So, you’re looking for SoCal tacos in Melbourne? Firstly, let’s clear something up: SoCal tacos aren’t just watered-down versions of Mexican tacos. They’re their own thing. Born out of Southern California’s mix of cultures, beach-town vibes, and an unhealthy obsession with lime. And here’s the kicker — at Chicano, people keep telling us we’ve nailed it. Like, actually nailed it. “The most authentic SoCal tacos outside of California,” someone said last week. We blushed.

So what makes them different? Well, SoCal tacos are clean, fresh, punchy. Think citrus slaw, mango, grilled fish, and guacamole that hits just right. Less grease, more sunshine. Our crispy orange and chilli flathead taco with mango and strawberry? Textbook SoCal. Add habanero salsa and you’ve got that LA heat without the traffic.

But then there’s the barbacoa beef taco, slow-braised and dripping with chipotle beans and pico. It leans more traditional—but it’s still on our menu. Because honestly? We’re not purists. We’re just here to make tacos that taste good.

Same goes for our achiote tofu taco. It’s plant-based but still full of flavour—guacamole, citrus slaw, vegan crema. Nobody’s walking away hungry or sad.

So when someone asks if we’re doing “real” tacos, the answer is yes. They’re real to us. They’re real to SoCal. And judging by the number of people coming back for more, they’re real to Fitzroy, too.

If you’re chasing Mexican tacos in Fitzroy, or you’re the kind of person who googles “SoCal tacos Melbourne” while slightly hungover and craving lime—just come by. We’ve got you. And we’ve got napkins. Plenty.

Ready to taste the transcendent SoCal tacos that have Melbourne talking? Book a table now!