Perth has gone loco for all things Mexican. And we’ve gone a little loco for Mexican films. From 15-21 November, Cinema Paradiso in Northbridge will be screening the Hola Mexico Film Festival.

Director Itzel Rosas – who moved to Perth from Mexico City gives us the low down on where to find this city’s most authentic Mexican food. There’s more to Mexico than chimichangas and Corona.

That Little Mexican Place | 382 Fitzgerald Street, North Perth | (08) 9227 5755 | tlmp.com.au
One of the first Mexican restaurants in Perth, That Little Mexican Place, started in North Perth and now has locations in Vic Park and South Fremantle. “I always recommend That Little Mexican Place,” Itzel told us. “The owner, Gavin, travels to Mexico every year and brings his head chefs to learn from the masters of authentic Mexican cuisine… that’s love!”

La Cholita | 279 William Street, Northbridge | fb.com/pages/La-Cholita
A favourite bar in Northbridge, La Cholita has an amazing vibe thanks to its rough plywood tables and tattoo-inspired murals that cover the walls. There’s also a ginormous collection of tequila lining the bar. “La Cholita is another excellent place to go with good ambiance and excellent margaritas!”

El Publico | 511 Beaufort Street, Highgate | elpublico.com.au
“El Publico is another goody; the service and the ambience is excellent,” Itzel said. “I highly recommend the Huarache with green chorizo.” We, on the other hand, highly recommend anything poured by bartender James Connolly, who just won the Diageo World Class semi-finals in his division in Brisbane last week.

Mad Mex | 484 Hay Street, Subiaco | (08) 9381 9923 | madmex.com.au
“For something quick and cheap, go to Mad Mex. Try the soft corn tortilla tacos and don’t put excessive salad or it will kill the flavour!” Itzel warns. Who’d have thunk it?

Your place
Itzel’s parting words: “My last recommendation: there’s nothing better than having a good Mexican cookbook to cook with yourself! Good and authentic Mexican food needs a lot of heart and time to prepare. Cinnamon (Canela), one of the films we are presenting at the festival, reflects the importance of the food for the family, as well as the passion and the pride of Mexicans for its traditions and exquisite flavours.”

Gracias, Itzel!

 

Address: Cinema Paradiso, 164 James Street, Northbridge
Dates: 15-21 November
Details: holamexicoff.com