Mission District

Mission District in Ripponlea, Melbourne, is a restaurant that’s dedicated to showcasing the best of Californian-inspired Mexican cuisine, with a strong emphasis on freshness and flavour. Co-owners Jenna and Tom have travelled extensively across the US and Mexico, gaining valuable insights into the many diverse flavours and ingredients that make up this vibrant culinary tradition.

With years of culinary expertise under their belts, they have distilled their knowledge into a handful of essential pointers that are sure to make your next fiesta a resounding success. In this article, they generously share their insider tips on what you need in the kitchen to create an authentic Mexican fiesta, as well as some invaluable taco making tips.

Where did the inspiration for the restaurant come from?

Tom, the owner, was inspired to open the Mission District restaurant after living in California for a year and missing the authentic Californian Mexican food. He found that the Australianised “Tex Mex” version lacked the taste and quality he was looking for. The style of food that he wanted to bring to his restaurant originated in the taquerias of the Mission District in California, where La Taqueria is considered the gold standard. Tom was passionate about bringing this authentic flavour and quality to the Australian dining scene and felt that the Mission District restaurant was the perfect way to do so.

Explain to our readers what types of cuisine you serve at Mission District?

Mission District is a Californian Mexican restaurant named after the area in San Francisco where the Mission-style burrito was invented. The menu features a variety of dishes, including the famous Mission-style burrito, which is a flour tortilla filled with meat, beans, salsa, crema, pico, cheese, and sometimes rice. This burrito is different from the traditional Mexican burrito, which typically has fewer ingredients. The Mission-style burrito has gained popularity globally and is considered the standard burrito in many places.

What are the essential tools we must have in the kitchen to create a Mexican fiesta at home?

To create a Mexican fiesta at home, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. First and foremost, good quality tortillas are crucial as they are the centrepiece of Mexican food. Additionally, you will need a tortilla warmer or something to keep them warm. Limes are also a staple ingredient in most Mexican dishes, so a lime squeezer will come in handy. Another useful tool is a food processor, which can be used to make salsas quickly. If you prefer a more traditional approach, a mortar and pestle can also be used to make salsas and guacamole.

Can you share three tips with our readers on how to make the best tacos at home?

Start with high-quality tortillas, such as those from La Tortilleria. Heat them in a sandwich press until they begin to steam. Assemble your tacos quickly and enjoy them while they’re still hot.

Flavour is key, so don’t be afraid to experiment.

Chipotles in Adobo are a versatile ingredient that can make any dish taste delicious. Create a marinade by blending them with onion, garlic, and lime. For a zesty sauce, mix the marinade with mayo. If you’re feeling daring, try adding chargrilled habaneros for an extra kick of flavour.

Enjoy yourself!

Set up all the necessary ingredients for your guests including proteins, salsas, limes, garnishes, and pickled vegetables, and let them create their own tacos according to their preferences. There’s no incorrect way to make a taco.