The 100 per cent gluten-free Mexican eatery Hotel Nacional has swung open its doors on Hardware Lane in the Melbourne CBD.
The five-level rooftop bar and restaurant is located in the former Campari House space and is the work of the operators behind Earlwood’s Repeat Offender and St Kilda’s Rufio.
“We wanted to create a venue unlike anything else in the city. You walk up the stairs and you are transported to another location across the globe,” says Taylor Granchi.
“Being five levels, there are so many aspects to our venue. We wanted something you could explore to create a new memory every time.”
The gluten-free offering is spearheaded by Head Chef Sergio Tourn who comes from roles at Brunswick’s Tino and Ascot Vale’s The Vale.
Highlights include slow-cooked Barbacoa lamb; cauliflower tofu escabeche with wakame, peanut, and salsa macha; birria braised beef taco with consume; and a corn husk meringue with corn-infused cream and persimmon.
“I always try to mix a bit of tradition with modern learning so I can honour both. Each diner that walks through the doors of Hotel Nacional will not only enjoy our Mexican food offering but taste the experiences I have had with flavourful and
native ingredients,” says Tourn.
Guests can choose to order from an a la carte offering, alongside three banquet menus including a vegan-friendly option.
The restaurant and bar is open daily from midday, and offers weekday express lunch options and other weeknight specials such as steak night and half-price margaritas.
Hotel Nacional is open now at 23-25 Hardware Lane, Melbourne, Victoria.
