“Service was fantastic and we had loads of fun.” Dining reviewer WENDY JOHNSON’s been to Paloma’s in Braddon.
From 4pm until late, Tuesday to Saturday, Paloma’s pumps in Braddon.
This hip bar and restaurant, with an intense personality and mega vibe, is all about Mexican-inspired share plates, tacos, palomas (of course) and other sexy cocktails.
It was all happening when a group of us arrived. Our trusty, switched-on wait staff quickly gleaned we weren’t going to be entirely happy sitting beside a large, boisterous group who looked like they’d been having a great time for some time.
She whisked us to a new table inside where the atmosphere was energetic but not chaotic. Smart move.
We shared several dishes, loving the combination of exciting flavours.
Paloma’s take on Hiramasa Kingfish ceviche ($26) is fabulous. The fish was marinated in “leche de tigre” (milk of the tiger), typically a mixture of tangy, fresh lime juice, salt and other flavourings. This “cooks” the fish without heat.
At Paloma’s, this ceviche arrives with cubes of fresh avo, jalapenos, bits of pineapple and an herb oil that decorates the dish as much as it adds flavour. Massive tick.
Staying with the ceviche theme, we ordered the cauliflower version – delightful. The finely grated cauliflower was marinated in mandarin oil and lime and served with avo, corn kernels and pepitas (love the crunch).
On top was a dollop of guac and slices of radish. The ceviche arrived with corn chips and hot sauce ($18)
Guacamole couldn’t be more famous in Mexico if it tried. Paloma’s guac is traditional ($16) and hit the spot.
Next it was time to road-test tacos (two pieces with each serving, ranging from $17 to $20) and other street food. Craving something different, we ordered the Baja fish ($20). The battered red snapper was addicting with chipotle mayo, perky pickled cabbage, guacamole verde and lime.
Also for something different, we went for the Jackfruit Pastor ($17), with the slightly fibrous fruit a great substitute for meat. It was smoky, braised and presented on lettuce with charred shallots and cascabel chilli mayo. The cascabel chillies feature earthy tones.
The chicken tostadas was another flavour bomb of a dish (two pieces for $19). We adored the charred shallot crema and pickled onion.
Paloma’s drinks line-up includes signature cocktails, frozen drinks, shooters, beer and wine, all reasonably priced.
We began with cocktails (all $20), including the Casa Margarita and the Spicy Margarita. The Casa was created with tequila, Cointreau, fresh lime and agave. The Spicy was created with chilli-infused tequila, Yuzushu (Japanese fruit liqueur), lime and agave.
Tequilas at Paloma’s are top shelf. After the cocktails (one for each was enough), we moved on to the reasonably priced wine list.
Service was fantastic and we had loads of fun. Paloma’s interior fitout is as colourful as the bar’s personality.
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