ust like it’s tongue-in-cheek moniker, everything about Touché Hombre echoes an ironically cool, laidback vibe. Heavily inspired by the Latino street art culture of Los Angeles, the restaurant and bar on the corner of Lonsdale Street and Tattersalls Lane in the city arrives with a wave of other Mexican-inspired eateries in Melbourne (think Senoritas, Fonda and Paco’s Tacos). But it’s a concept that is constantly evolving; at Touché Hombre, DJ’s work the decks, the bar and tables are built using reclaimed timber from Princes Pier and a neon Ghostbusters display greets you upon arrival.

Created by the Maison Davis team – including owner Davis Yu (formerly of the Millswyn) and creative director Simon Madden – every aspect of the eatery, from interior design to branding, was conceived in-house and the passion for the project is palpable.

The food features favourite Mexican street fare such as tostaditos, grilled corn, fresh ceviche and a special ‘secret’ taco. The real hero here however is the tequila, served up by reigning margarita champ Johnnie Kai. Yes you can still get beer and wine, but if you’re after hard liquor, it’s all about the Mexican staple, with 45 variations available (and more to come).

For bookings you can reserve the ‘wrestling ring’ table and sample the Rainbow of Death – a bottle of Tromba tequila served with Jarritos sodas in all the colours of the rainbow plus all the usual trimmings.

Touché Hombre
233 Lonsdale Street, Melbourne
(03) 9663 0811

Hours
Tue to Thu 5pm–late
Fri 12pm–late
Sat 5pm–late

touchehombre.com.au