On the Border, a modern Mexican restaurant which sure does bring the vibes to Mindarie! The easy to share menu is a mix of Mexican cuisine and southern Californian inspired dishes, it’s lively laid back, great for groups, and you’ll even get a surprise in the loos – in a good way lol.
This colourful Mexican-inspired restaurant brings plenty of fiesta vibes, big flavours and a relaxed atmosphere that works brilliantly with kids in tow. Mr H and I enjoyed a date night dinner there so much, we took the kiddos back for Miss 9’s birthday. The décor is fun from the moment you walk in – particularly of a certain president peering over his wall. You’ll even hear Trump and some of his most infamous sayings in the toilets. It gave me a fright- and a giggle!
Think bright colours, cacti, sombreros and quirky details everywhere you look. There are cosy booths and tables, and it can get very busy at peak times, so it’s worth booking ahead, particularly on weekends.
Kids are made to feel very welcome here. The children’s menu arrives on a colouring sheet, complete with activities to keep small hands busy while you peruse the menu. There are high chairs available too. For kids, there are easy favourites such as kid-sized nachos. The portions are generous, so hungry little diners should be well sorted. There are vegan and gluten-free choices available too, which is handy for families catering for different dietary needs.
The menu has plenty for Mexican food fans, with tacos, nachos, quesadillas, enchiladas and burritos, alongside burgers, ribs and a Mexican parmi for anyone who fancies something a little different. The nachos are a must-order – piled high with toppings and made with seriously tasty tortilla chips. The tacos are also full of flavour, with a range of fillings to choose from. We ate:
Crunchy tortilla chips with our house-made dips – guac, chilli queso (cheesy) or pico de gallo. The margaritas are very good too.
Deliciously crispy popcorn chicken with house aioli.
Loaded nachos – handmade tortilla chips topped with your choice of meat. We went for pork belly.
I enjoyed 3 Mix ’n’ match tacos – Palm Springs Piggy with maple-glazed pork belly, pineapple slaw and fresh apple; Fish Outta Border with grilled fish, zesty pickled onion, radish, lime and coriander crema; and Cali-Chica with buttermilk-fried chicken, chipotle maple glaze, crisp lettuce, cheese and OTB aioli.
And then there’s dessert… because who can resist churros after Mexican? They’re big, sweet and ideal for sharing. But if you’re celebrating a birthday, you really need to see the real showstopper – the OTB Flaming Skull! It’s wonderfully over-the-top, very Instagrammable and makes a brilliant centrepiece for a special occasion – the skull must be preordered. A chocolate sugar skull covers a big, warm chocolate brownie, served with raspberry compote, ice cream and a side of OTB fun. The skull is melted by flame, revealing the brownie within. Its worth noting there may be traces of alcohol and you can add a birthday sombrero hat. Everyone was mesmerised by it and of course, the whole restaurant sang happy birthday as it came out.
With friendly staff, colourful surroundings and food that the whole family can enjoy, On the Border is a great choice for an easy dinner out in the northern ‘burbs. Come hungry, bring the kiddos and be prepared to leave absolutely stuffed! If you’re looking for a fun family dinner spot north of the river, On the Border Mexican Grill in Mindarie is a fab choice.
Find On the Border at 28 Anchorage Dr, Mindarie.
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Amanda Carlin has her own food and travel blog. Established in 2013, (first as “The Chef, His Wife and Their Perth-fect Life”) Amanda loves getting out and about in Perth and WA for her blog ‘Simply PERTHfect’. You’ll find her checking out the newest foodie spots, as well as lots of WA travel, and fun family activities with the kiddos in tow. Part of a blended family of 6, Amanda always has plenty of family friendly recs. Be sure to check out Simply PERTHfect.
