PROFILED BY DE GROOTS MEDIAIf it’s tex-mex Mexican food you’re after, the kind that is so readily available here in Australia, then this may not be the restaurant for you. You won’t find overcooked meat in your enchiladas or excessive amounts of cheese on everything, and although there’s nachos on the menu it’s a taste sensation unlike its unworthy imitators. For Los Amates Mexican Kitchen is an authentic Mexican eatery using old traditions of cooking with fresh local ingredients. The decor is simple and unfussy, the walls adorned by colourful paintings and hangings, with the real details going into the mouth-watering dishes on offer.
Mexican-born chef and owner Arturo Morales has recreated a taste of home with a menu that’s a cultural and culinary experience. Start with the sopes: hand made masa cases topped with re-fried beans, salsa verde and cheese. Follow with the pollo con mole: a chicken breast fried with homemade mole negro (a thick sauce of chilli, chocolate and spices) served with rice, frijoles and salad or perhaps one of the many vegetarian options such as the adobo de la huerta: potato, sweet potato and pumpkin baked in an adobo salsa with almonds and served with salad. Desserts are displayed on the specials board and a kids menu is offered.
Veda Wickens, December 2005
