Flying Fajita Sistas: Tacos, Tequilas and Tamales
Standing out from the hotchpotch of Glebe Point Road is the delightfully named Flying Fajita Sistas, instantly recognisable by its whimsical artwork depicting pink-winged Mexican fairies. The place has a rambling cantina feel, with walls painted in glazed earth-and-pastel hues and sporting all the Mexican decor cliches – the oddly placed sombrero here, the Frida Kahlo self-portrait there. Still, the ambience is far more chic and quirky than brash and tacky, and the place buzzes with the enthusiasm of its young, funky, sangria sipping crowd. The staff, dressed in fetching embroidered smocks, are welcoming and friendly, although things can get a little disjointed when the place is in full swing.
The Flying Fajita Sistas say they want you to experience the true flavours of Mexico, but they haven’t entirely divorced themselves from the Tex Mex take on Mexican cooking that Australians are far more familiar with. You’ll get your decadent, grilled cheese smothered nachos here, and your sizzling steak fajita platters, all rather delicious, especially with heaping sides of sour cream, guacamole and pickled jalepenos.
Where Flying Fajita Sistas have tried to showcase more traditional fare, they’ve focused on robust and filling market-style snacks. Tamales (steamed cornmeal parcels) are a traditional pre-Hispanic treat, wrapped in banana leaf and stuffed with either roast poblano chilli and cheese, or chicken with a rich mole sauce. Also on offer are Oaxaca-style king prawn huaraches – black bean paste sandwiched between two fried corn tortillas topped with grilled prawns, shredded cabbage, soft Spanish cheese and cherry tomato salsa. For something more substantial, try the very homely whole fried snapper with charred tomato salsa, black beans and rice.
None of the dishes are particularly spicy. Instead, chilli-heads are invited to choose from a wooden torture rack of sauces (known as The Wall of Pain) which range from pleasantly mild and flavoursome to this-will-make-you-see-God.
The Sistas also serve a concise but impressive selection of tequilas, including the exquisite Casa Noble Resposado - $12 for a tipple served with tangy homemade sangrita.
HelloMetro Tip: Tuesday is $3 tacos and tequilas night. Book extra early and be prepared for a little rowdiness!
Posted by Fiona Davies
