It’s late afternoon in Mordialloc, the kind of golden, sun-warmed day that makes you slow down and savour the moment. Just a few steps from the main strip, La Cabra Mexican hums with a relaxed energy — colourful tiles, rustic timber tables, and the faint scent of lime and charred spice in the air. Sitting in the soft light spilling through the front windows, it feels like you’ve stepped into a coastal cantina.

We’d arrived to take part in La Cabra’s October “Spin to Win” promotion — a playful addition to the dining experience. The rules are simple: order a margarita jug, and you get a spin of the wheel. Prizes range from free tacos and tequila shots to 10% off your bill, and everyone who plays goes in the draw to win a bottle of Tequila Herradura Legend worth $300. 

The menu at La Cabra strikes that sweet spot between street food and refined share plates — bold flavours, playful presentation, and dishes built to be shared (or hoarded, depending on who you’re dining with).

We began with Small Plates, the Char-Grilled Corn arriving still warm and perfectly charred. Each bite was smoky and sweet, balanced by the creamy hit of chipotle mayo and the gentle salt of ricotta salata. It was simple but beautifully executed — the kind of dish that instantly sets the tone. The Spiced Calamari followed, crisp and golden, dusted with tajin that gave it a subtle citrus kick. Light, crunchy, and just enough spice to make it interesting – it disappeared faster than we expected.

From the Tacos, the Birria was the undeniable star. Tender, slow-cooked beef folded into a soft tortilla, rich with flavour and just the right amount of heat. The broth-soaked tortilla added depth and texture — comforting, hearty, and deeply satisfying. A must if try!

Next came the Burrito, playfully named the Snapper Wrapper. It’s a coastal spin on the classic — fried snapper nestled with fries, slaw, creamed corn, jalapeño, and pico de gallo, all tied together by a smoky chipotle mayo. The combination shouldn’t work as well as it does — creamy, crunchy, fresh, and indulgent in equal measure.

The Fajitas with Tajin Prawns arrived next, served sizzling with a colourful spread of accompaniments. The prawns were plump and perfectly charred, paired with caramelised peppers and onions that added natural sweetness. Scooped into soft tortillas with pico, guacamole, and cheese, every bite felt like a little DIY flavour bomb — smoky, zesty, and perfectly balanced.

To finish, Churros with dulce de leche were everything they should be — crisp on the outside, soft inside, and dusted with cinnamon sugar. The caramel sauce was velvety and rich, a sweet finale that felt both nostalgic and indulgent.

Drinks matched the mood. The Watermelon Breeze — fresh watermelon, lime, mint, and soda — was a refreshing, non-alcoholic standout on a warm day. The Agave Margarita jug brought that unmistakable mix of citrus and salt, served chilled and made for sharing (and, of course, for spinning the prize wheel).

The service at La Cabra is exactly what you want it to be — warm, attentive, and full of personality. Staff move with the rhythm of the room, offering genuine conversation and thoughtful recommendations without ever rushing you. 

Whether you’re there for tacos and margaritas, a long afternoon graze, or to test your luck at the wheel, La Cabra Mexican captures that elusive mix of quality, fun, and familiarity. It’s the kind of place you wander into on a sunny day and end up staying for hours — one more taco, one more drink, one more spin.

Spin to Wine – The promo runs until November 30, 2025, across all La Cabra venues — a fun little incentive that adds an element of surprise to an already lively afternoon