TL; DR | Summary
Esteban Sydney Review
Esteban is hidden away in the Temperance Lane alleyway, allowing you to enjoy your meal in private amongst the fairy lights (if you're dining outside).
When you walk inside the restaurant, it's candle-lit ambience feels unique. This isn't your typical Mexican cantina, it's a more premium and high-end restaurant.
Although it leans towards the pricier side, the variety and creativity of the menu make it worth every cent.
If you're just after some post-work drinks, Esteban is also a great hangout spot for those who appreciate a good drink.
Their range of Mexican liquors, including Don Amado and Patrón, makes you feel like you're right in Mexico city.
For me, Esteban stands out as one of Sydney's best Mexican restaurants, not just for their tacos but also for its complete menu package, drinks, and atmosphere.
You can see from my Esteban Sydney photos in this review, you're guaranteed to have an intimate dining experience.
Esteban Sydney Menu | A Taste Of Mexico
The service here hits the right balance of being attentive and having food arrive promptly. Here's their menu which consists of entrees, tacos, mains and desserts.
Now, let's dig into the feast of Mexican dishes I had as I had to try them all:
Tasmanian Salmon Ceviche Taco
Salmon ceviche with cilantro, chilli, onion, and a crisp yellow corn shell.
A taco entrée that's bright, citrusy, and has a gentle chilli kick. Even as someone who's not a coriander fan, I couldn't help but really enjoy this. Plus it's gluten free and dairy free.
Steak Tartare Taco
Steak tartare, egg jam, mountain pepper leaf, and papas al hilo.
This is another creative twist on a taco entree. As a well-balanced mix, this taco hits all the right notes for beef tartare enthusiasts.
Taco Al Pastor
Adobo marinated pork, tomatillo salsa, roasted piña, onion, cilantro, and Esteban's corn tortilla.
While I'm not usually a pineapple fan, the combination of flavours and textures kept each bite interesting and full of character.
Grilled Prawn Taco
Tomatillo, Salsa Mexicana and parsley on Esteban's hand made corn tortilla.
Easily one of the best prawn tacos I've had and stands out as a seafood favourite. The prawns are incredibly juicy and it's a must order.
Salsa Flight
Salsa pasilla, salsa picante, tomatillo salsa, and lime.
Each salsa brings its own heat and flavour complexity. I recommend trying this to accompany your meal or if you enjoy some heat. Don't feel obligated to though because the tacos and other dishes are already delish!
Seared Pork Belly
Pork belly with pickled watermelon radish, baby onions, salsa tatemada, and crispy shallot.
I'd recommend this dish for those who enjoy pork belly, as each mouthful delivers rich, tangy, and crisp elements from the ingredients.
Fire Roasted SA Calamari
Calamari with mole de mar, bottarga, and salsa verde.
One of the best dishes I had at Esteban was this well-charred calamari. It's smoky, fresh, and deeply satisfying. I highly recommend ordering this one.
Esteban's Market Steak
Steak served with black garlic and chipotle butter.
Expect to pay premium $$$ for this perfectly cooked steak. While the steak was excellent, the butter's flavours were subtler than expected.
Ironbark Grilled Chicken
Juicy chicken with tinga sauce, grilled spring onion, and mote.
The sauce it comes with is a bold tinga sauce, so it may not suit everyone's palate. This chicken is for those who enjoy punchy flavours.
Handmade Tortillas
Handmade tortillas served with burnt onion, cilantro, and lime. 4 per serve.
This is a divided opinion. While these tacos are fresh and authentic, they have a dry, mealy texture. It's not quite what you'd expect from the tacos you're used to having, so it's not for everyone.
Tres Leches Dessert
Tres Leches milk cake with cafe de olla 'pot coffee' ice cream.
This dessert stole the show and is simply phenomenal. It's a perfectly balanced cake topped with a dusting of cocoa. It's light, creamy, and indulgent, and this dessert is reason enough to visit Esteban. It's easily a new favourite of mine!
RECOMMENDED
- You cannot leave without trying the Tres Leches dessert
- The Grilled Prawn Taco is a must-have
- Unless you love a drier tortilla, I'd skip the handmade tortillas
Final Words
Esteban delivers an unforgettable mix of great Mexican food, drinks, and atmosphere. From their innovative tacos to that game-changing Tres Leches dessert, this is a Mexican spot you'll want to revisit and recommend to others.
It's perfect for a date night or a special occasion. Esteban is all about creating memorable moments.
Have you been to Esteban yet? If so, please share your go-to dishes or some of your Mexican restaurant recommendations!
Where To Find Esteban Sydney
Address
Hours
- Monday: 5:00 – 11:00 PM
- Tuesday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Wednesday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM
- Thursday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Friday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Saturday: 12:00 PM – 12:00 AM
- Sunday: 12:00 – 11:00 PM
Website
Phone
+61 2 9290 7022
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That tres leches cake was to die for.
I also loved that textural Beef Tartare Taco and the Salmon Ceviche one.