Restaurant
Hotel Jesus is now Santito
174 Smith St, Collingwood VIC 3066, Australia
Find Hotel Jesus is now Santito
174 Smith St, Collingwood VIC 3066, Australia
Directions ↗*Opening hours may differ during holidays.
Book NowAbout Hotel Jesus is now Santito
Step off Smith Street and you are in Mexico—no passport needed. Regulars consider this Collingwood corner the most authentic cantina fit-out in town, nailing that lively, unpretentious energy. Ice-cold Tecates, crisp Palomas, and Tommy's margaritas fuel the room. The $59 chef's menu covers serious ground, kicking off with corn ribs and fresh crudo tostadas before moving into generous taco plates. Even on a Tuesday, the room buzzes with relaxed staff serving house guac to a packed counter.
- Transportive Decor: Diners note the vibrant, transportive decor that mirrors an authentic Mexican cantina.
- Tacos & Tequila: Palomas and Tommy's margaritas flow alongside fresh crudo tostadas, corn ribs, and tacos.
- $59 Chef's Menu: A structured $59 chef's tasting menu delivers a multi-course progression of Mexican classics.
What's On at Hotel Jesus is now Santito
Upcoming events, special menus and other reasons to plan a visit.
No events or specials listed right now.
Reasons to Choose Santito
Why diners choose Santito for transportive Mexican dining and vibrant hospitality
Transportive Cantina Atmosphere
The dining space is meticulously styled to recreate the atmosphere of being in Mexico, recognized as Melbourne's standout authentic fit out.
most authentic fit out of any Mexican restaurant in Melbourne
dean sunshine Authentic Mexican Vibes
Guests feel a vivid sense of nostalgic return to Mexico through the lively energy, decor, and culinary atmosphere.
Atmosphere and experience is fun
Troy Williamson Curated Chef's Set Menu
A structured $59 set menu lets diners savor a fresh tasting journey across Mexico's vibrant dishes without guesswork.
Orders the $59 chefs menu and was good value
Troy Williamson Thoughtfully Prepared Dishes
Each dish is freshly prepared and skillfully executed, pairing tacos and corn ribs with balanced culinary care.
All of the food was well cooked and beautifully presented.
Paul Leach Welcoming Hospitality
Diners feel warmly embraced by an attentive floor team that stays hospitable and unhurried even during peak services.
staff were welcoming, relaxed and friendly
Paul Leach Attentive, Dedicated Service
Regulars and first-timers alike are greeted with positive care, building lasting confidence through attentive hospitality.
super friendly staff who really look after customers and always have a smile on their faces!
Kimia Saadat
Most popular items
Guest favourites and standout dishes from our Mexican cantina
Tacos
Favourite was the tacos but every plate brought out was consumed and full of the flavours of Mexico.
Troy Williamson $59 chefs menu
Orders the $59 chefs menu and was good value.
Troy Williamson Corn ribs
We tried the corn ribs to start followed by three different tacos. All of the food was well cooked and beautifully presented.
Paul Leach Tecate cerveza
Food was spot on and all went down easily with my favourite Tecate cerveza served nice and cold
dean sunshine
Before you head over
Practical tips on timing, ordering, and specials for your visit
Expect Midweek Crowds
The venue gets surprisingly busy even early in the week on Tuesday nights, so plan ahead or arrive early to secure a table.
Consider the Set Tasting Menu
Opt for the $59 chef's menu if you want a complete multi-course journey without having to curate dishes individually from the à la carte selection.
Drop In for Happy Hour Specials
Visit during happy hour to take advantage of discounted margaritas, Palomas, and snacks in a lively cantina atmosphere.
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