Another day in Melbourne means another meal to discuss! Our second night in Melbourne came off the back of a big day of shopping. Famished and tired, we wanted something tasty and a bit more lowkey than our experience at Cha Ching the night before. So, we opted for Mexican at Hotel Nacional.

It wasn’t far from our accommodation, though the chilly winds were howling, so the journey felt longer than expected. We booked early, after a big breakfast and almost nothing for lunch, and arrived for a booking at 5:30 (I know, my family’s preferred dining time is a struggle for me too). The wait-staff seemed a little surprised to have us there so early, but they were great at getting us settled in.

There was only one other group in the restaurant, so we could order pretty much immediately, and we had to start with the 2 for 1 margarita deal. Mum and I started with the classics while the other girls had the mango margaritas. Realising that happy hour was over soon though, we ordered a second round straight away to try the frozen passionfruit margaritas too.

Tropical flavoured cocktails are always a win for me, so these were fantastic, though on an empty stomach we all felt them straight away! Set with two margaritas to keep me company, I ordered our food before we could get too carried away.

Starters

• Beef Empanadas ($17.00)
• Guacamole and corn chips ($16.00)
• Corn ribs ($16.00)

Mains

• Birria Braised Tacos x 3 ($20.00)
• Duck tacquitos ($19.00)
• Prawn tostada x 2 ($14.00)

Dessert

• Churros ($18.00)

The restaurant was moody and lowkey, with a clean and simple interior. The food all looked amazing, and tasted even better! We were all impressed once again, and my sister’s friend had a second round of the birria tacos because they were so good! I could have done another ten of the duck taquitos myself.

The staff were quick and efficient too, and patient with us after both our drinks and indecision. When there are so many great choices, it can be difficult to narrow it down! To be honest, I think we barely scratched the surface of all the food on offer, and I could definitely go back and try a few different tacos and mains!

I liked the prawn tostada, but I think it was my least favourite out of all the food. On such a cool day, the cold food was nice but not quite what I was looking for. I’m sure it would be a massive hit in the middle of summer, but the hearty tacos and empanadas were more my style that night.

Finally, as much as I love churros, these were a little lacklustre for me. They didn’t quite have the usual crispy outer layer I love, and—personal preference—I don’t always like churros with chocolate sauce! Blasphemy, I know. Dulce de leche is the greatest sauce to eat with churros, so as nice as these were, I didn’t enjoy them as much as usual. It didn’t detract from the evening at all, though I am even more eager now to try the coconut lime panna cotta with pineapple, cocoa and mint… Next time!

Funnily enough, my sister’s friend (who had never tried a margarita before!) decided she didn’t like tequila so I finished her drink too. I’m not sure that was our best move, as I was in charge of directing us home, although I did a pretty good job on 2.5 full drinks… We made it back to the apartment, after all. To be honest, it was probably necessary considering how cold it was that night!

Summary

This is another great find, and one that I’d recommend if you’re a big fan of Mexican food. The restaurant also boasts a rooftop bar, though we didn’t get up there this time. Ah well, I’ll just have to go again!

Hotel Nacional Rating: 9/10