A new Highett Mexican restaurant is licking its lips and keeping it fresh
WHEN Liam Tighe and Steve Kingi went on a reconnaissance mission to Mexico last year, they returned with some great culinary insight — and two chefs for their new Highett restaurant.
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WHEN Liam Tighe and Steve Kingi went on a reconnaissance mission to Mexico last year, they returned with some great culinary insight — plus two Mexican chefs.
The business partners spent almost a month in Mexico getting a feel for “real” Mexican food for their new restaurant in Highett.
Their devotion to doing things the authentic way is likely the reason why Hot Lips Hacienda has gone gangbusters since opening in April.
“We’ve gone away from what a lot of people think Mexican is — we’ve gone with fresh ingredients, light, really flavoursome stuff, which is effectively what you find throughout Mexico,” Tighe said.
“The response from the public has been amazing and for the first month we were full every single night.
“The local community in Highett are super supportive of new businesses opening up and they’ve been great.”
Everything inside Hot Lips Hacienda is well thought out, from the architectural design of the bar with its archways to represent a traditional Mexican estate, to the agave plants and vibrant colours of the carpet and decor.
The tapas-style street food menu encourages sharing with friends, and there are plenty of mouth-watering options, including tacos inspired by different regions of Mexico.
Be sure to try the zesty Ceviche Del Caribe — barramundi marinated in citrus and mixed with tomato, onion, avocado and chillies, served with tortilla chips.
The corn on the cob, charcoal grilled with Hot Lips’ signature chipotle salsa, is to die for.
To complement the food, the cocktail list is smoking hot, with inclusions such as the Tijuana Panic, with pomegranate tequila, orange, passionfruit and mint.
Hot Lips Hacienda, 2 Railway Parade, Highett. Bookings accepted for six or more: bookings@hotlipshacienda.com.au
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