El Grotto

In recent years Scarborough has been shaking of its less than flattering image. Matisse brought a Miami beach club vibe to the place, but now El Groto brings something a little more hip – it’s a Northbridge transplant by the ocean. One-time Mechanics Institute stalwart Ben Tua has a hand in El Groto, with the fitout from Finespun, the folks behind the look of Propeller, Mechanics, Flipside, Little Shop of Plenty and a host a Perth hospo hotspots. A Mexican theme prevails with the drinks program satisfying the most ardent barfly, whether it’s their particular focus on mezcal and tequila or cans of Tecate beer. Food also has a south-of-the-border bent with street corn, tacos and quesadillas.