Viva La Cali
Fortitude Valley
The wood-slatted venue exudes a southern California vibe, adorned with a backdrop of palm trees and sunsets, whilst the well-executed menu is a fusion of Latin American cuisines.
With seating for up to fifty patrons in the cosy al fresco pavilion style, Viva La Cali makes a welcome retreat to chow down on delicious food and bar drinks away from the bustle of the main Valley thoroughfares.
On the food menu you'll find a choice of Pupus (small snacks) such as guacamole with pico de gallo and totopos; Street corn with queso fresco & aji verde; and beef tartare with egg yolk, jalapeno & amarillo.
There's also Peruvian empanadas with aji verde (a must try) and popcorn pollo asada (popcorn chicken), chimichurri and crema whilst larger dishes include King River wagyu, cactus salsa, roja cruda and Urban Valley coral; or spiced eggplant, cacao mole, spiced rice and cilantro.
There's also a selection of heavenly tacos, with fillings including beef carnitas, pineapple habanero salsa & smoked cream (highly recommended); ceviche, cucumber, pickled jalapeno & mango; or pork belly, fermented cabbage, apple & smoked yoghurt.
For something sweet there's also a couple of desserts - picarones (Peruvian donuts with chancaca glaze) or Viva La Top Deck with spiced mango & tajin.
Cocktails at Viva La Cali are another attraction, with offerings like Spiced Pear, Watermelon or Bugs Bunny (sour carrot) Margarita, Chilli Mango Coconut Slushie, Mexi Weis Bar and Smokey Valentine. There's also a small selection of boutique international wines and beers including a couple from Mexico.
Good to know - Once a month Viva La Cali will open up onto the laneway for events in combo with other California Lane bars and eateries, headed by a DJ.
Need to know - There is a limited amount of metered street parking nearby in McLachlan St.
Viva La Cali
California Lane
22 McLachlan St
Fortitude Valley
Opening hours
