Ricos Tacos

After years of running his Sydney-famous al pastor tacos out of roving food carts and semi-permanent kitchens, Toby Wilson’s nomadic streak has seemingly come to an end. Ricos Tacos at Redfern’s century-old Norfolk Hotel is the chef’s latest, a collaboration with Public Hospitality Group (El Primo Sanchez, The Strand) that involves sunshine-yellow walls and Ricos biggest menu yet.

Those who are nostalgic for Wilson’s short-lived stint at the old George Hotel nearby will love the vibe here. All Wilson’s taco hits come served on a rainbow of plastic plates, from tacos al pastor to crispy battered fish. There’s new gear too, including kingfish and coconut ceviche tostadas, tortas hamburgeusa (a Mexican take on the burger) and a spiced-chocolate ice-cream sandwich to sweeten the deal.

Inspired by the convivial gatherings seen in Mexican communities, Carne Asada Sundays round out the weekend in the pub’s leafy courtyard. A charcoal barbeque rolls in at lunchtime, with grilled steaks loaded with salads, fries and house-made salsas.

The food menu is available throughout the venue, but the atmosphere shifts when you head upstairs. Here, it’s Club Ricos, with a neon-lit look that nods to the pub’s past life as the House of Crabs. The space also riffs on a Mexican soccer club, with wood-panelled walls lined with jerseys, a shimmering disco ball and DJs on the decks all night. Be sure to bring your Margaritas and mezcals up here.