El Manglar

El Manglar offers a vibrant Latin American experience in Melbourne, creating a tropical oasis that is more than just a place to eat, portraying Latin American culture in its entirety.

Inspired by the mangrove forests of Latin America, El Manglar combines a creative ambience with a desire to celebrate the region’s culinary heritage. Surrounded by eye-catching murals and with Vietnam’s famous Dojima sake served in a specially created copper dragon head, it’s impossible not to be swept up in the colour and spirit of it all.

The menu bursts with flavour, from street food favourites to dishes with a sophisticated edge. Picture a colourful spread of tostadas, tacos and tamales, or, for something more refined, beef tartare with panela, aromatic spices, delicate potato layers and fresh chives.

The mains are every bit as irresistible: choose a Scotch fillet steak with bright chimichurri, silky black bean purée and peppery watercress, or a Peruvian-style fried rice loaded with pork chicharrón, juicy prawns, zesty criolla salad and caramelised plantain. Desserts may be just three in number, but each is indulgent, with the rum and banana cake standing out as a must-try.

Uninterrupted sightlines across the open kitchen offer guests an insight into El Manglar's conscience as they cook and serve. Whether it’s the ability to see the señorita frying you up your quesadilla, to chat with the executive chef about the design of your own menu or to watch cocktails being shaken in front of your very eyes down at the horseshoe bar.