Refined Mexican dining meets the sandy shores of Tulum.

Want to escape to Tulum without leaving Sydney? Alegre at Darling Harbour has quickly become one of Sydney’s most iconic Mexican destinations, capturing the essence of Tulum’s flavours and culture. The restaurant represents a unique take on Mexican cuisine, and to spice things up, they’re launching a brand new menu created by three talented new chefs who have taken the helm. 

In the kitchen you’ll find Owner/Operator, Rasel Zaman and Mexico City-born Sous-chefs Alvaro Valenzuela (ex Alma) and Ivan Castillejos (ex Chula), each bringing their expertise and passion for the cuisine. Together, they infuse the brand-new menu with a mix of traditional Mexican and Australian Native ingredients. From the smoky depths of Mexican flavours to the notes of native Australian produce, Alegre’s new menu celebrates the best of both worlds.

Growing up in Tlalpan in Mexico City, Castillejos’ grandfather and mother would spend countless hours cooking dishes such as Mole de Olla and Lamb Barbacoa. To honour this family tradition, he’s incorporated these recipes into Alegre’s new menu, with a signature Mole Madre, in their new Chargrilled Chicken and 250g Full Blood Wagyu MB6+. Chef Valenzuela shares the same sentiments, reminiscing on cooking rich seafood with his grandmother at the beach. This resulted in Alegre’s Whole Snapper with Red and Green Adobo, blending vibrant adobos with the freshness of the sea. Embracing traditional cooking techniques, the team at Alegre use a Josper Charcoal Oven to smoke their meats day and night, a method that allows for the most flavourful outcome.  

“By combining native Mexican spices, sauces, and curing methods with Australian ingredients, we have created unique dishes such as our 14-hour slow-cooked Lamb Barbacoa with house pickles and Salsas Taqueras, and our Kangaroo Tartare with Jalapeño Chimichurri,” says Valenzuela.

Alegre boasts an impressive collection of over 150 bottles of Tequila and Mezcal, a true haven for spirit enthusiasts. Offering a curated selection of the most sought-after brands, their menu includes the coveted “Corazon Anejo,” awarded the prestigious title of World’s Best Tequila in 2021. Beyond tequila, explore seasonal Mexican cocktails like Mi Casa Es Su Casa, made with Aguas Mansas espadin mezcal, organic agave, lime juice and fresh passionfruit, as well as Will You Berry Me?, with 42 Below vodka, Soho lychee liqueur, black raspberry liqueur, raspberry puree and lime juice.

For more information and to make a booking, visit their website here.

Related News: Tacos Tacos Tacos Arrives in Potts Point With A Tiny Taqueria & Big Flavours