It’s no secret Mexican food is once again enjoying its day in the sun. And while some will argue that frozen margaritas and Tex-Mex never really went out of fashion (this writer is one of them), the ’90s favourite is back in full force with the opening of El Camino Cantina in Sydney’s beachside suburb of Manly.

Promising a summer of ‘sombreros, margaritas and rooftop sunset soirees’, the 365-seat restaurant on Manly Wharf’s rooftop is slated to open November 9 with a fiesta of Tex-Mex favourites – think buffalo wings, soft-shell tacos and unlimited tortilla chips with salsas. On the drinks front, more than 100 tequilas and mezcals will be poured alongside a bevy of super-sized classic and frozen margaritas, including monster two-litre tower options for those so inclined. Complete with its own mariachi band, chilli eating competition and live DJs, the opening party is a ticketed event ($69 per person) and offers punters a two-hour food and beverage package and can be purchased here.

Beyond the opening weekend celebrations, El Camino is set to become a Northern Beaches favourite serving up weekday happy hours from 4-6pm, boozy weekend brunches and regular Sunday session events. The menu promises Tex-Mex classics from the Nacho Macho (chilli con carn, pico de gallo and black beans with sour cream, guac and melted cheese) to Cajun chicken and beer-battered barramundi tacos and of course, burritos.

“There will be no better place to enjoy summer than from El Camino Cantina’s rooftop vantage point, with frozen margaritas and ice-cold Mexican beers washing down some of our fantastic Tex-Mex dishes,” says Rockpool Dining Group Chief Executive Officer Thomas Pash.

“We take a no-holds-barred approach to all things Tex-Mex: from the food and drinks, to the fit-out and music, and we’re inviting all of Manly to come and join us for a fabulous opening weekend fiesta and start to summer.”

Taking its cues from the best of both Mexican and Texan interiors, the restaurant features intricate tiles, an internal cactus garden and bare brick and stone textures contrasted with neon lights, original art and concert posters from Ben Brown and decorative nods to rock ‘n’ roll and muscle cars.

Tex-Mex diehards also have the option of becoming an El Camino Amigo which offers exclusive privileges, from an extended happy hour (4-7pm) to invitations to events with fellow Amigo members and special discounts.

El Camino Cantina at Manly Wharf opens Nov 9.
Manly Wharf rooftop, Belgrave and West Esplanade, Manly NSW
elcaminocantina.com.au