Mia Margarita has been a vibrant venue in Henley Square since opening in 2019, but since September 2023, it’s taken on a new life thanks to two unexpected visionaries. Michael and Fadi, both physiotherapists, have transformed the already popular spot into Adelaide’s hottest Mexican restaurant and cocktail bar.
Spread across two-stories, and filled with colour, cozy booth seating, and quirky neon lights, Mia Margarita has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for casual dining, a private event space, or a lively function venue.
Michael and Fadi’s journey with Mia Margarita started well before they became the owners. The two young restaurateurs initially worked as waiters and bartenders when the venue first opened, before they left to pursue careers as physiotherapists. In early 2023, former owner Zac Makins approached them with the opportunity to buy the place, and they couldn’t say no.
Zac believed in their vision and creativity, confident they could take Mia Margarita to the next level. And, that’s exactly what they’ve done. Michael and Fadi, along with their friend Peter, have brought a wealth of fresh ideas and positive changes to the restaurant, introducing new offerings and improving the level of service.
“People have really given us a lot of good feedback, you can really see it. It’s evident in a lot of different areas,” Fadi said.
One of their first major changes was revamping the menu. They began importing chillies and spices directly from Mexico to ensure authentic South American flavours. Together with a new head chef from South America, Michael and Fadi crafted a menu that blends traditional Mexican cuisine with innovative fusion elements. The result is a brand-new banquet that is as flavourful as it is unique.
“We’ve got a South American fusion going on, predominately Mexican flavours,” Michael said.
“That’s what we were aiming for, having those authentic flavours that suit the climate here, and the people in Adelaide. It’s a balance of trying to get it right.”
The drinks menu has also seen an expansion. Margaritas are of course the star, available in frozen form and in flavours like passionfruit, pineapple, and blackberry. The bar also offers their own twist on other classics for those looking to spice things up.
One of the most popular innovations they have introduced is the bottomless brunch option. For $78 per person, diners enjoy a two-course banquet with an array of share plates like salt and pepper calamari and nachos, and then enjoy two tacos of their own with a choice of either pork, chicken, fish, halloumi and cauliflower.
The real highlight is the bottomless margarita jugs, which just keep coming, available in flavours like passionfruit, watermelon, classic, and spicy. They plan to refresh the jugs with new flavours just in time for summer.
Under the old ownership, Mia Margarita closed for lunch during the colder months, but now Michael and Fadi have decided to keep the restaurant open year-round, ensuring that no matter the season, you can always get your fix of their delicious Mexican offerings.
“Lunches have been very popular and busy, even when the weather’s not great… especially with bottomless brunch,” Fadi said.
In addition to the main restaurant, Beachside Bagels has become a popular feature of Mia Margarita, and will also remain open throughout the year. Operating from 8:30am to midday on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, Beachside Bagels serves a variety of breakfast bagels through the window on the side of the restaurant, with choices like bacon and avocado, fried chicken, and a hearty big breakfast bagel. Tuna melts and pastrami melts are also avaliable, providing a perfect start to your beach day.
“It’s a nice breakfast option to take and walk down to the beach with. When its raining, we open up inside too,” Michael said.
Michael and Fadi want every visit to Mia Margarita to be memorable for their guests, and their efforts have paid off, with the venue thriving under their management. The dynamic duo has transformed a local favourite into one of Adelaide’s must-visit restaurant and cocktail bars, offering food that blends authentic South American flavours, with colourful and vibrant decor. Plus, the service is truly outstanding.
Whether you’ve been there since the beginning, or you’re a first-time visitor, Mia Margarita promises a fantastic and fun dining experience, and arguably, the best margaritas in town.
Mia Margarita
Where: Henley Square, Unit 2/330 Seaview Rd, Henley Beach SA 5022
When: Open Tuesday to Sunday
Instagram: @miamargarita.adl
For more information, click here.
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