MAYA Mexican Restaurant & Bar
Fortitude Valley
MAYA Mexican Restaurant and Bar occupies a prime rooftop location in Fortitude Valley, with breathtaking 270 degree views of the city, Story Bridge, Mt Coot-tha, Valley rooftops and Hamilton hills.
The six month pop-up, on the site which was formerly Eleven Rooftop, is one of the hottest openings of 2020 and is the in-place for everything from long Mexican lunches to late night cocktails.
Everyone enjoys a view at the stunning wraparound restaurant and bar, which has a coastal Mexican vibe, featuring olive trees, sheer curtain-fringed cabanas, a white marble bar and benches where you can sit and soak up the afternoon sun and the glorious sunsets over Mt Coot-tha.
The menu is inspired by the Maya region of Mexico, with Coastal Pacific, Yucatan and Sonoran-style street fare featuring the freshest Australian produce. Snacks, which go down a treat with tequila-based cocktails, include guacamole, frijoles and cauliflower queso, while Antojitos (appetizers) include jalapenos, quesadillas, ceviche and nachos.
Tacos are highly recommended - try the pescado (dos equis battered snapper, guacamole, chipotle mayo, pickled cabbage slaw) or the al pastor (slow cooked pork, pineapple, pickled red onion, cilantro, crackling). For something substantial (perfect for sharing), there's spiced chicken with achiote rub, carne asada (char-grilled flank steak with chimi churri) or roast butternut pumpkin with salsa roja. And to follow, there's desserts such as churros, spiced chocolate mousse or Maya margarita cake.
The drinks menu showcases a curated selection of Mexico's agave spirits - highland tequilas, artisanal mezcals and small batch sotols, which feature in the cocktail list. House specialities include Maya Coastal Cocktail, Yucatan Spritz and Cielo Highball along with a selection of Margaritas such as chilli mango or watermelon. There's also a small selection of craft and international beers, Australian boutique wines and premium spirits.
Good to know - By night, MAYA turns into a lively Mexican bar with live musos and DJs. Perfect for groups bookings, MAYA offers set menus - either MI Casa Du Casa (a selection of house favourites and street food across the menu) or Fiesta Familia (a true Mexican feast for family and friends).
Need to know - Bookings are highly recommended. Take the elevator to the 11th floor where you will be greeted, sign in by phone (as per COVID regulations) and seated by staff.
Check out our full list of Fortitude Valley bars HERE
A guide to all of Brisbane's best Mexican cafes & restaurants HERE
