In an exciting move that’s set to delight locals and food enthusiasts, La Cabra, Victoria’s home-grown modern Mexican franchise, is opening its seventh outpost in Ballarat, marking the group’s first venture into regional expansion. This expansion promises to bring the vibrant and delectable flavours of Mexican cuisine to the heart of regional Victoria.
Founders Joshua Smith, Sherinder Kohli, and Derrick Chandra initially set their sights on Ballarat in January, driven by their belief in the community’s potential for a quality Mexican dining experience. Derrick Chandra, one of the founders, shared his enthusiasm, stating, “In a first for our team, this new venue gives us an opportunity to establish and grow our brand outside of Melbourne’s metropolitan area, along with creating and harnessing a positive local economic impact through job creation, franchise training, and operational assistance.”
The core philosophy of La Cabra revolves around combining authentic ingredients, bold flavours, and fresh produce to create meals that bring people together. As they prepare to open their doors in Ballarat, the founders are excited to welcome the local community to La Cabra Ballarat and offer them the “G.O.A.T. experience.”
The menu at La Cabra Ballarat will feature a wide range of Mexican favourites, including tacos, burritos, quesadillas, and flavorful snacks for sharing. Additionally, the establishment’s bar will serve a diverse selection of handcrafted cocktails, mezcal, tequila, and more.
Menu highlights include:
- Stuffed Jalapenos, with marinated cheese and kewpie mayo ($15)
- Cauliflower Hot Wings, with spiced buttermilk cauliflower and chipotle mayo ($15)
- La Cabra Tacos, including Spiced Chicken, Chimichurri Beef, Crispy Pork Belly, Fried Fish, Chilli Grilled Prawn, Chilli Lime Mushroom, and Cactus ($7.50-$9 each, $5 during the first week of opening)
- Classic dishes, such as Enchiladas ($25.50-$26), Burritos ($19.50-$21), and Quesadillas ($20)
In a nod to the local community, La Cabra Ballarat’s interior will feature a life-size mural of renowned Australian jockey, Michelle Payne, who grew up on a farm near Ballarat. The venue also boasts a lush open courtyard and a cocktail bar that can accommodate up to 25 guests, creating the perfect setting for the upcoming summer months.
La Cabra, with its ‘G.O.A.T.’ motto, which stands for “Greatest of All Tacos,” places community, quality, and fun at the core of its values. To celebrate the grand opening, La Cabra Ballarat is offering $5 tacos and two-for-one traditional margaritas during the first week.
The Specifics:
What: La Cabra Ballarat
Where: 32 Armstrong Street North, Ballarat Central
When: Opens Thursday 12 October
For more information, head to the La Cabra website.
