no doubt you) much happiness.
One such new thing is the addition of a Greek eatery to Palmy’s favourite multi-cuisine venue The Collective, which is great for many reasons – first and foremost that we love Greek food and also that we can eat it there, on the rooftop overlooking Palmy and accompanied by bulk cocktails.
Not to mention that we obviously cannot travel for the foreseeable future so a little sojourn of sorts to the majestic Meditteranean is exactly what we need. And exactly what we’re going to get when Mazi opens on Friday June 12th.
Meaning ‘together’, Mazi is the perfect fit for The Collective’s group of eateries, all of which come together to create a space that has community at its’ heart.
Start your night with something delectable from the Meze menu like the Saganaki with honey soaked raisin, Olive oil grilled octopus skewers or Sage & garlic charcoal baked half shell scallops. Drool-worthy, we know.
Executive chef Jake Furst has created traditional Greek food with a fun, modern twist and with the introduction of a new charcoal grill, the signature meats will be hard to pass up.
The large shared plates offer you Slow Cooked Lamb Gyros, Half Marinated Chicken or a Chargrilled 1.4kg Cape Grim Tomahawk (designed to be shared between four friends) and they’re all of the highest quality and accompanied by seasonal ingredients to produce the finest meze around.
For dessert, there’s sweet traditional Greek donuts (Loukoumades) made fresh daily in flavours like Honey Pistachio, Lemon Curd or Nutella. Obviously, you’ll need to try them all.
The new space is decked out in the prettiest of peaches and is the first new venue to be introduced to The Collective in three years.
Cause for celebration if you ask us!
Head down to Palm Beach to check it out, as well as a few of those rooftop cocktails we mentioned.
Happy days Gold Coasters.
LOCATION: The Collective Palm Beach, 1128 Gold Coast Hwy
HOURS: Monday to Friday 5pm to 8.30 pm, Saturday and Sunday 11.30am until 8.30pm
It’s one of life’s greatest pleasures; eating Mexican and drinking margis so when Cinco De Mayo rolls around each year, we rejoice because we have an excuse to do just that (like we needed one).
For those who flunked history or have just wiped out too many braincells with said margaritas over the years, Cinco De Mayo commemorates the anniversary of Mexico’s victory over the French Empire at the Battle of Puebla in 1862 aaaand….we’ve lost you. Anyway, back to the margis (hello again), we have compiled a list of some of the Coast’s best Mexican restaurants that we love a whole enchiLOTa.
Goodness Gracias
A little (somewhat hidden) gem on the Gold Coast Highway is Goodness Gracias serving up plant-based Mexican eats that are some of the tastiest around. With some incredible menu items, you’ll be hard-pressed to choose just one dish. But if you ask us, regardless of which you choose you’ll be sure to have your sombrero knocked off, even if you aren’t vegan!
Where: 1A 1114 – 1116 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
El Camino Cantina
With shops across the country, we’re lucky to have ourselves one of these spicy little dens of Mexican magic here on the Goldy. Slip in and slip on a sombrero and let the endless fantastic food and de-lish cocktails flow. Positioned on the promenade waterfront dining precinct at Robina Town Centre you have the perfect place to enjoy al fresco dining with your gang. Their Carne Nachos deserve a special shout-out. Because, if you know, you know.
Where: 1009/1010 Level 1, 19-33 Robina Town Centre Drive, Robina
Beach Burrito Company
The southern belle can be found overlooking the ocean in Coolangatta, usually packed with people and with all of the good vibes on offer. There are what feels like endless burritos on offer, and why not go all boujee and get the ‘Cali upgrade’, which means the beans and rice are replaced with hot chips! Yes my friends, you read that correctly, and yes, our mouths are watering!
Where: The Strand,Shop 25/26 72-80 Marine Parade, Coolangatta
Montezumas Burleigh
After relocating from the beachside arcade to just off James Street, this family-friendly Mexican purveyor of good times sure can serve up the goods. The menu is quite extensive, so shall we suggest the Combination Plate? Because why not have a little bit of everything and give ’em all a go. Plus through in a Margarita for good measure! Because it wouldn’t be a Mexican fiesta without one!
Where: 1/19 Park Avenue In the Alleyway From James Street to Park Avenue, Burleigh Heads
Agave Rosa
Fresh, delish dishes with dashes of distinct oriental flavour (say that after a few tequilas), served Mexican style is what you’ll get in spades at Agave Rosa. It’s funky, bright and welcoming feels are perfectly complimented by their phenom menu mixing our two fave cuisines with finesse. And like any Mexican establishment worth its salt, their cocktails and margaritas slay!
Where: Shop 2/74 Musgrave Street, Coolangatta
Clay Cantina
With its cool, casual laneway dining outside and inviting, home-style dining inside (open kitchens are life!), this feisty Latina dishes up the best Mexican outside of the Motherland. And we’re not actually joking. Plus, you can transform into a Mexican Masterchef yourself with super fun classes using authentic ingredients and tools. This sage and terracotta-hued heavyweight can do no wrong.
Where: 2/16 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
La Diosa Mexicana
If you’ve got cheap but cheerful Mexi goodness on your mind (same) this one’s for you! Taco Tuesdays offer delish $4 tacos or if you’re down for an all-you-can-eat taco fiesta (SAME!), you can go gangbusters on these Mexican bad boys. Serving up all your traditional faves, it’s great for groups as the fit-out and vibe are a’pumpin.
Where: Circle on Cavil, Shop 11/3184 Surfers Paradise Boulevard, Surfers Paradise
Hail Mary
Boasting a fit out and décor to die for and a delish menu to match, Hail Mary is a standout. Serving up the freshest, flavoursome Mexican nosh, it’s a no-brainer. With specials like two tacos and a beer/wine or soft drink for $20 on weekends, what are you even waiting for? Ohhh and don’t miss their Burrito Wednesdays!
Where: 6/26 James Street, Burleigh Heads
Bonita Bonita
Eats institution Bonita Bonita (and little sister Bon Bon pouring mezcals and tequilas for pre or post-dinner party starters) is a long-standing fave. Its dimly lit, moody and ornate interior design never ceases to impress and create an intimate vibe. Enjoy the mouth-watering eats (the grilled corn…OMG) and don’t even get us started on the cocktails.
Where: 2460 Gold Coast Highway, Mermaid Beach
Mexicali
Always busy, the Cali meets Mexico feels of Mexicali have us coming back again and again. You can’t go wrong with a banquette if you’re in a group, and you even have the option of adding a bottomless drinks package (sold!). Sunset cocktails on the balcony never get old, and a snap under the ever-changing lightbox message above the stairs is mandatory!
Where: Level 1, 2223 Gold Coast Highway, Nobby Beach
Frida Sol
Sibling to Bonita Bonita and Bon Bon, this texture-rich stunner pays homage to the almighty Frida Kahlo and oozes a delectably sultry vibe. With live DJs on Sundays from 1pm – 4pm and a divine modern Mexican menu, it’s a Mexi lovers home away from home. One of our FAVES.
Where: 1176 Gold Coast Highway, Palm Beach
Holy Jala
This fun-infused Cooly local serves up a juxtaposition of Mexican, Spanish and other Mediterranean flavours and the result is mexcellent! Offering a free food banquet on Saturday when you buy a drink (yes, you read that right), why wouldn’t you give it a whirl. It also has a food truck so if you’re looking for catering, you know who to call!
Where: 140 Griffith Street, Coolangatta
The Aztec
Kicking around since 1995, The Aztec Broadbeach…along with The Aztec Coolangatta…is a hit with the whole fam, boasting a fun-loving mixture of cosy booths, ultra-modern furnishings and an epic fluro bar. A colourful and upbeat venue, you’re spoilt for choice with all the Mexican goodies you’d hope to find. Insider tip; wear your oversized tee and order the loaded nachos.
Where: The Aria Building, Shop 11/17 Albert Avenue, Broadbeach & 152 Griffith Street (Twin Towns end), Coolangatta
Words by Bianca Trathen.
