Kate Dinning of WeAreLocals Darwin reveals hospitality movements

A Waterfront favourite reopens with a fresh look and a popular cafe reveals plans to expand, writes Kate Dinning.

Hot Tamale at the Darwin Waterfront has reopened with a fresh new look.

My friends, I know sometimes you just want to read some good news – so I’ve got it for you.
If you’ve tried to go to Hot Tamale down at the Darwin Waterfront in the past couple of months, you probably ended up disappointed.

You might remember in a previous column I mentioned that it was closed for air conditioning works… well it’s now open, and officially even cooler – literally.

The Hot Tamale team used the break to revamp the restaurant completely, and after 11 years of trading - it’s now had an exciting upgrade.

I spoke to the team, who told me that Hot Tamale’s new colours are inspired by the vibrant colour of Puerto Vallarta, a city on Mexico’s Pacific Coast.

There’s plenty of shades of pink, teals and bright yellows across the venue, and updated booths and seating both inside and out.

Hot Tamale at the Darwin Waterfront has reopened with a fresh new look.

There’s a whole new kitchen, and the indoor seating around the bar has had a comfort upgrade – to ensure that people can really enjoy the substantial agave collection on offer.

But, it’s the ‘Taco Al Pastor’ that they’re most excited about.

Something that’s been part of the plans since the beginning – you can now get a real taste of Mexico City when you order this Shepherd-style spicy pork taco.

This style of taco originated in central Mexico, is huge in Mexico City, and is based on traditional donor meat brought from Lebanese immigrants to Mexico – with a traditional Mexican marinate of Adobada. Yum!

And yes, I know what you’re thinking.

Don’t worry – the Baja Fish Taco is still on the menu.

As is my favourite: the Elota Con Crema – a delicious cheesy corn dip.

Hot Tamale at the Darwin Waterfront has reopened with a fresh new look.

You can check out the revamped Hot Tamale for lunch and dinner, every day from 11am at the Darwin Waterfront.

My hot tip: it’s Loco Arvo’s (aka Happy Hour) every day from 4 – 6pm, which means $6 tacos.

In other hospitality news – award-winning local favourite cafe, Kopi Stop, is soon opening a second location in the CBD, which means you’ll be able to get their coffee at both ends of Smith Street.

Stop Number 2: Makan Stop, will be opening at 1/59 Smith Street soon, under the Darwin City Hotel.

KopiStop is expanding into the inner city.

And what’s on this weekend?

Check out the Thailand Grand Festival today (Saturday).

There will be cooking demonstrations, a lot of Thai food, and even a chilli-eating contest for those who dare - the free family-fun event kicks off at 11am in Civic Park.

If you’re heading to the Parap Markets, check out the launch of Laundry Gallery’s newest exhibition - Yara Kutjupa (A Different Way), by artists from Tjarlirli and Kaltukatjara Art Centre.

This collection is from a new generation of artists reframing traditions, featuring beautiful handmade dye paintings on silk.

And Sunday? Back by popular demand, It’s ‘Oyster Sunday’ at The Trader Bar.

Fresh SA oysters, premium champagne specials, killer cocktails, and a live DJ playing tunes. Enjoy!