When Enmore’s Queen Chow and Saké ventured over the bridge and into Manly, they were met with welcome enthusiasm. Now, Manly is returning the favour with the expansion of Chica Bonita, North Sydney’s beloved taqueria inspired by Mexico and Baja California. Co-owners and friends Luke and Sean Miller are finalizing their dreams of CBD domination, with doors set to open on April 3.

Their new postcode sees them surrounded by industry heavy-hitters including Baxter Inn, the Barber Shop and Duke of Clarence, motivating the boys to bring their A-game. Luke (also of Sunset Sabi) says the new venue will be a “little bit Baja but not beachy”. The second outpost will be notably larger than the first, with the design taken care of by Adelaide-based architects, Studio Gram. Varied seating options include booths, smaller tables and counters with front-row seats to the taco action taking place in the open kitchen.

Chica’s head chef is well-known in the Mexican dining scene, with experience in some of the world’s best restaurants, including Pujol in Mexico City. Chef Alejandro Huerta is all for authenticity, drawing inspiration from his Mexican upbringing and old family recipes. Some beach favourites will be sticking around on the menu, including fish tacos and the legendary carne asada-topped fries. The rest of the venue’s offerings will be slightly more refined than its coastline counterpart, with the likes of duck carnitas with sour cherries and slow-cooked beef ribs cooked served with warrigal greens.

As is tradition, agave will be a focal point on the drinks list, with guests encouraged to knock back a margarita or two, alongside other tequila-based cocktails.

Chica Bonita CBD
156 Clarence Street, Sydney
chicabonita.com.au