United Latino Cocina

United Latino Cocina (ULC) is the little sister to popular restaurant Lucky Lupitas. The city-based lunch spot is another of Walter Ventura’s projects, alongside Gin Long Canteen, Ruby Red Flamingo, Cliche Exhibition, Mexican Society and Tony Tomatoes.

While ULC shares the same slick fit-out and vibrant atmosphere as these venues, it stands out in its own right with an eye-catching geometric feature wall. Its large, open kitchen churns out plate after plate of tacos, tostadas and quesadillas.

Each menu item, with names such as Frickin’ Fish Taco (crispy snapper with grilled pineapple salsa and pickled jalapeno) and Sloppy Jose (spicy beef and pork mince on a brioche bun), is a fiesta of textures and flavours – soft and crunchy; salty and sour; and spicy and cool. Assorted bottles of hot sauce and house-made “red habby” are available for those who like it hot.

Cool your tongue with a refreshing sangria or Rockmelon Martini. Otherwise, try a Latin American soft drink such as the Mexican Jarritos or neon-yellow Inca Kola from Peru.

The restaurant doesn’t take bookings, so seating can be hard to come by during peak periods. It’s also not uncommon for certain menu items to sell out, so it’s wise to come early.